Christmas morning, 1971, I was nine years old, and all I wanted in the world, was an electric guitar. I was also absolutely sure, I wouldn’t be getting one- based on the unambiguous opinion of my Dad, a Maine State Trooper, regarding all things, “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” Besides, we weren’t rich, and I’d been borrowing a trombone to play in the school band, so I figured maybe a new horn was what I’d be unwrapping. After my sisters and I had torn open a few of the lesser packages, we progressed to the “big stuff.” I opened a lovely Yamaha classical guitar, and while it wasn’t a Strat, it was like what Chet played, so I was pretty psyched, and I started looking around for a trombone under the tree. Then, I opened a beautiful chrome-face Vibro Champ, and a contact mic for the Yamaha- again, not Hendrix gear, but still pretty sweet. I won’t say I wasn’t a little disappointed, but I was definitely looking forward to seeing what that Champ would do. Finally, Dad “found” that last present behind the tree for me- so obviously the square case of a new trombone, that no giftwrap camouflage could hide it. I tore off the paper, ignored the suspiciously thin profile of my trombone’s case, and clicked open the latches to take a look. It was candy apple red, with Shelby racing stripes, a pearloid pickguard, and a wiggle stick- a Fender Mustang Comp! The case was lined with orange velvet. Years later, watching the briefcase scene from Pulp Fiction, I flashed on that moment of opening my Mustang the first time- the golden glow on the rapturous face of John Travolta so like my shocked, thrilled joy at holding that magical instrument. “Yeah, we happy!”
Thanks for Sharing that really wonderful memory … Do you still have those guitars; that amp or that case? Either way it seems that this is what started you on the long and winding road that we’re all ending up upon, here! 😉👍
@@JC-11111 I have to agree with you - I have both and the larger scale is ultimately more satisfying to me. If I had to pick a desert island guitar, it would be the Jazz.
Sorry to launch so early for you Fluff. I imagined you just finished meditating in the zen garden just outside the studio, finished your yoga, and that you were ready for some entertainment. :)
@@RiffsAndBeards Hey, man-just wanted to say thanks again for that review of the Amoon PokRok. My best friend got it for me the day I showed him that review and ever since it's led me to playing guitar a ton more than I used to. I was kinda scared I'd given up on playing and depressed about it but you've helped inspire me to get better at it. Thank you SO much.
The genius of Leo Fender is he figured out what made electric guitars tick, solid bodies in particular. He was never much into competing with Gibson, Gretsch, Danelectro, Rickenbacker, or anyone else. He was one of the great inventors of our age. He understood the symbiosis between electronics and the natural resonant properties of an instrument. He understood how all of this interacted with an amp. It's no mistake that Fender guitars often have tremolos and some of their amps have a tremolo knob. There was no effect pedal industry in the early days of Fender and it had to be built into the amp, and that was part of the selling point.
Why is everyone perpetuating the misnomer "tremelo" when it's a "VIBRATO" (arm, bar, unit, etc.)? Is that because Fender used that word originally? (And probably still does!) Also, you (CORRECTLY) use the term "tremelo" for Fender amps, thus further confusing and perpetuating the misnomer. I have to correct people all the time - "VIBRATO" for (on) guitars, "TREMELO" for (on) amps. And I have to explain the difference to them, but I'm sure I don't have to do that here, which FURTHER confuses me! Why do guitarists who know better STILL misuse that word?? It must be because that's what the Fender company (and many professional guitarists) have always called it, if they do. I'm assuming that as a fact before researching it. And I'm sure if the Fender company is still calling a "vibrato" unit - a "tremelo" unit, it's because they refuse to admit to the world that Leo Fender, arguably the creator of the best guitar ever, made a mistake. People (potential customers) might ask themselves "What OTHER mistakes did he make? Maybe I shouldn't buy a Fender guitar!" Plus, the pride factor, of course. It's often hard on our pride to admit making a mistake. PS... I agree with your comment!! I just wanted to point out that common error, and ask the question... "WHY??"
My mom said she had a late 60s Mustang in red and she loved it and would try to play Beatles songs. But she said her mom pushed her to continue her piano lessons so she eventually put the guitar down before she graduated high school to focus on her advanced choir music and piano. She is a really good alto singer and piano player. Sadly though she told me not long ago she wishes she had really learned guitar back in the day. I told her it's never too late.
I’m sure there’s going to be folks in the comments saying Kurt Cobain sucks because he wasn’t the most technical guitarist. And to those people I’d just like to say I’m sorry no one wants to hear you play diminished 16th note arpeggios around the circle of fifths at 200 BPM. That must be really hard for you.
While I may not be a fan of Nirvana, I don’t ever look down on other players for their lack of skill, especially those that are able to galvanize a generation of people to a cause (and a good portion of them to pick up a guitar) like Kurt Cobain did. I have mad respect for the band, despite their music not connecting with me.
I got my mustang when I was 13; a Daphne blue one, lovingly given to me from my mom and dad. As testament to their never-ending generosity, it came with a deluxe reverb amp. I loved it, cherished it, but didn’t play it. Kids are lazy and I was no exception. True to my regard for it, however, I preserved it, protected it, and yes, played it; some. It was never lost on me, its quality, its melodious tones, the personal connection it made to the sacrifice my folks had made so that I could have it. It never fails to stop traffic when I bring it into the shop for a tune up or small repairs. It also doesn’t fail to attract on the spot offers. But true to my mission, they are always turned down. I have it to this day in absolute mint condition. Faithful to my parents sacrifice I am now really learning to play it. As you have said, but I paraphrase, it is amazing how a seemingly ordinary purchase in one decade can hold so much significance in this one. This Mustang does not disappoint, and it never will.
Courtney gave the Jagstang to R.E.M. after Kurt's death... R.I.P. Kurt. Today is the anniversary of his passing and R.E.M.'s first show. I thank them both for the music and inspiration.
@@rafaelcabralwilliams There was more than one. If I´m not wrong, the one given to R.E.M. was red. They played it every night on the Monster tour, 1995 on the song "Let Me In" written in Kurt´s honour.
@@rafaelcabralwilliams No worries! Courtney shouldn’t be giving anything to anyone. She should be behind bars. But then, when you have her connections…
Did Hendrix play a Mustang? Well, yes he did, at least once. In October 1967 I saw Jimi at the Saville Theatre in London. After playing the set with his usual Strat, Jimi came out for the encore with a Mustang-shaped guitar (it was hard to tell if it was a Mustang, Duo-Sonic, Musicmaster or Bronco, all of which are visually similar from a distance). Inevitably, this instrument ended up smashed, after which he threw the pieces behind the Marshall stacks. I often wonder if perhaps the accountants had told Jimi to lighten up on his guitar expenditure for that week as, after all, a Mustang was half the price of Stratocaster, even in 1967.
I’ve heard he had several Duo Sonics too. I think he used a lot of guitars in the studio people don’t usually associate with him. He got so many unique tones it’s not surprising though.
Cobain made me a Mustang guy. Growing up in the 90s, he was THE guy. In many ways he still is. And to this day, the Mustang is still my favorite guitar. To own an early 90s sonic blue/red tortoise Mustang was a longtime goal. I’m so glad I finally own one. It brings me endless inspiration, much like Kurt’s music.
I had a 50th Anniversary Made in Japan Mustang around 2005. Being young and stupid I decided I wanted a 'change' and sold it. 16 years later I wished I hadn't.
