The World’s Best-Selling Guitar Series Just Got Better: Player II Boasts Premium Specs and Never-Released Vintage Car-Inspired Colorways

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announces the arrival of the Player II Series – an update to Fender’s long-standing best-selling electric series, the Player Series – designed for musicians ready to take the next step in their creative journey.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here:
https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9221551-fender-releases-the-player-ii-series/ 

Since its inception in 2018, the Player Series has shown nearly 30% consecutive year-over-year growth globally and holds rank as Fender’s best-selling range of electric guitars of all time due to its accessible features that both capture the imagination of new players and satisfy the demands of more experienced guitarists alike. Available now, the Player II Series takes the best of its predecessor’s features and improves them with upgraded specs like rosewood fingerboards, modern “C” necks with rolled edges, and new vintage colors from the vaults exemplifying the innovation, culture, community, and lifestyle synonymous with Fender^® Electrics.

At a time when data¹ shows the global music industry is booming, with revenue at its highest since 1999 – the Player II series continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, ushering in a new kind of guitar player that takes creativity to a new level. The just-released lineup of models up the ante on the previous range with numerous innovative details and specs, new options for chambered ash and chambered mahogany bodies and never-released vintage colorways – Coral Red, Aquatone Blue, Hialeah Yellow and Birch Green – ’50s and ’60s vintage car colors pulled from the archives.

The 2024 campaign for the Player II Series, “The All New Player II” marks one of Fender’s most significant debuts yet. It begins with an electrifying hero film blending four distinctive renditions of The Kinks’ timeless hit, “All Day & All of the Night,” set in unique environments. For the film, All Day and All of the Night: The All New Player II Series | Fender^®, Fender has partnered with acclaimed artists Julien Baker, singer-songwriter from Memphis and 1/3 of boygenius, DIIV, influential indie rock band, content creator and touring bassist (Fever 333) April Kae and alternative rock trio Wallows. The campaign includes four product marketing vignettes with the same artists and environments, skillfully highlighting key features of the Player II Series.

In addition to the hero film and ten product demo videos, Exploring the Player II Series, the multi-pronged campaign debuts various content pieces:

• Player II Sessions, featuring performances and interviews with the four campaign artists, Julien Baker, DIIV, Wallows and April Kae, each showcasing an original performance. Watch the first Fender Session, featuring interview and performance by Wallows: Wallows Sessions | The Player II Series | Fender
• New Fender series featuring Fender Next artists – Militarie Gun (Los Angeles), Joy Oladokun (Nashville), English Teacher (Leeds), Vacations (Australia), and additional content with artists based in Japan and China. Each docu-style episode will capture a “day in the life” of being a Player with the artists as they prepare for a show.
• The Modern Creator, campaign series features stories through the eyes of four content creators, Monica Valli, Mary Spender, Gabriel Takei and Dovydas, as they share their unique musical journeys.
• Player I vs. Player II Side By Sides, engaging select channels, such as Andy Ferris, for side-by-side comparisons highlighting the improvements from Player to Player II guitars and bases.

“The Player II Series represents our continued evolution in design and functionality,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product, FMIC. “We listened to the feedback from musicians around the world and incorporated their insights to refine and innovate our instruments. The re-introduction of rosewood fingerboards is a restoration of the ‘original Fender recipe’ and will no doubt be a fan favorite – but we didn’t want to stop there. We’ve also incorporated our rolled fingerboard edges for a broken-in feel, upgraded hardware, and have some new body options as well- which underscores our commitment to providing players and creators with the tools they need to express their unique sound and style. The Player II Series is not just an upgrade, it’s a detailed re-imagining of our core silhouettes, highlighting our dedication to quality and the continuous refinement of our instruments.”

Additionally, Player II offers new options for chambered ash and chambered mahogany bodies for the Player II Stratocaster and Telecaster models, which will be available in October. Designed for musicians ready to elevate their craft, the Player II Series sets a new standard for quality and performance in the mid-price range. Series includes:

• Player II Stratocaster^®
• Player II HSS Stratocaster^®
• Player II Telecaster^®
• Player II Jazzmaster^®
• Player II Jaguar^®
• Player II Mustang^®
• Player II LH Stratocaster^®
• Player II HH Telecaster^®
• Player II LH Telecaster^®
• Player II Precision Bass^®
• Player II Jazz Bass^®
• Player II Mustang Bass^®

“Music is about a multisensory experience and the P-Bass provides that. It feels great to wear, it sounds great and it looks incredible. It’s classic but always feels current. It always feels relevant and that’s not something that can be said about any product let alone a guitar.” April Kae.

“This guitar feels like a magic guitar that fell into my hands and it’s perfect. I feel like I’m constantly chasing that one guitar and this is just perfect.” Zachary Cole Smith, DIIV

“The Player II Series Stratocaster feels like a great guitar and I was impressed by how it played very easy and simple. The tones are great. I think people are going to enjoy it.” Braeden Lemasters, Wallows

High-resolution artist, lifestyle, and product images can be found HERE.

