Fender today released the new H.E.R. Signature Stratocaster® in collaboration with the multiple Grammy®-Award-winning R&B singer-songwriter.
The new Strat features a unique iridescent Chrome Glow finish – inspired by H.E.R.’s favourite nail varnish shade – and custom artwork designed exactly to the specs of Gabi Wilson. The guitar received its first outing onstage at the 2020 EMMY Awards as H.E.R performed a rendition of Prince’s ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ throughout this year’s In Memoriam tribute.
H.E.R. is no stranger to a Stratocaster, writing with one on her platinum-certified debut album ‘H.E.R.’. A project more than a year in the making, the all-new H.E.R. Signature Stratocaster features Fender Vintage Noiseless™ pickups, a 1-ply anodised aluminium pickguard and an alder body finished in stunning Chrome Glow.
To coincide with H.E.R’s signature guitar launch, some of her biggest hit songs will be added to Fender Play®, the guitar manufacturer’s learning app for guitar, bass and ukulele.
“Fender was the reason I began playing guitar,” said H.E.R. “My father taught me how to play my first blues scale on a mini black-and-white Strat, so it’s absolutely surreal I have partnered with Fender to design my own Signature Stratocaster. As an artist, I find that my most personal thoughts make the most relatable music. By designing a Stratocaster with a colour, shape and sound that is one-hundred-percent my own, my hope is that other young women and players from all backgrounds feel inspired to pick up this guitar, tap into their thoughts and create amazing music.”
“This is the culmination of a years-long relationship between Fender and H.E.R., and a testament to everything she has done to inspire a new generation of players,” said Justin Norvell, EVP Fender Products.
“We are honoured that H.E.R. has chosen to work with Fender on her debut artist signature model,” said Evan Jones, CMO, Fender. “She is an incredible, Grammy Award-winning artist whose future in the music industry is bright. As we look to the future of guitar, we believe it’s our responsibility to support the increasing diversity and adoption of the instrument across all genres.
“It’s important for young aspiring players to see themselves in the heroes they look up to, and we know who we amplify with our brand can help make that impact,” Jones added.
The guitar retails at £1,099.