I filled in for my sister at a babysitting gig when I was 14. The kid's dad had a red Mustang and a Champ. I used to bribe my sister with half my earnings to get that gig again. Those were the days! 😁👍
It means so much I’m sure to all Mustang lovers out there that you took the time and effort to make this documentary on the history of Mustangs 🙏. There aren’t really any documentaries like this on Stangs. And very little has been written about them. But now this beautiful video exists and nobody can ever take this away from the world now that it’s here! Already watched it three times haha. And it’s crazy how well you did without even having tried a Stang yet. When you try a good one they are every bit as good as any Fender. Just before this virus situation a good friend was kind enough to sell me his very early and near mint 1964 Dakota red Mustang. The mojo is real in that one, very warm and bassy but still punchy like Mustangs are. More tame than a Strat but very delicate(which is what I love about them) and chewy, kinda of similar to that tele lipstick neck pickup sound but darker. Like the great Eric Haugen says, they are their own thing. And I didn’t know about the blue burst thing! The Fender custom shop also did a limited run of 30 Mustangs for the 2013 NAMM show, a colour wall of 15 different Fender custom colours, 2 of each. My girlfriend actually found one for sale a lake placid blue one that I was also extremely lucky 🍀 to buy. And there was also two Char signature custom shop models made for the Japanese market, it was because of Char asking for years for the custom shop to make a Stang that they did those and the 30 I mentioned (based on a 66 or 67, incredible pickups that just bloom). Sorry for the long message. Amazing job!! Thank you sir and to your friends who contributed 🙏.
Awesome to see Eric Haugen in there. He's the most underrated player on youtube IMO. So much great content. I remember being mad that TH-cam hid him from me for so long. Great teacher and always leaves you something you can take away in his videos.
Proud player of a modded Squier Bullet Mustang- super light, great neck, really like a modder’s dream. You can swap out pots without having to take of the strings. Love it.
That "Blue with a Yellowed top coat", or green as some people call it 😂, looks absolutely divine. That dark shade of green is my favorite color, and i have wanted a mustang for quite some time. That is now in my top 5 ultimate guitar dreams now. Solid body wise, at least. Great content as always, man! I now only have an acoustic, and when I'm missing fooling around on my old lp custom [epi, but still, it was a beautiful guitar...rip], i come here to watch you talk about the history of the instrument. And every time i watch, i learn, i don't know, at least like 3 things i didn't know before! Great stuff, man!!
I'm lucky enough to be the second owner of a 1964 blue 24" Mustang in all-original condition. I bought it from its first owner in the early 80s (or maybe late 70s) for the grand sum of $140, which is what he thought his Mom paid for it when he got it new in 1965. Now, I've gone through approx. 400 guitars and basses over the decades, but this one has always stayed with me, through moves to several countries and cities, and many different styles of music and career changes. When I ran a commercial home studio in the 70s, this guitar got chosen from dozens to use for tracking 80% of the time. Now I'm getting old, and last week I got diagnosed with the big C, so I'm beginning to shed a lot of my gear. Anyone have any idea of what one of these pre CBS, L series lovelies is currently worth? I see a huge price range online, even for highly modded and refinished examples, so it's tough to figure out. As I mentioned, she's 100% original; her blue paint would probably rate at about 85-90% (that nitro is somewhat delicate, and she's got plenty of lovely nitro crazing and 'relicing', but no buckle rash and nothing that detracts. No cracks in the pickguard; no dings in the back of the neck, the trem works great, frets and decal are over 95%, the headstock is a gorgeous aged golden brown; and she comes with a non-original but high quality black tolex HSC that you don't need to remove the trem arm to close... ;) (The original grey HSC's stitching was already rotting when I got her, and eventually completely rotted away and fell apart decades ago. I reckon a good real vintage replacement could be had for around $200 or so if wanted.) So, any ideas on what range I should seek to get either local, (AZ, USA) or on Reverb or eBay? BTW, can I discuss this here Keith? I think it's an appropriate subject to consider in a discussion of the instrument in general, "the current value of a good first year original example in 2023"; so I hope it's OK? It would help me out a bunch as well... Best, -Paul D
I remember playing a gig and the band before us had a female bass player. She had a Mustang bass and a little combo amp. Sounded amazing. Then there I am, the dingleberry hauling around a 4x10 and 1x15 bass cab.
I got a squire bullet Mustang last year. It is the perfect beginner guitar, and fun for experienced players. It’s now my favorite guitar to mod and upgrade. Fender mustangs and jaguars are some of my favorite guitars. Love the look and style of them.
Three of my favorite YT guys in one video. What a treat. Being an old guy (in high school in the Sixties) to me Mustangs were the guitars that the guys who were well off had. I was relegated to staring at the Teiscos, Tele-Stars and Dominos in the display window of the local pawn shop with those $29, $39 and $49 prices tags. When I think of Mustangs one memory in particular always surfaces. My high school guitar playing pals and I were visiting with another guy. All I remember was his name was Rick and instead of faux Beatle hair like the rest of us attempted, he had a thick, swept back James Dean style 'do. We were in his bedroom and I was seated on his bed. Also on his bed was a copy of Cream's "Disraeli Gears" (probably just released) and a Dakota Red Fender Mustang which I couldn't take my eyes off of and envied him desperately for owning. At the start of my senior year I managed to acquire one of those Gibson produced Kalamazoo KG2A solid bodies (which I still have). It only took me about 40 something years to realize that they were no doubt Gibson's attempt to compete with the Mustang as the similarities were numerous and they also originally came in red, white or blue. Most enjoyable history, Keith, as always. And thanks to Eric and Mike.
Great content Keith, Thank You. Big thanks to Mike Adams and Eric Haugen as well. Back in 1974 I purchased both my first brand new guitar as well as what I would consider a "real" guitar, a Sunburst Fender Mustang. I loved that guitar until a friend came over to Jam with his 1975 Stratocaster (maple board and natural ash body). After playing that Strat I fell out of love with my Mustang. I saved up and 2 years later I purchased a brand new Les Paul Deluxe! Go Figure...........
Damon Albarn is another Mustang player. The Mustangs I've played have all been excellent. My number one guitar is a Jagstang that I've had for about 25 years.
Kurt Cobain is certainly my biggest inspiration artistically/musically and in my love of short scale Fender guitars. Oddly enough though, my interest and subsequent love of Fender short scales - and the custom color "shell pink" - started a few years earlier when I saw Andy Cox of Fine Young Cannibals playing a shell pink Fender Mustang in the music video for "She Drives Me Crazy." I remember thinking it looked so cool and almost "candy like." Then once Nirvana came along, it was forever cemented. I've owned a vintage, Dakota red Duo-Sonic II and an Olympic white "CIJ" Mustang but I am yet to own a shell pink Mustang like the one in the video. Some day soon, I will make that happen. Thanks for another entertaining video! 🍻
Thanks Keith, Jeff, Mike and Eric! This short-history was an especially fun ride, kind of like a rare cruise in its '64.5 automotive namesake. I picked up my 2016 Duo-Sonic Player for much the same reason. Blessings!
You'd said there are eight pickup combinations, there's actually only four sounds: bridge, neck, B+N and B+N out of phase. And the main reason they sound different than a Strat is not because there are two of them, it's because the pickups are positioned differently.
My Dad gave me his 1969 Competition Mustang in red. He got it from his brother in the 80s, who bought it in 1971. It's the guitar he learned on after my parents divorced. My dad thought it was a fake Fender, since it had a red headstock and gold-ish headstock decal. I researched the serial number and found out it was made in 1969. He was surprised to learn it was an uncommon model. Thanks for making this history vid.