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.

¹ Billboard states the music industry’s total revenue in 2024 is $28.6 billion, which is the highest it’s been since 1999, not accounting for inflation.

PLAYER II SERIES MODELS:

Player II Stratocaster^® ($799.99 – $899.99 USD, £739.00 – £809.00 GBP, €869.00 – €949.00 EUR, $1,299.00 – $1,449.00 AUD, ¥104,500 – ¥121,000 JPY) The Player II Stratocaster^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat^® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 5-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from glassy neck pickup cleans to rowdy bridge pickup snarl and all points in between, while a 2-point tremolo and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities. Available in LH model. Offered in Chambered Ash and Chambered Mahogany bodies.

Player II HSS Stratocaster^® ($829.99 – $929.99 USD, £759.00 – £829.00 GBP, €889.00 – €969.00 EUR, $1,349.00 – $1,499.00 AUD, ¥108,900 -126,500 JPY ) The Player II Stratocaster^® HSS radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat^® pickups and a Player Series Alnico II humbucker offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 5-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to rowdy bridge pickup roar and all points in between, while a 2-point tremolo and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Telecaster^® ($799.99 – $899.99 USD, £739.00 – £809.00 GBP, €869.00 – €949.00 EUR, $1,299.00 – $1,449.00 AUD, ¥104,500 – ¥121,000 JPY) The Player II Telecaster^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Tele^® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from smooth neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup twang and all points in between, while a 6-saddle bridge, block steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities. Available in LH model. Offered in Chambered Ash and Chambered Mahogany bodies.

Player II HH Telecaster^® ($829.99 USD, £769.00 GBP, €899.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Telecaster^® HH radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico II humbuckers offer articulate highs, muscular mids and chunky lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from creamy neck pickup warmth to rowdy bridge pickup roar and all points in between, while a 6-saddle bridge, bent steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Jaguar^® ($829.99 USD, £759.00 GBP, €889.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Jaguar^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V (Bridge) and Alnico II (Neck) Single-Coil Jaguar^® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup bite and all points in between, while a 6-saddle Jaguar bridge with Floating Tremolo, upgraded Mustang^® saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Jazzmaster^® ($829.99 USD, £759.00 GBP, €889.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Jazzmaster^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Jazzmaster pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup bite and all points in between, while a 6-saddle Jazzmaster bridge with Floating Tremolo, upgraded Mustang^® saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Mustang^® ($799.99 USD, £619.00 GBP, €729.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Mustang^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Mustang^® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup snarl and all points in between, while a 6-saddle hardtail bridge, bent steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Precision Bass^® ($799.99 USD, £839.00 GBP, €979.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Precision Bass^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Split-Coil P Bass^® pickups offer sweet highs, musical mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. An adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Jazz Bass^® ($799.99 USD, £839.00 GBP, €979.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Jazz Bass^® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil J Bass^® pickups offer sweet highs, growling mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. An adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

Player II Mustang^® Bass ($799.99 USD, £679.00 GBP, €799.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Mustang^® Bass PJ radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Split-Coil P Bass^® and Single-Coil J Bass^® pickups offer sweet highs, growling mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything this versatile pickup set has to offer, while an adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:
Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)–whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender^®, Squier^®, Gretsch^® guitars, Jackson^®, EVH^®, Charvel^®, Bigsby^® and PreSonus^® – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.

Fender (standard and stylized), Stratocaster, Strat, Telecaster, Tele, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang, Precision Bass, P Bass, Jazz Bass, J Bass are trademarks of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and/or its affiliates, registered in the U.S. and other countries. ClassicGear is a trademark of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and/or its affiliates.

All other product and company names may be trademarks of their respective owners and may be used herein under license. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by or of the respective owners.

SOURCE Fender Musical Instruments Corp.

Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at [insert website URL] and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

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Sound of LA Records: The Legacy of SOLAR

Sound of LA records, widely known as SOLAR, stands as one of the most influential record labels in the world of R&B and funk music during the 1980s. Founded by visionary executives Dick Griffey and Don Cornelius in 1977, SOLAR played an instrumental role in launching the careers of many legendary artists and producing some of the biggest hits of the era.

Shalamar: The Pioneers of SOLAR’s Success

SOLAR’s first major breakthrough arrived with the formation of the group Shalamar in 1977. Created by Griffey and Cornelius, Shalamar quickly became a sensation. Their debut album “Uptown Festival,” released in 1977, featured the hit single “The Second Time Around.” Throughout the 1980s, Shalamar continued to dominate the charts with timeless tracks such as “A Night to Remember,” “Dead Giveaway,” and “Dancing in the Sheets.”

The Whispers: A Renaissance of R&B Hits

Another group that flourished under SOLAR’s banner was The Whispers. Although they had been active since the late 1960s, it was during their time with SOLAR that The Whispers experienced a renaissance in their career. They produced some of their most memorable hits, including “And the Beat Goes On,” “Rock Steady,” and “It’s a Love Thing,” which remain staples of R&B music to this day.

