The unmistakable riff. The defiant lyrics. "American Woman" is an anthem etched in the hearts of rock fans worldwide. For many, the song's swagger is synonymous with the arena-dominating force of Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO). Hits like "Taking Care of Business" and "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet" cemented BTO's place in rock royalty.

But what if we told you there's another chapter to the "American Woman" story? A chapter predating BTO's electrifying takeover, a chapter whispered in the electrifying riffs of a young Randy Bachman.

Long before Lenny Kravitz's smooth rendition captivated a new generation, the song belonged to Bachman, a name synonymous with Canadian rock royalty. The original "American Woman" pulsed with the energy of The Guess Who, Bachman's band before BTO. Their version, raw and powerful, laid the groundwork for the iconic anthem we know today.

We’re thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into Bachman's career and the instruments that brought these hits to life. Imagine owning the very guitar that birthed the unforgettable "American Woman" riff, the one that propelled a young Bachman onto the world stage. Julien's Auctions is thrilled to offer Bachman's collection of stage-played guitars in the June Music Icons auction.

Craving more musical history? We aren’t just about rock royalty! We offer a wide range of music memorabilia across all genres. Whether you're a die-hard metalhead or a mellow jazz aficionado, there's something for every music lover. Explore the historic Tony Bennett: A Life Well-Lived auction, and check out our current and upcoming sales to discover your next legendary find.