Fender Custom Shop Merle Haggard Signature Telecaster

Mama Tried

Turning twenty-one in prison and serving life without parole wouldn't be the worst fate if you could have this Merle Haggard Signature Tele in your cell! In fact, a life sentence with one of these phenomenal Fenders sounds more like a vacation than a punishment, because--as the head stock decal proudly declares--it is one tuff dog! Based on a Thinline Tele, this stellar signature model sports a maple center block with chambered alder wings, and this construction gives it a clear, snappy unplugged tone with a goodly amount of high-end lushness. It also sports a drop-dead gorgeous flamed maple top and neck, which--combined with the understated two-tone sunburst finish--makes this twangin' Tele simultaneously opulent and tasteful.

Though it will certainly make people crane their necks to get a closer look when you bring it out to the gig or jam, the Merle Haggard Signature is more than a pretty face. Two Texas Special pickups give it the sort of hot, in-your-face Tele tone that will make all the fellers in the honky-tonks stand up and take notice. It also has a four-way switch that presents some unique pickup options that give it surprising versatility.

Position one is the bridge alone, and it has all the spank, chime, and bite you'll ever need. Position two is the bridge and neck pickup in parallel, which provides a thinner, twangier tone suitable for pedal steel licks and quick chicken picking. Position three is the neck alone, and it's an excellent change-up thanks to its punchy, woody tone. Finally, position four is both pickups wired in series, which sounds quite full and lush while remaining articulate and snappy. With these four tones, you can cover all of the classic Tele territory, making the Merle Haggard Signature Tele a fantastic option for rock and country guitarists looking for a beautiful guitar with incredible versatility. We are proud to present such a tuff instrument, and we know it will provide endless hours of inspiration to any Fender fanatic lucky enough to take it home.