Tuning Into Passion: The Magic of Norman’s Rare Guitars

Kevin McElroy
Editor, Tune Up Magazine

The Ripple Effect of Passion: Inspiring Creativity

Norman Harris built more than a guitar shop. He created a haven for musicians, a time capsule of music history, and a treasure trove of stories that continues to inspire generations. Norman’s Rare Guitars, the Netflix documentary chronicling his life and legacy, is a masterclass in how one person’s passion can change the world. The film captures the essence of what makes Norman’s shop in Tarzana, California, a cornerstone of the music world and a symbol of the transformative power of creativity.

 

 

From its modest beginnings to its current status as a mecca for legendary musicians, the documentary takes viewers on an emotional journey. Featuring appearances from icons like Kiefer Sutherland, Robbie Robertson, Jeff Daniels, Jeff Garlin, Richie Sambora, and Joe Bonamassa, the film brims with personal anecdotes and heartfelt testimonies. Each artist shares how Norman and his shop impacted their musical journey, whether by providing the perfect guitar or fostering a sense of community that elevated their craft.

Norman’s belief that every guitar has its own story comes through strongly in the film. His ability to connect musicians to instruments that feel like extensions of their souls has turned his shop into more than a business—it’s a legacy.

Every instrument has its own unique story, and it’s about finding the right home for it.

What’s so compelling about Norman’s story is that his success wasn’t driven purely by money, even though it is, of course, a business. Norman’s father instilled in him the importance of being a good businessman, and Norman clearly absorbed that lesson. But this wasn’t about just building any business; it was about building this business. It was about his dream—connecting artists with the perfect instrument, preserving the history of rare guitars, and being part of a creative community. His love for what he did became the driving force behind everything. As the film makes clear, even if his business had stayed smaller, Norman would have been content. It wasn’t about chasing riches; it was about following a passion.

The early days of his business were not without challenges, and Norman reflects on times when he wasn’t sure if it would all work out. But through grit, determination, and the unwavering support of his wife, Marlene, Norman not only built a successful business but also a cultural landmark. Her patience, understanding, and belief in Norman’s vision are a recurring theme in the film. Norman credits her as being the foundation of everything he’s achieved.

It’s easy to see that Marlene’s support was a strong foundation for what Norman built.

It’s also clear that it takes a village to build something this special. Norman’s Rare Guitars became what it is today because of the support of friends, artists, and word of mouth. A friend writing an in-depth profile of the store that was eventually picked up and published in Guitar Player magazine took things to a new level, as did connections like Robbie Robertson introducing Norman to George Harrison. These moments of collaboration and camaraderie highlight the collective passion that makes the music world so vibrant and unique.

The film also touches on the challenges facing Norman’s Rare Guitars today. Despite its fame and impact, the future of the shop is uncertain. Norman’s children do not share his passion for the business, leaving the question of succession unanswered. He acknowledges that the shop isn’t just about guitars; it’s about the stories, the people, and the passion. Without someone to carry that torch, this treasure could disappear. This sobering reality underscores the importance of nurturing passion to keep legacies like Norman’s alive.

The documentary’s emotional resonance is amplified by its anecdotes, like the story of a struggling musician who found his dream guitar at Norman’s and went on to create a now-iconic album. Or the moment when Norman gifted a guitar to a young player who couldn’t afford it, underscoring his belief that everyone deserves a chance to make music. These stories highlight how Norman’s Rare Guitars is more than a store; it’s a catalyst for creativity and a beacon for the music community.

Music is for everyone, and everyone deserves a chance to create it.

For fans of the shop, Norman’s YouTube channel Norman’s Rare Guitars offers a treasure trove of content that extends the documentary’s narrative. With videos featuring iconic musicians, guitar demos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, the channel is a must-visit for anyone who loves music.

While I’m no musician or gearhead myself, stories like these grab me every time. I love hearing from players about why they chose a particular guitar, how it changed their playing style and sound, and the history of the instrument itself. These are the kinds of stories that connect us all—musicians, radio hosts, bloggers, and fans—through our shared passion for music. And that’s exactly what Tune Up is all about: a celebration of passion in all its forms, coming together through the universal language of music.

Despite the documentary’s many strengths, my only gripe is that Machine Gun Kelly appeared in it. Personal gripe here, but his inclusion made me fast forward. That said, it’s a minor blip in an otherwise fantastic film that celebrates the best parts of what makes the music world so special.

Now that I feel like I’ve gotten to know Norman and his world, I’m excited to catch up with him through his Facebook page and YouTube channel. If you’re like me and this gem flew under your radar, join me in following along and helping make sure we don’t miss out on any other treasures like this. Plus, it’s always good to have a great doc recommendation ready for the next time you’re scrolling Netflix.

Why You Should Watch

At its core, Norman’s Rare Guitars is about more than guitars. It’s about the ripple effect of passion and the extraordinary impact one person can have on the world. Norman’s story resonates deeply with anyone who believes in the power of creativity and hard work. It’s a reminder that treasures like Norman’s Rare Guitars don’t just happen—they’re built with love, dedication, and a willingness to take risks.

This story aligns with the mission of Tune Up.rocks. It’s a testament to the idea that following your passion—whether it’s music, radio, or any creative pursuit—can leave an indelible mark on the world. But it also serves as a cautionary tale: legacies must be actively preserved. The fire that fuels them must be passed on, or they risk being extinguished.