After a creative rollout that includes some cryptic teasers shared online, Gibson Guitars and thrash metal icon Dave Mustaine have announced a new partnership and the introduction of the Dave Mustaine Collection acids the brand's entire portfolio of Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer.
“One of first albums I ever bought was Kiss Alive. On the back of that LP was the Gibson logo, followed by ‘Kiss uses Gibson Guitars because they want the best’. Period,” says Dave Mustaine. “Years later, I’m still that same fan, but now I’ve been playing, touring, writing, and performing around the world myself, and I can say that I could not agree more with that statement."
Mustaine continued, "As I was looking for a change in my guitars, I met with Cesar (Gueikian of Gibson Brands) and got his perspective on the vision and direction Gibson is taking. I saw passion, respect for the instruments, a focus on quality and a company that is led by guitar players. I feel I am finally at home with Gibson and I am proud of what we’re building together. I can’t wait for the world to get their hands on the new Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer Dave Mustaine Collection guitars. This is a dream come true for me, don’t #@!# wake me up.”
Mustaine's ambassadorship extends well beyond his own branded collection. Participating in the Gibson Artist Alliance, Mustaine's presence will include mentorship, continued product development and research, as well as involvement in the brand's commitment to philanthropic efforts. Dave's integration into the cultural fabric of Gibson will be featured in the company's original content that will be featured across the brand's collective digital footprint.
“It’s an honor to welcome icon, pioneer and visionary musician Dave Mustaine to the Gibson family as our brand ambassador”, said Cesar Gueikian of Gibson Brands. “Dave is one of the most influential metal icons and riff lords of all time, having paved the way for multiple generations of players to carry the flag for hard rock and heavy metal, from riff writers to shredders and everyone in between. Working with Dave is especially gratifying because he is a guitar nerd like me, who gets involved in every aspect of the development of the concepts and ideas we have been designing with him at the Gibson Lab."
Gueikian shared the personal significance of the partnership. "When I was as kid learning how to play guitar, I aspired to play Dave’s riffs and I was one of the fortunate fans who attended their Youthanasia Tour concert at Estadio Obras Sanitarias in 1994, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the ‘Aguante Megadeth’ chant was born over the song "Symphony of Destruction". That was an epic night that I will never forget. I look forward to bringing this partnership to life and unveiling the first stages of the Dave Mustaine Collection to the world.”
Watch the interview with Dave Mustaine below officially welcoming him to the Gibson family.
