Over the 75+ years of their existence, Fender has been responsible for far more than their share of iconic guitars and innovative designs. The Fender Jazzmaster, with its distinctive offset body and sleek, modern design, is one of the most groundbreaking of these. The Jazzmaster was originally introduced to be the ne plus ultra of Fender's line, supplanting the Stratocaster as their most expensive model. It was also intended to be adopted by jazz musicians as a more affordable alternative to the traditional hollowbody jazz guitars of the time. 

In this guide, we'll start by delving into the history of the Fender Jazzmaster, exploring its origins, evolution and the impact it has had on the world of electric guitars. Then, we'll take a look at how it compares to other guitars in the Fender lineup, focusing on its unique features and how they set it apart. Finally, we'll examine the wide variety of Jazzmaster models available today, and at some of the artists and tracks that have helped make the Fender Jazzmaster a top choice for electric guitarists in a variety of genres. So, let's dive into the world of the offset-body instrument that defined an entire new look for electric guitars.

Table of Contents

The Early History of the Fender Jazzmaster
How Does the Jazzmaster Compare to Other Popular Fender Models?
A Guide to Squier and Fender Jazzmaster Models
   Comparing Squier and Fender Jazzmaster Models
   Squier Mini Jazzmaster
   Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Jazzmaster
   Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
   Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII
   Fender Vintera II ’50s Jazzmaster
   Fender Player II Jazzmaster
   Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster
   Fender American Performer Jazzmaster
   Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster
   Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster
   Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster
   Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster
Who Are Some Artists Who Play a Fender Jazzmaster?
All That Jazz(master)

The Early History of the Fender Jazzmaster

As frequently happened at Fender, there were many contributors in the development of the Jazzmaster. In addition to Leo Fender, there were major contributions from Freddie Tavares, who had also been heavily involved in the development of the Stratocaster (read about that in our History of the Fender Stratocaster article), and Forrest White, who would go on to become vice president of Fender. 

While country and rock ’n’ roll players had enthusiastically adopted the Telecaster and the Stratocaster, jazz players, tending to be somewhat more conservative in their tastes, had been sticking with the more traditional Gibson ES and Epiphone archtop hollowbody guitars. The Fender Jazzmaster was designed to try and break into that market and to be Fender's more deluxe flagship model, with a price to match. This instrument would feature several new patented features and firsts for Fender.

Pictured: 1963 Fender Jazzmaster

While Leo Fender already had a number of patents in his name, the Fender patent folder was soon to become somewhat crowded with new ideas and innovations. The Jazzmaster would be responsible for several of these patents, including a redesigned floating tremolo system, which featured a locking mechanism designed to prevent tuning issues when a string was broken. The Jazzmaster would also be the first Fender guitar to feature the offset body shape, which would become a hallmark of the Jazzmaster, Jaguar and other models; a rosewood fingerboard; and the first large-size headstock—this last one the brainchild of Fender marketing guru, Don Randall, who wanted to get the brand more visible in the new television age. 

Another innovation in the Jazzmaster was the addition of a circuit that would enable moving between rhythm and lead settings with a single sliding switch located on the guitar's upper bout. The rhythm tone was preset, inspired by a guitar Forrest White had built in the 1940s, years before he began working for Fender. The Rhythm position of the Jazzmaster's Rhythm/Lead switch was just such a preset, with tone and volume determined by two rotary controls embedded in the upper pickguard. When the Rhythm/Lead switch was in the Rhythm position, only the neck pickup was available, and the regular controls were bypassed. In the Lead position, the "normal" pickup selector switch, volume and tone controls worked as players were accustomed to.

