Fenders on a Guild
Don -- First, let me just say that I'm astounded that Mr. Wade responded to anyone's email. I attempted to contact him numerous times on other matters and he did not give the courtesy or professionalism of a response. I wrote letters, called, faxed and.....nothing. Of course, this seemed to me to be the way of doing business with Fender/Guild, as I started with Bill Acton - after no response, was directed to Donnie Wade....still no response, then to Ron K-something. Now, he actually returned my call, but only to say that Acton had passed on all of the stuff to him, but although last week he was in that position, this week it was Donnie Wade again and would pass my information on to Wade. (All this involved some performances in the Phoenix-area that we thought Guild might be interested - especially as we are known widely as a Guild band.) In his defense, Mr. Wade did call once and leave a mesage on my machine - "Hi - got your stuff, but reallly don't understand what this is all about.... Call me." Repeated calls and emails of explanation to him went unanswered - eventually - I gave up. My belief in Fender/Guild ended at that time. They obviously didn't care about old-time players/supporters. But then, I understand the same thing has happened to people like Jay Pilzer, "The Guild Guy".
So, I'm astounded - but not impressed. I, too, believe that Fender/Guild has been aware of us for some time, but ....dare I say it - are really more daunted by us than impressed. Am I bitter about my experiences with Fender/Guild? No, I just realize and assert that Guild Guitars - as it was pre-Fender, has ceased to exist. Do I hope for a recovery? You bet, that would be nice. Do I honestly believe it will happen? No, of course not, and this from a guy who believes in Santa Clause, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Loch Ness Monster (though not little men from outer space).
So, that's my two cents worth. Best to you all....dbs
Dudley-Brian Smith
Smithfield Fair