John Cruz Fired From Fender

John Cruz is Fired from the Fender Custom Shop after a post he made on Facebook. Change is coming to the Fender Custom Shop. Baxter talks about what happened and how Fender may be handling orders.

[@CasinoGuitars]

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[@jimcarter6669]

I don't know what he did, but bowing down to the social justice mob is a lose lose proposition. They do not forgive. He has a right to an opinion, whatever it is. Gibson pissed me off and I cancelled my Gibson order. If Fender goes left, there are plenty of other great brands. I believe this is a stupid move by Fender.

[@johnnymovz]

Jim Carter How the heck can you say this is a a stupid move by Fender if you don’t know what he did?

[@jimcarter6669]

@@johnnymovz I do know what he did. It already got out. It was nothing. People have lost all ability to think when everyone that the left deems offensive must lose their livelihood. I FIND THAT VERY OFFENSIVE. HIS FAMILY SUFFERS, AND FOR WHAT? A POST, WHICH HALF OF AMERICA WOULD PROBABLY THINK HAD SOME HUMOR IN IT. MOST JOKES ARE LIKE THAT. REMEMBER DEAD BABY JOKES? NO ONE THOUGHT THEY WOULD BE FUNNY IF A ACTUALLY OCCURRING, AND THIS IS LIKELY THE SAME. I AM SICK OF THIS PC BULLSH*T. TO BE FRANK, THAT IS THE ACTUAL WAYS NAZI'S OPERATED. BUT NO ONE CAN FIGURE THAT OUT EITHER.

[@jimcarter6669]

I dig the hair. Its like Lyle Lovett meets Bob Dillon. Cool . 😎

[@jimcarter6669]

@@johnnymovz one reason is because the left made it. And turns out, I was right. Freedom of speech is nearly dead.

[@siegmac3267]

If you have John Cruz made Guitar and youre against him, Please send them to me. They're worthless.

[@bradleyboxill413]

😂😂😂😂😂 Send them my way too!

[@Greco-Romano]

i possess three Cruz strats , mine as well have a bonfire 😂

[@elephantgrass631]

Legendary comment.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

I'm a lefty type person who hates nazi trash. I'll take a nazi guitar lolz. What? You ever see nazi guns like the mp40? Very nice product lol. Racists make great things some times lol.

[@catthomas3097]

No no no send them to me!

[@wojciech2456]

If a man works for you *for 33 goddamn years* , he deserves at least a chance to say sorry

[@RogerThat902]

Maybe he refused.

[@dafretz]

No, he actually doesn't. John was a major public figure and Fender, and like it or not, his voice speaks for Fender by virtue of who he is. John Cruz was essentially a Fender product, just as much as the guitars he built, which means consumer sentiment about him personal transfers to Fender. There was no way this was going to end without John being fired.

[@javsmith86]

@@dafretz Whatever happened to free expression? He didn't post anything on a company site. I think this cancel culture is disingenuous and wrong. Lots of companies are putting on a phony face but if you look at their board rooms, they don't reflect what they say. I think I have bought my last Fender guitar. That's my cancel culture!

[@bubu89136]

@@javsmith86 Cruz represents Fender and Fender has the right of freedom of expression by expressing through firing John that joking about killing protesters is not acceptable and not the kind of message that a company like Fender can be identified with or tolerate. John should have known better, he is big boy and shouldn't be some jackass that thinks he can say whatever the hell he feels like without consequences. You should be mature enough to know this as well and stop whining like a child. Nobody cares if you buy another Fender or not. Maybe you should sell the ones you have and buy a rattle.

[@dezionlion]

dafretz why cause he said domestic terrorists should die?

[@gtedeschi8850]

He shared a distasteful meme. He did not create it. 33 years of his loyalty to Fender should have meant something. I don't agree with firing him.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Welp... It's up to the company and not us... Just like it's up to us to shop where we want... So... Got any nazi guitar parts for dirt cheap? I don't care if a nazi made them lol. I'll un nazi them with my soy boy power!

[@taojones4941]

Lol. john should just start his own company

[@OctavioGR07]

He did not create racism either, but I don't see that as a reason to be ok with agreeing with it.

[@fendertremolo9793]

Your opinion is irrelevant

[@chrisgregory4915]

@@fendertremolo9793 If the opinions are irrelevant then what's with the grandstanding video with the option to talk about it. At the end of the video he even Asks you to Post your opinion. Clearly this was done with the idea Fender would get positive feed back from people. Clearly they were mistaken. This was done for the sake of dividing. It was intentional on Fenders behalf. This is why I believe they have not been a serious instrument making company ever since CBS bought Fender from Leo Fender. They're just an extension of CBS now trying to scare everyone into keeping their mouths shut and putting up not to Voice or even Have Opinions so irrelevant or not Voice Your Opinions. Do not let these monsters Threaten you.

[@bluntzera8238]

His instruments will be very valued for sure!

[@nordicomsystems8841]

A dude who was at the same job for 33 FUCKING YEARS gets sacked over a joke and people are worried about how much their guitars are worth now? Talk about properties, holy fuck.

[@oscarvestee]

CEO should be gone, not Cruz.

[@barrysmith5830]

the man has the right to express any opinion he wants. At least he did when this was america.

[@CJZM7777]

Yes, he does have the right to express his opinion. And, Fender has the right to fire him for expressing a view they find repulsive. His rights have not been violated in any way and I think Fender did the correct thing.

[@mistrrhappy]

And the KKK has a legal right to march if they have a permit. And?

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@mistrrhappy Lol at this Barry Smith kid. He's pulling a Randy. "I thought this was murica!"

[@antondoornekamp9635]

doesnt change anything about me wanting a john cruz strat pretty badly

[@Meritocrate]

Hopefully not by Fender any more.

[@maykolllopez1585]

@@Meritocrate He represents their company, if he something that makes a company look bad than that is his fault. He signed the contract.

[@Meritocrate]

@@maykolllopez1585 OK, freedom of speech and joking is bad, message received. Vandalism, violent "protesting" is OK. John Cruz is not the one who made Fender look bad, their management is. Now I prefer Japanese guitars or just any brand that is not driven by "social justice" mobs. Thank you very much, have a nice day.

[@scareykari1791]

I heard he’s starting his own business...

[@minisurfbanana]

Over priced wanker guitars

[@JJ-iu5hl]

Thanks for the update, crazy-haired Mark Ruffalo

[@eliotmccann2589]

I honestly thought he was Tim Burton initially...

[@Dorklestheclown]

I thought he was John Cusak

[@mikelliteras397]

This crap is out of control. People can go out and lie, burglarize, steal, hurt people and so on but don’t dare say anything true about those monsters. These CEO’s giving in to these shake downs is pathetic. Who is this pos butt hurt bass player that goes right to a guys boss to ruin him because he doesn’t agree with him. This might be the worst part of it. Trying to ruin someone’s life because they’re not down with the lies, unreal

[@Avalanche1368]

33 years?...Screw the "cancel culture" and screw Fender.

[@Shakyaman]

i hope he got a big pay out to not sue them over it...probably 1.5 million

[@DesertScorpionKSA]

I can do without buying any Fender guitars. I don't agree with the firing of an employee who worked for them for 33 years over a controversial social media post.