Pictured: 1965 Fender Jazzmaster

A little extra word about that tremolo system—which, as is often pointed out by the more pedantic types, is really vibrato, not tremolo by the strict definition of both terms. Anyway, whatever you call it, the Jazzmaster debuted a new Fender patent on a “floating” tremolo system. Unlike the Strat Synchronized Tremolo bridge, the Jazzmaster tremolo featured a separate bridge and a tremolo tailpiece that was mounted flush to the body. Beneath that mysterious chrome top cover were a pivoting plate that extended from the tremolo bar to where the strings were threaded through the tailpiece, an adjustable spring and the Trem-Loc slider that would physically lock the tremolo plate into place were you to break a string. All in all, it’s got a kind of janky elegance, and its smooth action and fluid warble would get full play years later when the Jazzmaster would become a favorite instrument for indie and shoegaze bands.

Despite all these new and "deluxe" features, most jazz players cast a sideways glance at the Jazzmaster and continued playing their archtop hollowbody instruments, although there were a couple of exceptions, including, for a brief while, the great Joe Pass. All in all, the perception was perhaps that, though it might sound right, the look was just a little too rock ’n’ roll for the seriousness of jazz. 

Pictured: 1959 Fender Jazzmaster

But, right in Fender's backyard, on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, the budding surf music scene found that the Jazzmaster, with its unique look and exceptional range of tone, was just the thing. Fender, indeed, pretty much owned the surf scene, between the Jazzmaster, the Stratocaster and amps like the Dual Showman. But, even so, the Jazzmaster never took off in the way that Fender had hoped, though later Fender offset guitars like the Jaguar, Duo-Sonic and Mustang would see wider adoption. The Jazzmaster would languish until punk and new wave bands in the 1970s, most notably Television guitarist Tom Verlaine and the inimitable Elvis Costello picked up their Jazzmasters and showed the world that there was more there than just the remnants of the surf music scene.

As we'll see in the later section covering well-known players and some of the tracks that have made it hip to be, if not square, at least a little offset, the Jazzmaster continues to blaze a path in the hands of players who are not afraid to pick up a guitar that was originally intended to make smooth, soothing sounds and turn it into one that expresses their unique voices.

How Does the Jazzmaster Compare to Other Popular Fender Models?

Before we take a closer look at current Fender Jazzmaster models, it's worth understanding how the Jazzmaster compares to other popular Fender models. This comparison will help you choose the right Jazzmaster for your personal musical journey.

Model	Scale Length	Nut Width	Controls	Pickup Number/Type	Sonic Quality
Jazzmaster	25.5”	1.65”	Rhythm/Lead circuits, Volume, Tone	2 single coil (Wide)	Warm, articulate and mellow shimmer
Stratocaster	25.5”	1.65”	5-way switch, Volume, Tone	3 single coil	Bright, snappy and dynamic
Telecaster	25.5”	1.65”	3-way switch, Volume, Tone	2 single coil	Twangy, sharp and versatile
Jaguar	24”	1.65”	Rhythm/Lead circuits, Tone Cut switch	2 single coil (Short Scale)	Bright, snappy, with lots of bite
Mustang	24”	1.65”	On/Off Phase switches, Volume, Tone	2 single coil	Punchy, midrange-heavy, garage rock vibe

 

A Guide to Squier and Fender Jazzmaster Models

Since its debut in 1958, the Fender Jazzmaster has been seen as many things—versatile, innovative and even a little bit weird. But despite a slightly rocky start, the Jazzmaster has gone on to become one of Fender's most beloved and enduring models for those who approach the world with a slightly offset perspective. In this section, we will explore the current Jazzmaster lineup, from both Squier and Fender, and hope to shed some light on which one is right for you.

