For anyone who has ever harbored a musical dream, the melodies of a Fender have likely flowed through their fingertips. For Li Ronghao, the guitar is far more than an instrument—it is the narrative heart of his musical identity.
On January 7, 2025, in Shanghai, Fender Musical Instruments (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. and Li Ronghao unveiled a monumental new chapter: The Li Ronghao Signature Stratocaster®.
This release is more than just the first signature instrument of Li Ronghao’s career; it is a heavy-hitting industry milestone. It marks the first time in Fender’s history that the brand has collaborated with an artist from mainland China to create a signature Stratocaster, signaling Fender’s deep commitment to the Chinese musical ecosystem.
I. A Synergy Rooted in Authenticity
From the urban sophistication of Model to the deep yearning of If I Were Young and the grit of Dark Horse, a Fender Stratocaster has been the silent protagonist behind nearly all of Li Ronghao’s hits. It is the most frequent “guest” in his collection and his most trusted “comrade” on stage.
Built on years of genuine passion and trust, this collaboration is a natural evolution. Li Ronghao has poured his aesthetic ideals, tonal preferences, and tactile requirements—honed through a career of writing and performing—into the design of this guitar. As he puts it, this instrument carries his creative philosophy, and his hope is for every player to feel the joy and freedom of creation when they strike a chord.
II. Handheld Romance: Where Aesthetics Meet Identity
The design of this signature model is quintessentially “Li Ronghao”:
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Vintage Freshness: The guitar features a classic Alder body finished in a soft, ethereal Vintage Shell Pink, complemented by a Red Tortoiseshell pickguard. This color palette strikes a balance between vintage elegance and modern freshness—much like Li’s music, which seamlessly blends the nostalgic with the avant-garde.
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A Personal Stamp: The back of the headstock bears Li Ronghao’s signature, and the instrument comes with an exclusive certificate of authenticity and a custom black hardshell case, making it a true collector’s piece.
III. Rigorous Specs Built for the Performer
For the discerning guitarist, every detail of this instrument is engineered for “the stage”:
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Exceptional Playability: The neck features a 1965 “C” profile, paired with a rosewood fingerboard boasting a flatter 12-inch radius and 21 medium jumbo frets. This configuration ensures a smooth playing experience, allowing for effortless chord transitions and preventing “choking out” during high-register bends, all while enhancing sustain.
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A “Singing” Tonal System: The pickup configuration is meticulously curated. The neck and middle positions feature vintage-style single-coils, delivering that iconic, bright “singing” tone with superb dynamics. In a bold move, the bridge is equipped with a Gotoh HB-Classic humbucker, significantly expanding the guitar’s sonic versatility. Even under high-gain overdrive, it maintains clarity and delivers a punchy, impactful sound.
IV. A New Era for Guitar Culture in China
Edward “Bud” Cole, President of Fender APAC, expressed high expectations for this partnership. He views Li Ronghao not only as a benchmark of the Chinese music industry but also as a vital bridge connecting Fender with Chinese artists and consumers. The launch of this signature model is more than a business milestone; it is a spark intended to ignite the passion of a new generation of Chinese guitarists.
The Fender Artist Signature Series is a prestigious line reserved for the world’s most elite musicians. Li Ronghao’s inclusion is not just a personal achievement; it represents the recognition of Chinese musical creativity by the pinnacle of international craftsmanship.
How to Claim This “Romance”
The Li Ronghao Signature Stratocaster® is officially available for purchase starting today. Music enthusiasts can find it through the Fender Tmall Flagship Store, JD.com Fender Flagship Store, and authorized Fast Link (Fastida) dealers. For more updates, follow Fender’s official channels on Weibo, Xiaohongshu, and Bilibili.
Since 1946, Fender has lived by the vision of “giving musicians wings to fly.” This time, those wings carry a shade of Shell Pink, landing right in the hands of Li Ronghao and every player who shares his passion.
