Tom Morello, the revolutionary guitarist celebrated for his groundbreaking work with Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, has always been synonymous with unique and impactful guitar tones. Central to his sonic arsenal is his iconic “Soul Power” guitar, a symbol of his musical ethos. Now, Fender has collaborated with Morello to bring the essence of this legendary instrument to a wider audience with the Tom Morello Signature Guitar, officially dubbed the “Soul Power” Stratocaster.
The story behind the “Soul Power” inscription on Morello’s guitar is surprisingly spontaneous, yet deeply resonant with his artistic journey. As Morello himself explains, the moniker was a quick decision made even before Audioslave had penned their first song. This immediate commitment reflects his belief in letting the guitar guide his musical path. “I’m like, Wherever this guitar takes me on that journey, that’s where the journey is going to go as a guitarist,” Morello stated, highlighting the almost symbiotic relationship he has with this instrument.
The “Soul Power” title is not just a random phrase; it’s an homage to folk music icon Woodie Guthrie, a long-time inspiration for Morello. This connection underscores the depth of meaning Morello imbues into his instruments and music. Furthermore, “Soul Power” became a personal mantra for Morello as he embarked on the Audioslave project, uniting with the formidable rhythm section of Tim Commerford and Brad Wilk from Rage Against the Machine, alongside the powerful vocals of Chris Cornell. It represented the potent energy and creative force they aimed to unleash.
The Fender Tom Morello signature guitar is meticulously crafted to mirror Morello’s famed instrument. In a nod to personalization, the reproduction excludes Morello’s own handwritten calligraphy, offering players the opportunity to inscribe their own mantras. However, the guitar arrives ready to channel “Soul Power,” featuring a sleek, glossy black finish and including a “Soul Power” decal for those wanting to replicate the iconic look precisely. Yet, Morello wisely points out, “After all, the soul is in the player, not the guitar,” reminding musicians that the instrument is a conduit for their own expression.
Beyond the creation of this signature model, Morello and Fender are jointly committed to music education and access. In a remarkable act of giving back, they are donating hundreds of these Tom Morello signature guitars to public schools across America and to Wayne Kramer’s Jail Guitar Doors, a non-profit organization dedicated to felon rehabilitation through music. Morello passionately advocates for the life-changing potential of guitars. Recalling his own first guitar, a modest $50 instrument, he emphasizes its transformative impact: “that $50 saved my life and led me to this room today, as a means of expression, as a mean of liberation, as a means of creativity, it can provide an outlet like nothing else on the planet.” This initiative aims to empower a new generation with the same opportunities, potentially sparking new musical talent and offering positive pathways through music.
In conclusion, the Tom Morello signature guitar is more than just a meticulously crafted replica; it’s a vessel of musical history, a symbol of artistic philosophy, and a tool for empowerment. It embodies the “Soul Power” that drives Tom Morello’s innovative sound and his commitment to making music accessible. This collaboration between Fender and Morello not only offers fans a piece of rock history but also actively contributes to a future filled with more music and more musicians.
