Legendary Guitar Builder Dean Zelinsky Exits Dean Guitars
Having sold Dean Guitars in 1991, Zelinsky played an integral part in the brand’s recent resurgence in popularity, effectively putting Dean Guitars back in the limelight after becoming re-affiliated with the company in 2000, during the tenure of its recent owners.
Zelinsky, discussing his not yet announced new venture, stated today, "I wanted to get back to what put Dean on the map originally -- building high-quality instruments that shape both the image and tone of guitar players, from the beginner to world-class professionals." Regarding Dean Guitars, Zelinsky says, "I can no longer attach my name to the reputation, quality and direction of Dean Guitars or its current objectives."
Zelinsky stated the announcement with details of his new venture will be released on Tuesday, August 26, 2008.
About Dean B. Zelinsky:
Zelinsky is a pioneer in the custom high-end guitar market, and is legendary for creating stage-worthy electric instruments that have exceeded professional players’ expectations since he founded the original company in 1976. His innovative designs have been embraced by rock and roll’s top artists spanning three decades. The spinning fur ZZ Top guitars made music video history in the ‘80s along with the "ML" design, which became as much of a part of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott as his crushing riffs and gregarious persona and which remains a heavy metal standard today.
The roster of world-class guitarists who have relied on Dean’s craftsmanship and creativity have included the following: "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott (Pantera, DamagePlan), Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), Leslie West (Mountain), Michael Schenker, Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill (ZZ Top), Trent Rezner (Nine Inch Nails), Jerry Cantrell, Elliot Easton and Rik Ocasek (The Cars), Rik Emmett (Triumph), Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, Sammy Hagar, Kerry Livgren (Kansas), the Doobie Brothers, Nancy Wilson (Heart) and many more.