Lakeside: Funk Pioneers

Formed in 1969, Lakeside found unprecedented success with SOLAR. Their hit single “Fantastic Voyage” became an anthem of the R&B and funk scene. Lakeside’s legacy includes a series of energetic and chart-topping singles like “Raid,” “Outrageous,” and “Your Love is on the One,” showcasing their distinct sound and infectious rhythms.

Midnight Star: Synth-Driven Success

Midnight Star, established in 1976, also thrived under the SOLAR umbrella. Their innovative use of synthesizers and electronic elements set them apart. The group achieved significant success with hits such as “Freak-A-Zoid,” “No Parking on the Dance Floor,” “Operator,” and “Midas Touch,” solidifying their place in the annals of funk and electro music history.

Launching Other Major Bands and Solo Careers: The Deele, Klymaxx, and The S.O.S. Band

SOLAR was also a launching pad for several solo careers. The Deele, featuring future superstars Babyface and LA Reid, first gained recognition under SOLAR. Similarly, Klymaxx and The S.O.S. Band benefited from SOLAR’s nurturing environment. The S.O.S. Band’s “Take Your Time (Do It Right)” became a major hit, leading to a succession of successful singles throughout the 1980s.

The Decline and Lasting Legacy

Despite its monumental impact during the 1980s, SOLAR struggled to adapt to the changing music industry of the 1990s. The label was eventually sold to MCA Records in the early 1990s. However, the legacy of SOLAR’s innovation and influence continues to resonate. The artists and music produced under SOLAR have left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing countless musicians and genres.

Conclusion

In its relatively short lifespan, Sound of LA records, or SOLAR, carved out a significant chapter in the history of R&B and funk music. From Shalamar’s infectious melodies to The Whispers’ soulful ballads, from the funk-infused tracks of Lakeside to the electronic innovations of Midnight Star, SOLAR’s contributions to music are undeniable. The label’s influence endures, a testament to its role as a beacon of creativity and talent in the music world.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SOLAR_Records

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The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge

NASHVILLE, Tenn. /PRNewswire/ — Bobby Nashville is thrilled to announce the return of the hotel’s Backyard Sessions rooftop concert series, now in partnership with WNXP – Nashville’s NPR Music station. Bobby Hotels Backyard Sessions Curated by WNXP is taking the backyard experience to new heights starting June 12, offering a unique blend of local and national talent with free monthly concerts.

The initial 2024 Backyard Sessions lineup includes the following performances:

June 12: Medium Build, Brother Bird
July 25: PawPaw Rod, Casper Sage
August 8: Dehd, Friko
September 26: Jalen Ngonda, Britti
October 24: Special performances revealed soon!

With WNXP on-air talent hosting each night of the series, Bobby Nashville promises an unforgettable summer filled with the sounds of acclaimed artists who have graced the stages of the nation’s top music festivals, including SXSW, Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Pitchfork and beyond—all set against the stunning backdrop of Nashville’s iconic skyline. In addition to the series, patrons can enjoy Rooftop Lounge Dinkville Pickleball, adult yard games, specialty cocktails and the hotel’s retrofitted 1956 Scenicruiser, perched 10 stories above downtown Nashville.  

Looking to amplify your trip? Let Bobby Nashville be your guide to the ultimate summer concert experience! Stay the night and gain VIP access, complete with exclusive Backyard Sessions swag and a commemorative poster, through Bobby Nashville’s promotional offer.

Backyard Sessions is free to attend and open to all ages. Limited standing room is available; reserve your table now. Stay tuned for the full lineup and recorded live performances, coming soon to bobbyhotel.com and WNXP. Follow @bobbyhotel for additional information, artist meet-and-greets and more.

ABOUT BOBBY HOTELS 

Bobby Hotels is an award-winning, lifestyle hospitality brand specializing in dynamic, boutique properties. Inspiring guests to explore through a local lens, Bobby Hotels multifaceted destinations spark genuine connection with thoughtfully curated community spaces, casually elevated cuisine, unparalleled arts and entertainment, off-the-beaten-path nightlife and four-legged friend ambassadors. The Bobby Hotels portfolio includes Bobby Nashville, which launched in 2018. In addition, the brand continues to explore hotel conversions and ground-up development in Detroit, MI; Fort Worth, TX; Washington, D.C. and more. Follow @bobbyhotel on Facebook and Instagram for news and updates. For more information, visit bobbyhotel.com.  

ABOUT WNXP

Founded in 2020, WNXP, part of the Nashville Public Radio family, is a local, listener-powered and member-supported nonprofit radio station where lovers and creators of music connect. Curated by local music experts with handpicked music that expresses the depth, breadth and diversity of the Nashville music scene, WNXP strives to reflect the sound of Music City with new music discovery presented across multiple platforms, from emerging and established artists to the forgotten and overlooked. For more information, visit wnxp.org.

SOURCE Bobby Hotels

https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment