In a new conversation with Guitar World, Kerry King shared that Dean Guitars approached him immediately after Dimebag Darrell’s death.
Despite his admiration for Dean Guitars, the guitarist initially declined their offer after Darrell’s death because he had a strong relationship with B.C. Rich and Dean couldn’t match their offer:
“I was friends with a lot of the Dean people, even though I didn’t use their guitars ’cause Dime was there, and he and I were good friends.”
King added:
“When Dime unfortunately left us, Dean wanted me the next day. They needed a new guy. I had a great deal with B.C. Rich, and Dean didn’t want to match it. I’m like, ‘Why am I leaving if you’re not gonna match my deal?’ So I stayed with B.C. Rich until almost the end of the Slayer run.”
King Now Works With Dean Guitars
Later, Dean offered Kerry a compelling deal, marking a new chapter for him with the guitar company. He feels like Dean is his new family now and has used their guitars for his recent musical projects, including the new solo album.
Kerry had a personal connection with the owner’s late father, Elliott Rubinson, and now has a strong bond with everyone at Dean. He values loyalty and won’t switch brands unless there’s a good reason. So far, Dean has produced two signature guitars for him, with more collaborations in the works.
Last year, Dean USA’s Custom Shop unveiled a new signature guitar for King at NAMM 2023. Named the Overlord, it’s the second collaboration between Dean and the guitarist. The guitar boasts a mahogany body with a maple top and a three-piece maple set-thru neck. It features a 24 3/4′ scale-length and a C-shaped neck profile tailored to King’s preferences.