Heart’s Instruments Stolen Ahead of Tour Kickoff in Atlantic City
via SoCalLiveitLive / YouTube
Instruments Vanish Before Opening Night
Heart’s latest tour hit a rough patch just before the first show. As the band prepared for their May 31 performance at the Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City, some of their valuable instruments were stolen.
Among the missing gear is a one-of-a-kind, purple sparkle baritone Telecaster that was custom-built for Nancy Wilson. The guitar also features a hand-painted headstock. Another stolen item is a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin. Band member Paul Moak has played that mandolin for more than 25 years, making it deeply personal.
Personal Plea from the Band
“These instruments are more than just tools of our trade—they’re extensions of our musical souls,” said Wilson in a statement. “The baritone Tele was made uniquely for me, and Paul’s mandolin has been with him for decades. We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return—no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.”
The band is asking fans and anyone with information to contact their tour manager, Tony Moon, by email at tonymoon@me.com. They are hoping the instruments can be found and returned quickly.
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The Tour Continues
Even though the theft was upsetting, Heart is moving ahead with the Royal Flush Tour. They are joined by special guest Todd Rundgren. The next show took place Tuesday, June 3, in Lexington, Kentucky. The tour will run through August 30, ending in Bethel, New York.
The band hasn’t let the incident stop them from performing for their fans. They’re continuing to play their set list, even without some of their usual instruments. The hope is that their missing gear will show up soon.
Ann Wilson’s Health and Stage Setup
Ann Wilson, lead singer of Heart, is currently performing while seated. Last year, she battled cancer, and more recently, she fell in a parking lot and broke her elbow in three places. To avoid more injuries, she now sits during shows.
Though it’s a change in appearance, it hasn’t changed the band’s energy on stage. Fans are still showing up in support, and the music remains strong despite the recent troubles.
