An ethical dilemma

[VacuumVoodoo]

Guys,
I'd like to build a signature amp to honor a certain guitarist.

here's my dilemma:

He's been dead for over 25 years. Should I ask his surviving relatives?
No, not JH.
Is this a harebrained idea?

I'm serious.

[BJF]

Hi,

Hm, it would be a good idea to ask the relatives - what if other connections to the name of the guitarist exists? It could get quite complicated.

I suggest finding out more before proceeding.

Be well and have fun
BJ

[K-man]

If you plan on naming the amp after him or using his name in any marketing material (i.e. your website), I would think you'd need to ask his family first.

[VacuumVoodoo]

Yes, of course. But I wonder if the whole idea makes sense?

[B Vance]

I would have difficulty in calling it a "Signature" amp. The use of the term "Signature" denotes use or endorsement. Seeing that the artists never had the opportunity to use and/or endorse the particular item, I'd stay away from that term. You can get all the permission for his estate that you want.

I'd suggest using a word such as "Tribute" which would insinuate homage, which is what you're intending if I understand correctly.

Just my take on things...

[VacuumVoodoo]

Thanks, I understand I used "signature" in wrong context. Tribute/Homage is my intention.

[DocRock]

Yes, I would definitely get the okay from his estate / family first and foremost. Then I would make sure there aren't any other manufacturers who could potentially have some sort of "exclusive right" to use his name, etc.