#USA #California #Fender Next™ #Brandy War Chronicles #Otoha

Fender Next™ 2025 Artists Announced

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), based in California, has recently announced the selected artists for its promising global artist development program, Fender Next™, for the year 2025. This initiative, which began in 2019, aims to spotlight and support the next generation of guitarists who are set to shape the future of music and culture. Among the global selections, two outstanding acts from Japan, Brandy War Chronicles and Otoha, have earned their place in this prestigious lineup.

The chosen artists for the 2025 Fender Next™ program comprise 20 unique acts from diverse regions, including the USA, Mexico, UK, France, Germany, Japan, China, and New Zealand. This representation symbolizes the creativity and global influence of today’s guitar community, as Fender Next™ has previously supported over 175 artists, providing them with essential tools, exposure opportunities, and platforms to propel their careers forward.

Fender’s artist marketing team has rigorously selected the 2025 candidates based on criteria such as guitar playing ability, musical influence, fan engagement, and alignment with the Fender brand. Additionally, for the first time in this program’s history, previously selected artists like Omar Apollo and IDLES were invited to recommend the up-and-coming talents they believe deserve a shot at recognition. This innovative approach highlights the sense of community that Fender Next™ fosters, which is a vital aspect of the program’s value.

Jason Klein, Fender's artist marketing director, stated, “Fender Next™ has been on a mission to redefine the role of the guitar in music and culture. This year's involvement of past nominees in selecting and recommending new artists speaks volumes about the trust both Fender and the creative community have in this program to empower the next generation of guitarists.” He further mentioned that Fender is collaborating with partners like Apple Music and Lagunitas to ensure these artists have the necessary tools and opportunities to thrive on larger stages.

Fender will boost the visibility of the selected artists through its award-winning marketing campaigns, official website, and expansive social media channels boasting over 17 million followers worldwide. Additionally, each of the 2025 artists will receive a special package that includes the Player II Modified Stratocaster®, Hammertone™ effects pedals, Mustang® Micro Plus, PreSonus® HD9 headphones, and a one-year subscription to PreSonus® Studio One®, along with various accessories designed to support their studio and live performances.

Beyond product provision and promotions, Fender also plans to engage in global support activities, including placements on Apple Music playlists and opportunities for special projects and performances in collaboration with Lagunitas Brewing Company.

The selected artists represent a bold and boundary-defying spirit of contemporary guitar music. Among them are talents like Malcom Todd, Renee, Horsegirl, and Leon Thomas, alongside Japanese representatives Brandy War Chronicles and Otoha. This remarkable lineup spans various genres, such as pop, indie, alternative rock, punk, and R&B, showcasing a rich diversity that can redefine the role of modern guitarists and expand the musical horizons across all styles and stages.

Brandy War Chronicles expressed, “We are incredibly honored to be selected as a Japanese band for Fender Next™ 2025. We wish to excite everyone with the romance and tradition of Fender combined with our music.”

Otoha added, “I have fond memories of starting guitar at 11 and wearing a Fender pick necklace I always kept close. Being chosen for Fender Next™ 2025 alongside next-generation artists from around the world is a tremendous honor. I aspire to walk an artist's path with Fender that will make my younger self shine with pride.”

For a full list of the 2025 Fender Next™ artists (in alphabetical order):

• - Aziya (UK)
• - Balu Brigada (New Zealand)
• - Brandy War Chronicles (Japan)
• - Chinese Football (China)
• - Cruza (USA)
• - Darumas (USA)
• - Flawed Mangoes (USA)
• - Fleshwater (USA)
• - Friko (USA)
• - Horsegirl (USA)
• - Lambrini Girls (UK)
• - Leon Thomas (USA)
• - Maggie Baugh (USA)
• - Malcom Todd (USA)
• - Man/Woman/Chainsaw (UK)
• - Marc Scibilia (USA)
• - Oracle Sisters (France)
• - Otoha (Japan)
• - Renee (USA)
• - wavvyboi (Germany)

Since its founding in 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as a leading instrument manufacturer, retailer, and distributor. With brands like FENDER®, SQUIER®, GRETSCH®, JACKSON®, EVH®, CHARVEL®, BIGSBY®, and PRESONUS®, FMIC continues to provide high-quality instruments and digital experiences focusing on players. Since 2015, Fender's digital division has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to support players at every musical stage, encouraging every artist, from beginners to legends, to express their musical creativity. With the legacy of its founder, Leo Fender, FMIC remains dedicated to connecting players through a shared love for music.

Watch the announcement video here.