My Chemical Romance’s Bassist’s Signature Model is Outfitted With Striking 70s Glam Rock Details Including Block Inlays, Black Binding With A Matching Headstock, and Impossible-To-Ignore Silver Sparkle Finish.
Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation 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.
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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 the modern rock guitar genre and a part of the Fender family,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Products at FMIC.
“We are honored to work with him for the second time and bring his vision for this Signature Jazz Bass to life. Our team really wanted to make it extra special and was dedicated to getting his inspiration for every spec and detail right. The 70s-inspired J 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. We look forward to seeing what our players create!”
For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.