RICO Confirms Worldwide Licensing Deal For Saxophone Straps With Legendary Jazz Label, Blue Note Records
The NAMM Show, Anaheim, CA (January 14-17, 2010) — Rico Reeds, manufacturer of the world’s most popular reeds, and legendary Blue Note Records have entered into a worldwide, multi-year licening agreement in which Rico will launch select straps for saxophone featuring Blue Note sessions photography and album artwork.
Inspired by the great jazz standards recorded on the famous Blue Note label, each sax strap features the time honored artwork from Blue Note’s classic recordings and their famous album covers and will be available via D’Addario & Company’s retail and online distribution channels.
TRUE BLUE – the 1960 classic featuring saxophonist Tina Brooks.
AFRO-CUBAN – the 1955 recording by trumpeter Kenny Dorham featured the Jazz Messenger ensemble including Hank Mobley on tenor sax and Cecil Payne on baritone sax.
BLACK FIRE – the 1963 Blue Note debut recording of jazz pianist Andrew Hill featuring Joe Henderson on tenor sax.
Blue Note sax straps by Rico feature the classic Blue Note album artwork printed on leatherette with a soft suede lining. Each strap features Rico’s unique curved hook and easy slide adjustor. The licensed straps will be available in two lengths, one for Soprano/Alto and one for Tenor/Bari saxes.
“We are thrilled to have developed a partnership with music legend, Blue Note,” states Jim D’Addario, CEO & Chairman of D’Addario & Company. “Upon being presented with the option to incorporate Blue Note album artwork and photography from legendary recording sessions, we jumped at the chance to blend our brands together to deliver music accessories that will become collectors’ items. We feel privileged to be associated with one of the most influential and iconic brands in the music industry.”
Rico’s new line of licensed Blue Note Sax Straps will be available as of January 2010 and will retail for $35.00.