The Fender Stratocaster Celebrates 70 Years of Musical Innovation

In the year 1954, a significant transformation occurred in the world of music with the invention of the Fender Stratocaster by Leo Fender. This guitar has been chosen by some of the most celebrated and impactful musicians throughout history. Musicians of great renown such as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimi Hendrix, to name a few, have played this iconic instrument.

Seventy Years of the Stratocaster

The Stratocaster is not just an instrument; it's part of a legacy that Fender is honoring with a series of new models, including five limited edition anniversary models. One such model is the American Vintage II 1954, blending the old and the new in one extraordinary instrument. Fender also has special events and a cover of Jimi Hendrix's 'Voodoo Child' featuring several modern Fender artists. This is a testament to the guitar's lasting influence on the music industry.

Revolutionizing the Guitar Scene

Fender CEO Andy Mooney, with a rich history in both corporate leadership and personal passion for guitars, has steered Fender towards honoring its heritage while also making it relevant to new generations of musicians. Mooney, having a collection of about 30 Fender guitars before leading the company, speaks with familiarity and expertise about the evolution of the Stratocaster, comparing its continuous improvement to that of the Porsche 911 - a product that evolves but remains rooted in what made it iconic.

Fender and the New Wave of Artists

Fender doesn't only celebrate its past; it forges connections with contemporary and rising musicians. Artist relations at Fender have dramatically expanded, reflecting today's diverse and genre-spanning music scene. Fender Next, for instance, supports up-and-coming artists, proving the brand's active role in the current and future guitar landscape.

The Timelessness of the Fender Stratocaster

From music legends who favored the Strat to recent artists discovering its versatility and unique sound, the Fender Stratocaster continues to be an essential tool for musicians across generations. As Jimmie Vaughan puts it, the Strat is not just an object to admire, it's an extension of him on stage. Rebecca Lovell echoes this sentiment, having been drawn to Fender through both historical influence and personal experience with the brand's supportive culture.

A Strat for Every Player

With its ability to accommodate every style and genre, the Stratocaster remains as relevant today as it was 70 years ago. Fender's commitment to diversity in music and providing a platform for all musicians is evident in its long-standing relationships with artists and continues to shape the guitar's presence in modern music.

guitar, music, legacy