Comparing Squier and Fender Jazzmaster Models

Model	Body Wood	Neck Wood	Pickups	Controls	Bridge	Price
Squier Mini Jazzmaster HH	Poplar	Maple	Two humbuckers	Volume, Tone	Hardtail	$189.99
Squier Classic Vibe '60s Jazzmaster	Poplar	Maple	Two Fender-Designed single coil	Rhythm/Lead circuits	Vintage-style trem	$449.99
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster	Basswood	Maple	Two P-90-style single coils	Rhythm/Lead circuits	Tune-O-Matic	$499.99
Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII	Poplar	Maple	Two Fender-Designed Alnico single coil	Volume, Tone	Hardtail	$549.99
Fender Vintera II '50s Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple	Two Vintage-Style single coil	Rhythm/Lead Circuits	Floating tremolo	$1,249.99
Fender Player II Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple	Two Player Series Alnico single coil	Volume, Tone, Rhythm circuit	Floating tremolo	$899.99
Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple/Rosewood	Two V-Mod II single coil	Volume, Tone, Rhythm circuit	Panorama tremolo	$1,799.99
Fender American Performer Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple	Yosemite single coil	Volume, Tone	Vintage-style trem	$1,249.99
Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple	Pure Vintage '66 single coil	Rhythm/Lead circuits	Floating tremolo	$2,199.99
Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster	Alder	Maple	Custom-wound Jazzmaster pickups	Rhythm/Lead circuits	Mustang-style bridge	$1,499.99
Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster	Mahogany	Maple	Active EMG 81/60	Single Volume	Hardtail	$1,699.99
Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster	Mahogany	Mahogany	One Under-Saddle Piezo + Magnetic	Blend knob	Modern asymmetrical	$1,999.99

Squier Mini Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: A scaled-down Jazzmaster perfect for beginners or traveling players.

Things to Consider:

• Compact size makes it great for younger players or those with smaller hands
• Humbuckers offer a different tonal profile from traditional Jazzmasters 
• Fixed bridge ensures stability 

Shop Now: Squier Mini Jazzmaster HH Electric Guitar

A pint-sized powerhouse, the Squier Mini Jazzmaster's 2/3 scale makes it both a great guitar for young beginners and an excellent choice for a travel guitar. Its simplicity also is a help to beginners, with only the bare essentials you need, while still maintaining that classic Jazzmaster look and feel. The choice of humbuckers rather than classic Jazzmaster single coils help give it a more modern tone, as well.

Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: Vintage-inspired aesthetics and Fender-designed pickups deliver an authentic ’60s tone. 

Things to Consider:

• Poplar body is lightweight and resonant but is a bit brighter than traditional alder in tone 
• Vintage-style tremolo bridge may require setup tweaks for optimal performance 
• A great choice for players looking for an interesting option to add to their collection

Shop Now: Squier Classic Vibe '60s Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

If vintage vibes are what you're after, and you are “offset-curious,” the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Jazzmaster is definitely worth a closer look. The unique tremolo system of the Jazzmaster is perfect for a warbling, floating groove, and the offset body shape gives the guitar more than just a distinctive look—maybe players find it more comfortable, especially when sitting down to play. 

Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: Designed in collaboration with Dinosaur Jr.’s J Mascis, this model features upgraded hardware and smooth playability. 

Things to Consider:

• Alnico 2 magnet J Mascis Jazzmaster pickups offer up grittier sound 
• Floating tremolo bridge may require adjustment to suit your style 
• More aggressive sound than standard Jazzmaster models

Shop Now: Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

A prime example of the Jazzmaster's flexibility is its use by Dinosaur Jr.'s J Mascis. This affordable Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster version of his modded guitar is perfect for those fuzz-drenched soundscapes you long to create. Just because it's got "Jazz" in its name, doesn't mean it can't rock.

Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII

Why It's Cool: This 12-string Jazzmaster brings a unique tonal dimension to the offset family.

Things to Consider:

• Hardtail bridge designed for simplicity and tuning stability
• More accurate intonation than many 12-string guitars
• Ideal for creating lush, chorus-like textures in rhythm playing

Shop Now: Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII 12-String Electric Guitar

We've loved many of Fender's "Paranormal" offerings, which show us what might have been had the universe taken a different path. The Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII is a perfect example of that. The short-lived, and now eminently collectible, Fender Electric XII already had the offset vibe, and this Squier just imagines what might have been if it had been built on a Jazzmaster platform. If you're looking for the jangle of a 12 string with a little extra style, this might be the one.

