Slaughter frontman Mark Slaughter has posted the following story from his Facebook page:

“Dear friends,

“I would like to share a recent story in Slaughter history.

“When I started the band Slaughter Tim Kelly and I talked about what instruments that we would be getting made for us on the Kiss Hot in the shade tour....I informed Tim that I always wanted a purple guitar and he laughed and said 'purple is my color!'.

“One hour later...... he said ‘I got a purple guitar! I got a purple guitar!’ After speaking to Robin guitars!!!! Grape Jelly Robin guitar is born and tours the world!

“Fast forward Tim Kelly passes away in a tragic accident and his equipment is sold by a member of his family.

“Only memories remain....

“Now follow this.......The Grape Jelly Guitar finds its way back to Robin Guitars. Robin sells it to Apple music in Portland Oregon....

“John Griffin a longtime Slaughter/ Tim Kelly fan buys the guitar.... Plays it and cares for it.....
His friend Rodney Hardison always tells John how much soul the guitar has and inevitably buys it from John and the journey continues.

“Rodney lovingly plays the guitar in his band Factor V for years.... Then......Rodney reaches out to me on Facebook...Comes to the show...and makes his way backstage .Opens the case..... I'm in awe. The old friend of Tim's staring back at me as my eyes well up.

“Now here is the mind blower!!!!!! Look what showed up on my doorstep today!!!!!!!

"We are all amazed at how many lives have been touched by this instrument. I miss you Tim! Thanks for helping the Grape Jelly guitar land in my hands!I've got a purple guitar ....I've got a purple guitar!Thank you Rodney!Life is such a Blessing! Have a great day!”