[@bnnuybinch4561]

he encouraged the mass murder of protesters

[@thecolorhero1078]

Fender is bigger than John Cruz. They did the right thing.

[@parabot2]

If this was a black guy posting what clearly was a joke , that an adult can understand was a joke , do you think Fender would have sacked him . (No way) Europeans are now under constant attck , held to a higher standard so they can be targeted . Has fender even got a black custom shop master builder ? , hmm smells like racism at work ? I demand 5 , Now who can they sack to get 5 new black custom shop builders ?

[@thecolorhero1078]

@@parabot2 what cruz did was post an inflammatory and ignorant picture of someone running over protestors, there's no excuse for that - whether you're black or white or mixed in cruz's case. Fact is americans need to heal and accept that our system has never reconciled with it's past and the way it has treated people over time. The reason there are no black luthiers when there many black guitar players is in itself a case study in why Fender had to let him go.

[@parabot2]

@@thecolorhero1078 So according to your logic his new name is ( John Racist Cruz ignorant Monster ) Should we all call him this or just those that want to heal need to call him ( John ignorant Racist Cruz ) ? Oh and how many Transgender Custom shop makers have Fender employed ? I'm seeing a pattern here , Fender Bigot , , Transphobe Racists must hire 5 Black and at least 2 Transgender builders .

[@thecolorhero1078]

@@parabot2 Fender just had their best year, johns still fired, facts,now fck off troll!

[@kevinborchers3522]

When you hear things like how John Mayer left because he often couldnt even get anyone on the phone over there it really makes you wonder how Fender is being run these days

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

John Mayer blows though. Can't blame them for not wanting to ta... Okay that was a bad joke. Sorry guys...

[@nimitz1739]

kevin Borchers I always heard he left because the new management told him he would have to only show Fender amps on his stage from then on. Even if he wasn’t using them, he would have to hide his real amps behind Fender amps. But John said he wouldn’t lie to his audiences like that.

[@errtrainer]

Stu Hamm, Steve Bailey and many more. All gone fron F#nder (i spell it that way cos Leo won't deserve to be related to that company anymore)

[@wamgoc3637]

@Oliver_B PRS and JM have a codependent groove between them. JM is emotional and flighty like Sinatra, he has a dig bick and has had a lot of women but they see his femish side and at first they dig it but that wears off.The Silver Sky is an elaborate FY to Fender, but it is also a very well built consistent high end Strat that plays better than anything Fender can put out off the rack now. I doubt that PRS is making a crap ton per unit on these. I am amazed at how solid these are playing off the rack. You may not be a John Mayer consumer or enthusiast but technically he is a great guitar player and he knows what he is doing onstage, he is definitely a big deal in the industry. Paul is a big ego guy and loves having John around-they are both heterosexual but it's a palsy thing, but Paul is also both a damn sharp businesman and a college trained engineering type. You can see that Paul loves walking into a room at NAMM with John and being the center of attention, a rock star of rock stars if that's understandable. Building stuff is like magic to some people. Eventually it will end in tears, like Sinatra's relationship with most of his professional and friendship relationships. Paul will piss John off and John will cut PRS the man and company off wholesale and the extant Silver Sky guitars will become valuable. Read a good book on Sinatra and see what happened with Peter Lawford, Dinah Shore, Lauren Bacall, his piano player Hank Sanicola, movie producer Brad Dexter, etc, etc. If you have one don't mod it, keep it clean, and someday it will probably be worth several multiples of the present market price. Like the Gibson bursts and the pre-CBS Fenders the key is, they're really good guitars as compared to most of their competitors.I'm amazed at how well they play right on the floor.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

John Mayer be gettin triggered and busting through the doors of his high school to shout at the top of his lungs. He really should play that one with the grateful dead more often lolz. It's his best song after all...

[@MartiniPinball]

What a weak reason to terminate a 30+ years employee, a good talk would have sufficed.

[@abraxis20]

Should have just given him an official reprimand and told him to be more mindful of his posts in future.

[@Johnny1.0]

Its phony corporate pandering. There is not a single virtue signaling douche that is not a hypocrite.

[@fendertremolo9793]

Fortunately, your opinion is worthless

[@chrisgregory4915]

@@fendertremolo9793 Consider that John Cruz has been John Cruz all his life and he spent 33+ years of that life with Fender and it's Just Now dawned on Fender that John's a bigoted @$$hole? Where have they been the other 32+ plus years of his career or did John get abducted by Pod People Body Snatchers and suddenly change over night? See the thinness here? It's either that or they were okay with Johns views up until it became a political correctness game. Anyone taking notes Here???

[@charlesbolton8471]

Chris Gregory Let me try to enlighten you. I was once employed by a very large company that had a strict (and I mean zero tolerance) social media policy from practically the day social media came into existence. I have seen several people get fired for social media posts and many more who never got hired in the first place because HR looked at their social media posts as part of the hiring process. Do I agree with it? No, not really but if it is company policy and you as an employee violate that policy you should expect the consequences. Now, to answer the question you pose. I’m sure they knew the type of person John was from the start, but my opinion (and I openly admit I could be wrong) is that this was the first time he did something that actually violated a company policy. I also think it is quite likely that he was reprimanded for similar behavior in the past (of course I don’t work for Fender so I have no way to know for sure). The bottom line is that if Fender did not have a very good reason to terminate such a high profile employee then Fender’s legal department would have put a stop to it. At the end of the day this was nothing more than a business decision. Fender will continue to survive and thrive, and so too will John Cruz with whatever he does next.

[@dostacos1]

Fender just turned him into a martyr, honestly.

[@MK-oz2lf]

he can run over Fender employees to death now with his truck now, right?.......

[@meteda1070]

@@MK-oz2lf Maybe he should make a sign and go stand out in a road and shout slogans about how unfairly he was treated so others can joke about how funny it would be if they reduced his body to a red stain on their car? Wouldn't that be funny if after he lost his job and went out to exercise his constitutional right to protest, that he was murdered by some dipshit that disagreed with him? Would it be funnier if he brought his kids and they got hit too?

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Bummer... Where oh where will I get my damaged paint job 600 dollar guitar for a 7000 dollar price tag now???

[@mikeygee4564]

Touche!

[@jbw5923]

🤣

[@Panic42000]

If you complain about it you probably don’t have the money anyway.

[@mjr2451]

That was Gibson

[@rustyshackleford8272]

Show me the vintage spec, nitro finished strats for $600.

[@philbarrows424]

This guy looks sorta like a gentrified Paul Stanley

[@2010njdevil]

Equal parts Paul Stanley and Dweezil Zappa!

[@justobserving7045]

A little bit of Peter Gabriel too..

[@kbar3612]

The hair made me think Robert Smith

[@markusantonio4866]

@@justobserving7045 huh!?

[@bipbipletucha]

I thought the EXACT same thing!

[@buddybeetle]

Fired for what, specifically ?

[@darrenc8776]

He shared a video

[@cardbored_]

Feelings were hurt on the internet.

