Fair Use Decision on Van Halen ‘Frankenstein’ Guitar Photo

Early in Van Halen’s career, Neil Zlozower shot photos of the music group at Sunset Sound Studios with Eddie holding his famous "Frankenstein" guitar. Years later, Zlozower sued the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum, alleging copyright infringement after the institution included two of his Van Halen photos, unlicensed from and uncredited to Zlozower, in exhibits at the museum.

5 minute read December 01, 2025 at 12:11 AM
By
Stan Soocher
Fair Use Decision on Van Halen ‘Frankenstein’ Guitar Photo

Eddie Van Halen created his iconic “Frankenstein” guitar by fitting a Gibson sound pickup to a modified Fender Stratocaster body. Early in the Van Halen band’s career, Neil Zlozower shot photos of the music group at Sunset Sound Studios with Eddie holding the guitar.

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