Nagaland guitarist Arenlong Longkumer has officially joined Strandberg Guitars as an endorsed artist.
DIMAPUR — Nagaland-based guitarist and composer Arenlong Longkumer has officially joined Strandberg Guitars as an endorsed artist, six years after first attracting the brand's attention by winning the Strandberg Guitar Contest in India in 2020.
According to an update, the endorsement marks the continuation of a relationship that began with the contest victory and has now developed into a formal partnership.
Founded by Ola Strandberg in 2012, Strandberg Guitars is known for its ergonomic, headless instrument design and is associated with progressive and fusion players, including Plini and Jordan Rudess. The endorsement places Arenlong among the brand's global roster of artists.
Known for blending progressive rock and metal with intricate melodic guitar solos, Arenlong has established himself as both a guitarist and composer. His debut EP, Willow, released in 2022, reflects years of musical development across different genres and influences.
Arenlong's achievements include winning the Boss Guitar Maestro Contest in 2015, the National Guitar Solo Contest in 2014, and receiving the Best Guitarist award at the Hornbill International Rock Contest in 2013. In 2020, he was also named one of the winners of an international online guitar contest hosted by UK guitarist Jack Gardiner.
Beyond his solo work, Arenlong is featured on the NAMMA Music Artist Roster, where he collaborated with Abhay Nayampally, J-Rod Sullivan, and producer Sandeep Chowta on the EP Treekam.
The update stated that Mumbai-based dealer The Stockist has also contributed to the endorsement by supporting the relationship with Strandberg. The company stocks Strandberg guitars along with premium brands such as Taylor, Suhr, and Mayones at its Malad West experience centre.
According to the update, with headless guitars and boutique gear remaining relatively uncommon in India, The Stockist has helped improve access to premium instruments through inventory, setup expertise, and artist support.
In addition to Strandberg, Arenlong also endorses Hotone Audio and SIT Strings for his live performances and studio work.