I read here that ESP is suing Fernandes for using Robert Trujilo in ads etc. etc. ESP "claims" that they own him or something...is this a sign of really making when companies fight over you or is it a case of ESP becoming the next Gibson where they'll b!tch and moan about everything that's "theirs" ?

http://www.imperiumi.net/news_2.php?id=7905

well, you know you've hit the big time when guitars are endorsed and you are paid (either in cash or in material aka guitars and equipment) to play em. but it is typical big brand behaviour to want to be shown off by the biggest stars around, no matter what the cost. I do have sympathy for Fernandes, but at the end of the day, as muso's we aim to become more experienced, and therefore more noted as a musician... which means that to move on up in the world, we all have to make decisions and sacrifices... Fernandes is the sacrifice unfortunately, although i would like to keep a one brand loyalty system. ESP shouldnt bitch about it, but i get their point...

Trujilo is the one at fault. he had no business signing with Metallica Corp. and their ESP endorsement deal if he had a pre-existing deal with Fernandes. He should have either backed out of the Fernandes deal before signing, or had an exclusion written into his deal with Metallica. ESP are obviously trying to get Fernandes to back down rather than having to go after the one at fault. I think you will find that Fernandes have the law on their side as their endorsement predates that of ESP.

The fact Metallica are a corporation now says a lot. It's all about the money...

The fact Metallica are a corporation now says a lot. It's all about the money...

Very good point! And in the end it should always, ALWAYS be about the music!

Trujilo should have seen this coming... you cant have an existing deal/agreement with one brand and then expect nothing to happen when you join a band [and signed their contract] that already has a set band contract....

I wouldve stuck with my original endorser.... its whats right, they saw your potential before you reached it, so its only fair to keep your loyalty to them.... well, thats how i see it

gibson use hetfield on their site, doesnt seem like he's held to any obligations by ESP

Lil Bass Goddess wrote: I wouldve stuck with my original endorser.... its whats right, they saw your potential before you reached it, so its only fair to keep your loyalty to them.... well, thats how i see it

Sadly, that kind of loyalty is not part of the music biz any more.