Same here. I love mine - I got it because I needed a humbucking guitar with a whammy bar, and I love the look of it. It's oddly heavy, though. I wasn't expecting that, but I love the guitar all the same
Nice. As a vintage enthusiast I've had almost every offset: XII, Jaguar, Mustang, Bronco, Music Master, even a Swinger (no Duo Sonic or Maverick.) Watching these is bittersweet bc I'm reminded of the cool guitars I no longer have. Great segment though.
I had this ridiculous cheap dark blue half-scale Ibanez Gio that I'd put 13-52s on, and it was so fun to play, super meaty sounding, and always in tune. So easy to play huge drop D riffs on. I traded it for 2 pedals that thankfully I still use, so I don't feel too bad about not having it anymore. But I miss it every now and then.
Kurt was playing the guitar that he had available and he did good. Just remembered Jeff Buckley, who used a 1983 fender telecaster, not the most meritorious fender's epoch, but it ended up being the guitar he loved the most and his main guitar, used on tours and memorable tunes like his Hallelujah cover. Not trying to diminish the quality, but sometimes I think that custom shop is for lawyers and doctors, haha!
I bought my first "real" guitar in 1966. It was an Olympic white Fender Duo-Sonic II, the hard tail version of the Mustang, for $200 with the case. Up till then I had played really cheap guitars that would be considered unplayable by todays standards, but what did I know. The build quality appeard to be on par with the 'big boy' Fender models and the 24 in scale was a joy to play. I sold it back in the 70's but replaced it with a 66 just like it years later. Now my son is using it for recording. One neat thing I learned over the years repairing guitars is that the 24 inch scale is exactly the same as if you capoed a Strat at the first fret and a 22.5 inch scale is from the second fret. A Mustang neck will fit a Strat body with no intonation issues and vice versa. I know, I'm sounding like Sheldon Cooper but it is a fun fact. Thanks for a short history of one of my favorite guitars.
I honestly think this is the most underappreciated guitar ever produced. Yea Kurt may have played one, but they aren't really popular at all. Some people mistake them for kids or beginner guitars, or worse, women's guitars. To me, its my favorite Fender of all time.
My first guitar was a black Mustang and I believe it's a 1974. I've had it for 40 years now, never could part with it. For a rocking rhythm tone, that's my go to guitar!
I was going to post the same thing. I saw Todd many times in the '70s sporting a Mustang. Rumor was that he played it because he liked the whammy bar on the Mustang.
I have kind of a stupid story but, my Son found a Fender Mustang T-shirt in a rag bin at his work. He gave it to My wife and she made a shadowbox with the Mustang t-shirt as the back, and a picture of Todd in the forground. A wife that’s into music and crafts pays off sometimes.
Todd swapped out the dual pickup selectors for a single Gibson-style toggle for front/rear/both pickups. Made sense, as Todd likes to change pickup selection often.
Boy, that takes me back. My first guitar was a Mustang. I was fifteen or sixteen years old, and about the only guitar I could afford was a used Mustang. I have no idea what year it was, but you showed a picture of what it looked like: candy apple red with white racing stripes, rosewood fingerboard, mother of pearl pickguard, two black single coil pickups with slide switches above each. I have virtually no recollection of how it played or if I even liked it. Well, I must have liked it at least somewhat because I'm still playing over 45 years later. But I did trade that Mustang in for a Gibson SG not too long after, so I must not have been too thrilled with it. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
16:46 - Vintera 60s Mustang bass owner here! I absolutely love my Mustang bass, it really is the best sounding bass I've played, and I love the fact that Mustang basses pop up from other basses thanks to its body shape and bright colors. Thanks for making this video!
This is so cool! My first electric guitar (1970 or 1971?) was a red mustang with the cream racing stripes and matching red headstock! Wish I'd held onto it...
I love that 5 Watt world shows so muchh love to the gear without trying to make you feel like you have to actually acquire it yourself. It's very wholesome.
You got the number of different switching permutations incorrect. You said 8, but it's only 4. I did point this out when you stated 8 on your live chat. It's only four cos out of phase only occurs when both pickups are engaged. There are a few redundant switching positions, but only four different permutations (or five if one includes both pickups turned off).
Love seeing Eric and Mike on the show! I just recently acquired a '67 Mustang Bass in Dakota Red so I'm definitely enjoying this episode for that reason alone.
I bought a Squire Mustang last weekend and just keep picking it up. Love it. I only got it because my Strat seems so precious. Sure the frets really did need polishing and the fret board looked like an old lady’s back, don’t ask. But that stuff is all just part of getting to know each other, now we’re great mates. If your struggling with a technique or new song this short scale really brings things to you. Easy player indeed. Let’s face it, at 150 quid it’s more fun than a room full of drunken middle aged ladies and probably easier on your neck as well. Thanks for the great videos Five Watt World.
I was never a fan back in the day, but over time came to realize how important this guitar was to others. I still hate the way it feels, but that's just me. I'm glad its existence was a springboard for so many people to get their hands on a guitar and learn to play that may not have otherwise.
Aww, you omitted to mention the very limited edition Squier Ryan Jarman (The Cribbs) 'mus-guar' model. The model's body shape is a mustang/jaguar hybrid (the opposite of a Jagstang)
I got me a stunning Oct 1965 Daphne Blue SLABOARD Mustang L-series 24’ at Randolin Music in Burlington. The store was full of natural, sunburst, classic-color acoustics and in the back of the store it was there. The only color in the entire store. It blew me away. Still does 8 years later. It’s a mean fucking guit. It yells at you. It’s so dynamic. Thank you for your videos. I love the vibe and the rigorous data you drop every time.
In 72 i bought a sky blue mustang with original case in a pawn shop for 50 bucks. It was fantastic. Too ba i was too drunk to really apreciate it. Traded it for a bottle of wine. Im now 43 years sober and lovin my 61 melody maker.
hey so real quick. in 2019 i bought a black Bullet Mustang, it's a 2017; i suspect it had been on the peg since it was delivered. brought it home, plopped some new strings on, and set my sights on how to properly customize a guitar. i'd done it before, but nothing extensive. this guitar is perfect for it, with a swimming pool under the pickups and ample room for practically anything (plus a small price so no worries if something goes wrong lolol). over time, here's what i did: - 80 grit sanding sponge to the fretboard edges, - #0000 steel wool to the dull the finish and smooth what i sanded, - EMG 85 bridge, 81 neck (though now it has only an Invader but mmf she's angry), - shielding tape on the cavity, - push/pull split volume pot with a ceramic treble bleed, - and lots of little items/old necklace pendants/stickers later i found her name: Priya. "cheap" student model or no, if i ever need a guitar to slam out some big powerful song, i know exactly where to turn
Let's not forget the Mustang-inspired Made-in-Mexico Duosonic series made in the '90s. Great little short-scale guitars that came in a 22.75" scale maple neck with basswood bodies! ✌
I was super in to Grunge and Nirvana in particular when I was in high school in the late 00s/early 10s. Never knew what they played, just that it sounded good. Now as a guitarist I’ve been revisiting that music and been increasingly inspired by those sounds, so I’m really glad to see this video
A year and change later, an update: I bought a DS-2 and the Mojohand Swim Team and have been playing mostly Nirvana covers for the past year and started incorporating some Psychedelic influences from Mr Syd Barrett and some deep blues. I’ve progressed more in the last year than in the preceding two and I’m loving every bit of it.
