The Rage Against the Machine guitarist's most iconic instrument gets a faithful limited-edition recreation, complete with hand-drawn hippos and proceeds supporting homeless charities.
For over 35 years, one heavily modified guitar has been Tom Morello’s constant companion through Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, and Prophets of Rage. Now, Fender has partnered with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer to recreate his famous ‘Arm The Homeless’ guitar, bringing this legendary instrument to players worldwide.
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“The ‘Arm the Homeless’ guitar has been my comrade for life in the sonic sphere. It allowed me to find myself as an artist,” Morello explained. “Over 22 albums and in countless collaborations ‘Arm the Homeless’ has been an indispensable ally.”
Born from DIY experimentation and assembled from mismatched parts, the original guitar became far more than just an instrument. Its hand-drawn hippopotamus artwork, bold lettering, and unconventional hardware reflected Morello’s “I won’t do what you tell me” refusal to conform. That eccentric design channelled everything from delicate jazz passages to blistering rock riffs, helping shape the sound of a generation.
Fender’s recreation captures every detail of this iconic axe. The limited-edition model features the same active electronics that deliver Morello’s distinctive tonal range, along with a Gotoh double-locking tremolo system for expressive pitch manipulation. Even the signature hockey stick headstock and untrimmed strings have been faithfully reproduced.
Set against a striking blue ice metallic finish, Morello’s hand-drawn hippo artwork adorns the body, something that made the original so memorable. Each element has been approached with the precision and enthusiasm that’s defined Morello’s playing throughout his career.
Beyond the craftsmanship, this collaboration between Fender and Tom Morello carries a deeper purpose, with a portion of proceeds supporting Midnight Mission and Covenant House. These are two Los Angeles organisations hand-picked by Morello for their work providing shelter and support to people experiencing homelessness.
“Fender has always been about putting the right tools in artists’ hands so they can turn inspiration into sound,” said Max Gutnik, Fender’s Chief Product Officer. “With Arm The Homeless, we partnered with Tom to capture the raw spirit and personality of the original guitar.”
The result is an instrument that balances modern craftsmanship that stays true to Morello’s original creation, offering players the same expressive range that’s powered some of rock’s most groundbreaking music.
Head to Fender for more information.