[@mikaschwarzer1977]

He posted a picture with the caption “I don’t know what you mean by protesters on the freeway, I came through no problem” and a bloodsplattered jeep beneath it. To that he wrote “Ya well......... it’s Friday!” And a skull emoji behind it.

[@doctorvins4979]

I wonder what will happen to his 2+ year back order. There are some other great builders, but can't imagine that folks on his waitlist would be ok with resetting their wait times if they're moved to the back of the other builders queue

[@steven752us]

My next Guitar Will be a John Cruz thanks fender

[@chrisbirch4066]

What did he say you left that out

[@cardbored_]

@Conor Winston said it best

[@mikaschwarzer1977]

He posted a picture with the caption “I don’t know what you mean by protesters on the freeway, I came through no problem” and a bloodsplattered jeep beneath it. To that he wrote “Ya well......... it’s Friday!” And a skull emoji behind it.

[@parabot2]

@@mikaschwarzer1977 If this was a black guy posting what clearly was a joke , that an adult can understand was a joke , do you think Fender would have sacked him . (No way) Europeans are now under constant attck , held to a higher standard so they can be targeted . Has fender even got a black custom shop master builder ? , hmm smells like racism at work ? I demand 5 , Now who can they sack to get 5 new black custom shop builders ?

[@subzero308]

@@parabot2 sounds about White 😭💀🤣

[@prsplayer210]

@@parabot2 cry some more snowflake

[@Hydrophish]

More cancel culture BS. I hate what our country is turning into. I’m done buying Fender products

[@davelysien8574]

If the victim in the supposed meme was a MAGA hat wearing Republican....would Fender have taken the same action?

[@mrfacephone]

They'd have promoted him to ceo.

[@jeremyserwer2586]

Well most likely John Cruz would have been fired at and killed by the MAGATs, so glad trump lost, phew. Democracy would have ended if he'd stolen the election and we'd all have to write and play trump praising super ballads via the 1980's.

[@andrewsantos3283]

Better for John Cruz to do his own guitars now. Great builder and knowledgable. He should follow John Suhr on the guitar building path

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Can he do some that have swastika art? I mean... Might as well go all the way right? lol.

[@gt3cupcar93]

Soyborne. Born, made, and undone by the soy. Man this is some dedicated shitposting.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@gt3cupcar93 Lol I know I'm being silly but I like silly. Seriously lol. I want a nazi guitar. I have a silver falcon. Totally looks like a SS officers guitar if I ever seen one lololol. Black and silver lol. Gotta love it. I saw a trimp themed strat on ebay. Asked the dude if ALL parts were American. Because you know... Can't take it seriously unless it's all MURICA! We aint down with CHIIINAH lolz. The seller didn't give me a str8 answer sadly... I'm sorry but I can't buy that unless I know for sure it's making murica first. It's the rulez! Just because a nazi guitar exists doesn't mean we can't enjoy em. You ever see the pistols and sub machine guns the nazis had? Very well made lol. I want it all! And admit it... You do too lol. And I'm not the only one saying this lol. Just saying. Also you sub to that nazi boy twatson. I KNOW you want that nazi stuff more than anyone lol.

[@gt3cupcar93]

Soyborne. Born, made, and undone by the soy. Excellent shitpost

[@Eric_K_Sr]

I think some people get confused with the idea of constitutionally protected speech, i.e., the First Ammendment. Yes, you are free to say just about anything you want on your social media platform (with the exception of threats of physical harm). The First Ammendment just guarantees you won't be jailed or imprisoned for your speech, however, your employer is not bound to honor your freedom of speech. If you do or say something to embarass the company, your employer has the right to terminate your employment. People who are very active on social media need to consider that before they post something that could bring a negative light to the company they work for. As great a builder as John Cruz was, Fender HAD to terminate him, as his social media communications risked the company's very existence. Look what is happening to Fulltone Pedals as well.

[@CasinoGuitars]

Eric I think you nailed this one on the head. There was really no other option for Fender regardless of John Cruz's legendary status. Thank you sincerely for sharing your well thought out opinion here. Best to you and yours!

[@Eric_K_Sr]

@@CasinoGuitars Thanks Baxter, same to you and your family. Keep the great videos coming!

[@nickjamesgang]

John got to choose his stance during a pivotal moment in civil rights history. It’s only fair that Fender gets the opportunity to choose as well. My only question is, “Was it worth it, John?”

[@jpalberthoward9]

@@CasinoGuitars The Clash had a song in the early 80's. It was called "Know your rights" one line from the lyric went like this: "You have the right to free speech, as long as you're not dumb enough to actually try it". I guess Joe Strummer is rolling over in his grave, too. He played a Telecaster.

[@johnharris8564]

Perfectly stated, Eric.

[@philipatoz]

The problem with this kind of corporate response is that, in a supposed move to make society more respectful and peaceful, it often does the opposite. Cruz made a huge mistake, trying to be funny. And whether deliberately trying to hurt and race-fueled or whether just terribly insensitive, the firing missed a great opportunity! Call him in, make sure he realizes how inappropriate and likely hurtful and the anger that caused - but ALSO, offer him an opportunity to make a heartfelt and obviously sincere apology - IF, in fact, he has that attitude about it. Maybe help the guy grow from it and change within him any attitudes that truly need it. But you take away a man's livelihood after doing so much for his company, and basically demonize him - well, what happens when you treat someone this way? Instead of learning a good lesson and changing him for the better, his firing probably leads to bitterness, anger, likely him doubling down on whatever inappropriate attitudes - and potentially deepening them. And then you'll have others with similar attitude issues join him as well to create even more seething, societal anger and hatred on the other side. Are we going to build societal peace or anger? What's better, encouraging correction and reconciliation that can lead to forgiveness - or is it simply about the corporate bottom line???!!! Because the response sure doesn't look like it has anything to do with making society better or changing hearts and minds to better things!

[@paso193]

..........very well said, my friend.

[@parabot2]

So according to those supporting Fenders Logic his new name is ( John Racist Cruz ) Fender has basicly branded Cruz the most evil foul racist eva and he must carry that shame of shame , that shame or shame no one can ever recover from shame . .

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

That would "Endear" Fender to the bulk of the buyers, they have great opportunity to show mercy in an open and constructive manner, to err is human, to forgive devine some one said long ago.

[@chungadin]

Cancel culture, Fenders loss!

[@latchodives]

Cancel culture ? No that’s just called “consequences for being an a**hole”

[@bratz2]

Raphaël Mor What did he say?

[@latchodives]

bratz2 posted a picture of a car with blood on it “Joking” about driving over protesters (can’t remember the exact phrasing)

[@chungadin]

Raphaël Mor And?

[@zeeb0w]

i think it takes guts to do what fender did, and that’s certainly respectable. my place of employment clearly states a zero tolerance on prejudice and/or harassment, and they clearly communicate that it extends beyond the workplace. also a good reminder for us all that we’re accountable for what we say/do outside of work

[@CasinoGuitars]

We agree 100% with you there Z! Sometimes courage can be rather painful.

[@joeschlicht]

Agreed

[@allstopblue5717]

Lol. Guts.... lol do you nit see what is happening in this country? This is the opposite of guts. Mob is in charge now. If they kept Cruz they are in danger of losing their entire company to the mob. So they bend the knee, like everyone is doing out of pure fear of monetary loss, regardless of personal opinions or freedom to express them.

