So how many endorsement deals must a man sign-on for, before you can call him a shill?
Better not ask Bob Dylan, who, in an uncharacteristic eschewing of his longstanding Freewheelin’ Policy, decided to settle down with a nice, church-going instrument manufacturer named Hohner USA to create his own line of harmonicas (at least, that’s the way she tells it!).
“Hohner is extremely proud to celebrate the artistry of Bob Dylan, one of America’s musical treasures,” says Hohner president Clayman Edwards. “This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Bob Dylan fans, and we hope that those who are able to own these items will treasure them as a reflection of his musical genius.” Edwards also hopes that Hohnor is able to make some money, probably, but... you know, he didn’t print that part.
Anyway, this limited “Bob Dylan Signature Series” of harmonicas -- available individually or in sets of seven -- will feature a machine stamp of Dylan's signature and a Dylan-designed logo, thus out-classing by far any mouth-harp you have ever locked lips with to date. But before you go throwing away all of your old Alvin and the Chipmunks harmonicas, keep in mind that Hohner will only manufacture 25 sets of seven Marine Band harmonicas (in the natural keys of C, G, D, F, A, B, and E) that Dylan himself has apparently pre-tested, plus an additional 100 individual Marine Band harmonicas (in C). Both of these limited run items will bear Dylan's actual signature and will be available exclusively via Sam Ash Music beginning October 29.
Meanwhile, bobo-master Stephen Tyler presumably remains unimpressed by this whole situation... not to mention this guy.
Bob Dylan Dates:
09.04.08 - Temecula, CA - Pechanga Resort and Casino
09.06.08 - San Diego, CA - Concerts on the Green @ Qualcomm Park
09.07.08 - Santa Barbara, CA - Santa Barbara Bowl