I have a 96 and it was my first guitar. It’s modded and custom painted over the yrs. I stopped playing it for yrs but recently been playing like the beginning after having it properly set up. I have found a new appreciation for it. Back then it felt cheap but something about it now days feels all that love and playing put in it. Has a vintage feel. It’s special and sounds amazing. Plays inspiring. I’ll keep it till I’m no more. No matter if I keep playing it. My only hope is it goes to someone who’s going to sense it’s special and appreciate it.
Mike, of “Mike and Mike’s Guitar Bar”, was a great addition. Aside from his experience, his positive attitude is contagious! And, if you did a short history of Fender Strats, with all combinations of each mod, you’d have to get a higher speed camera, then time lapse to put 32 hours of video into 30 minutes! Ha!
I have a Pre CBS 1966 Musicmaster II in Dakota red. It’s been modified with a 3 way toggle and a vintage sourced bridge pick up to match. Amazing guitar, put a fuzz and wah wah and you get instant vintage vibes. Never thought I’d like this style of guitar!
Another great episode, Keith. It was nice to see the love for Eric Haugen, one of my favorite TH-camrs. And who knew that John McLaughlin of all people ever played a Mustang? The closest thing I owned to a Mustang was a MusicMaster. It was an upgrade from my Teisco-made Silvertone. The previous owner had sanded off all the paint, but it must have been originally white since it had the red tortoise shell pickguard. In 1972, I ended up trading that in for a 1970 Strat for $200. I foolishly sold that for around $300 four years later to buy a 1965 ES-330. Fortunately, I still have the 330.
Kurt Cobain: "Whoever invented that guitar was a dork." Interviewer: "It was Leo Fender." Cobain: "Well, now I'll never get an endorsement!" Between Cobain and the guys from Sloan in Canada (Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson), I LOVED the Mustang in the '90s. There's such a cool vibe of simplicity to those instruments.
I have an American Performer, 2022 model. It has jumbo frets, which are perfect, i don't feel a scale to be short, like Gibson's or even like Ibanez RG, but without 2 last frets. 21 fretted Fenders, yes, bigger. Slightly smaller body, but in total Mustangs are longer than Strats and Teles. Fender gives an instruction of how to setup whammy bar. Change strings, follow instructions and wait for 24 hours (not joking), it will stabilize and basically at the end we have Fender style Floyd Rose, it holds tuning. I have a heavy version approx 3.3kg, with a body/neck balance. Build quality is very good, no questions at all. Pickups has enough output and they are not very noisy. SQ is between Tele and Strat, with enough body and bass in it. You can play even metal on it (much better than with Am Pro and Am Pro-2 on Strats). Tonally is a little bit poorer comparable to a good Strat/Tele, less overtones, more like a bell sounding, difficult to explain, but it's not compression in a regular meaning. That's why we can see a lot of Mustangs with a Strats pickups. Finally, good affordable US made guitar, rarely spotted than other Fender models, very comfortable, with recognizable Fender sound. Just a good stylish workhorse. Cheers!;)
I’ve had a squier mustang that was phenomenal in STOCK format. Then I modified the crap out of it with dimarzio pickups, split coil option, better pots, brass saddles, better tuners. Wow that was really something! I loved how petite the guitar felt so effortless to play but had an amazing sound.
Great episode Keith! I built a hot rodded mustang a few years back and I really enjoy it. The short scale makes it feel very comfy and accessible. But I put a humbucker in the bridge so it also screams!
The Fender Mustang: A Short Scale History.
Minus the Jaguar. (It too has a 24 inch scale length)
Jesus Christ loves you
@@hooks4638Jesus Christ loves you
Best comment I’ve seen in a while
Lucky for you there is allot of dads watching this video...
Christmas morning, 1971, I was nine years old, and all I wanted in the world, was an electric guitar. I was also absolutely sure, I wouldn’t be getting one- based on the unambiguous opinion of my Dad, a Maine State Trooper, regarding all things, “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” Besides, we weren’t rich, and I’d been borrowing a trombone to play in the school band, so I figured maybe a new horn was what I’d be unwrapping.
After my sisters and I had torn open a few of the lesser packages, we progressed to the “big stuff.” I opened a lovely Yamaha classical guitar, and while it wasn’t a Strat, it was like what Chet played, so I was pretty psyched, and I started looking around for a trombone under the tree. Then, I opened a beautiful chrome-face Vibro Champ, and a contact mic for the Yamaha- again, not Hendrix gear, but still pretty sweet. I won’t say I wasn’t a little disappointed, but I was definitely looking forward to seeing what that Champ would do.
Finally, Dad “found” that last present behind the tree for me- so obviously the square case of a new trombone, that no giftwrap camouflage could hide it. I tore off the paper, ignored the suspiciously thin profile of my trombone’s case, and clicked open the latches to take a look.
It was candy apple red, with Shelby racing stripes, a pearloid pickguard, and a wiggle stick- a Fender Mustang Comp! The case was lined with orange velvet. Years later, watching the briefcase scene from Pulp Fiction, I flashed on that moment of opening my Mustang the first time- the golden glow on the rapturous face of John Travolta so like my shocked, thrilled joy at holding that magical instrument.
“Yeah, we happy!”
What a cool story, and a really good Dad.
Yes very cool story!
Thanks for Sharing that really wonderful memory
… Do you still have those guitars; that amp or that case? Either way it seems that this is what started you on the long and winding road that we’re all ending up upon, here! 😉👍
i love competition mustangs!
Man that was a sweet story Kendall. Good to hear , really nice 👍
‘Hey Mike Adams, can you help me with a Mustang video?’
‘Yeah sure. Let me put my blue Jazzmaster on the bench.’
that caught my eye as well.
The dude completely ruins this video, "at least, in my humble opinion".
@@danstewart8218 the guy absolutely ruined the video
That guy has the cliche youtube speech pattern and is really obnoxious.
@@thomasfields2082 He's not obnoxious; he's making videos to help obnoxious people... like you.
I"ve never played a mustang and now I need to try one!
Troy Grady makes them even more interesting when he’s shredding on one. The American Performers have jumbo frets!!!
Tell me about it! The danger of every short history on a piece I haven't spent time with.
Grab a used squier VM series, they were made really well when they first came out. Quality went down when the price went from $300 to $400.
I think I'd rather have the longer scale Jazzmaster
@@JC-11111 I have to agree with you - I have both and the larger scale is ultimately more satisfying to me. If I had to pick a desert island guitar, it would be the Jazz.
Hang on hang on I gotta get my morning coffee brb
Sorry to launch so early for you Fluff. I imagined you just finished meditating in the zen garden just outside the studio, finished your yoga, and that you were ready for some entertainment. :)
@@fivewattworld HAHAHAHAHA
@@RiffsAndBeards lmao hi Fluff! 😂
@@RiffsAndBeards Hey, man-just wanted to say thanks again for that review of the Amoon PokRok. My best friend got it for me the day I showed him that review and ever since it's led me to playing guitar a ton more than I used to. I was kinda scared I'd given up on playing and depressed about it but you've helped inspire me to get better at it. Thank you SO much.
The genius of Leo Fender is he figured out what made electric guitars tick, solid bodies in particular. He was never much into competing with Gibson, Gretsch, Danelectro, Rickenbacker, or anyone else. He was one of the great inventors of our age. He understood the symbiosis between electronics and the natural resonant properties of an instrument. He understood how all of this interacted with an amp. It's no mistake that Fender guitars often have tremolos and some of their amps have a tremolo knob. There was no effect pedal industry in the early days of Fender and it had to be built into the amp, and that was part of the selling point.
