Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Stratocaster® guitar. To commemorate this milestone, Fender’s year-long celebration encompasses the release of seven new models, each designed to pay homage to the Stratocaster®’s enduring legacy. Joining the celebration, 10 revolutionary artists: Nile Rodgers, Tom Morello, Simon Neil, Ari O’Neal, Mateus Asato, Tyler Bryant, Rebecca Lovell, REI, Tash Sultana and Jimmie Vaughan, have come together to cover Jimi Hendrix’s “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”, for the brand’s campaign hero film, Voodoo Child: Forever Ahead of Its Time. Keep reading below for the “Voodoo Child” video and more information.
In 1954, the iconic Fender Stratocaster® burst onto the scene, leaving an indelible mark that would forever transform the musical landscape. Seven decades later, Fender reflects on the enduring impact of this legendary instrument, one that has played a central role in the creation of countless classics across genres globally. Upon its introduction, the instrument was heralded for its barrier-breaking design—this was the first electric guitar to not overtly mimic the shape and structure of older hollowbody jazz-style electrics. In addition to the Stratocaster® guitars’ bold aesthetic choices, both the three-pickup setup and user-friendly tremolo bridge were seen as revolutionary steps forward in electric guitar manufacturing. It became immediately apparent that this instrument was setting a new precedent, however things were just getting started. In the late 1960s, a musician by the name of Jimi Hendrix arrived on the scene. Besides his otherworldly stage presence, songwriting, and guitar-playing abilities, his signature was a classic off-white Stratocaster® that seemed to hardly ever leave his side. Hendrix’s affinity for the Stratocaster® elevated the instrument to new heights, witnessing players across all genres favouring the lightweight, single-coil outfitted guitar over the more conventional dual-humbucker guitars. Since then, the Stratocaster® has graced the stage alongside icons among the likes of Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Bonnie Raitt, Mark Knopfler, Jeff Beck, Juanes, Kurt Cobain, John Frusciante, H.E.R., Steve Lacy, and scores more.
“One of the fascinating nuances about Jimi was that his guitars weren’t just instruments to him, but extensions of him…part of his persona. He communicated a different vibe through each guitar and that’s what made him select certain instruments for certain songs,” said Janie Hendrix. “It was about the mood and feelings he wanted to evoke. When he picked up his Stratocaster®, strap yourself in, because he’s going to take you on a wild, free ride. If you listen to songs from Are You Experienced you feel the electricity of his Strat® that he played in live performances, bringing that unmistakable surge created by Jimi through that extension of himself. It’s a thrilling thing to see and hear.”
“As a teenager, the Stratocaster® was the guitar of my dreams. The artists that inspired me to play, Jimi Hendrix, Ritchie Blackmore, David Gilmour and others, all played Stratocaster® guitars on landmark albums I listened to endlessly then and now,” said FMIC CEO, Andy Mooney. “After 70 years, the Stratocaster® guitar is the electric guitar most often played by today’s artists, on stage, in studio and at home. Our goal with the Anniversary collection is to celebrate players at every level, from beginner to virtuoso and recognize the far-reaching impact of this very special instrument.”
Marking the “Year of the Stratocaster®” in its 70th anniversary, Fender proudly unveils a celebration highlighting the rich legacy of this favoured instrument known as being “Forever Ahead of Its Time.” The campaign will not only showcase various content pieces, from hero films to compelling stories, but will also emphasise how these elements highlight the wide breadth of influence the Strat® has had on artists and players across genres, regions, and generations, all of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping its enduring impact on music history. Players and fans alike can expect a fully integrated global initiative, engaging, activating, and expanding relationships with the modern player—Fender’s commitment to staying “Forever Ahead of Its Time” in the dynamic world of music. For 70 years the Stratocaster has been the perfect guitar for rebellious and ground-breaking artists. Once viewed as unconventional, its visionary design has proven to be forever innovative, forever iconic and forever ahead of its time.
Collection that will deliver:
The 70th Anniversary Player Stratocaster® features a dazzling Nebula Noir finish along with a modern “C”-profile maple neck, 9.5” radius rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges, and Pure Vintage ‘59 Single-Coil Strat® pickups that offer rich, articulate tones perfect for any genre.
The 70th Anniversary American Professional II Stratocaster® exudes elegance and class with a stunning flame maple top with Comet Burst finish. Standout features include a deep “C”-neck with smooth rolled fingerboard edges, sculpted neck heel that provides a comfortable feel and easy access to the upper register, 70th Anniversary V-Mod II single-coil Strat® pickups that deliver dynamic and expressive tones, and locking tuners.
