Susan Tedeschi was thrilled to collaborate with Fender on her long-awaited signature Telecaster, a tribute to her 1993 Standard Telecaster in Caribbean Mist, which has been integral to her career since appearing on the cover of her breakout album, Just Won’t Burn. Reflecting on the experience, Tedeschi expressed admiration for the number of women involved in the guitar-making process, noting that female representation is often overlooked in the industry.
The collaboration, a result of Fender’s commitment to female artist signatures, was a significant milestone for Tedeschi. She emphasized the importance of role models in shaping the aspirations of future guitarists, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Her signature model, designed to be comfortable and versatile, features a familiar aesthetic with modern enhancements like custom-voiced single-coils and a Treble Bass Expander (TBX) tone circuit.
Tedeschi’s journey with her original Telecaster began in a Boston music shop, where she was immediately drawn to its sound and feel. Over the years, it became adorned with autographs from legends like B.B. King and Willie Nelson, a testament to her diverse musical collaborations.
The project, initiated by Fender to coincide with the anniversary of her iconic album, allowed Tedeschi to visit Fender’s manufacturing facility and witness firsthand the craftsmanship involved, particularly impressed by the contributions of Spanish-speaking women.
For Tedeschi, the recognition through her signature model is not just a personal achievement but also a platform to inspire aspiring female guitarists. She looks forward to seeing how musicians will adapt and perform with her signature guitar across different musical genres.