Why is everyone perpetuating the misnomer "tremelo" when it's a "VIBRATO" (arm, bar, unit, etc.)? Is that because Fender used that word originally? (And probably still does!)
Also, you (CORRECTLY) use the term "tremelo" for Fender amps, thus further confusing and perpetuating the misnomer. I have to correct people all the time - "VIBRATO" for (on) guitars, "TREMELO" for (on) amps. And I have to explain the difference to them, but I'm sure I don't have to do that here, which FURTHER confuses me! Why do guitarists who know better STILL misuse that word?? It must be because that's what the Fender company (and many professional guitarists) have always called it, if they do. I'm assuming that as a fact before researching it. And I'm sure if the Fender company is still calling a "vibrato" unit - a "tremelo" unit, it's because they refuse to admit to the world that Leo Fender, arguably the creator of the best guitar ever, made a mistake. People (potential customers) might ask themselves "What OTHER mistakes did he make? Maybe I shouldn't buy a Fender guitar!" Plus, the pride factor, of course. It's often hard on our pride to admit making a mistake.
PS... I agree with your comment!! I just wanted to point out that common error, and ask the question... "WHY??"
the big mistery is that he made all these guitars and didnt knowhoe to play them, thats super odd
My mom said she had a late 60s Mustang in red and she loved it and would try to play Beatles songs. But she said her mom pushed her to continue her piano lessons so she eventually put the guitar down before she graduated high school to focus on her advanced choir music and piano. She is a really good alto singer and piano player. Sadly though she told me not long ago she wishes she had really learned guitar back in the day. I told her it's never too late.
I’m sure there’s going to be folks in the comments saying Kurt Cobain sucks because he wasn’t the most technical guitarist. And to those people I’d just like to say I’m sorry no one wants to hear you play diminished 16th note arpeggios around the circle of fifths at 200 BPM. That must be really hard for you.
I agree with you but I also must admit that what you described sounds like a heck of a warm up.
I agree! Just TRY to take a solo like Cobain - it's impossible!
@@EricHaugenGuitar He really didn't care if his solo "sucked" in the traditional sense, and that's a big part of what made him an awesome player.
If you ever want piss those folks off, just tell them Steve Vai sucks.
While I may not be a fan of Nirvana, I don’t ever look down on other players for their lack of skill, especially those that are able to galvanize a generation of people to a cause (and a good portion of them to pick up a guitar) like Kurt Cobain did. I have mad respect for the band, despite their music not connecting with me.
I got my mustang when I was 13; a Daphne blue one, lovingly given to me from my mom and dad. As testament to their never-ending generosity, it came with a deluxe reverb amp. I loved it, cherished it, but didn’t play it. Kids are lazy and I was no exception. True to my regard for it, however, I preserved it, protected it, and yes, played it; some. It was never lost on me, its quality, its melodious tones, the personal connection it made to the sacrifice my folks had made so that I could have it. It never fails to stop traffic when I bring it into the shop for a tune up or small repairs. It also doesn’t fail to attract on the spot offers. But true to my mission, they are always turned down. I have it to this day in absolute mint condition. Faithful to my parents sacrifice I am now really learning to play it. As you have said, but I paraphrase, it is amazing how a seemingly ordinary purchase in one decade can hold so much significance in this one. This Mustang does not disappoint, and it never will.
Courtney gave the Jagstang to R.E.M. after Kurt's death... R.I.P. Kurt. Today is the anniversary of his passing and R.E.M.'s first show. I thank them both for the music and inspiration.
Kurt's brother said Courtney gave that guitar to him.
@@rafaelcabralwilliams There was more than one. If I´m not wrong, the one given to R.E.M. was red. They played it every night on the Monster tour, 1995 on the song "Let Me In" written in Kurt´s honour.
@@damianrf6309 I just noticed that I missread your comment, you were talking about the JagStang, and I was thinking of the Skystang I
@@rafaelcabralwilliams No worries! Courtney shouldn’t be giving anything to anyone. She should be behind bars. But then, when you have her connections…
Kurt’s blue JagStang was given to Peter Buck and is in the Video for What’s the Frequency Kenneth?.
This has quickly become one of my most favorite things to watch on TH-cam. Keep it up Keith!
Did Hendrix play a Mustang? Well, yes he did, at least once. In October 1967 I saw Jimi at the Saville Theatre in London. After playing the set with his usual Strat, Jimi came out for the encore with a Mustang-shaped guitar (it was hard to tell if it was a Mustang, Duo-Sonic, Musicmaster or Bronco, all of which are visually similar from a distance). Inevitably, this instrument ended up smashed, after which he threw the pieces behind the Marshall stacks. I often wonder if perhaps the accountants had told Jimi to lighten up on his guitar expenditure for that week as, after all, a Mustang was half the price of Stratocaster, even in 1967.
Great story!
Wow, nice story. Hendrix 🤠💙
I’ve heard he had several Duo Sonics too. I think he used a lot of guitars in the studio people don’t usually associate with him. He got so many unique tones it’s not surprising though.
My man Eric Haugen! He gets the most music, period.
For real
he sure is..
So true.
Cobain made me a Mustang guy. Growing up in the 90s, he was THE guy. In many ways he still is. And to this day, the Mustang is still my favorite guitar. To own an early 90s sonic blue/red tortoise Mustang was a longtime goal. I’m so glad I finally own one. It brings me endless inspiration, much like Kurt’s music.
Now we are 2! Couldn't buy one so I ended up making one, and that makes me love it even more haha
Cobain and Mustang?Mustang is Mustang,jaguar is jaguar🙂
@@enriquepastor3626 make it 3... except i dont own and cant play a guitar
@@andrejosbandrejos Bruh?
I had a 50th Anniversary Made in Japan Mustang around 2005. Being young and stupid I decided I wanted a 'change' and sold it. 16 years later I wished I hadn't.
Shoutout to Azusa who had a signature cherry red mustang guitar and was most famous for being part of the band “Ho-kago Tea Time”
An MIJ '69 reissue to be exact
Only Fender Japan made them with matching headstocks I think
Never expected to see Azusa's name mentioned in a vid about Mustangs.
Azusa is why I’m here lol.
@@IllusionaryFuneral Same lol.
Great to see k-on appreciation here
I filled in for my sister at a babysitting gig when I was 14. The kid's dad had a red Mustang and a Champ. I used to bribe my sister with half my earnings to get that gig again. Those were the days! 😁👍
Finally! Eric gets the credit he deserves. Appreciate you shining the spotlight on the underrated short scale king. Thanks Keith 0!
It means so much I’m sure to all Mustang lovers out there that you took the time and effort to make this documentary on the history of Mustangs 🙏. There aren’t really any documentaries like this on Stangs. And very little has been written about them. But now this beautiful video exists and nobody can ever take this away from the world now that it’s here! Already watched it three times haha. And it’s crazy how well you did without even having tried a Stang yet. When you try a good one they are every bit as good as any Fender. Just before this virus situation a good friend was kind enough to sell me his very early and near mint 1964 Dakota red Mustang. The mojo is real in that one, very warm and bassy but still punchy like Mustangs are. More tame than a Strat but very delicate(which is what I love about them) and chewy, kinda of similar to that tele lipstick neck pickup sound but darker. Like the great Eric Haugen says, they are their own thing. And I didn’t know about the blue burst thing! The Fender custom shop also did a limited run of 30 Mustangs for the 2013 NAMM show, a colour wall of 15 different Fender custom colours, 2 of each. My girlfriend actually found one for sale a lake placid blue one that I was also extremely lucky 🍀 to buy. And there was also two Char signature custom shop models made for the Japanese market, it was because of Char asking for years for the custom shop to make a Stang that they did those and the 30 I mentioned (based on a 66 or 67, incredible pickups that just bloom). Sorry for the long message. Amazing job!! Thank you sir and to your friends who contributed 🙏.