The 70th Anniversary Vintera® II Antigua Stratocaster® features an iconic Antigua finish with a hand painted matching pickguard. This model has a “U” shape maple neck based on a classic ‘70s profile, 7.25” radius rosewood fingerboard with vintage-tall frets, and a trio of 70th Anniversary Vintage-Style ‘70s Single-Coil Strat® pickups that deliver the perfect blend of warmth and bite.
The 70th Anniversary American Vintage II 1954 Stratocaster® in 2-Colour Sunburst radiates vintage charm with a 7.25” radius fingerboard equipped with vintage frets and 70th Anniversary 1954 Single-Coil Strat® pickups that conjure authentic tones that sparkle and bark. Also featured is a single-ply pickguard with period correct pickup covers, switch tip and knobs.
The 70th Anniversary American Ultra Stratocaster® HSS is an incredible sight to behold with its pearly iridescent Amethyst finish. The unique roasted maple neck with “Modern D” profile, Ultra rolled fingerboard edges, speedy 10”-14” compound-radius fingerboard and 22 medium-jumbo frets offers effortless playability, along with the 70th Anniversary Ultra NoiselessTM Strat® pickups and 70th Anniversary Ultra Quadra TapTM Humbucker that provide endless tonal possibilities.
In addition, the Fender Custom Shop is unveiling a limited-edition collection that celebrates the rich heritage and legacy of this remarkable instrument. Crafted by the most talented artisans in the industry, these guitars epitomise excellence, seamlessly merging innovation with Fender’s storied heritage. Numerous models in this lineup offer customization options through the network of Custom Shop Showcase dealers, empowering players to personalise their instruments according to their unique preferences.
The Limited Edition 70th Anniversary Stratocaster® contains distinctively elevated features from the golden era of the Stratocaster®. Its two-piece select alder body delivers lively resonance and well-balanced tone and is decked out in gold hardware as well as an NOS lacquer finished striking Bright Sapphire Metallic.
The Limited Edition 70th Anniversary 1954 Stratocaster® wears a gorgeous Wide Fade Two-Colour Sunburst lacquer finish and features a number of Custom Shop treatments with varying degrees of wear including Time Capsule, NOS, Deluxe Closet Classic, Relic®, Journeyman Relic®, Heavy Relic® and Super Heavy Relic. Its two-piece select ash body (with offset seam on the treble side) resonates with singing highs, sweet midrange and tight lows.
The Limited Edition Fat 1954 Stratocaster® Relic® with Closet Classic Hardware has a two-piece select ash body that resonates with singing highs, sweet midrange and tight lows, clad in a ravishing Relic® lacquer finish in Wide Fade Two-Colour Sunburst, Aged White Blonde, Aged Black and Super-Faded Aged Surf Green, and features slightly oxidised Closet Classic hardware for an authentically worn-in look
The Limited Edition 1954 Roasted Stratocaster® Journeyman Relic® wears a sensational Journeyman Relic® lacquer finish in Wide Fade Chocolate Two-Colour Sunburst, Natural Blonde, ’55 Desert Tan, Aged Black, Cimarron Red and Aged Desert Sand. The two-piece select ash body (with offset seam on the treble side) resonates with singing highs, sweet midrange and tight lows.
The Limited Edition 1954 Hardtail Stratocaster® DLX Closet Classic contains a two-piece select ash body (with offset seam on the treble side) produces lively resonance with singing highs, sweet midrange and tight lows, with sparkling gold hardware and wrapped in a gorgeous Deluxe Closet Classic lacquer finish in Two-Colour Sunburst, Dirty White Blonde, Super/Super Faded Aged Shell Pink, India Ivory and Faded Aged Canary Yellow.
“These 70th Anniversary models encapsulate everything that a player, whether beginner or seasoned veteran, seeks in a Stratocaster®,”said Justin Norvell EVP of Product, FMIC. “Recognizing the Strat® guitars history as more than just a guitar but as a tool for progress and sonic exploration, we equally prioritise the inclusion of features tailored to meet the player’s evolving needs. This blend of tradition and innovation not only celebrates the rich heritage of the Stratocaster® but also signifies our ongoing commitment to being the torchbearer in the evolution of this beloved guitar—a responsibility we hold with the utmost reverence and dedication.”
For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.
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Founded in 1946, Fender®’s worldwide guitars, amps, pedals, and accessories have been played on more stages than any other company in the industry. For nearly 80 years, Fender® has created innovative musical equipment and revolutionised music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers, and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)–whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH®, Charvel®, Bigsby® and PreSonus® – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories, and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.