Heart Offers Reward After Instruments Stolen from New Jersey Venue
Legendary band Heart’s prized instruments, including a custom purple Telecaster and a rare 1966 Gibson mandolin, were stolen in Atlantic City, prompting a reward for their safe recovery.
Two prized musical instruments belonging to members of the legendary rock band Heart were reported stolen last weekend in Atlantic City, New Jersey, just as the band was preparing for the launch of their highly anticipated nationwide tour. The theft occurred at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, where the band's equipment had been carefully set up in advance of the opening concert scheduled for Saturday.
The missing items include a striking custom-built purple sparkle baritone Telecaster guitar, distinguished by its hand-painted headstock, and created especially for guitarist Nancy Wilson. Alongside it, thieves also made off with a rare 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin—a cherished instrument that fellow band member Paul Moak has played for over a quarter-century. The loss, according to the musicians, goes far beyond material value, touching at the very heart of their artistic identity.
“These instruments are more than just tools of our trade — they’re extensions of our musical souls,” Nancy Wilson stated, expressing her deep despair over the incident. “We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return— no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.” In light of the theft, the band has announced a reward for any information leading to the recovery of the instruments, hoping to rally both fans and the local community to aid in their return.
Heart, led by siblings Ann and Nancy Wilson, ranks among the most influential rock acts of the past five decades. With chart-topping hits such as “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “Alone,” the group’s signature blend of powerful vocals and skilled musicianship has earned them worldwide acclaim. Their enduring impact on music was recently recognized when they received a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2023.
The start of their "An Evening With Heart" tour has now been overshadowed by this unsettling event. However, the band remains hopeful that their beloved instruments will be returned safely, allowing them to continue sharing their music with audiences across the nation.