Awesome to see Eric Haugen in there. He's the most underrated player on youtube IMO. So much great content. I remember being mad that TH-cam hid him from me for so long. Great teacher and always leaves you something you can take away in his videos.
Proud player of a modded Squier Bullet Mustang- super light, great neck, really like a modder’s dream. You can swap out pots without having to take of the strings. Love it.
They are such a great mod platform and play great even stock. For well under $200!!!
Love mine, I have other guitars but cant put it down
That "Blue with a Yellowed top coat", or green as some people call it 😂, looks absolutely divine. That dark shade of green is my favorite color, and i have wanted a mustang for quite some time. That is now in my top 5 ultimate guitar dreams now. Solid body wise, at least.
Great content as always, man! I now only have an acoustic, and when I'm missing fooling around on my old lp custom [epi, but still, it was a beautiful guitar...rip], i come here to watch you talk about the history of the instrument. And every time i watch, i learn, i don't know, at least like 3 things i didn't know before! Great stuff, man!!
Big fan of Eric Haugen and longtime Patreon member of his! Great short history Keith (like always)!!!
I'm lucky enough to be the second owner of a 1964 blue 24" Mustang in all-original condition. I bought it from its first owner in the early 80s (or maybe late 70s) for the grand sum of $140, which is what he thought his Mom paid for it when he got it new in 1965. Now, I've gone through approx. 400 guitars and basses over the decades, but this one has always stayed with me, through moves to several countries and cities, and many different styles of music and career changes. When I ran a commercial home studio in the 70s, this guitar got chosen from dozens to use for tracking 80% of the time.
Now I'm getting old, and last week I got diagnosed with the big C, so I'm beginning to shed a lot of my gear. Anyone have any idea of what one of these pre CBS, L series lovelies is currently worth? I see a huge price range online, even for highly modded and refinished examples, so it's tough to figure out. As I mentioned, she's 100% original; her blue paint would probably rate at about 85-90% (that nitro is somewhat delicate, and she's got plenty of lovely nitro crazing and 'relicing', but no buckle rash and nothing that detracts. No cracks in the pickguard; no dings in the back of the neck, the trem works great, frets and decal are over 95%, the headstock is a gorgeous aged golden brown; and she comes with a non-original but high quality black tolex HSC that you don't need to remove the trem arm to close... ;) (The original grey HSC's stitching was already rotting when I got her, and eventually completely rotted away and fell apart decades ago. I reckon a good real vintage replacement could be had for around $200 or so if wanted.)
So, any ideas on what range I should seek to get either local, (AZ, USA) or on Reverb or eBay?
BTW, can I discuss this here Keith? I think it's an appropriate subject to consider in a discussion of the instrument in general, "the current value of a good first year original example in 2023"; so I hope it's OK? It would help me out a bunch as well...
Best,
-Paul D
I really want that guitar, and I'll give you much more than $140!
I remember playing a gig and the band before us had a female bass player. She had a Mustang bass and a little combo amp. Sounded amazing. Then there I am, the dingleberry hauling around a 4x10 and 1x15 bass cab.
I got a squire bullet Mustang last year. It is the perfect beginner guitar, and fun for experienced players. It’s now my favorite guitar to mod and upgrade. Fender mustangs and jaguars are some of my favorite guitars. Love the look and style of them.
Love mine 2 but I would like to Change the pups. With something more fenderiesh sounding
Three of my favorite YT guys in one video. What a treat. Being an old guy (in high school in the Sixties) to me Mustangs were the guitars that the guys who were well off had. I was relegated to staring at the Teiscos, Tele-Stars and Dominos in the display window of the local pawn shop with those $29, $39 and $49 prices tags. When I think of Mustangs one memory in particular always surfaces. My high school guitar playing pals and I were visiting with another guy. All I remember was his name was Rick and instead of faux Beatle hair like the rest of us attempted, he had a thick, swept back James Dean style 'do. We were in his bedroom and I was seated on his bed. Also on his bed was a copy of Cream's "Disraeli Gears" (probably just released) and a Dakota Red Fender Mustang which I couldn't take my eyes off of and envied him desperately for owning. At the start of my senior year I managed to acquire one of those Gibson produced Kalamazoo KG2A solid bodies (which I still have). It only took me about 40 something years to realize that they were no doubt Gibson's attempt to compete with the Mustang as the similarities were numerous and they also originally came in red, white or blue. Most enjoyable history, Keith, as always. And thanks to Eric and Mike.
Thanks John
I was a $35 used Teisco guy. 3 pups and a sway bar!
New 5 Watt videos are a bit like new gear purchases.
You patiently wait for them and get all excited when they arrive :)
Great content Keith, Thank You.
Big thanks to Mike Adams and Eric Haugen as well.
Back in 1974 I purchased both my first brand new guitar as well as what I would consider a "real" guitar, a Sunburst Fender Mustang.
I loved that guitar until a friend came over to Jam with his 1975 Stratocaster (maple board and natural ash body). After playing that Strat I fell out of love with my Mustang. I saved up and 2 years later I purchased a brand new Les Paul Deluxe! Go Figure...........
I love all these short histories... but because Mike Adams... this is the first video of yours that I have ever wanted to hug.
Damon Albarn is another Mustang player. The Mustangs I've played have all been excellent. My number one guitar is a Jagstang that I've had for about 25 years.
My first guitar was a 2009 Squier Telecaster & this year I just bought a Squier Bullet Mustang you mentioned at the end, I love it. Great video!
_"It's finally here !"_ 🎈🎉😄🎊
*"Release the MUSTANGS."* 🐴💥🎸
Kurt Cobain is certainly my biggest inspiration artistically/musically and in my love of short scale Fender guitars. Oddly enough though, my interest and subsequent love of Fender short scales - and the custom color "shell pink" - started a few years earlier when I saw Andy Cox of Fine Young Cannibals playing a shell pink Fender Mustang in the music video for "She Drives Me Crazy." I remember thinking it looked so cool and almost "candy like." Then once Nirvana came along, it was forever cemented. I've owned a vintage, Dakota red Duo-Sonic II and an Olympic white "CIJ" Mustang but I am yet to own a shell pink Mustang like the one in the video. Some day soon, I will make that happen.
Thanks for another entertaining video! 🍻
Most underrated fender. And most underrated channel!
Perfect combo :)
nice...a new 5 Watt World doc; perfect for a rainy, chilly evening here in Bucks County, PA; I’ll save this ‘til I get home
Thanks Keith, Jeff, Mike and Eric! This short-history was an especially fun ride, kind of like a rare cruise in its '64.5 automotive namesake. I picked up my 2016 Duo-Sonic Player for much the same reason. Blessings!
You'd said there are eight pickup combinations, there's actually only four sounds: bridge, neck, B+N and B+N out of phase. And the main reason they sound different than a Strat is not because there are two of them, it's because the pickups are positioned differently.
I literally thought, "there's no way I have missed four pickup combinations on my guitar for the last two years, is there?" Yup, just four.
My Dad gave me his 1969 Competition Mustang in red. He got it from his brother in the 80s, who bought it in 1971. It's the guitar he learned on after my parents divorced. My dad thought it was a fake Fender, since it had a red headstock and gold-ish headstock decal. I researched the serial number and found out it was made in 1969. He was surprised to learn it was an uncommon model. Thanks for making this history vid.
