Nagaland-based guitarist and composer Arenlong has achieved a significant milestone in his career, being named an official endorsed artist by Swedish guitar manufacturer Strandberg Guitars. This endorsement is the culmination of a six-year relationship between Arenlong and the company, which began after he won the Strandberg Guitar Contest in India in 2020.
Strandberg Guitars, founded by Swedish luthier Ola Strandberg in 2012, is renowned for its ergonomic, headless guitar designs and is widely recognized in progressive rock, metal, and fusion circles. The company’s artist roster includes internationally acclaimed guitarists such as Plini, Richard Henshall, Per Nilsson, and Jake Bowen. With this endorsement, Arenlong joins a global roster of artists recognized for their contributions to contemporary progressive guitar music.
Arenlong is known for blending progressive rock and metal with melodic, technically driven guitar work. He released his debut EP, Willow, in 2022, showcasing his style as both a guitarist and composer. Over the years, he has earned several accolades, including winning the Boss Guitar Maestro Contest in 2015, the National Guitar Solo Contest in 2014, and the Best Guitarist award at the Hornbill International Rock Contest in 2013.
In addition to his solo work, Arenlong is part of the NAMMA Music Artist Roster and has collaborated with notable musicians such as Abhay Nayampally, J-Rod Sullivan, and producer Sandeep Chowta on the EP Treekam. He has also acknowledged the role of Mumbai-based music retailer The Stockist in supporting his journey with Strandberg. Arenlong is also an endorsed artist for Hotone Audio and SIT Strings.
This latest endorsement places Arenlong among a growing list of Indian musicians receiving recognition from leading international music equipment brands, marking a significant milestone in his career.
