Fender Marks Stratocaster’s 70th Anniversary With 7 Limited Edition Models And Giveaways

Fender on Tuesday announced it will be commemorating the 70th anniversary of the iconic Stratocaster guitar by releasing seven new models this year, along with releasing short films and hosting a three-month giveaway.

Founder Leo Fender released the first Stratocaster in 1954, and the electric guitar’s revolutionary design took the music world by storm. Its popularity skyrocketed in the 1960s when Jimi Hendrix performed with his signature classic off-white Stratocaster.

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, Janie Hendrix said in a statement. When he picked up his Stratocaster, strap yourself in, because he’s going to take you on a wild, free ride.

Since then, countless musicians have performed with the Stratocaster, including Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Beck, Kurt Cobain, H.E.R., and more.

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 Fender Musical Instruments Corporation 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.

Among the seven anniversary models available for purchase only in 2024 are two existing classics in the Stratocaster’s famous two-color sunburst finish, and five limited-edition models in vintage and modern configurations.

The Fender Custom Shop is also unveiling a limited-edition lineup of customizable guitars, including a Limited Edition Fat 1954 Stratocaster Relic with Closet Classic Hardware, a Limited Edition 1954 Roasted Stratocaster Journeyman Relic, and a Limited Edition 1954 Hardtail Stratocaster DLX Closet Classic.

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 prioritize 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.

Fender is also releasing a film titled Voodoo Child: Forever Ahead of Its Time, featuring several artists playing their renditions of the classic Hendrix song, including Mateus Asato, Tyler Bryant, Rebecca Lovell, Tom Morello, Simon Neil, Ari O’Neal, REI, Nile Rodgers, Tash Sultana and Jimmie Vaughan.

The Strat Sessions will feature conversations and performances with artists including Buddy Guy. A portrait series titled Icons of the Strat, meanwhile, will honor legendary Strat players and their iconic guitars, including Buddy Holly, David Gilmour, Bonnie Raitt, and George Harrison.

The Show Us Your Strat giveaway invites players to share their Strat stories for a chance to win one of seventy 70th Anniversary Stratocaster guitars or the grand prize of a Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition 1954 Stratocaster. The giveaway will run from April 22 to June 22, with the final winner selected in late June.