University Gains Control Of DIMEBAG-Designed 'Razorback' Guitar Line
May 8, 2008Ohio.com reports that the University of Arkansas now has licensing control over Razorback electric guitars, commemorating late PANTERA/DAMAGEPLAN guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott who was killed during a show in Columbus, Ohio.
Two Florida companies created the line and began selling the guitars after the 2004 death of Abbott. He was known for performing with a razor blade around his neck.
In 2007, the university sued, claiming the Razorback guitar brand infringed on the school's copyright. The Arkansas athletic teams bear the Razorback name.
A settlement filed on Tuesday (May 6) gives the university licensing control over the guitars, but the two companies get to keep selling them.
In an unprecedented three short years, the Razorback has become one of Dean's best selling and most recognizable guitar lines, with its barbed wire-like ultra-sharp points and massive presence. The Razorback is a 21st century form of the Classic Dean ML shape Dimebag Darrell first played over two decades ago.
In related mews, Armadillo Enterprises, parent company of Dean Guitars, has announced that Dean Zelinsky is no longer associated with the company. Mr. Zelinsky has been associated with Armadillo Enterprises and Dean Guitars since 2000.
In January 2008, Dean Guitars brought manufacturing for USA products, including Dean USA guitars and Dean USA custom pickup manufacturing, in-house at their world headquarters in Tampa, Florida. Mr. Zelinsky assisted in the transition.
Dean Guitars owner Elliott Rubinson said, "We have enjoyed working with Dean Zelinsky these past eight years, and look forward to exciting prospects at our new facility.
Armadillo Enterprises is the parent company for Dean Guitars, Luna Guitars, Ddrum, and distributor for Nord USA.
Dean Zelinsky at NAMM 2008 showing off Dean Razorbacks:
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