The Shadows + Fender Stratocaster = Apache

Released in July, 1960, Apache by The Shadows is the melody that inspired so many guitarists in Singapore and the world. It also helped to make the trademark Fender Stratocaster so popular and such a key element in 60s music.

Although expert guitarist Bert Weedon had already recorded and promoted it, The Shadows had the advantage of releasing it in the shops as a single, so when fans asked for it, they were offered The Shads' version. It triggered another two dozen hits by the famous four. Incidentally, Cliff Richard played the Chinese drums in the recording.

The rest is history and fellow followers, Clapton (Tears In Heaven) and Knopfler (Sultans Of Swing) turned to a Fender Strat.
(Original article. Information from: Music edited by Sean Egan. Image: http://www.iansamwell.com/)