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A feature on guitarists who use the famed Telecaster—an instrument beloved even by vocalists

A biting, thick low end and a bright, sparkling high end that rings out crisply.

And a uniquely emotional sound—possible only on this guitar—created by the half-tone combination of the rear and front pickups.

Born as the Broadcaster before the name change, this guitar already boasts over 50 years of history, yet it continues to be produced without changing its shape.

Loved for so long, it’s used by countless guitarists around the world and in Japan.

From among the innumerable Telecaster lovers, we’ll introduce some especially famous guitarists along with their characteristic sounds.

Guitarists who use the legendary Telecaster—an instrument beloved even by vocalists (21–30)

Eriko Hashimoto

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video
Eriko Hashimoto

A female guitarist and vocalist affectionately known by the nickname “Ecchan.” She was active as the frontwoman of the girls’ band Chatmonchy.

She originally preferred Les Pauls, but after being told they “didn’t suit her,” she switched to using a Telecaster.

Her sound is characterized by a warm, inviting tone.

John 5

John5 – Making Monsters – Porto Alegre – RS – 2018
John 5

John 5, former guitarist for Marilyn Manson and currently an active support member for various artists, has a very eccentric appearance, but his sound is notably catchy and straightforward.

Though distorted, his guitar playing shines with high-speed fingerpicking—and his instrument of choice is a Telecaster.

His intensely thrilling sound is nothing short of overwhelming.

Colin Greenwood

Radiohead – Paranoid Android
Colin Greenwood

Among Radiohead’s songs, “Creep” is exceptionally famous.

And the Telecaster is indeed one of the key contributors to the brooding sound that defines many of their masterpieces, including “Creep.” That uniquely oppressive, dreary mental atmosphere—the sense that you might just come undone—is something only a Telecaster can truly evoke.

Koyuki (manga BECK)

The Telecaster is the instrument favored by Koyuki, the protagonist of the popular manga BECK, which was also adapted into a film.

He handles vocals and rhythm guitar for the band.

Fender Japan even released a Koyuki model guitar.

Enjoy the movie version in the video.

Graham Coxon

Blur – Song 2 (Official Music Video)
Graham Coxon

Blur is a British rock band known for songs like “Coffee & TV.” This track lets you savor all of their best qualities in a well-balanced way.

As you can hear, the solid, punchy tone is the hallmark and greatest appeal of a Telecaster.

His playing style, with its dark and heavy feel, is sprinkled throughout, so their other songs come highly recommended as well.

Be sure to give them a listen.

Shogo Hamada

Shogo Hamada & The J.S. Inspirations Love Train (Fan Club Concert 2018 / Short Version)
Shogo Hamada

The jacket photo for the single “Image no Uta,” where he’s hugging a Telecaster, left such a strong impression that many fans might associate Shogo Hamada with the Telecaster.

In reality, he regularly uses both a Strat and a Telecaster.

HARUNA

SCANDAL “Shunkan Sentimental” / Shunkan Sentimental – Music Video
HARUNA

SCANDAL is a girl band known for songs like “Shunkan Sentimental.” The instrument used by frontwoman HARUNA is the Telecaster Deluxe.

Its straightforward tone perfectly suits their honest, straight-down-the-middle musical style.

The band’s overall sound is characterized by its power.