[@giloro85]

Yoyr employer should not be able to dictate what your first amendment limitations are away from from work. To do so is textbook nazism and communism. I have owned 6 Strats, but Fuck Fender.

[@TVoltG]

I stand with John Cruz. I am pro American and unashamed being against Marxists. I love Fender guitars. But I hate Anti-American sentiments, cancel culture companies.

[@williammanley5214]

I hope some enlightened group of investors will back John Cruz in creating his own brand.

[@oh033]

Dude he should work for Suhr. Two fender masterbuilders kicking ass and making great guitars

[@Sarconthewolf]

Can you imagine buying one of his first guitars after leaving Ofendered ?

[@williammanley5214]

Cruz could build guitars that would rival the Pensa-Suhr custom line.Hope he goes that direction and leaves the constraints of Fender far behind and produces instruments of the same quality of Nik Huber and Juha Roukangas.

[@1dragon9447]

More power to John Cruz. Freedom of speech is not just for the left. Hey Gibson Custom Shop, you all been making some fine guitars lately!

[@DestinMcWhorter]

amen!

[@kidwajagstang]

OMG!! Ridiculous!! Someone can’t post something they find humorous at the time, the moment anyone finds offense with something, it means you’re sacked?!? Hope this bass player is satisfied with himself getting a situation out of hand before having a dialog with John to CALMLY explain WHY he was offended and educate John, but nope, rather ruin a man’s livelihood over something that made them feel offended. It wasn’t even directed as a “racist” thing. It said “protestors” and was intended as a frustration by people who aren’t a part of the protest and are annoyed by the disruptions they are experiencing in their lives because of them. This bass player must be happily living in a cloud of smug, sniffing his own farts, in satisfaction with himself. It really would have been out of line for him to request Fender rehire John after he has a dialog with John to explain his POV and WHY he took offense. But why educate when you can enjoy the smug from “defeating” a perceived “enemy.”

[@joahyoga1995]

Make me want to sell my fenders. I didn’t realize they were Nazis

[@rustyshackleford8272]

@Old Jim "fender is not even close to being Nazis" Very true, Nazis political and social policies were beneficial to society, Fender are just pathetically virtue signaling.

[@Sarconthewolf]

@@joahyoga1995 Yeah everyone at fender is a nazi because of a fakebook post. LOL

[@Sarconthewolf]

@@rustyshackleford8272 Except if you were a jew. LOL

[@joahyoga1995]

@@Sarconthewolf certainly not very rock n roll of them...

[@stringspicksandfiddlestick6388]

Just buy a G&L. Leo's last company and better guitars at a better price IMHO.

[@chrisgregory4915]

I second that. John should apply there or Musicman..

[@skiptracer2988]

G&L US models are phenomenal.

[@ahyaok100]

John could easily have his own guitars if he played his cards right. He so well respected.

[@graemero5532]

Agreed

[@dexxfilm]

Exactly!

[@CJZM7777]

I am truly sorry Mr. Cruz lost his job but I saw the post and think Fender did the right thing. This in no ways violates Mr. Cruz's freedom of speech because he spoke freely and Fender simply decided they didn't want to be associated with his views. There is no law that says you can say or do whatever you want and an employer has to continue to employ you. I am sorry for Mr Cruz that he finds his post humorous and am sorry he lost his job, but Fender did the right thing.

[@CasinoGuitars]

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts USJoe7. Fender really didn't have much of a choice here as he is probably the most prominent builder for Fender and everything he says online is an extension of the company. I have a friend who works in the the aeronautics field and he knows that if he ever posted something even in the same ballpark as this he would be removed without question. All of us and everyone at Fender are very sorry for the way this all went down and regardless of it all wish the best for John and his family.

[@ClockCutter]

You people are insane. I'll never buy another Fender.

[@Johnny1.0]

Says the guy who never owned or purchased a fender. Oh wait arent you the new Gibson Ceo? Ok now I get it lol.

[@bubu89136]

Oh no! ClockCutter isn't going to buy another Fender. What will we all do?

[@ChrsGuit]

@@bubu89136 Hey Brad... your page is lacking in the content department... makes ya look like a faceless troll

[@tevieray123]

can you say " John Cruz Guitars" Coming soon!!!!

[@Squirrelconga]

1st thing that I thiught. Then realized that he probably had to sign a non-compete order..

[@youKnowWho3311]

@@Squirrelconga Those are temporary, and unless he can compete at scale for say another large brand, the lawsuit has no merit as to business impact. Big F would just be chasing to be annoying at that point, which would only garner Cruz more money if he plays the PR right.

[@ahyaok100]

@@youKnowWho3311 Online funding makes it possible today. The demand is there obviously.

[@donaldpruitt6787]

Start your own guitar company. We can always use new brands .... I was going to purchase a strat I’ll now go to prs for a silver sky . Last fender I’ll ever buy .... I’ve been buying fenders since 1971. No more ...

[@bertagriese8282]

@@donaldpruitt6787 so you support racists... Just say what you mean, dude

[@weshenson9166]

I think it’s is a shame that an employee that thinks differently personally than management gets fired for their own personal site I will be buying G& L for now on

[@johnmorrison8618]

You're going to have to buy a lot of G&L's

[@samuela9237]

every talks about him being fired because of a facebook post but noones shows the post i know its deleted but where can i find it???

[@JPMonstie]

Well what would be good is if you actually posted the “offending comment” so we didn’t have to wade through all this second hand nonsense and could see what all this BS victimhood is all about for ourselves. Just another dishonest example of the #poorme culture we live in now.

[@marvinstorm9153]

Well said mate. Sick of SJW children. They never grow up.

[@Ebadd9]

Yep never another fender. Sad to see the company do stuff like this. He's been working there +30 years and they turn their backs in an instance. Seems like they've kept it under a lid too, not many people reporting on this.

[@CasinoGuitars]

Ebadd9 thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. Yes no one was really happy about this and everyone kept it fairly quiet. We e. Even able to speak with all the parties involved Ed and there is a lot more to it but we’re all pretty bummed out about the whole mess. Again, thank you for yours thoughts and best to you and yours out there:)!

[@juaerez69]

Agreed. I’ll spend my money elsewhere.

[@honestbrute9216]

@@juaerez69 cool..less wait time for me..

[@stvbird]

The ultimate irony is that music is about freedom of expression. The meme he shared was not racist. It was an old meme that played on the frustrations shared by many about having their lives hijacked by protestors who are intent on disrupting the world of people who have done nothing to them. It would be completely different if he had actually said something racist, but these days, not following the script makes you racist by default. Fender is sending a message loud and clear that freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and freedom of speech will no longer be tolerated by them. Consumers should respond in kind, and not tolerate their totalitarian mindset.

[@vince8081]

He's not dead ! Keep smiling ! :)) Can't wait to see what's next with this man.

[@charlesbolton8471]

He’ll probably start his own company like some of the other former Masterbuilders have done. It will be a win for him and his customer base if he does.