Fender Vintera II ’50s Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: A throwback to Fender’s classic ’50s aesthetic with period-accurate appointments.

Things to Consider:

• Vintage-style pickups deliver authentic tone but may lack modern output levels
• Floating tremolo requires a lighter touch than fulcrum-style tremolo
• A great choice for fans of retro styling and vintage accuracy 

Shop Now: Fender Vintera II '50s Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

The Fender Vintera II ’50s Jazzmaster brings that classic look and feel back into your life for a lot less than a vintage model would run. It's a great choice for anyone who wants to experience the look and feel of a vintage Jazzmaster, with the added benefit of being able to play it every day without worrying about something happening to it. What can we say? It's affordable cool. 

Fender Player II Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: The Player II combines classic Jazzmaster design with modern playability enhancements. 

Things to Consider:

• Player Series pickups are versatile but may not appeal to vintage tone purists
• Doesn't have classic Jazzmaster Lead/Rhythm circuitry
• Floating tremolo may require some adjustment period for players accustomed to fulcrum tremolos

Shop Now: Fender Player II Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

Looking for a Jazzmaster that blends vintage vibe with modern sensibilities? The Fender Player II Jazzmaster has you covered. From its smooth playability to its crisp and articulate tones, this guitar offers a perfect introduction to the offset family for players looking to bridge the past and present. It’s as stylish as it is functional, all at a price that won’t break the bank.

Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: Get classic Jazzmaster looks with modern enhancements.

Things to Consider:

• Panorama tremolo delivers wider range than traditional Jazzmaster tremolo
• Sculpted neck heel provides improved access to upper frets
• V-Mod II pickups offer refined tone with increased articulation and clarity

Shop Now: Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

With top-notch craftsmanship and advanced features, the Fender American Professional II Jazzmaster sets a high bar. It’s a workhorse for the stage or studio, delivering rich, nuanced tones with a sleek, modern aesthetic. Whether you’re playing indie, jazz or something entirely your own, this guitar gives you the tools to push boundaries.

Fender American Performer Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: This Jazzmaster model balances affordability and performance for players looking to get their first Jazzmaster. 

Things to Consider:

• Yosemite Jazzmaster pickups provide a more modern tone than vintage-style ones
• Fender's Greasebucket tone circuit keeps tone from getting muddy with treble rolled back
• Vintage-style tremolo offers classic warble

Shop Now: Fender American Performer Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

The Fender American Performer Jazzmaster strikes the perfect balance between form and function. It’s an accessible entry into Fender’s higher-end offerings, delivering warmth and punch with its Yosemite pickups while maintaining the iconic Jazzmaster feel. This is the guitar for players who want to explore their sound with confidence.

Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: Get a meticulous recreation of the 1966 Jazzmaster, right down to the Pure Vintage pickups.

Things to Consider:

• All the vintage features make this a great way to get the authentic Jazzmaster experience
• Floating tremolo and bridge require some adjustment to get used to if you're coming from standard fulcrum tremolos
• Incredibly accurate recreation of the original pickups

Shop Now: Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

For those seeking an authentic vintage experience, the Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazzmaster delivers in spades. Every detail is period-accurate, from the pickups to the finish, making this guitar as close as it gets to stepping back in time. It’s a piece of history you can play.

Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: Designed in collaboration with QOTSA’s Troy Van Leeuwen, this model exudes character. 

Things to Consider:

• Mustang-style bridge offers added stability but changes traditional feel
• Custom pickups are unique but may not suit every genre 
• Great choice for players who want a unique variation on a classic

Shop Now: Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

This signature Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster is as versatile as the man it was built for. From intricate chords to soaring leads, it’s a guitar that invites exploration. Its bold Oxblood finish and unique tonal palette make it as striking to look at as it is to play.

Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: This metal-oriented Jazzmaster delivers with high-output EMG pickups and sleek styling.

