Fender

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is the world's foremost manufacturer and marketer of electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitars, amplifiers, and accessories, founded in Fullerton, California in 1946 by Clarence Leonidas 'Leo' Fender, who revolutionized popular music despite never learning to play guitar himself. From humble beginnings as Fender Electric Instrument Co., Leo Fender created iconic instruments that defined the sound of rock and roll, including the Telecaster (1951), the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitar, the revolutionary Stratocaster (1954) with its three pickups and tremolo arm, and the Precision Bass (1951), which established the standard for electric bass guitars. After Leo sold the company to CBS in 1965 for $13 million, Fender continued evolving under various ownership structures, ultimately establishing itself as a global leader in musical instruments with corporate headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona and manufacturing facilities in Corona, California, including the prestigious Fender Custom Shop. Under CEO Andy Mooney's leadership since 2015 (formerly of Disney Consumer Products and Nike), Fender has expanded beyond traditional manufacturing to embrace digital innovation, launching Fender Play online learning platform, establishing Los Angeles creative offices, and becoming the first major guitar brand on TikTok while maintaining production of legendary models that continue shaping music across genres. Employing approximately 3,000 people worldwide, Fender serves musicians from beginners to professionals with an extensive portfolio including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Mustang guitars, plus comprehensive amplifier lines ranging from practice amps to professional tube amplifiers, accessories, and apparel, cementing its position as an essential brand in popular music culture for over 75 years.