[@vince8081]

@@charlesbolton8471 Exactly, it will be great.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@vince8081 Eyeah guys! I can predict his future too!!!

[@parabot2]

So according to those supporting Fenders Logic his new name is ( John Racist Cruz ) Fender has basicly branded Cruz the most evil foul racist eva .

[@williamemilceleiro9857]

Does he still get his PENSION?

[@rafafontanez6961]

Once he open his new Custom shop I will be first in line to buy an awesome guitar. 33 plus years and this is how Fender do to the Guy. Fender another corporate good for nothing company like Gibson. Good for him.....

[@paulcowart3174]

I agree

[@fendertremolo9793]

You can't buy guitars with food stamps, you bum

[@fendertremolo9793]

@Dino Buckhoy Hey Dino Bravo, pipe down. It's not ok for a grown man to write "boy if you don't"

[@allstopblue5717]

I don’t watch sports and i don’t buy instruments from certain brands with politics in mind. Period. It is for pure enjoyment. Heaven forbid a man living in the United States of America post a joke meme....off with his head! We don’t all believe rioting and burning our nation is a positive movement. We should nit be punished for believing that. What if some random old school audio recording surfaces of Leo Fender making some kind of racist joke. Will the company change their name? Ruin their entire history? Just to appease the mob who is currently wrecking our country on a nightly basis?

[@elipop777]

Tired of companies going woke and trying to appease the irrational mob. Leo is rolling in his grave.

[@vedder10]

Casino Guitars I really appreciate this video for opening up dialogue and honest conversation. As a black man my initial reaction is to praise Fender for the termination. However after getting over the first emotional reaction I wonder to myself where free personal speech ends and begins. If the post was a representation of Cruzes own social media account I'm a little uncomfortable with the firing. If he's posting in such a way as to represent the company he works for it's a different story and I support the firing. Either way in our current climate Cruze backed Fender into a corner with no choice. They cannot afford to not take action whether or not their intention was socially responsible one or an effort not to hurt their bottom line.

[@CasinoGuitars]

Thank you Marlon for your thought out comment here. This was a very sensitive and upsetting issue for all of us here in the Casino family. This is one of those moments where there had to be consequences and through this we hope for a positive to come out of it. We are huge fans of free speech here as well, as most of our videos are rather off the cuff, humorous at the core, and just about guitars but this was something entirely different. Knowing the true culture at Fender and knowing how this is the antithesis of that there really was hardly any other option for their leadership. Fender does more than any other major guitar manufacturer to support social change and we have been honored to have them as partners. Thank you again Marlon!

[@Hesohi]

It’s a bad look for fender. How could you make a guitar for Blues legends and also want to see their grandchildren dead for protesting police brutality? How’s that look if any Guitar Company has ‘Master’ built guitars? Free speech works until you become a representative of that brand, your speech becomes the voice for the brand you represent. At least that was the argument when Pro Football players decided to protest. How does Fender stand up for the post and keep any credibility of responsibility?

[@mattker72]

John Cruz's free speech isn't being taken away from him. He can continue to post meme's that call for people to run over other American's with their cars all he likes. But, there will always be a consequence for what you say, that has never and should never change.

[@chrisgregory4915]

@@CasinoGuitars How bout a meme of a bunch of "Protestors" burning down the Fender Plant? Is that allowed? I have plenty of Real footage with them burning down Black Owned Business's. They're not picky and by the way... Most of them Aren't Black. These Fake protestors are exploiting this issue and firing a guy for one controversial meme after 33+ years of dedication just seems Too extreme and doesn't fit the bill. Unfortunately most people are thinking of the Violence going on during these protests so people aren't going to see racism in John's meme. That is the 2 whole people that probably saw it before it was deleted. By the way the Peaceful protestors aren't standing in the road blocking traffic. Only the Rioters are and most of them Aren't Black. We get John's joke. It actually Does make sense. It is funny. Most Everyone is on the side of the Real protestors. This leads to the next question however. If most people are on the Actual protestors side, Including the President and the Cops by the way, then Who Are they Protesting against? Food for Thought...

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@mattker72 Well said. For example... I can't just run down the street at night waking people up while yelling death to all "so and so race of people". Some one is going to do something about my out of control bitch ass. If I were to do something like that of course...... Not that I ever did.......... Lol what?

[@seamusbrowne4909]

What has John Cruz supposed to have done wrong???

[@soofitnsexy]

??? exactly

[@cos3310]

He said some fuck shit man

[@seamusbrowne4909]

@@cos3310 what does that mean???, "he said some Fuck shit man."🤔🤨🙄

[@JTD33]

@@seamusbrowne4909 He shared a meme about driving over protesters and killing them. I don't care who those protesters were but that's a fucked up thing to joke about.

[@ronmorey3475]

@@JTD33 @JTD It may have been a joke in bad taste, but it was still just a JOKE. I saw the actual meme, and no sane person would think that he was advocating running people over. I'm not sure how people can live with themselves knowing that they got someone fired or ruined their career over a joke.

[@ahyaok100]

He could easily have his own guitars especially in this day and age with online startup funding.

[@frogbastard]

Perhaps he could call these new guitars DeFenders or StratOutcasters.

[@cardbored_]

@@frogbastard FenderBenders?

[@joeykelly5642]

5 months later, and...yeah, that's exactly what he did. Good for him.

[@holstorrsceadus1990]

That was meandering. A linear narrative would have kept me from just going to the comment section for a concise description of what happened.

[@williamdegruchy3219]

What exactly did he say on FB that got him fired ?

[@fernank017]

Running over BLM protestors.

[@shanejur]

It was a joke Meme about running over protestors on the freeway.

[@juaerez69]

@@fernank017 Nowhere in the post is BLM or race mentioned.

[@fernank017]

@@juaerez69 it was in reference to the BLM movement. Look at the original post.

[@juaerez69]

@@fernank017 No it is not. The post is about , “protestors on the freeway.” Nowhere is race mentioned.

[@glassslide]

33 years there and that's how they treat him??? Classless not to mention gutless, congrats.

[@LfunkeyA]

pretty sure he made a good buck those 33 years, no worries plz.

[@alanwoodwind5265]

So boycott anything that Gregor Fris is involved with. Got it...

[@haggispepper]

Who????? Oh you mean the White Night!! Yeh boycott that blouse

[@jdl2180]

I guess lighting fender on fire would have gotten him a raise. 😂😃

[@Avalanche1368]

LMAO..Touche'

[@wallywanker7435]

Well good thing I have my fender of choice don’t have to buy another. Tired of people losing their jobs for haveing their own opinion that does not match up with certain people.ps anyone have a johncruz you don’t want anymore I will buy it. Let me know

[@jerryh265]

I hope John goes to Gibson , teach these freaking Fender comies a lesson

[@ursafan40]

No "lack of self respecting" company will have him in this climate. Nobody has the balls to say "Hey. It was a joke. "

[@astrominister]

Do you only listen to Ted Nugent?

[@dwightbernheimer331]

@@astrominister Ted Nugent would have Shot the guy who Fired him. LMAO

[@Azfun6]

Isn't it amazing that your employer can legally infringe your first amendment rights today. 33 years, this man has been a major part of Fender's success and as a REAL American used to have and enjoy freedom of speech. Smooth move Fender......turn a lot of customers and fans against you.

