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A gathering of super guitarists who deeply love the Fender Stratocaster

Since its debut in 1954, Fender’s Stratocaster has remained an electric guitar beloved by players around the world, securing an unshakable position as a staple model.

It’s such a standard instrument that you see it in live footage and promotional videos everywhere, and you could even say it’s invariably used in the music we listen to every day.

With high potential as a musical instrument and a beautiful form, this guitar is cherished by countless guitarists both overseas and in Japan.

Here, we’ll introduce some of the most renowned Stratocaster players—true masters of the instrument.

Super Guitarist Collection Devoted to the Fender Stratocaster (1–10)

Ritchie Blackmore

Deep Purple – Made in Japan – Highway Star (video)
Ritchie Blackmore

Ritchie Blackmore, guitarist of Deep Purple who later led Rainbow, is also a master of the Stratocaster.

The famously iconic riffs of Smoke on the Water and Black Night were created on his Stratocaster.

He was also known for smashing his guitar at the end of shows.

Yngwie Malmsteen

Yngwie Malmsteen – Far Beyond The Sun HD
Yngwie Malmsteen

Yngwie Malmsteen is a guitarist who brought classical elements into heavy metal and gained popularity with his overwhelmingly fast playing.

Because of his presence and appearance, he’s sometimes called a “king” or “noble.” In addition to his performances, he’s also known for his many memorable (or infamous) quotes.

David Gilmour

David Gilmour – Comfortably Numb Live in Pompeii 2016
David Gilmour

David Gilmour is the guitarist of Pink Floyd, the band that brought progressive rock to prominence at night.

In Rolling Stone’s 2011 list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,” he ranked 14th.

He is also known for his prolific solo career and for collaborating with many musicians.

Super Guitarists Who Deeply Love Fender Stratocasters (11–20)

Souichiro Yamauchi

Fujifabric "Lightning Speed"
Souichiro Yamauchi

Soichiro Yamauchi, the guitarist and vocalist of Fujifabric, is one of the Japanese artists to have a signature model released by Fender.

The first electric guitar he ever owned was a Stratocaster.

It’s also characteristic of the Stratocaster that many people continue to use it for many years.

Tomo Fujita

Tomo Fujita Just Funky Dynamic Solo
Tomo Fujita

Tomo Fujita is a Japanese guitarist who, remarkably, teaches at Berklee College of Music, which has produced countless top-tier musicians.

He’s also known as John Mayer’s mentor.

His overwhelming sense of groove and delicate tone control are truly world-class.

Buddy Guy

Buddy Guy, a leading figure in Chicago blues, is a guitarist who has favored the Stratocaster for many years.

His seasoned guitar playing is simply outstanding, and his guitar adorned with his trademark polka-dot pattern is also a must-see.

Rory Gallagher

Rory Gallagher – Shadow Play 1979 Live Video
Rory Gallagher

Rory Gallagher, the guitarist who became a legend in the blues-rock genre.

Inspired by Buddy Holly, the first guitar he picked up was, of course, a Stratocaster.

He passed away in 1995 at the age of 47, but his energetic sound will never fade.