Looking Back: Fender's 2017 Highlights

In 2017, there was no lack of new products that Fender had to offer, from Fender Play – the easiest way to learn guitar – to several artist signature models to a groundbreaking set of WiFi-enabled amplifiers.

Now, as we head into what promises to be a big 2018, here's a look back at some of the highlights of a great year.

Fender Play

For beginners and first-time guitar players, Fender Play is a revolutionary guitar-learning platform from the brand that started it all. The easy-to-follow lessons offer a short and focused micro-learning strategy with a clear, structured path that will keep you on track. In addition, Fender Play boasts hundreds of popular song lessons in a variety of genres, including rock, pop, country folk and blues.

If you or someone you know is ready to start their gutiar journey, click here for a free 30-day trial.

Fender California Coast Series Ukuleles

For decades, Fender has been synonymous with the beautiful coast of Southern California, with roots dating back to the birth of the company in Fullerton in 1946. In the spirit of those roots, the California Coast series of ukuleles was born. With a co-sign from pop sensation Grace VanderWaal, these ukuleles cater to musicians of all ages and skill levels, providing the perfect transitional stepping stone for aspiring guitar players to reach the next level.

The Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster

Country superstar Brad Paisley has been a longtime Fender player, and now he has a signature model Telecaster to boot. This eye-catching model brings Nashville flair with a Road Worn ssilver sparrkle finish and a custom pailsley pickguard, not to mention a custom-wound '64 Tele bridge pickup and a Twisted Tele neck pickup.

The Fender EOB Sustainer Stratocaster

In collaboration with Radiohead's Ed O'Brien, the EOB Sustainer Stratocaster is a guitar as unique as his sound. Equipped with a Fernandes Sustainer unit, O’Brien designed this guitar with the intention of helping players everywhere experiment, create and find their own diverse sound. It's perfect for creating lush, layered soundscapes that he brings to Radiohead on the stage and in the studio.

The JMJ Road Worn Mustang Bass

A true renaissance man of the modern music scene, Justin Meldal-Johnson's bass credits include Beck, Nine Inch Nails and more. His production credits include Jimmy Eat World, Paramore and M83, among others. JMJ is a shining example of today's breed of multi-genre musician/producers, and his new signature Road Worn Mustang Bass can help bassists at any level continue to push boundaries and inspire others to do the same.

Fender Mustang GT Series

The Mustang GT Series broke new ground as to what an amplifier can do. The world's first WiFi-equipped amp boasts a studio's worth of amp and effects models, along with Bluetooth capabilities and compatability with the exclusive Fender Tone app.

Fender Offset Video Series

Midway through the year, Fender released a slew of new pastel-colored Offset guitars to refresh the line, and artists and fans alike flocked to them. As such, Fender gave five key artists total creative freedom to make a video and show how their Offsets inspire them. From Børns to H.E.R. to Laurie Vincent of U.K. punk band Slaves, each clip proved to be unique and evocative of their unquestionable talents.

Fender Feedback Documentary Series

To celebrate the release of the American Professional Series, Fender got together with four artists that occupy their own distinct space in the musical landscape. The likes of J Mascis, Michael Kiwanuka, Local Natives and Ty Dolla $ign each talked about their creative journeys and how their instruments helped guide them down that path. Watch Mascis' edition below.

Fender Custom Shop Founders Design Project

To commemorate the Fender Custom Shop's 30th anniversary, eight of the original builders who helped shape what would become known as the "Dream Factory" came together to design their dream guitars. From John Page to Michael Stevens to George Blanda, these masters of their craft turned out some truly incredible instruments.

Watch Stevens discuss his Founders Design Esquire below.

The Robbie Robertson "Last Waltz" Stratocaster

Honoring influential guitarist Robbie Robertson of the Band, the Fender Custom Shop and Master Builder Todd Krause painstakenly replicated the famed bronzed Stratocaster he used during the historic The Last Waltz concert. Each detail was recreated down to the bronze coating, making it a close as possible to the state it was in when Martin Scorsese filmed the show.

Fender Bluetooth Speakers

Monterrey and Newport models are powerful and packed with music-friendly features, in addition to style inspired by Fender's classic speakers.

Fender Fortis and Fighter Loud Speakers

Designed with flexibility, power, durability, and musicality in mind, the Fortis and Fighter powered speakers are ideal for DJs, schools, houses of worship, solo performers and businesses. Each also provides high-fidelity Bluetooth connectivity to stream wireless audio.