[@Azfun6]

@@SeattleMartin If he was silly enough to do that on Fender's computer, then yes, Fender had every right to let him go. The article was not clear if it was on their computer or his home computer. One would hope this man was smart enough NOT to do that on the company computer.

[@juaerez69]

…and his post never even mentioned race or BLM. It was a joke meme. Utterly ridiculous for him to be fired. Fender management are a bunch of cowards.

[@JTD33]

Well you're basically trying to infringe on Fender's right to fire someone. Isn't it amazing?

[@flippinthemadstyles]

Hadn't heard of this until now, but Fender's support of cancel culture will tarnish their image if the word gets out. This is an upsetting trend. I have to admit, I don't know the details, but the 1st Amendment should cover him shouldn't it?

[@jayteesgear]

I sold all my EVH stuff. Bought bogner and I’ll be buying any other brand who makes a ST style guitar now.

[@jamesstewart8054]

I love Fender guitars but the custom shop are so over priced it is kind of a joke.

[@hmrbruce]

Companies should just stay out of politics

[@Wolttizm]

Say good bye to freedom of speech.

[@michaeljamieson3582]

I think it’s an over-reaction to fire John, but when you’re a public face of a company you do not get to post whatever the hell you want.

[@eliastoufexis3187]

He made a rather tasteless joke about running over protestors, ironically people who were exercising their freedom of speech. You don't get to keep your job by making stupid remarks.

[@brunonjezic6208]

He shered meme on his own fb... I can't belive people are sensitive on bit of dark humor. This is incredible

[@op-z]

He is not some nameless employee - his name is used by Fender in connection to the brand (and I am sure he was getting handsomely paid for it). To post stupid meme while people are actually getting hurt in the street is not dark humor, it's just pure ignorance. (I don't know, think a Croatian War of Independence meme while the war is still going on?). To post while you are a face of a brand means the brand is responsible for the content of the post, thus he was fired, as Fender as a company does not want to be associated with ignorance (and potentially loose money in the process)

[@scottboutin4781]

I think he looks cool. I did like the Paul Stanley comparison, lol. This incident is another wakeup call for many. I'm not sure of the personal emotion in the meme. It could be lazy sarcasm or stupid apathy. Other side it may be intended with sad sarcasm & exasperation. Doesn't matter though, it was stupid and sloppy to take the time to post his ignorance on social media. If your soul is aching, & you're tired of this historic struggle, dont waste your energy making insensitive callous blow off commentary...get off your ass & pitch in anyway you can to promote change! THIS INJUSTICE IS ON ALL OF US. And it didnt just begin 5 months ago, 5 yrs, 5 decades ago. We have to make change or we are ALL doomed to history. If you are tired, burned out...get involved, hell, build guitars in the theme of change, BLM, coming together, LOVE, Imagination. Then with the visibility he had, show them, auction them, you tube them, use them as a platform!!! What a waste of opportunity, and lack of heart. COME ON MAN!!!!

[@OctavioGR07]

There's no such a thing in humor as something that threatens anybodys life

[@fendertremolo9793]

Fender is under no obligation to keep anyone employed

[@LfunkeyA]

that's the problem, this humor belongs to you and your friends, not the public. of course every single sane person is dropping crude humor all the fucking time, but as an important face in a company, that can tarnish the business when presented publicly. and life is capitalism.

[@teeze65]

For a minute there, I thought this was the lead singer to “The 1975”!! ...Until he spoke

[@94Shredder]

Can someone educate me on what he posted?

[@chiefmachine24]

He, in poor taste, posted a picture of a jeep covered in blood with a memed caption along the lines of " Protesters? I came across the bridge just fine"

[@Ragnar-Viking]

@@chiefmachine24 good for him

[@Ragnar-Viking]

Fender can stuff it ! I buy lots of masterbuilt fender guitars..FENDER can screw off

[@Ragnar-Viking]

F off fender

[@Carlvincent100]

Political correctness, the downfall of Western Civilization.

[@boboplex]

Fender are fools. I hope he starts his own company and steals a good portion of their CS business.

[@chunkwobbler2544]

I would order from him immediately. This whole "Cancel Culture" has become a cancer culture

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@chunkwobbler2544 The alt right cancelled entire races of people so that's what started this sadly. Oh well.

[@bluesyjazzcat31]

Can’t wait to see the secondary market prices of the JC fender pieces after this

[@joahyoga1995]

Bono is a industry tool -

[@dquillen1]

So, this guy John is responsible for the "relic" guitar nonsense? Hell, they should have fired him years ago...

[@haggispepper]

Yeh your probably one of those cheapskates that wears dark blue $10 jeans and complains about people buying jeans with holes in them I would guess.

[@eliastoufexis3187]

@@haggispepper Nah, that jean argument isn't the same thing at all. It's more like going to a Merc dealership, ordering a beautiful new E class and then asking them to put 20k miles on the clock at the factory just so you can pretend to your friends that you have a busy lifestyle and because you can't be bothered to break in the engine in yourself. Completely stupid.

[@alanagottalottasay997]

regardless of your cause impeding others ability to move about freely is a weak ass tactic let alone the safety problems it can complicate.... I've bought 6-10 Fender guitars over last 20 twenty years....0 is how many I will likely ever buy again....I don't need morality suggestions from any business or corporation....seems about the last place you should look for personal moral guidance....

[@MK-oz2lf]

At least John can now run over Fender employees to death with his truck, right?........ good for you

[@tball5677]

Freedom of speech is dead. Fender just lost this customer.

[@bazzer124]

Never been a master built fan. Never understood relics, either: you're paying tip-top dollar for what is essentially a new guitar made to look like you've been doing one nighters in smoke-filled dives for 25 years? To each their own, I guess. Cheers....

[@nickm.9474]

I’m with you on the relic thing but the master built guitars are some of the finest instruments in the world.

[@bazzer124]

@@nickm.9474 no doubt, Nick. I'm just not a fan of paying for a Lexus when a regular Toyota will do me fine. Cheers...

[@allstopblue5717]

You understand relics will not end just because Cruz is gone right?....

[@Damaged262]

@@bazzer124 Yeah, buy a beat to hell brand new Lexus, put it in a weather chamber for 6 months and allow to rust to hell? That'd be awesome (derp!) I don't get it either. I never really noticed them until Geddy Lee was playing one at the R&R HOF show, at first I thought, wow, Geddy has some miles on that. But then I thought, why the hell would Geddy be playing some beat to hell bass at his induction. It still didn't answer my question, but at least I knew he was playing new gear instead of dragging out some Rutsy era clunker. It just seems like a stupid thing to do. I get nicks in my gear, I'm slaving over it as best I can. To me, it's like wrapping used gum, what the hell for?

[@haggispepper]

@@bazzer124 Yeh well I could fly in a hot air balloon but I'd prefer an airplane!! Maybe cost is an issue for you?

[@cowtowncustoms2110]

I am sure that new doors have already opened for John Cruz.

[@Barbarapape]

I hope so, a highly regarded luthier should be able to find a new outlet for his skills when the dust has settled.

