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The Fender Jazzmaster electric guitar was introduced in 1958 and was designed as an upgrade for the Fender Stratocaster. It had a mellower tone than the Strat, which gave it a more jazzy sound. Ironically, the Jazzmaster wasn't very popular among jazz-musicians while Rock guitarists did like the instrument and used it. Especially in the surf rock scene (The Ventures and The Fireballs) the Jazzmaster became popular. Fender recognized the need for a surf-guitar and introduced the Fender Jaguar.
Whilst the Jazzmaster and Jaguar were popular with the surf's up community, they were also embraced by the USA grunge rock scene. Sonic Youth are well known for their love of both Jaguars and Jazzmasters, and their unique customisation jobs (Jazzblaster). Funnily enough, these guys tipped off Geffen about Nirvana, of which Cobain sported his own Jaguar customised with humbucking pickups. Robert Smith of The Cure, also used two Jazzmasters (Black Torty & White Torty)for the majority of the Cure's early work. Jaguar lovers also include John Frusciante of Chilli Peppers fame, his battered Candy Apple Red Jaggy, is most cool indeed. Tom Verlaine also used an old Jazzmaster, as did J Mascis of Dinosaur Jnr, both sport very cool early examples.
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