Few artists have impacted music culture as profoundly and rapidly as Kurt Cobain. Emerging in the early 1990s with Nirvana, Cobain and his bandmates redefined the musical landscape, injecting raw, punk-infused energy and melodic sensibility into heavy rock tones. This potent combination resonated with a generation, catapulting grunge and alternative rock into the mainstream.
While Cobain wielded various Fender guitars throughout his career, his Fender Jaguar® and Mustang® guitars became instantly iconic, largely due to their prominent use during the “Nevermind” tour and in the groundbreaking “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video. Driven by a desire to merge the best aspects of these two beloved instruments, Kurt Cobain conceived the Jag-Stang® guitar. He collaborated with the Fender Custom Shop to bring his vision to life in 1993, creating a unique hybrid that reflected his distinctive musical style.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Nirvana’s seminal album “Nevermind”, the Fender Jag-Stang embodies the specifications that made it Kurt’s ideal guitar. The alder body provides a robust and punchy foundation, perfectly suited for delivering powerful chords. The 24″ short-scale length is a key feature, reducing string tension and enhancing playability, particularly for players with smaller hands or those who prefer easier bending. Complementing this is the 7.25″ radius rosewood fingerboard on a maple neck, offering a comfortable vintage feel that minimizes hand fatigue during extended playing sessions and chord work.
To capture Cobain’s signature tones, the Jag-Stang is equipped with a vintage-style single-coil pickup in the neck position and a custom humbucking pickup in the bridge. This pickup combination allows players to access a versatile palette, from bright and articulate cleans to thick and aggressive distortion. Adding to its sonic flexibility are the Mustang slider switches, providing the ability to engage four distinct settings, unlocking a range of in-phase and out-of-phase tones. The Fender Jag-Stang guitar is more than just a tribute; it’s a playable piece of rock history, offering a unique blend of Fender heritage and Kurt Cobain’s innovative spirit.