Thank you for including the Cyclone in this. I bought one of the last ones just before they discontinued it. It's an odd-ball guitar, but I love it.
Same here. I love mine - I got it because I needed a humbucking guitar with a whammy bar, and I love the look of it. It's oddly heavy, though. I wasn't expecting that, but I love the guitar all the same
Nice. As a vintage enthusiast I've had almost every offset: XII, Jaguar, Mustang, Bronco, Music Master, even a Swinger (no Duo Sonic or Maverick.) Watching these is bittersweet bc I'm reminded of the cool guitars I no longer have. Great segment though.
I had this ridiculous cheap dark blue half-scale Ibanez Gio that I'd put 13-52s on, and it was so fun to play, super meaty sounding, and always in tune. So easy to play huge drop D riffs on. I traded it for 2 pedals that thankfully I still use, so I don't feel too bad about not having it anymore. But I miss it every now and then.
Ever since stumbling on this channel and series, this has been the one I hope for.
Time to grab a coffee and watch once or twice
Kurt was playing the guitar that he had available and he did good.
Just remembered Jeff Buckley, who used a 1983 fender telecaster, not the most meritorious fender's epoch, but it ended up being the guitar he loved the most and his main guitar, used on tours and memorable tunes like his Hallelujah cover.
Not trying to diminish the quality, but sometimes I think that custom shop is for lawyers and doctors, haha!
I bought my first "real" guitar in 1966. It was an Olympic white Fender Duo-Sonic II, the hard tail version of the Mustang, for $200 with the case. Up till then I had played really cheap guitars that would be considered unplayable by todays standards, but what did I know. The build quality appeard to be on par with the 'big boy' Fender models and the 24 in scale was a joy to play. I sold it back in the 70's but replaced it with a 66 just like it years later. Now my son is using it for recording. One neat thing I learned over the years repairing guitars is that the 24 inch scale is exactly the same as if you capoed a Strat at the first fret and a 22.5 inch scale is from the second fret. A Mustang neck will fit a Strat body with no intonation issues and vice versa. I know, I'm sounding like Sheldon Cooper but it is a fun fact. Thanks for a short history of one of my favorite guitars.
As with all things FWW , this is excellent. The addition of Mr. Haugen & Mr, Adams added a great deal . Thanks Keith.
I honestly think this is the most underappreciated guitar ever produced. Yea Kurt may have played one, but they aren't really popular at all. Some people mistake them for kids or beginner guitars, or worse, women's guitars. To me, its my favorite Fender of all time.
Wow! Brutal tone on those opening licks! Love it!
My first guitar was a black Mustang and I believe it's a 1974. I've had it for 40 years now, never could part with it. For a rocking rhythm tone, that's my go to guitar!
I absolutely prefer the Mustang over a Strat. I built a 60's mustang copy in olympic white. Tried to keep it historic as it was possible
Heavenly Mustang tones by Eric, especially from 07:10. That was a smooth transition to dive into the different voices of the Mustang.
Thanks my brother!
The only musician I can think you missed in Mustang history is Todd Rundgren. Todd loves the Mustang.
I was going to post the same thing. I saw Todd many times in the '70s sporting a Mustang. Rumor was that he played it because he liked the whammy bar on the Mustang.
I have kind of a stupid story but, my Son found a Fender Mustang T-shirt in a rag bin at his work. He gave it to My wife and she made a shadowbox with the Mustang t-shirt as the back, and a picture of Todd in the forground. A wife that’s into music and crafts pays off sometimes.
Hendrix and Page
@@davidewing55 I read that he played a mustang and the whammy for the motorcycle effect on bat outta hell!
Todd swapped out the dual pickup selectors for a single Gibson-style toggle for front/rear/both pickups. Made sense, as Todd likes to change pickup selection often.
Nirvana and my Squier mustang changed my life forever. Thanks for the great video.
Boy, that takes me back. My first guitar was a Mustang. I was fifteen or sixteen years old, and about the only guitar I could afford was a used Mustang. I have no idea what year it was, but you showed a picture of what it looked like: candy apple red with white racing stripes, rosewood fingerboard, mother of pearl pickguard, two black single coil pickups with slide switches above each. I have virtually no recollection of how it played or if I even liked it. Well, I must have liked it at least somewhat because I'm still playing over 45 years later. But I did trade that Mustang in for a Gibson SG not too long after, so I must not have been too thrilled with it. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
My dad has a red 68’ fastback mustang, and had a Mustang of the same color. That guitar in the back against a black sheet looks stunning.
Troy Grady (from Cracking the Code) plays a mustang and he fkn shreds on it, it sounds amazing too.
Yes! This brought me back to my teenage years lusting after a Jag-Stang that I never got. My favourite short history yet.
I’m a simple man. I see a new 5WW video, I pour my coffee and watch.
16:46 - Vintera 60s Mustang bass owner here! I absolutely love my Mustang bass, it really is the best sounding bass I've played, and I love the fact that Mustang basses pop up from other basses thanks to its body shape and bright colors. Thanks for making this video!
This is so cool! My first electric guitar (1970 or 1971?) was a red mustang with the cream racing stripes and matching red headstock! Wish I'd held onto it...
So great seeing Mike collaborate on another channel, such a knowledgeable guy!
I hope Mike decided to don the denim shirt in your honour for this episode.
Or so he said...
I love that 5 Watt world shows so muchh love to the gear without trying to make you feel like you have to actually acquire it yourself.
It's very wholesome.
You got the number of different switching permutations incorrect. You said 8, but it's only 4. I did point this out when you stated 8 on your live chat. It's only four cos out of phase only occurs when both pickups are engaged. There are a few redundant switching positions, but only four different permutations (or five if one includes both pickups turned off).
Love seeing Eric and Mike on the show! I just recently acquired a '67 Mustang Bass in Dakota Red so I'm definitely enjoying this episode for that reason alone.
Man, Eric Haugen taught me how to play guitar, very cool to see him in your video, another great video, Keith!
Hi Noah!
I bought a Squire Mustang last weekend and just keep picking it up. Love it. I only got it because my Strat seems so precious.
Sure the frets really did need polishing and the fret board looked like an old lady’s back, don’t ask.
But that stuff is all just part of getting to know each other, now we’re great mates.
If your struggling with a technique or new song this short scale really brings things to you. Easy player indeed.
Let’s face it, at 150 quid it’s more fun than a room full of drunken middle aged ladies and probably easier on your neck as well.
Thanks for the great videos Five Watt World.
I grew up thinking I wanted a Les Paul, but in my 30's discovered that the Mustang was what I really wanted. Now my Gibson is mostly wall candy :p
To own an original 69-72 Competition Mustang is probably the highest spot on my guitar bucket list! Love them.
I was never a fan back in the day, but over time came to realize how important this guitar was to others. I still hate the way it feels, but that's just me. I'm glad its existence was a springboard for so many people to get their hands on a guitar and learn to play that may not have otherwise.
one of my favourite series on youtube - thank you for your hard work and research on these!
Aww, you omitted to mention the very limited edition Squier Ryan Jarman (The Cribbs) 'mus-guar' model. The model's body shape is a mustang/jaguar hybrid (the opposite of a Jagstang)
I got me a stunning Oct 1965 Daphne Blue SLABOARD Mustang L-series 24’ at Randolin Music in Burlington. The store was full of natural, sunburst, classic-color acoustics and in the back of the store it was there. The only color in the entire store. It blew me away. Still does 8 years later.