[@nimitz1739]

CowTownCustoms Either way he’ll definitely be OK. You know them custom guys have been making bank.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

He is very talented. I mean shit... Once upon a time I put 4 scews into a body to join it to a neck. Shyeesh lol. Such hard work that only the best of the best can do lolz.

[@alexanderbraddock6543]

If anyone has any John Cruz masterbuilts they can no longer keep in good conscience, feel free to contact me and I will "take care of them."

[@martyneff4008]

I have 20 😉

[@liquid7315]

What exactly did he post or say?

[@rustyshackleford8272]

He joked about running over "protesters" who block roads. That's literally it.

[@12gt13]

Rusty Shackleford a tasteless “joke”.

[@gunkanjima3408]

12gt13 Well, blocking the roads is illegal and in many states if your life is threatened you are legally not at fault when running people over. Sucks John was let go, I wonder what he will do next

[@dafretz]

@@gunkanjima3408 That is not at all true. In most states, if a pedestrian crosses a major highway and you hit them, it is your fault for not driving slow enough to be able to react and avoid the pedestrian. The only difference is if you cross a street outside of a designated pedestrian crossing, the walker can be charged, as well.

[@donstewart368]

@@rustyshackleford8272 Yeah I would run over them too if they were stupid enough to block me.

[@gerryk3114]

Fender has been in trouble for a long long time, and it’s NOT John Cruz’s Fault !!

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Guitar world period my guy. Guitar music is less popular than ever. It's all about the k pop now mayne!

[@kcussrebutuemos4815]

Soyborne. Born, made, and undone by the soy. Wrong. Guitarists are more popular than ever. Maybe not in your world. Just look at Instagram. They’re learning younger and quicker. Stop making up bullshit and go back to watching your horrible Kpop.

[@carlygtr554]

Your hair is offensive.

[@gpeterson999]

This is BS.

[@johnharris8564]

Thank you Baxter and Casino Guitars for a well-spoken, informative and insightful video. Also, the responses from Casino Guitars to comments made by users on both sides of the argument shows a great deal of respect for everyone’s opinion while upholding your principles. I was unfamiliar with Casino Guitars prior to seeing this video, but now you have a new subscriber and I hope to do business with you some day. Thank you!

[@flukyreview9128]

There is a classic Black Sabbath song entitled “When you listen to fools, the MOB rules”. The song seems fitting with what is going on socially today.

[@user-ty4ce8ri3i]

You got that right!

[@edhardiman835]

It was a gutless weasel corporate backstabbing. What is so offensive about his post? Why isn’t the bassists opinion equally offensive?

[@Skoora]

People who work for corporations need to wake up and realize how it works with social media these days. In any new interview they’ll do searches for any SM presence you have to what you have posted etc. there is no free speech when you work for a big company unless you think you can pull off staying anonymous, which I wouldn’t risk. I know he’s old school but you post on SM with anything political or current affairs you’re risking your career. It sucks and shouldn’t be, but it is. I hope the younger generations enjoy the world they will inherit of no privacy and no freedom through selling our souls to convenience and a pathological requirement for affirmation for achieving nothing of substance. Every move tracked, facial recognition. I remember when people used to complain about cookies and Google tracking your search history...lol. Fucking nothing compared to what is happening and what will happen.

[@parabot2]

If this was a black guy posting what clearly was a joke , that an adult can understand was a joke , do you think Fender would have sacked him . (No way) Europeans are now under constant attck , held to a higher standard so they can be targeted . Has fender even got a black custom shop master builder ? , hmm smells like racism at work ? I demand 5 , Now who can they sack to get 5 new black custom shop builders ?

[@bob733333]

Spying is illegal so it will only go so far unless we hand everything over like the bill of Rights.

[@jeremyserwer2586]

@@parabot2 It's sometimes difficult to recognize your entitlement. The problem with the right is, it doesn't take much encouragement for them to go out and kill somebody they think is taking away their privilege. On the grander side of things, trump lost the election and hopefully we can turn the corner on divisive and idiotic daily explosions...

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

​@@bob733333Did a person draw attentiin to his post for the purpose of doing harm? I need to know the details of how an employee of 33 years has no leg to stand on after an act that mustvhave been instantly regretted.

[@mikaschwarzer1977]

So for the people (obviously loads here) who don’t know because it got deleted fairly quickly... He posted a picture with the caption “I don’t know what you mean by protesters on the freeway, I came through no problem” and a bloodsplattered jeep beneath it. To that he wrote “Ya well......... it’s Friday!” And a skull emoji behind it. Personally I support the decision of fender to get rid of him because he was actively making fun of killing protesters and it’s good for the company to make a stand.... To those whose feelings are hurt by these actions: I understand, but politics evolve and we don’t have the 1960s anymore.... The next generation is here, get used to it.

[@1thess523]

So what was the offensive post? It doesn't take much in this current cancel culture 🤷‍♂️, Guitar Center dropped Fulltone because the owner was criticizing the looters.

[@RogerThat902]

Nah, he didn't just criticize he went way over the top. At a certain point it just becomes unprofessional, at minimum, and makes all brands associated look bad. I'll never understand how these people apparently feel so invisible they can't avoid the apparently impulsive decision to write out a freaking facebook post that obviously is going to piss some people off. Then of course they start crying later like nobody could see people reacting negatively to an, again, at best, very unprofessional post.

[@brandowhitemusic]

Cruz posted a meme picturing a bloody Jeep with the caption, "I don't know what you mean by protesters on the freeway. I got through just fine". No mention of race or socio-political issues... Just a (perhaps over-the-top) joke about getting to work when people are physically blocking the freeway. But of course, anyone who makes light of anything remotely related to the prescribed narrative (even in a non-professional setting like a personal Facebook account) must be branded a racist and immediately sacked. The Fulltone CEO's complaints were about people looting and burning small businesses for days on end with impunity. Which is illegal, by the way, and breaks a simple non-violent, non-thieving, non-destructive standard we can hopefully hold all high-functioning human adults to, regardless of their skin color or political grievances. But I guess that makes him racist too... So Guitar Center tucked their tails between their legs and purged all Fulltone products because they are afraid of being deemed racist by a mob who thinks everything under the sun is racist.

[@Guitarzoids]

Brando White, watch the video, it’s a f& reality dude. Not a joke, not an opinion.not a meme. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpvXiXSGZZuksKM

[@Guitarzoids]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpvXiXSGZZuksKM

[@parabot2]

@@brandowhitemusic According to those whom defend Fender and Fender John is now too be called ( John Racist Cruz ) This ideology is a secular religion , requiring the bending of the knee and repentance for the original sin of racism . The new evangelists ( Fender and their supporters ) these 'movements' are actually Cults / Religions !

[@vidarragnarsson4020]

It’s pretty messed up when actual protesters turn rioters actually assault and bash people’s heads in but if you make a joke about hurting protesters who are really rioters you lose your job over it that is so F’d up man

[@kcussrebutuemos4815]

You’re so clueless. There are peaceful protestors and they’re are a little group very well put together coming up behind the protestors throwing teargas and looting. And they kindve look. KKK’ish to me. Saw them out the window. As they burned buildings and looted. It wasn’t the protestors.

