Fender Launches Exclusive George Harrison 1967 Bass VI Reissue: A Tribute to a Musical Icon
Fender’s Custom Shop has proudly introduced the Limited Edition George Harrison 1967 bass VI, a tribute to one of the Beatles’ most unique instruments that played a pivotal role during their groundbreaking years.
This exquisite reimagining is meticulously crafted in Corona, California, and aims to “accurately reflect the aesthetics, feel, and essence” of Harrison’s original sunburst Bass VI. This instrument was presented to the Beatles by Fender in 1968 and quickly became a staple during their legendary Abbey Road recording sessions.
A Collaborative Legacy
John Lennon, Harrison’s fellow band member, also utilized the Bass VI on several occasions. Its distinctive sound can be heard in late Beatles classics such as Helter Skelter, Back in the U.S.S.R., Rocky Raccoon, Honey Pie, Birthday, and the timeless Let It Be. Observant fans may also spot it in the iconic promotional video for Hey Jude.
The Versatility of the Bass VI
Bridging the gap between guitar and bass,the Bass VI allowed both Harrison and Lennon to explore new tonal and compositional dimensions. Even today, it stands as one of Fender’s ”most adaptable and inspiring designs,” cherished by musicians and collectors alike.
“George Harrison’s Bass VI occupies a special place in Fender’s history,” remarks Chase Paul, Director of Fender Custom Shop. “It was instrumental in creating some of the most important recordings ever, showcasing the amazing versatility of the Bass VI.”
attention to Detail
With this Limited Edition release, the Custom Shop team has painstakingly recreated Harrison’s original instrument with remarkable precision, honoring its legacy while providing musicians and collectors the chance to own a piece of music history.
The Fender Custom Shop has gone above and beyond for Harrison’s Bass VI.Notable features include the Relic Bleached 3-Color Sunburst finish, handwritten switch plate markings, and Custom Shop Hand-Wound Jaguar pickups.
Specifications and Features
Key specifications include a two-piece select alder body,a maple neck,and an era-correct bound 3A rosewood fingerboard. The 30″ scale length, 7.25″ radius,21 vintage frets,block inlays,and individual on/off slide switches for each pickup are all true to harrison’s original design.
Additional premium features include a six-saddle vintage-style adjustable bridge with a “floating” tremolo tailpiece and Bass VI mute, a 4-ply brown shell pickguard, and vintage-style tuning machines adorned with the Fender logo, enhancing the allure of this bass VI.
With a price tag of $9,500, the Limited Edition George Harrison 1967 Bass VI is now available for pre-order through select retailers.
For further details, visit Fender’s official website.
