#Japan #Tokyo #limited edition #Fender Stratocaster #Shigeru Suzuki

Fender Music Unveils the Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster

On May 13, 2026, Fender Music, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, will launch the Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster, a signature model honoring the legendary guitarist Shigeru Suzuki. Known for his influential contributions to the Japanese music scene, especially as a member of the iconic rock band Happy End and his solo work, Suzuki's signature model reflects his unique sound and style.

The Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster is a meticulous recreation of the 1962 Stratocaster that Suzuki has cherished throughout his career. This model isn't just a mere reproduction; it has been specially crafted to embody the sound and philosophy shaped by Suzuki's decades of performing.

Shigeru Suzuki, who debuted professionally in 1968, has profoundly influenced Japan's rock landscape through his work with notable artists like Haruomi Hosono and Takashi Matsumoto in Happy End. In 1974, he released his solo album "BAND WAGON" in Los Angeles and continued to engage in numerous sessions as a member of Tin Pan Alley while also thriving as a solo artist, arranger, and producer. Celebrating his 50th anniversary in 2019, Suzuki remains a highly respected guitarist in the Japanese music sphere.

This new model follows the Fender Custom Shop's earlier release of the Shigeru Suzuki ‘62 Stratocaster Journeyman Relic® in 2020. Designed using Japan's high-precision manufacturing techniques, this model aims to provide more players with the sound and feel that Suzuki has perfected throughout his career. It represents an evolution of his ideal sound and is expected to be a favorite among both fans and guitarists alike.

In his remarks about the signature model, Suzuki shared, "The beauty of a Stratocaster lies in its versatility to express a range of tones, from clean to bold and wild. This model embodies the sound I've long sought after. We've adjusted the thickness of the bass response and the overall balance, and even the Fiesta Red color has undergone numerous tweaks to capture the essence of when I first acquired it. I hope to have many players experience its unique appeal."

The distinctive Fiesta Red finish on the Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster features a desert sand undercoat to recreate the color he initially experienced. The top coat utilizes nitrocellulose lacquer, preserving the vintage feel with minimal paint, akin to how traditional guitars age naturally.

Equipped with specially designed single-coil pickups, this model achieves the "thick bass" vibe Suzuki aimed for. By increasing the windings by approximately 20%, these pickups deliver a robust low-end sound. The choice of a 500kΩ pot ensures clarity in the high-end, combined with the vintage SPRAGUE “BLACK BEAUTY” capacitor, resulting in a rich, expressive sound. The neck is profiled off his actual guitar to balance playability and feel, and the body of Alder was chosen to maintain an original-like weight ratio, per Suzuki's strict specifications.

Each Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster includes a special neck plate engraved with Suzuki's signature and a serial number, alongside a certificate of authenticity, making it a unique piece for collectors and music enthusiasts alike.

Release Event for the Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster

As a celebration of this new release, Fender will host a special event at Fender Flagship Tokyo designed for customers who purchase the guitar. This event will feature a talk by Shigeru Suzuki, as well as live demonstrations, providing an opportunity for fans to engage directly with the model and its creator.

Event Details

• - Date: July 15, 2026
• - Location: Fender Flagship Tokyo (1-8-10 Jingu-mae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001)
• - Attendee Eligibility: Customers purchasing the Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster will have the chance to be invited through a lottery. Proof of purchase or reservation is required for application.
• - Application Period: June 8, 2026, to June 28, 2026
• - Winner Announcement: June 29, 2026

Product Overview

• - Product Name: Limited Shigeru Suzuki Stratocaster®︎
• - Price: 330,000 yen (tax included)
• - Sales Start Date: May 13, 2026
• - Available Locations:

- Fender Flagship Tokyo
- Fender Official Online Store
- Authorized Fender Retailers

• - Product Page: Fender Japan

About Shigeru Suzuki

Born in 1951 in Tokyo, Shigeru Suzuki formed the band Sky in 1968 and made his professional debut. In 1969, he joined forces with influential musicians and formed Valentine Blue, which was renamed Happy End the following year. The band debuted with their album "Happy End." After disbanding in 1972, Suzuki moved to Los Angeles, completing his solo album "BAND WAGON". After returning to Japan, he engaged in numerous sessions as a member of Tin Pan Alley while releasing seven solo albums and contributing as an arranger, producer, and live support. In 2000, he formed Tin Pan with former members of Tin Pan Alley and released the album "Tin Pan." Celebrating 50 years in music in 2019, Suzuki continues to earn deep respect from diverse generations as a legendary guitarist.