By C.

Today we’ll be taking a look at an interesting line of Fenders from the late 1960’s, a period in American history that involved many new advancements in society, space travel, and of course guitars! During this time, the evolution of rock music and fashion was expanding at a rapid pace . The days of young bands sporting their matching tweed suits and haircuts were coming to a close, and new artists were ushering in a new era of musical statements and style. Fender decided to take a bold step in this direction with their Competition Series guitars and basses. And the chosen model for this striking new makeover? The Mustang! Yet another example of Fender’s innovative spirit, blending vintage charm with contemporary playability, these instruments pay homage to the iconic Mustang models of the past while infusing them with updated features and a vibrant, competitive edge.

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Originally introduced in 1964, the Mustang gained popularity among musicians seeking a unique, versatile and inexpensive instrument. With the similar student models like the Duo Sonic II and Musicmaster II soon to be discontinued in 1969, Fender’s Competition Series Mustangs sought to reimagine this classic design, emphasizing its distinctive characteristics while catering to the aesthetic demand of the day’s players.

One of the most striking features of the Competition Series Mustang guitars and basses is their visually captivating appearance, as seen on this 1970 Competition Red Mustang Bass for sale here at IVG. The vivid racing stripe motif, reminiscent of classic automobile designs, adorns the sleek bodies, adding an electrifying visual appeal. Available in several eye-catching color combinations with complimentary matching headstocks, these instruments exude a sporty and dynamic vibe that sets them apart from earlier Mustangs.

Beyond their stunning appearance, these guitars and basses boast a range of enhancements geared towards modern performance. Around this time, Fender began adding new contours to the Mustang. Previously a “slab body” design, these Mustangs now featured a comfortable belly contour similar to its Stratocaster relatives. This was seen as an overall improvement, but many of the original charming features of the Mustang remained. The comfortable “C” shaped neck profile ensured a smooth playing experience, allowing for effortless navigation across the fretboard. And with a shorter 24-inch scale length, these instruments offer a unique feel, perfect for players seeking agility and ease of playability.

Equipped with specially designed pickups not found in the more traditional solid body Fenders, the Competition Series Mustangs deliver a diverse sonic palette. The single-coil pickups capture the essence of the vintage Fender sound in a smaller package, offering crisp, unique tone with a distinctive Fender-esque character. This versatility makes these instruments well-suited for various musical genres, from shimmering cleans to gritty overdriven tones.

The Fender Competition Series Mustang guitars and basses not only pay tribute to the past but also serve as a platform for artistic expression. Their sleek design, coupled with Fender’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, makes them an enticing choice for both collectors and players seeking a standout instrument that stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation.

These instruments have found favor among musicians across several genres, from surf, indie rock to alternative and beyond. Their unique aesthetics and versatile tonal capabilities have made them a go-to choice for those seeking instruments that not only look exceptional on stage but also offer unparalleled sonic versatility in the studio.

One of the most notable artists might be Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, who famously used a Competition Blue Mustang in their “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video and several live performances. His original guitar sold at auction for a cool 4.5 million, but thankfully you can get a faithful reissue of the Kurt Cobain Competition Blue Mustang here, if you’re so inclined.

The Fender Competition Series Mustang guitars and basses encapsulate Fender’s legacy of pushing boundaries and reimagining classic designs for the modern era. With their blend of vintage charm, contemporary features, and striking visuals, these instruments continue to inspire musicians, allowing them to explore new sonic territories while honoring Fender’s rich heritage.