It’s a mean fucking guit. It yells at you. It’s so dynamic.
Thank you for your videos. I love the vibe and the rigorous data you drop every time.
Ah Burlington, my one time home town, miss it.
In 72 i bought a sky blue mustang with original case in a pawn shop for 50 bucks. It was fantastic. Too ba i was too drunk to really apreciate it. Traded it for a bottle of wine. Im now 43 years sober and lovin my 61 melody maker.
hey so real quick. in 2019 i bought a black Bullet Mustang, it's a 2017; i suspect it had been on the peg since it was delivered. brought it home, plopped some new strings on, and set my sights on how to properly customize a guitar. i'd done it before, but nothing extensive. this guitar is perfect for it, with a swimming pool under the pickups and ample room for practically anything (plus a small price so no worries if something goes wrong lolol). over time, here's what i did:
- 80 grit sanding sponge to the fretboard edges,
- #0000 steel wool to the dull the finish and smooth what i sanded,
- EMG 85 bridge, 81 neck (though now it has only an Invader but mmf she's angry),
- shielding tape on the cavity,
- push/pull split volume pot with a ceramic treble bleed,
- and lots of little items/old necklace pendants/stickers
later i found her name: Priya. "cheap" student model or no, if i ever need a guitar to slam out some big powerful song, i know exactly where to turn
Excellent video. Never played them myself, but so many of my favorite players have.
I'd love to see a history of the Yamaha SG/SBG
Long time follower of Eric. Thanks for featuring him. Mike too, whom I discovered recently. Also, dope denim shirts.
I wish I got the memo on the shirts! I totally have one sitting in my closet too :-)
Mike jumped on that to bust on me...or out of support. It's unclear.
Let's not forget the Mustang-inspired Made-in-Mexico Duosonic series made in the '90s. Great little short-scale guitars that came in a 22.75" scale maple neck with basswood bodies! ✌
Keith, Eric and Mike in one episode? What a day! My three favourite people from the finest guitar based channels ever. Cheers guys, love you all!
SUPER SQUAD!
I was super in to Grunge and Nirvana in particular when I was in high school in the late 00s/early 10s. Never knew what they played, just that it sounded good. Now as a guitarist I’ve been revisiting that music and been increasingly inspired by those sounds, so I’m really glad to see this video
A year and change later, an update: I bought a DS-2 and the Mojohand Swim Team and have been playing mostly Nirvana covers for the past year and started incorporating some Psychedelic influences from Mr Syd Barrett and some deep blues. I’ve progressed more in the last year than in the preceding two and I’m loving every bit of it.
Excellent! Thanks for circling back!
@@fivewattworld Selling most of my gear is one of the best decisions I have ever made
I have a 96 and it was my first guitar. It’s modded and custom painted over the yrs. I stopped playing it for yrs but recently been playing like the beginning after having it properly set up. I have found a new appreciation for it. Back then it felt cheap but something about it now days feels all that love and playing put in it. Has a vintage feel. It’s special and sounds amazing. Plays inspiring. I’ll keep it till I’m no more. No matter if I keep playing it. My only hope is it goes to someone who’s going to sense it’s special and appreciate it.
That picture wasn't of Theresa Wayman but her bandmate Emily Kokal who usually plays a Jaguar.
I was just about to post the very same thing, word for word :)
I love the addition of having guests on in segments to explain their craft. Makes for an interesting and dynamic storyline.
The Pawn Shop Mustangs had a unique body silhouette with an angled bottom more like the Jaguar and Jazzmaster bodies. It's subtle, but it's distinct.
Love the short history series, Keith. I also love Eric Haugen’s playing and teachings.
I so often need to capo at the second fret for singing, maybe I should just get a short scale Mustang and tune it up a full step.
I got a 78 Music master for my son and was impressed by the quality.
Mike, of “Mike and Mike’s Guitar Bar”, was a great addition. Aside from his experience, his positive attitude is contagious! And, if you did a short history of Fender Strats, with all combinations of each mod, you’d have to get a higher speed camera, then time lapse to put 32 hours of video into 30 minutes! Ha!
I have a Pre CBS 1966 Musicmaster II in Dakota red. It’s been modified with a 3 way toggle and a vintage sourced bridge pick up to match. Amazing guitar, put a fuzz and wah wah and you get instant vintage vibes. Never thought I’d like this style of guitar!
Awesome man, i now feel tempted to get a mustang. You should definitely do one about the musicman stingray.
Another great episode, Keith. It was nice to see the love for Eric Haugen, one of my favorite TH-camrs. And who knew that John McLaughlin of all people ever played a Mustang? The closest thing I owned to a Mustang was a MusicMaster. It was an upgrade from my Teisco-made Silvertone. The previous owner had sanded off all the paint, but it must have been originally white since it had the red tortoise shell pickguard. In 1972, I ended up trading that in for a 1970 Strat for $200. I foolishly sold that for around $300 four years later to buy a 1965 ES-330. Fortunately, I still have the 330.
Kurt Cobain: "Whoever invented that guitar was a dork."
Interviewer: "It was Leo Fender."
Cobain: "Well, now I'll never get an endorsement!"
Between Cobain and the guys from Sloan in Canada (Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson), I LOVED the Mustang in the '90s. There's such a cool vibe of simplicity to those instruments.
Poor guy figured the only way to adjust the action was to take the strings off and turn the screws by hand. All he needed was an Alan key.
SLOAN 4 EVA!!!!
Just got me a Squier Sonic Mustang, and I LOVE IT. Was blown away by how good it is for the price
I own a Jagstang, it’s one hell of an instrument
I have an American Performer, 2022 model. It has jumbo frets, which are perfect, i don't feel a scale to be short, like Gibson's or even like Ibanez RG, but without 2 last frets. 21 fretted Fenders, yes, bigger. Slightly smaller body, but in total Mustangs are longer than Strats and Teles. Fender gives an instruction of how to setup whammy bar. Change strings, follow instructions and wait for 24 hours (not joking), it will stabilize and basically at the end we have Fender style Floyd Rose, it holds tuning. I have a heavy version approx 3.3kg, with a body/neck balance. Build quality is very good, no questions at all. Pickups has enough output and they are not very noisy. SQ is between Tele and Strat, with enough body and bass in it. You can play even metal on it (much better than with Am Pro and Am Pro-2 on Strats). Tonally is a little bit poorer comparable to a good Strat/Tele, less overtones, more like a bell sounding, difficult to explain, but it's not compression in a regular meaning. That's why we can see a lot of Mustangs with a Strats pickups. Finally, good affordable US made guitar, rarely spotted than other Fender models, very comfortable, with recognizable Fender sound. Just a good stylish workhorse. Cheers!;)
Many of the schools in my area have the vintage mustang basses. No one has any idea how great these instruments are.
I’ve had a squier mustang that was phenomenal in STOCK format. Then I modified the crap out of it with dimarzio pickups, split coil option, better pots, brass saddles, better tuners. Wow that was really something! I loved how petite the guitar felt so effortless to play but had an amazing sound.
I feel like the Ben Gibbard mustang really made people think about mustangs more.
Eric Haugen's My fav guitar teacher, hands down. Kudos!
This was my dream guitar when I started playing... And still is today, over a decade later. Now to learn about its history
Great episode Keith! I built a hot rodded mustang a few years back and I really enjoy it. The short scale makes it feel very comfy and accessible. But I put a humbucker in the bridge so it also screams!