Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announces the launch of the Mike McCready Stratocaster®, a faithful recreation and an accessible homage to Pearl Jam’s lead guitarists’ iconic 1960s Stratocaster® guitar. Created in close collaboration with McCready, this signature Stratocaster® guitar pays tribute to his unique blues-inspired style and serves as a testament to his extraordinary artistry and sonic finesse. Built in Ensenada, Mexico, this signature guitar marks the second collaboration with the award winning guitarist following his Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition Mike McCready Stratocaster® released in 2021. Created not only for Pearl Jam and Mike McCready fans, but Fender enthusiasts alike looking for an accessible, excellent vintage-style, road-worn® 60s Strat®.
Pearl Jam, the pre-eminent Seattle alternative rock icons, have cemented their status as one of the best-selling rock bands of all time and at the core of the band’s distinctive sound and unwavering appeal lies Mike McCready – a founding member whose blues-infused approach to guitar playing became an integral part of the band’s sonic identity. McCready’s soulful and emotive playing style set him apart from his contemporaries, infusing their music with a raw, electrifying energy. Best known for playing a 1960 Strat® guitar (although for years he thought his beloved was a ‘59!), his searing leads are steeped in blues and classic rock reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix, Pete Townshend and Keith Richards. His peerless work on hits including “Yellow Ledbetter”, “Even Flow”, “Nothing As It Seems” and countless others helped pave the way for Pearl Jam’s 2017 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan, McCready set out early on to acquire his own ’59 Strat®, and, serendipitously, with his first ever vintage guitar purchase, he found “the one” that has been his primary Fender® instrument ever since. Now, some 28 years later, McCready’s iconic Strat® can be heard featured on tracks “Superblood Wolfmoon” and “Dance Of The Clairvoyants” from Pearl Jam’s most recent studio LP, Gigaton.
“Fender has remained a staple throughout my musical career, most notably when Fender’s Custom Shop recreated my first ever Stratocaster® two years ago,” said Mike McCready. “They did such an incredible job replicating the sound and feel of the custom shop, even I get confused which one is the original! Now, with the release of my artist signature, I’m deeply honored to not only further solidify my partnership with the brand, but to deliver a more approachable guitar to the hands of the next generation of guitar players featuring the state-of-the-art craftsmanship Fender is known for and a distinct tone that hold a special place in my heart.”
The Mike McCready Stratocaster® ($1,899.99 USD, £1,649.00 GBP, €1,899.00 EUR, $3,499.00 AUD, ¥242,000 JPY) features a hand-crafted, heavily Road Worn® lacquer finish over an alder body, recreating the battle scars Mike’s own Strat® has earned over three decades of grueling, sold-out tours and legendary performances. The comfy 9.5″ radius slab rosewood fingerboard on a slim “C” maple neck are shaped to match McCready’s treasured 1960 Strat®, while the custom Mike McCready Stratocaster® pickups are voiced to replicate Mike’s vintage single-coils for the same timeless tone, passion and energy that define his signature sound. The vintage-style synchronized tremolo, bent-steel saddles and cold-rolled steel block ensure the purest Fender® tone and performance.
“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership and work with McCready to provide more players and fans access to his signature Strat®,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Product at FMIC. “McCready’s influence has undeniably shaped the sound of past and modern day rock music and this signature guitar embodies the spirit of craftsmanship that Fender has stood for throughout its history. Players will appreciate the guitar’s vintage worn look while possessing features like its custom pickup set that will allow players to add their own modern twist to its large sound.”
In true tradition, the Fender® Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists. Introducing the Mike McCready Stratocaster, created in partnership with @PearlJam’s founding member @mikemccreadypj. Inspired by his cherished 1960 Stratocaster, it features custom pickups voiced to emulate McCready’s signature tone, a six-point tremolo, alder body with a Road Worn finish and more.
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.