John Backlund creates "fine ass" guitars that live on Entirely self-taught as an artist/designer, John Backlund was influenced by retro-futuristic design concepts that are reminiscent of the period from the mid-late 1930's to the early 1960's. The terms "Aero," "Rocket," "Streamline," and even "Atomic" are often used to describe his design work. Backlund often found himself involved in pursuits besides art and design. He did stints as a reluctant motorcycle salesman, a terrible guitar salesman, a very young and inept Nebraska sandhills ranch hand and a fairly good flatbed semi-driver running a worn-out Freightliner FLD throughout the Midwest. Reflecting on guitars and design, John observed, "I like color in my designs. I like bright things. I like two-tones that compliment each other. I like a splash of chrome for contrast, and I like it all integrated into a flowing form that is 'balanced,' well-proportioned and pleasing to the eye. “Solid body electric guitars are a tempting and wonderful candidate for my style of design, and being a guitar player for many decades, it's only natural that they figure prominently in my efforts.” J. Backlund Design is in business today as Retronix. Here’s a 50’s era photo of J. Backlund Fine Ass Guitars, with curb service. Perhaps in Rapid City, S.D.
Also on the farm you learned to drive around age 10, delt with barb wire, animals much bigger than you we're, etc....
The Jalopy Journal
