Kerry King, the legendary lead guitarist of Slayer, recently reflected on his decision to leave B.C. Rich guitars for Dean, noting that he would never have made the switch if circumstances had been different.
As a prominent figure in thrash metal, King’s association with B.C. Rich guitars, particularly the Warlock and his signature V-shape models, helped solidify the brand’s reputation among metal guitarists seeking the fastest and most aggressive sound. For most of Slayer’s career, it was difficult to imagine King without his signature B.C. Rich guitar. However, following Slayer’s retirement in 2019, King surprised fans by transitioning to Dean guitars, sporting a new signature V-shape model.
In an interview with Nikki Blakk of San Mateo’s 107.7 The Bone radio station, King explained that the change was primarily a practical decision (as transcribed by Ultimate Guitar). He said, “Anyone who knows me, or even if you don’t, knows I don’t switch companies very often. But B.C. Rich ran its course. They owed me money for a long time, and I always knew that once I made the move, I’d never see that money.”
King elaborated on his thought process, sharing how he bided his time before making the switch: “I waited, waited, and waited. Then, as Slayer was wrapping up, I thought, ‘My new company deserves some of that Slayer heat, so it’s worth their while to bring me on.’ So, in mid-2019, I got with Dean.”
King also acknowledged the loyalty he had toward B.C. Rich, stating, “If things were different with B.C. Rich, I never would’ve left. I’ve been with them twice, and I’m very loyal to the companies I endorse. I’ve been with Marshall forever. Now, I’ll be with Dean until the end of time—unless something drastic happens.”
He emphasized that the shift to Dean wasn’t personal but rather a business decision, explaining, “Both B.C. Rich and Dean are like family to me. But sooner or later, it becomes a business decision.”
King’s move to Dean guitars marked a new chapter in his career, but it was a decision driven by necessity rather than preference, reflecting the sometimes complex relationship between artistry and business in the music industry.
