This allowed bassists to move further up front in the band mix, both visually and audibly. This work has been continued and many companies and individual luthiers have joined the quest to take Leo Fender's original dream and idea to new levels. After much lobbying Left handeders are going to get a shot at these collectable babies. One of the 20th century's most innovative companies, from its owner's humble beginnings as a helicopter manufacturer to its rise as the biggest acoustic guitar maker in the U.S. Ovation guitars. The American Series is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Stratocaster guitar as well, with the 50th Anniversary American Series Stratocaster guitar. The color is beautiful. It's a Midnight Wine finish. The feel of the neck is next to perfect and the tone qualities are astounding. It's simply easy and fun to play. You don’t mess with an icon. The sainted grandfather of electric guitars, the Fender Stratocaster, famously cradled on stage by music legends from Buddy Holly to Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, is turning 50. So how would the new Fender company accommodate changing styles and tastes, and adapt its venerable Stratocaster guitar to the needs of the present? During the CBS era, clear answers had often eluded the suits who ran the company. One exec opined in private, “What are we supposed to do — build in the same old mistakes, just to keep the purists happy?” Invented by a California radio repairman, the "Strat" became an instant staple for rock 'n' roll musicians, starting with Holly, and won iconic status when Hendrix vaunted his on stage as he famously performed The Star Spangled Banner at the 1969 Woodstock concert. Guitar Amplifier Kit.
