In the spring of 2008 Canadian pop-folk band Sons of Maxwell were traveling to Nebraska for a two week tour when they witnessed a United Airlines baggage handler throwing around the band’s guitars, severely damaging lead signer Dave Carroll’s Taylor guitar. Frustrated with United’s lack of compensation, the band decided to write 3 songs about the incident. They just released the first song, “United Breaks Guitars”. Dave explains the full story on his website.
Thanks to Lori Dorn for the tip!
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Guess United Airlines has some sort of Pete Townsend fetish. Or sumthin.
Here’s a tribute video we put together as a company team effort in response and support of all the Dave Carrolls of the world. – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hRr0YlHsjo – Enjoy!
Not only does United break guitars; Northwest breaks mountain dulcimers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x50pJe_QvQQ
… and British Airways will break your bass:
http://www.stevelawson.net/wordpress/2008/12/british-airways-wrecked-my-bass/
Looks like the best thing to do is to take extra care in packing your instrument, carry it on if you can, and, no matter how tired you are, check your instrument over thoroughly, and file a claim for any damage, before leaving your destination airport.
Also, if you see baggage handlers mis-handling luggage, by all means, get video or photographs.
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