History of Fender Guitars

Fender guitars have been integral to rock n' roll since the 1950s. In this video, we'll explore the origins and evolution of Fender's most iconic guitar models.

It all started in 1946 when Clarence Leonidas "Leo" Fender founded the Fender Electric Instrument Company in Fullerton, California. A machinist and inventor by trade, Leo began building lap steel guitars and amplifiers. By 1950, he had designed the innovative Esquire and Broadcaster guitar models - the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitars.

The Broadcaster was soon renamed the Telecaster, and the Stratocaster, which followed in 1954, became the foundation of Fender's guitar legacy. With their bright, cutting tone and smooth playability, legendary guitarists from James Burton to Jimi Hendrix to Eric Clapton have favored the Telecaster and Stratocaster with their colorful, cutting tone and smooth playability.

Over the years, Fender has introduced several other classic guitar models like the Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang, and more. They've also branched out into acoustic guitars, bass guitars, and other stringed instruments. While factory production methods have modernized, Fender still makes its core models in California and Mexico.

Today, Fender remains one of the biggest names in guitars, constantly innovating while honoring its vintage roots. From the bright twang of a Telecaster to the mellow warmth of a Strat, Fender's sound is engrained in the history of popular music. This video traces the evolution and celebrates these iconic instruments we know and love.