1985 Fender Performer Bass Ken Schmechel

It was designed by the legendary John Page who spent 21 years at Fender and was the cofounder of The Fender Custom Shop. John Page created guitars for Eric Clapton, David Gilmore, Pete Townsend and many others.

The Performer basses were only made for six months. The first one went to Ben Orr of The Cars.

This one was Ken Schmechel’s first bass. He bought it at a pawn shop for $100.

This is a great story with real working details of a rare, well loved guitar.

Watch This episode of Every Guitar Has A Story.