MAR 9, 2012 – Fender Musical Instruments Inc., makers of some of the top guitars in Rock and Roll history, have filed for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the filing they said, "We have a portfolio of some of the most recognized global music lifestyle brands and products. Our brands are used by many of the world’s best known musicians and groups, both current and historical. We believe that the use of our products by these professional musicians, whose popularity and actions often influence consumers, establishes the authenticity of our brands so consumers aspire to own our products and are inspired to create their own music using our products." Read the filing here. (photo credit: Bearfaced/Flickr)