Edna Gundersen

USA TODAY

Singer Bono and guitarist Edge of U2 have joined the board of directors for Fender Musical Instruments, makers of Fender guitars. The members of the storied Irish rock band will help the U.S. company shape growth strategies around fan engagement.

In a statement, Fender co-chairman Mark Fukunaga praised Edge as an "innovator of unique sounds through his use of technology" and Bono as "a visionary in the music world who also has business acumen and creativity that will help Fender thrive."

Bono said, "Wherever you go in the world, Fender is a standard bearer, not just for excellence in technology and craft, but for the influence of American culture. This made-in-USA company has at its heart innovation."

He dubbed Fender a "truly American company, a nexus of technology and culture (that) can't be copied no matter how hard the giants try" and added, "I'm excited to be part of developing newer technologies with Fender, as well as helping protect the jobs and commitment to excellence of their age-old craft."

Edge described the move as "a kid in a candy store situation for me," and added, "I've been a fan of Fender guitars from the beginning, playing them on all the most important U2 tours and albums. But I'm most interested in working with the Fender design team on some new ideas."