Talking Guitars: LIVE 🎸 Fender’s New CEO, Amigo Guitar Show preview & Guitar Workbench. 1/7/26

On this episode of Talking Guitars & Music News on JohnnyBeaneTV, we kick things off with a big announcement — we’re going LIVE from the Amigo California Guitar Show this Saturday, January 10th! 🎸🔥 Make sure you tune in early afternoon East Coast / late afternoon West Coast as we bring you the action straight from one of California’s coolest vintage guitar shows. Expect guitars, effects, amplifiers, friends, and great vibes. We were there last year, had an absolute blast, and we’re doing it again — live with you! After that, we dive into a real talk discussion about artists still performing today, including David Lee Roth. I share why seeing a show in person is a completely different experience than watching shaky cell phone clips online — and why so much of the negativity comes from people who weren’t even there. Concerts are about energy, connection, and being in the room… and that matters. Then it’s straight into the music news 📰 We head over to Guitar World, where 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in Fender history. Fender has announced a new CEO — so what does that mean for the future of this iconic brand? Guitar World sits down with Edward Bud Cole, and we break it all down. Fender’s new CEO is a true full-circle story. Edward “Bud” Cole — who once didn’t get a job at Fender out of college — has now been named CEO of Fender Music Corporation, replacing Andy Mooney after his 10-year run. Cole spent more than a decade leading Fender Asia Pacific, where he transformed Fender Japan into one of the most innovative and respected divisions of the company. He expanded Fender across 14 countries, launched the iconic Fender Tokyo flagship store, and helped redefine how guitar brands connect with players — not just through products, but through community and experience. He’s also a working musician, songwriter, and former touring artist, which gives him a player-first perspective. Cole says 2026 will be one of the most exciting years in Fender’s history, with major announcements, innovation, and global expansion ahead. The year also marks Fender’s 80th anniversary, plus 75 years of the Telecaster and Precision Bass, with special limited-edition models planned. Looking forward, Cole sees a bigger role for flagship stores, live music events, AI tools for learning and creativity, and pushing Fender Japan–style innovation into the global lineup — all while keeping guitars accessible to new players. Bottom line: Fender is betting on innovation, community, and the power of music, and Bud Cole believes it all starts with one thing — people picking up a guitar to express what’s in their hearts and heads. 🎸🤘 Finally, we hit the guitar workbench 🔧 I clean up a Squier guitar, throw on fresh strings, and get it ready for bigger changes. And this Friday, we take it even further — swapping pickup covers, possibly changing a pickup, and continuing the mod journey live. 🔥 Every Week on Johnny Beane TV — Your Ultimate Guitar Hangout! ⚡ Epic Guitar & Gear Unboxings 🔧 Mod Tips, Pro Tricks & DIY Hacks 🎤 Live Q&As with Players Worldwide 🚨 Breaking Gear News, Leaks & First Looks 🎸 Guitar Stories, Artist Access & Backstage Vibes 🎁 Surprise Giveaways You Don’t Want to Miss 👍 Smash that LIKE 🔔 Hit SUBSCRIBE 💬 Drop a comment — You’re part of the crew! 🎥 Want Your Stream to Look Pro? 👉 StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4906555367489536