Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announces the Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass®, marking the bassist’s second collaboration with the iconic musical instruments brand. This signature Jazz Bass® guitar commemorates over 20 years of Way’s influence on the music industry and also pays tribute to the 1970s, the musical era that Way credits to launching his career. Designed with bassists in mind, the Mikey Way Signature Jazz Bass®gives fans the opportunity to get their hands on the same axe Way used during his 2022-2023 worldwide reunion tour with My Chemical Romance.
Mikey Way’s first memory of the bass guitar was at three years old when he heard “Another One Bites The Dust” by Queen. His passion for rock music was ignited, and he took inspiration from legends like David Bowie and Queen to develop a sound that was uniquely his own. After dedicating himself to mastering the bass, he joined My Chemical Romance where his contribution to the band’s success was unparalleled. In fact, it was Way who came up with the band’s name after reading the book Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance. With nine songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100, the multi-platinum Grammy-nominated rock band became one of the most influential artists of the 2000s. Today, Way’s distinct approach to bass playing has solidified his place as an iconic figure in the music industry.
The Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass® is impossible to ignore with a silver sparkle finish, the same finish option Way used in his signature Squier® Mustang® Bass, and an alder body that creates a balanced sound with equal doses of lows, mids, and highs. For a true vintage-style playing feel, the 70s C-shaped neck profile is sculpted thinner at the first fret and thicker at the twelfth and features ‘70s J Bass® pickups for that full, growling, punchy tone that made Fender famous. Featuring 20 medium jumbo frets and 9.5” radius bound fingerboard provides modern playability. Combining form and function perfectly, the 4-saddle bridge features modern slotted saddles for enhanced tuning stability and punchy attack. The black block inlays, binding and black painted head cap finish off the iconic Mikey Way approved look. “It’s as if the bass jumped straight from my dreams into reality. It’s my most favorite instrument I’ve ever played,” added Mikey Way.
“For over two decades, Mikey Way has been a legendary influence in modern music and a part of the Fender family. We’re honored to work with him for the second time and bring his vision for this Signature Jazz Bass® to life,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Products at FMIC. “The 70s-inspired Jazz Bass® pickups and stamped tuning machines deliver a balanced sound and punchy tones, making it an excellent choice for any musician performing in the studio, club, or arena. To make it even more special, we’re including a fun surprise for fans – signed pickguards by Mikey himself hidden in eight gig bags. We hope those who purchase the select few enjoy these one-of-a-kind additions!”
The collectible pickguards have been autographed by Mikey Way himself, making them a priceless addition to any music lover’s collection. Eight individuals who discover these hidden gems will own a cutting-edge instrument and own a one-of-a-kind pickguard that carries the signature of their musical idols. Four pickguards will be hidden in gig bags for Mikey Way’s Signature Jazz Bass sold by Fender’s trusted global dealer base as well as four on Fender.com.
The Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass® will be available in the US, EMEA and UK.
Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass® ($1,499 USD, £1,399.00GBP, €1,599.00 EUR)
