 In a move that celebrates both a modern country trailblazer and 75 years of guitar history, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) has officially announced the release of the John Osborne Telecaster.
Designed in collaboration with the Grammy-winning guitarist and one-half of the multi-platinum duo Brothers Osborne, this new signature model brings a road-tested, vintage-inspired workhorse to the masses. Notably, it marks a major milestone for Fender: the inclusion of their first-ever, in-house designed B-String Bender.
A Nod to Heritage, Built for Today’s Player
Inspired by John Osborne’s personal, heavily gigged 1968 Telecaster, this signature model was crafted to blend classic Fender DNA with highly dynamic performance features. It arrives perfectly timed to coincide with Fender’s celebration of the Telecaster’s 75th anniversary.
“There are a lot of amazing guitars in this world, but none are as versatile as the Telecaster,” said John Osborne. “It just works with every song, works with every genre; I want someone to pick it up and take this instrument that I’ve played for so long, and blaze their own trail with it.”
Widely respected as a “player’s player,” Osborne has shaped the sound of modern country music with his searing solos, distinctive tone, and expressive bends. Fender’s Chief Product Officer, Max Gutnik, noted that the goal was to capture that exact spirit. “From the B-string bender to the road-worn feel, it’s unmistakably John’s guitar, but it’s built to inspire anyone who wants to explore that sound and make it their own.”
Groundbreaking Features: The Fender B-Bender
The crown jewel of the John Osborne Telecaster is the Fender B String Bender. Until now, players seeking that signature pedal steel-style expression often had to seek out aftermarket modifications. Fender’s first in-house design seamlessly raises the B string a full step, unlocking sweeping lead lines and weeping country bends directly from the factory.
Key Specifications
Built on a balanced alder body, the guitar is engineered for professional-grade tone and sustain. Here is a breakdown of what players can expect:
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Fender B String Bender: Achieves pedal steel-style bends and expressive lead lines.
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Road Worn Olympic White Finish: Offers the authentic, broken-in feel of a trusted gigging instrument.
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Custom-Voiced Pickups: Tailored specifically for Osborne to deliver everything from shimmering cleans to growling overdrive.
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’68-Style Maple Neck: Features a maple cap fingerboard for smooth playability and a classic feel.
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3 Compensated Brass Barrel Saddles: Ensures perfect intonation while maintaining the Telecaster’s signature snap and twang.
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Custom Pickguard: Completes the unique aesthetic of Osborne’s signature look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the John Osborne Telecaster?
The MSRP for the John Osborne Telecaster is $2,199.99
What does a B-Bender do on a guitar?
A B-Bender is a mechanical device built into the guitar that pulls the B-string up a full step in pitch. This allows guitarists to mimic the sliding, bending sound of a pedal steel guitar, a staple of country music.
Is the B-Bender on this guitar made by a third party?
No. A standout feature of this release is that the B-String Bender mechanism is Fender’s first-ever in-house design.
Where can I buy the John Osborne Telecaster?
The guitar is available through Fender’s official website and authorized retail partners worldwide.
Guitar Bomb Verdict
The John Osborne Signature Telecaster is a serious tool for musicians looking to expand their expressive capabilities. By pairing vintage ’68 aesthetics with modern, custom-voiced electronics and Fender’s groundbreaking in-house B-Bender, this guitar bridges the gap between classic twang and contemporary innovation. If you are tracking in the studio or headlining on stage, the John Osborne Telecaster is built to perform.
Price & Availability
Available at Andertons – ÂŁ1849
Available at Sweetwater – $2199.99
Available at Thomann – €2069
More Information
#Fender #John Osborne
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