Mateus Asato: "Imagine playing Little Wing on a guitar that isn’t a Strat…”

After leaving Suhr after 12 years, Mateus Asato sets the record straight on rumors about Fender

Brazilian neo-soul virtuoso Mateus Asato made headlines just one week ago when he announced the end of his 12-year partnership with Suhr — a collaboration that produced multiple signature guitars and became one of the most recognizable artist-brand relationships in the modern guitar world. Naturally, many fans immediately began wondering whether Asato might already be in talks with another company.

Now, the guitarist has stepped in to clear up the rumors and set the record straight about whether any other guitar brands are currently in the picture.

A heartfelt farewell to Suhr

Only a week ago, Asato shared an emotional message on social media announcing his departure from Suhr.

“After 12 years of a very successful partnership, I’ve decided to end my professional relationship with Suhr Guitars,” Asato wrote.
“My deepest gratitude to Mr. John, Kevin, Aura, and Katelyn Suhr for everything you’ve done for me as a musician and as a person.

A special thanks to David, Travis, Chris, Don, Justin — all the A&R people who always treated me in the best way.
Muito obrigado Felipe Raposo por ter sido a ponte que iniciou tudo isso — many thanks to Felipe Raposo for being the bridge that started everything.

And the biggest thanks to all Suhr employees who made this company so special and one of the greatest brands in the history of the instrument I passionately love. History was made. I will never forget the journey we built together. Much love always. God bless you all!”

A Little Wing video that sparked speculation

Soon after the announcement, a social media video surfaced showing Asato playing Jimi Hendrix’s Little Wing — naturally on a Stratocaster. That alone was enough to ignite speculation that the guitarist might be preparing to join Fender.

On paper, such a move would make perfect sense: Asato is well known for his love of Telecaster- and Stratocaster-style guitars, he is one of the most respected modern players in the scene, and Fender has recently undergone major changes following the appointment of a new CEO.

One fan commented:
“Could it be that @fender made a move and signed one of the best modern players around? (please say yes)”

Asato responds

Asato quickly replied to the speculation:

“You guys are funny. Imagine playing ‘Little Wing’ on a guitar that isn’t a Strat… Could it work? Maybe.
In my case, I just picked this Strat because it fits the storytelling the most. As for this topic, I’m really chill. ‘Single’ and happy where I am at this point. Tchau tchau!”

He later added (translated from Brazilian Portuguese):

“Regarding this matter, I’m calm and waiting on God for guidance in whatever comes next.”

What’s next for Mateus Asato?

While Asato has not revealed whether he has received any offers from other guitar companies, he is preparing to release his highly anticipated debut album in the coming weeks. And with NAMM 2026 just around the corner, you can be sure the guitar world will be watching closely for any potential collaboration announcements.