[@vidarragnarsson4020]

Mike Saucony you’re full of BS The truth is all over the internet!

[@kcussrebutuemos4815]

Vidar Ragnarsson 😢you’re an idiot. Don’t forget your hood when you go out. Pos

[@giloro85]

@@kcussrebutuemos4815 kkk? Kkk was the armed wing of the Democrat party. Antifa? Armed wing of the German communist party. Any way you try to twist it, its liberal thugs who do that crap!

[@jerrymorganjr]

Can someone tell me what he posted?!?!

[@antondoornekamp9635]

I hope John Cruz starts his own guitar brand.

[@fendertremolo9793]

No one cares what you hope

[@boboplex]

@@fendertremolo9793 I agree with him so you're incorrect

[@skiptracer2988]

The market is already oversaturated with brands.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

@@boboplex can't argue with that logic. So well explained and everything lol.

[@boboplex]

@@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342 Simple statement of fact.

[@timhouseholder6412]

Such a joke!!!! People need to toughen up just ridiculous. This cancel culture needs to frickin go!

[@Baker.Matthew]

Cancel cancel culture, that is pretty meta.

[@tomlukas5784]

Never getting a fender again. Hope g&l hires him!!!

[@CasinoGuitars]

Tom Lukas were hoping for Gibson! Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@greggsimmons7965]

No question! Done with these fools!

[@shawnecaster]

I feel exactly the same!!!

[@dcroxby]

If you think bowing to lynch mobs is praise worthy you are mistaken. When they come looking for you, you will understand that.

[@mistrrhappy]

Please buy your KKKustom guitars elsewhere.

[@thegolfingmusician6345]

"Be Cool or be Cast Out!" Cancel Culture will hit EVERYONE eventually. Be careful what you wish for people.

[@CJZM7777]

No one cancelled or cast anyone out. Mr Cruz spoke his mind and Fender has the right to fire an employee when they publicly post a repulsive statement. Mr Cruz elected to speak freely and it has consequences. Freedom of speech doesn't mean you can hit and not be hit back.

[@mistrrhappy]

That Rush lyric had nothing to do with the concept of cancel culture, and you know it. It decried the peer pressure teens place on one another to be like the popular kids. Socially conscious kids that protest injustice are labeled as Social Justice Warriors, and are far from being the popular kids on campus.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Meh... Just don't be like... Canceling entire races of human beings like certain nazi cops and we should be good lol. Just saying...

[@brandowhitemusic]

@@mistrrhappy Have you been to a college campus lately? Rattling off SJW doctrines can score you some serious points.

[@breekolean2758]

In the bars I came up in there was a saying " don't run your mouth if you can't back it up ", but then I always could

[@PlayWithYourThumb]

I saw the meme and thought it was funny. Would I re-post it? NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. I’m smart enough to know that some people would, quite rightly, be offended by it.

[@shanejur]

I laughed when I saw it

[@PlayWithYourThumb]

@@shanejur So you weren't offended? Good for you.

[@shanejur]

@@PlayWithYourThumb Not in the least. It was a joke. What happened to John Cruz over it wasn't funny.

[@PlayWithYourThumb]

@@shanejur I know, and I agree. It was an extreme reaction by Fender. BUT he should have known that with his profile he would be perceived as representing the corporation. I'm not American but even I know that the First Amendment defence doesn't apply to companies.

[@harvey1954]

Dumb Fender moves 1) Leo sells the company to CBS 2) Fender kisses the ass of Political Correctness by firing John Cruz. Man up Fender!

[@claytonmcminn1121]

Fender can get bent...

[@jimmypaulgaard3644]

This had best not been another “we’re so woke” nonsense. I would like to see what the man posted that got him skidded after 3 plus decades.

[@markschimmoller3402]

Candy ass liberals are tearing down the infrastructure of America! Vote Vote Vote.

[@GerryBlue]

It was a very stupid meme

[@elephantgrass631]

@@markschimmoller3402 Staying silent and just voting might not be enough. Speaking up will according to this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHfOqGyQitmFgqs

[@parabot2]

@@GerryBlue So according to you and those supporting Fenders Logic his new name is ( John Racist Cruz ) Fender has basicly branded Cruz the most evil foul racist eva . Grow a Pair Gary

[@jeremyserwer2586]

@@markschimmoller3402 Yep we voted and trump is out!!! I hope you got over it. Personally I think it was within his rights for him to say it but sadly there are too many folks on the right that are just looking for a reason and a person they look up to that gives them the green light.

[@90sPunkRockCovers]

I saw the FB post and it was definitely in very poor taste. Glad Fender took action and got rid of the man.

[@petkopeet]

What was it about?

[@CasinoGuitars]

I think this was a no-brainer for Fender. Thank you for watching and thank you for your other comments:)

[@jpalberthoward9]

I have days when I'd like to just take all the guitars and other junk I have and pour gasoline on them, set fire to the whole stinking mess, and just forget that they ever existed. Today is one of those days. Guitars used to be so cool. They had this exciting, dangerous rebel vibe about them. If you could play one well, it set you apart from the rest of the herd, kinda like the guys who rode Harleys or built and raced hot rods. What the hell happened? How did it all get so safe, so cut-and -dried , so hermetically sealed and corporate approved? What's next? Warning labels on guitars? "Warning: use of this product could lead to independent thought, or perhaps politically incorrect ideas, and possibly humor, or failure to comply with unspecified requirements". Maybe if we all just take our Prozac, put in the ol' earbuds and crank up some EDM technobeat loops, then we won't ever be offended or ever have to think about anything ever again.

[@mistrrhappy]

@@jpalberthoward9 You should definitely burn all your guitars. Terminating John was the end of all music making and fun for him and all conservatives. I don't know why you all didn't give up playing when Lee Atwater died. He told us all that the last great Stones album was Exile on Main Street, helped Reagan get elected by promoting racism to American whites with finger guns and a wink, and was photographed with his Gibson SG to show how hip he was. Then he died in agony from brain cancer. John was an employee of a giant corporation with clear rules about social media posts. Feel free to post the same meme, and then show the post to your HR department. Let the rest of KZbin know how your devil-may-care, "I'm no sheep" attitude is received.

[@garygraves1254]

As a Blackman & long time Fender customer & I must say this B.S! Time to start looking for a Les Paul! 🇺🇸MAGA2020

[@Joe_Jimenez_official]

#Trump2020

[@mistrrhappy]

@@Joe_Jimenez_official #TakeaDump2020

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

lol wait a second though gary... Trimp is already in power and isn't doing anything to stop this stuff sooo... As a matter of fact he's helping it. He did get Colin fired for having a opinion. Also the right wing cancelled black people basically sooo...

[@lukevuncannonmusic]

Wow! So sad! I have one of his guitars! I guess I’ll hang on to that for a while!!!

[@CasinoGuitars]

We sere all bummed and for sure...hang on to that thing. They are monster guitars.

[@lukevuncannonmusic]

I agree!! I love the bite his pickups have as well!!!!

[@haggispepper]

@@CasinoGuitars Stop flip flopping your stinking up the room