The Latest Collaboration Between Seymour Duncan and Joe Bonamassa, the 64 Greenburst Set

Tracking down an original pre-CBS Fender Stratocaster® with intact gray-bottom pickups is no easy feat. These guitars are highly sought after, and even when you do find one, they often come with a hefty price tag. The pickups from this era are particularly special, known for their punchy, high-output sound that helped define so many classic tones. For players chasing that sound, understanding what makes these pickups unique can be a game-changer.

Key Considerations:

• Original pre-CBS Strat® guitars, let alone pickups, are rare and expensive
• Gray-bottom pickups from 1964 are known for their punchy output
• Vintage wiring and staggered Alnico 5 magnets contribute to the tone
• The Joe Bonamassa ‘64 Greenburst Strat® Set is a faithful reproduction of this classic sound
• Limited to 500 sets worldwide, each includes a signed certificate of authenticity

The Greenburst Connection

The transition Fender made in early 1964 to gray-bottom pickups marked a significant shift in tone. These pickups had a stronger output and a more defined midrange compared to earlier models, making them highly desirable. However, finding an original set in good condition can be next to impossible. That’s why the Joe Bonamassa ‘64 Greenburst Strat® Set exists—to provide an accurate replica of these legendary pickups. Joe Bonamassa’s personal 1964 Stratocaster® is a great example of how sometimes the best vintage finds come in unexpected forms. His Strat®, originally finished in three-tone sunburst, had been refinished in a unique “Greenburst.” While the finish may have changed, the magic was still in the pickups. Now, this set captures that exact tone with period-correct materials, staggered Alnico 5 magnets, and waxed cotton wiring.

Why the Greenburst Set Stands Out

If an original pre-CBS Strat® is out of reach, the Joe Bonamassa ‘64 Greenburst Strat® Set is an excellent alternative. Built to the same specs as Joe’s original pickups, it offers:

• Authentic gray-bottom flatwork and staggered Alnico 5 magnets
• Vintage-style waxed cotton wiring
• DC Resistance: Neck – 6.62k, Middle – 5.86k, Bridge – 5.86k
• Exclusive packaging with a signed certificate from Joe Bonamassa and Seymour Duncan

Final Thoughts

Owning a piece of history isn’t always realistic, but capturing its sound is more attainable than you might think. Seymour Duncan and Joe Bonamassa’s continued partnership allow for realistic access to one of the most iconic tones in Fender history.

Availability

The Seymour Duncan Joe Bonamassa 64 ‘Greenburst’ Strat set will be available in Australia in early April 2025. More details can be found at Seymour Duncan’s official website.