Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitars:
Handcrafted by the Legendary John Stax in Melbourne
Nestled in the picturesque hills of the Dandenong Ranges, just outside Melbourne, lies a musical treasure trove: Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitars. These extraordinary instruments, handcrafted by John Stax, aren’t just guitars—they’re a piece of history, a touch of blues, and a spark of soul. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating the raw, electrifying sound of the Delta blues, then a Cigar Box Guitar from Black Diamond is your key.
John Stax, the former bassist of the legendary UK rhythm and blues band The Pretty Things, brings decades of craftsmanship and musical passion to every Cigar Box Guitar he builds. From his workshop in Menzies Creek, Victoria, he pours his soul into crafting instruments that capture the essence of a bygone era, transporting players straight to the heart of the mid-1800s blues movement.
The Birth of a Blues Legend in Melbourne
John Stax’s journey to Melbourne began in the vibrant 1960s music scene in the UK. As the bass player for The Pretty Things, John helped shape a sound that resonated with a generation. But when he emigrated to Australia in 1970, his story didn’t end—it evolved. Settling in the lush surroundings of Melbourne’s outer east, John turned his creative energy toward building. In 1985, he constructed a mud-brick house in Menzies Creek, where he now lives with his family and handcrafts his stunning Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitars.
The inspiration behind John’s work comes not just from his storied musical career but also from the rich history of the Cigar Box Guitar itself. These instruments originated in the mid-1800s when African slaves in America, unable to afford traditional guitars, crafted their own using cigar boxes, broomsticks, and wire. Despite their humble beginnings, Cigar Box Guitars became the backbone of the Delta blues sound—a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of music to uplift.
The Black Diamond Difference
What sets Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitars apart? It’s John’s meticulous craftsmanship, honed by years of dedication. Each guitar is a masterpiece, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation to create instruments that are as visually stunning as they are sonically powerful.
John offers a range of options, from three-string slide guitars that echo the raw energy of the Delta to four-string fretted models that expand your playing possibilities. No matter which Cigar Box Guitar you choose, you’ll experience an instrument built with heart, soul, and the kind of expertise only a master craftsman can provide.
When you pick up a Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitar, you’re not just holding an instrument—you’re holding a story. The sounds that emerge are rich, gritty, and alive with history. From swampy slides to resonant chords, these guitars make it easy to create music that stirs the soul.
Melbourne’s Hidden Gem for Blues Enthusiasts
Living in the vibrant musical hub of Melbourne, John Stax’s work has found a dedicated following among local musicians and international collectors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or a beginner looking for something unique, a visit to Menzies Creek to see John is a must. It’s not just about buying a Cigar Box Guitar—it’s about immersing yourself in a piece of Melbourne’s rich cultural tapestry.
John’s guitars are more than instruments—they’re heirlooms. Each one is built to last, a blend of functionality and artistry that speaks to John’s deep respect for the craft. As he puts it, “These guitars are machines to generate happiness.”
Join the Cigar Box Guitar Revolution
Have you ever dreamed of making music that speaks to the heart of who you are? Do you want to own an instrument with roots in history, culture, and craftsmanship? A Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitar is your ticket to the sound of the blues, handcrafted with love and expertise in Melbourne’s breathtaking Dandenong Ranges.
Whether you’re a local in Melbourne or an enthusiast from afar, now is the time to experience the magic of a Cigar Box Guitar. Let the legendary John Stax introduce you to an instrument that not only sounds incredible but also carries a legacy of resilience, creativity, and soul.
Don’t just play music—make history. Reach out to John today and discover the Black Diamond Cigar Box Guitar that’s waiting to tell your story. Take a trip to the heart of Melbourne’s blues tradition. Pick up a Cigar Box Guitar, and let your journey begin.