Trump Guitars brand accused by Gibson of copying its legendary Les Paul model

The American guitar brand Gibson is threatening a pro-Trump manufacturer with legal action, accusing it of copying the shape of its legendary Les Paul model, several American media reported on Tuesday. The Trump Guitars brand has sold out of its stock of a six-string electric guitar model, named “American Eagle” and autographed by Donald Trump, which it was selling for $11,500.

« Ce design infringes on Gibson’s proprietary trademarks, particularly the iconic shape of the Les Paul guitar »

Excerpt from Gibson’s letter

The instrument, promoted as “ the ONLY approved guitar » by the new American president, looks exactly like a Gibson Les Paul. A model famous throughout the world with which Bob Dylan, Chuck Berry and Keith Richards have played. Furious, Gibson sent a letter of demand to 16 Creative, the company behind the Trump Guitars brand. The manufacturer believes that this design “ infringes on Gibson’s proprietary trademarks, particularly the iconic shape of the Les Paul guitar ”, according to the letter.

Not affiliated with Gibson

Trump Guitars also offers a “ presidential series » of guitars in red, gold or black, the shape of which again strangely resembles that of the Les Paul, with a neck engraved with the inscription “DONALD J. TRUMP”. Its website specifies that the brand is not affiliated with Gibson and that “ Images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product “. He also explains that the guitars are “ manufactured by multiple suppliers and include domestic and international parts and features ».

Also read
How did the gay hit YMCA become Donald Trump’s anthem?

Without further details, it is difficult to know whether these guitars could be targeted by the very sharp increase in customs duties that Donald Trump wishes to impose on products coming from Mexico, Canada or China. During his campaign, the newly elected president put his name on a whole series of products that have nothing to do with his real estate empire. The Republican billionaire offered his supporters $100,000 watches, limited edition coins, golden sneakers and even autographed Bibles – some of which were made in China.