From Beatles to Balboa: A Journey through the Jim Irsay Collection

Article Contributed by Luis Enrique Lopez | Published on Sunday, January 14, 2024

The Declaration of Independence. Rocky Balboa’s boxing boots. Instruments used by members of the Beatles. John F. Kennedy’s rocking chair. These are just a few of the items I saw last Thursday night at the Jim Irsay collection at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has amassed an incredible assortment of relics that would make Indiana Jones blush.

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

In an ongoing series of tour stops, the Jim Irsay collection has traveled across the country over the last couple of years, offering the public a glimpse into Irsay’s vast collection; covering musical instruments, historical items, and popular culture ephemera. Seeing these objects in person is almost indescribable; one could spend days exploring each artifact and absorbing their significance.

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert | Shrine Auditorium

Usually, Irsay himself is on hand for these jams, but he was absent from the night’s proceedings due to illness. However, this didn't deter an all-star list of guests from taking the Shrine Auditorium stage for over two hours. This concert was a cool treat following the opening feast of viewing Jim Irsay’s collection.

Buddy Guy | Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Ann Wilson | Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Billy Gibbons | Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Peter Wolf & Kenny Wayne Shepherd | Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Performers included Buddy Guy, Ann Wilson of Heart, Peter Wolf (a huge highlight), Kevin Cronin, and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. They provided a perfect soundtrack for the evening, full of many great performances, including a cameo by David Gilmour's (of Pink Floyd) famed black Fender Stratocaster from Irsay’s collection. These guests were also backed by a great band, which included drummer Kenny Aronoff, guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills.

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

All in all, it was a fun and memorable evening, rich with treasures both on and offstage

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert

Jim Irsay Collection Exhibit & Concert