Steve Vai Swiss Cheese Guitar Tee

1986. MTV. Yankee Rose. David Lee Roth’s first single off the Eat 'Em and Smile LP—and one of the most iconic guitars immortalized in the video? Steve Vai’s legendary Swiss Cheese Guitar.

This one-of-a-kind axe was a “JEM” of a creation by luthier extraordinaire (and childhood friend of Steve’s), Joe Despagni. Dated December 19, 1985 on the neck heel, the Swiss Cheese Guitar is pure rock history.

Its distinctive look comes from a trimmed-down body painted metallic green and drilled through with multiple holes—giving it that unmistakable “Swiss cheese” vibe. The neck came from the legendary Performance Guitar shop in Hollywood, CA.

Here’s a fun fact: this was the first of Steve’s guitars to feature the now-famous monkey grip.

During rehearsals for the Eat 'Em and Smile tour at Perkins Palace in Pasadena, CA, six of Steve’s guitars were stolen—among them, the Swiss Cheese Guitar. For over 30 years, it was lost to time.

Until one day, in Tijuana, Mexico, a young man made a wild discovery in his grandparents’ attic: a strange-looking guitar. He did some digging… and realized it was the Swiss Cheese Guitar. He contacted Steve, returned it—and we’re happy to say, it’s back where it belongs in Vai’s collection.

This guitar may be one-of-a-kind—but now you can wear a piece of that rock history. Officially approved by Steve Vai himself, this tee is perfect for fans, guitar nerds, and lovers of all things ‘80s.

Grab yours today. We promise—it doesn’t smell like Swiss cheese.

This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for all.

• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
• Fabric weight: 4.2 oz./yd.² (142 g/m²)
• Pre-shrunk fabric
• Side-seamed construction
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Blank product sourced from Nicaragua, Mexico, Honduras, or the US

Size guide