GRETSCH DRUMS ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION G retsch Drums has announced a
G&L Musical Instruments Reportedly Shuts Down G &L Musical Instruments, the guitar company founded by Leo Fender in 1979, appears to have shut down after 45 years, though no formal announcement has been made. Speculation surrounding the brand began circulating online in late October after posts on a G&L fan page suggested that Washburn also announced several strategic developments. Along with an expanded sales and marketing team, enhanced web and promotional content, and advanced analytics capabilities, the company is building a revitalized artist relations program and reimagining its product development process. “The work the in-house design team has done to position the next phase of Washburn Guitars at the front of the pack is amazing,” said James Tsaptsinos, vice president global sales/GM, JAM US MI/ Pro. “Nuno has been such an integral part of the Washburn electric guitar story for decades. We now have an opportunity to stretch out a bit and aim for the next big thing in Washburn.” {washburn.com} Washburn Guitars, Nuno Bettencourt Part Ways A fter three decades of collaboration and creative partner- ship, guitarist Nuno Bettencourt announced he’s decided to part ways with Washburn to pursue his own brand, Nuno Guitars. Bettencourt’s departure was amicable and reflects his desire to explore new creative opportunities by building his own brand. “After 35 years with Washburn, I’m truly grateful for the partnership and all that we achieved together,” Bettencourt said. “Launching my own guitar brand has long been a dream, and the time is now.”
leadership transition at its U.S. production facility in Ridgeland, South Carolina. Af- ter more than 25 years of shaping the sound and reputation
Gretsch’s Josh Safer (left) and Paul Cooper.
of Gretsch’s USA-made drums, longtime production leader Paul Cooper is passing the baton to his successor, Josh Safer. Since joining Gretsch in the late 1990s, Cooper has been instrumental in carrying forward the brand’s proud legacy. His craftsmanship has directly influenced series such as the USA Custom and Broadkaster, keeping them at the forefront of professional drum making. “When I first met Paul, I knew he had the heart and the hands to honor the Gretsch tradition,” said Fred Gretsch, president of Fred W. Gretsch Enterprises, LTD, who person- ally brought Cooper into the company. “Over the past 25 years, he has done more than just build drums — he has built trust, respect, and continuity for generations of Gretsch players. We owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude.” For the past two decades, Safer has trained under Cooper’s guidance, learning every detail of the craft and every nuance of the Ridgeland operation. With his deep knowledge of Gretsch’s processes and the distinctive qualities that define its U.S.-made drums, Safer now steps into the leadership role. “Paul is a one-of-a-kind human being — a remarkable personality whose dedication and skill have made an incred- ible contribution to the Gretsch brand,” said Hans-Peter Messner, CEO and president of GEWA music. “We are forever thankful. At the same time, I’m excited to see Josh take on this responsibility. With his experience, vision, and passion, I’m confident he will guide Ridgeland into a bright future.” Though stepping back from day-to-day operations, Cooper will remain an ambassador, advisor and creative partner for Gretsch. “I am truly thankful for the opportunity I’ve had at Gretsch since 1998,” Cooper said. “It has been an amazing journey. I’m so grateful to the wonderful team who have worked alongside me over the years and to the thousands of drummers and Gretsch fans I’ve met.” “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to lead Gretsch USA production,” Safer said. “Working closely with Paul for 22 years, he has instilled in me not only a deep understand- ing of everything Gretsch, but also an ethos of integrity that will guide me as I lead the brand into the future. I assure you, I will work tirelessly to continue delivering ‘That Great Gretsch Sound.’” {gretschdrums.com}
the company had ceased operations. Reports sur- faced of staff furloughs, an impending sale, and large amounts of G&L parts and materials be-
ing discarded into dumpsters throughout the month. Adding to the speculation, sources online claim that Fender may have purchased G&L’s intellectual property, including trademarks associated with the “Leo Fender” name. Neither G&L or Fender has issued an official statement addressing these reports. According to The Orange County Register, G&L’s parent company, BBE Sound Inc., has officially dissolved. “According to the California Secretary of State’s online business search tool, BBE, which was the parent company of G&L, terminated its corporate status with the state on Oct. 28,” the outlet reported. MI — By Kimberly Kapela
22 I MUSIC INC. I DECEMBER 2025
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