From the Factory, Players | October 30, 2024

Introducing the Martin M-6 & M-7 Johnny Marr Signature Guitars

Few artists have redefined the sound of modern rock like Johnny Marr. From his revolutionary work with The Smiths to his eclectic solo career and countless collaborations, Marr’s sonic footprint is unmistakable. 

Now, Martin Guitar is thrilled to unveil the M-6 and M-7 Johnny Marr signature models, two guitars that capture the essence of Marr’s playing while pushing the boundaries of acoustic innovation. 

On Stage with Johnny Marr 

While on a co-headlining tour across North America with his fellow Mancunians, James, Marr took the time to meet with Martin before his show in Philadelphia for a first-hand look at his signature acoustic-electrics. 

Before taking the stage at Franklin Music Hall and ripping through a set full of classics by The Smiths, solo tunes, and even an Iggy Pop cover with James frontman Tim Booth, Marr allowed Martin exclusive access. 

We spoke with him about the inspiration behind the M-6 and M-7, snapped some behind-the-scenes photos, and filmed a one-on-one interview on stage. Watch the video below for more on Marr’s history with Martins, a firsthand look at these acoustic creations, and the story of how these guitars came to be from the charming man himself. 

The M-7 Johnny Marr: Expanding the Sonic Landscape 

The Martin M-7 Johnny Marr is a game-changer – a seven-string acoustic-electric with an octave G string for Marr’s iconic jangle. This unique setup allows for lush, shimmering harmonics that elevate both classic riffs and fresh compositions. Crafted with a solid spruce top and East Indian rosewood three-piece back and sides, the M-7 delivers an expansive sound that’s rich, articulate, and perfect for any playing style. 

“For people who are curious about what this whole seven-string thing is about, the seventh string is a high octave on the G string,” says Marr. “To put it simply, it tricks your ear into thinking it's hearing a similar sound to a twelve-string. 

“My signature guitar feels like a cross between a D-35, a D-28, and an M, but then my ear is telling me that it's got some sort of twelve-string aspect to it... When I pick up a regular six-string it sounds like I've taken my 3D glasses off.” 

With its Grand Auditorium body shape, the M-7 combines the power of a Jumbo with the comfortable depth of a 000, offering players a versatile guitar that feels as good in a living room as it does on a massive stage. It’s a bold step forward and a fresh take on a classic design for guitarists who aren’t afraid to experiment. 

The M-6 Johnny Marr: Tradition with a Twist 

For those drawn to a more traditional setup, the M-6 Johnny Marr signature model provides all the hallmarks of Marr’s acoustic sound in a refined six-string package. With the same exquisite tonewoods as the M-7, the M-6 balances depth and clarity, making it perfect for everything from delicate fingerpicking to bold, driving strums. 

Both guitars feature a genuine mahogany gloss neck with a full-thickness profile, standard taper, and slightly thinner width at the nut for a unique feel, allowing for fluid transitions and complex chord structures. This design makes it perfect for replicating the lush, intricate sounds of Marr’s most iconic tracks. 

“It's deliberately got a glossy neck because I'm a bit old school and I like the idea of getting a guitar like it used to be in the ‘70s and then you just wear that down yourself,” says Marr. “I don't have any issue with the way that feels. So, in that way, the neck and fingerboard look and feel like a ‘70s guitar, and the top is a little like a ‘70s guitar – if you want to funk it up or put your own character in there, you can do that.” 

Equipped with LR Baggs Anthem electronics, both the M-6 and M-7 offer unparalleled amplified sound that captures every nuance of Marr’s, and your, playing. The result is a pair of guitars that feel as powerful plugged in as they do unplugged. 

“To my ears, it's a tighter sound than a regular Dreadnought,” says Marr. “I'm really pleased with it because after 40 years of playing Dreadnoughts, it does for me what a Dreadnought does when I pick it up, but it's kind of a tight sound for a sort of rock and roll thing. So, you can really attack it, and it's got a good tight sort of middle sound.” 

Marr’s Martin Connection 

Marr’s relationship with Martin Guitar spans decades, with his cherished 1971 D-28 playing a pivotal role in defining his sound on countless iconic tracks.  

“When The Smiths took off, I was able of course to get a few more guitars to augment the sound of the records,” says Marr. “As soon as I could get a D-28, I did. I've got an early ‘70s one that would have been on the second album, Meat is Murder. And I wrote so much stuff on it. I wrote a lot of big songs [plays ‘There is a Light That Never Goes Out’]. So, on those Smiths records, I wrote a couple of songs on the D-28. Another one was ‘Well I Wonder.’ 

“I went for a period where I was just using the D-35 when I was playing with Bert Jansch and in Electronic, the D-28 in The Smiths days, a twelve-string in The Healers and The Smiths, and then in more recent times back to the D-28,” says Marr. “But it is that funny thing of like, yeah, they are elite instruments, and they are very beautiful things – like all guitar players we can almost fetishize these things – but they are the tools of my trade really. 

“I've got a couple of other acoustics that I'm very lucky to have, but I don't think of myself as playing any other acoustics. If you see pictures of me when I'm 21, I'm playing a Martin, or if you see pictures of me in the early 2000s with Bert Jansch, I’m playing my D-35, and modern day with Neil Finn, I’m playing my Martin again.” 

The M-6 and M-7 signature models are a testament to Marr’s legacy, each designed to honor his legendary body of work while offering new sonic possibilities. 

Martin’s access to Marr’s Philadelphia show allowed us a behind-the-scenes look at how these guitars come alive in Marr’s hands. The M-6 and M-7 are now essential tools in his storied musical arsenal, capturing every detail of his intricate style. 

“I've now got my own signature guitar that makes me sound like in the studio when I've put this really great old compressor on it with a great mic and a little hint of the high string in there,” says Marr. “All of these things that I do on record using a few guitars, I've all got it in the one guitar that I can carry around with me, and if I go play with a pal or go and guest with someone, I sound like me.” 

For a deep dive into Marr’s collection of vintage Martins, and a few other instruments, too, check out his book Marr’s Guitars, which traces his career “through the prism of his superb collection of guitars.” It includes a foreword from legendary composer Hans Zimmer and beautifully detailed photographs by Pat Graham. 

Discover Your Own Sound 

Whether you’re a fan looking to capture Marr’s magic, a guitarist seeking new creative outlets, or someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of Martin Guitar, the M-6 and M-7 Johnny Marr models are made to inspire. Each guitar even comes with a custom Souldier™ strap and hardshell case, making sure you’re ready to hit the stage from day one. 

The M-6 and M-7 Johnny Marr signature models are now available online and at authorized Martin dealers. Step into Marr’s world and explore the sounds that have defined a generation – and continue to break new ground. Heaven knows these guitars can be all yours as soon as now. 

Martin Guitar extends its deepest thanks to Johnny Marr and his team for their time, generosity, and graciousness in welcoming us backstage, and on stage, and allowing us to share this special moment with fans of Marr and Martin. 

For more information on Johnny Marr, including tour dates, music releases, and news, visit his website, johnnymarr.com, and follow him on Instagram. 

Until next time, happy playing!