Things to Consider:

• Mahogany body delivers darker tones compared to alder models
• Blackout styling provides a stealthy appearance on stage
• Single volume control without tone knob maximizes output from the EMGs

Shop Now: Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster Electric Guitar

Don’t let the Jazzmaster’s surf-rock reputation fool you—the Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster is a monster built for modern metal. Its stripped-down design and active pickups make it a lean, mean riff machine, perfect for heavy music fans who crave simplicity and impact.

Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster

Why It's Cool: This innovative hybrid Jazzmaster blends acoustic and electric guitar capabilities

Things to Consider:

• Blend of piezo and Shaw-designed humbucker makes it incredibly flexible
• Rechargeable battery delivers up to 20 hours of playtime between charges
• Perfect for players seeking versatility in studio or live settings

Shop Now: Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster Acoustic-Electric Guitar

The Fender Acoustasonic Jazzmaster is in a class of its own. Combining Fender’s iconic design with groundbreaking hybrid technology, it’s a must-have for players who need an all-in-one instrument. Whether you’re strumming unplugged or plugged into an amp, it delivers.

Who Are Some Artists Who Play a Fender Jazzmaster?

From surf to grunge, the Jazzmaster has been a cornerstone of boundary-pushing music. Let'’s a look at some iconic players and tracks.

Pictured: 1965 Fender Jazzmaster

1. J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.) - A pioneer of alternative rock, Mascis is known for his heavy use of the Jazzmaster on tracks like "Freak Scene," where its unique tone contributes to the song's iconic distorted sound.

2. Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth) - A key figure in the avant-punk scene, Moore is recognized for his distinctive use of the Jazzmaster on "Teen Age Riot," showcasing its tremolo bar capabilities and his unconventional tunings.

3. Troy Van Leeuwen (Queens of the Stone Age) - A versatile guitarist, Van Leeuwen employed a Jazzmaster on "Go With the Flow," creating layers of atmospheric noise and feedback that characterize QOTSA’s sound.

4. Kevin Shields (My Bloody Valentine) – An enthusiastic adopter of the Jazzmaster after borrowing one from a friend, Shields is known for his innovative use of the guitar’s floating tremolo system, developing a technique he calls “glide guitar” on cuts like “Thorn” from the You Made Me Realise EP, with the technique fully matured by the release of the Loveless album.

5. Jim Root (Slipknot) - Although primarily known for playing heavier models like the Jackson Rhoads, Root has used a Jazzmaster in his arsenal, such as on "Snuff," adding unique color and tone to Slipknot's nu metal soundscapes.

6. Nina Gordon (Veruca Salt) - Guitarist Nina Gordon favored a Jazzmaster for her band's hit "Seether," employing its warm, mids-focused tone and versatile dynamics to drive the track's infectious power-pop melodies.

7. Emma Anderson (Lush) - Anderson was known for her use of a Jazzmaster during Lush's heyday, as heard on "Sweetness and Light," where its distinct tone complements the band's shoegaze sound with lush harmonies and dreamy chord sequences. 

8. Tom Verlaine (Television) - A seminal figure in the New York punk scene, Verlaine wielded a Jazzmaster extensively during Television's early years, including on "Marquee Moon," utilizing its unique sonic characteristics to craft timeless guitar work.

9. Elvis Costello - Featured prominently on the covers of his first two albums, Costello's Jazzmaster beautifully complements his versatile songwriting with its tonal flexibility on early cuts like "Alison" and "Pump It Up."

All That Jazz(master)

We hope this article has offset (see what we did there?) some of the questions you may have had about the Fender Jazzmaster, and that you now have a better understanding of its history, design and functionality. We also hope that you've gotten some inspiration to try out one (or more) of the current Jazzmaster models for yourself at your local Guitar Center. Or, check out our exhaustive collection of Fender electric guitars on our website. If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our knowledgeable associates in the store, or give us a call and chat with your personal Gear Adviser, who can help you find the Jazzmaster that's just your jam.