Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announces the Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass®, marking the bassist’s second collaboration with the iconic musical instruments brand. This signature Jazz Bass® guitar commemorates over 20 years of Way’s influence on the music industry and also pays tribute to the 1970s, the musical era that Way credits to launching his career. Designed with bassists in mind, the Mikey Way Signature Jazz Bass® gives fans the opportunity to get their hands on the same axe Way used during his 2022-2023 worldwide reunion tour with My Chemical Romance.

Mikey Way’s first memory of the bass guitar was at three years old when he heard “Another One Bites The Dust” by Queen. His passion for rock music was ignited, and he took inspiration from legends like David Bowie and Queen to develop a sound that was uniquely his own. After dedicating himself to mastering the bass, he joined My Chemical Romance where his contribution to the band’s success was unparalleled. In fact, it was Way who came up with the band’s name after reading the book Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance. With nine songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100, the multi-platinum Grammy-nominated rock band became one of the most influential artists of the 2000s. Today, Way’s distinct approach to bass playing has solidified his place as an iconic figure in the music industry.

The Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass® is impossible to ignore with a silver sparkle finish, the same finish option Way used in his signature Squier® Mustang® Bass, and an alder body that creates a balanced sound with equal doses of lows, mids, and highs. For a true vintage-style playing feel, the 70s C-shaped neck profile is sculpted thinner at the first fret and thicker at the twelfth and features ‘70s J Bass® pickups for that full, growling, punchy tone that made Fender famous. Featuring 20 medium jumbo frets and 9.5” radius bound fingerboard provides modern playability. Combining form and function perfectly, the 4-saddle bridge features modern slotted saddles for enhanced tuning stability and punchy attack. The black block inlays, binding and black painted head cap finish off the iconic Mikey Way approved look. “It’s as if the bass jumped straight from my dreams into reality. It’s my most favorite instrument I’ve ever played,” added Mikey Way.

“For over two decades, Mikey Way has been a legendary influence in modern music and a part of the Fender family. We’re honored to work with him for the second time and bring his vision for this Signature Jazz Bass® to life,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Products at FMIC. “The 70s-inspired Jazz Bass® pickups and stamped tuning machines deliver a balanced sound and punchy tones, making it an excellent choice for any musician performing in the studio, club, or arena. To make it even more special, we’re including a fun surprise for fans – signed pickguards by Mikey himself hidden in eight gig bags. We hope those who purchase the select few enjoy these one-of-a-kind additions!”

The collectible pickguards have been autographed by Mikey Way himself, making them a priceless addition to any music lover’s collection. Eight individuals who discover these hidden gems will own a cutting-edge instrument and own a one-of-a-kind pickguard that carries the signature of their musical idols. Four pickguards will be hidden in gig bags for Mikey Way’s Signature Jazz Bass sold by Fender’s trusted global dealer base as well as four on Fender.com.

In true tradition, the Fender® Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists. Introducing the Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass, combining bold design and killer tones for a serious instrument that demands attention.

For technical specs, additional information on new Fender® products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

Limited Edition Mikey Way Jazz Bass ($1,499 USD)

As the bassist for recently reunited icons My Chemical Romance, Mikey Way’s passionate playing, distinctive style and knack for genre-bending sonic exploration have made him a hugely influential figure in emo, punk rock and beyond. The Mikey Way Jazz Bass® combines bold design and killer tones for a serious instrument that demands attention.

Featuring an alder body finished in dazzling silver sparkle and a sleek maple neck with black binding, block inlays and gloss black painted headstock, this bass is sure to turn heads. Boasting more than show-stopping looks, the Mikey Way Jazz Bass® is built for maximum punch and versatility. A powerful pair of vintage-style ’70s single-coil Jazz Bass® pickups deliver the classic sound that defined an epic era of rock. The ’70s “C”-shaped maple neck is comfortable and easy to maneuver for speedy riffs and high- octane gigs. Other features include a vintage- style 4-saddle bridge, ’70s style Fender® stamped tuners, Bullet® style truss rod nut and Mikey’s signature on the back of the headstock.

With its huge sound and distinctive look, the Mikey Way Signature Jazz Bass® is a testament to Way’s unique vision and style. For the die-hard My Chemical Romance fan or any player looking for a brilliant new bass, the Mikey Way Jazz Bass® is the perfect instrument to take your performance to the next level.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)–whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH®, Charvel®, Bigsby® and PreSonus® – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.