Klarinet Archive - Posting 000992.txt from 1998/07

From: "Kevin Fay (LCA)" <kevinfay@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] Unfaithful Ricardo
Date: Fri, 24 Jul 1998 19:33:59 -0400

It would definitely be analogous to the Michael Jordan/Nike situation.
Recall the stink a few years back, when certain members of the "Dream Team"
draped themselves with U.S. flags rather than show logos of competing shoe
companies? Same issue.

I'm pretty sure Michael could NEVER wear Reebok shorts without incurring a
lawsuit--Nike sends him bags full of money for the *exclusive* right to his
likeness is peddling shoes and other athletic apparel (although apparently
not underwear--Hanes appears to own that part of his anatomy). With that
much money involved, Nike undoubtedly paid an overpriced scribe big bux to
make sure that the contract had Michael all tied up. (Sorry--it's late on
Friday and I don't get to out puns in contracts).

Now, I happen to think that Ricardo is every bit as talented as Michael.
But I'll bet that Leblanc pays him less than what Nike throws at Michael
(which I bet is a sum considerably in excess of Leblanc's annual profit).
Without reviewing the contract between Ricardo and Leblanc, though, I really
can't say what the relationship is. I would guess, however, that Ricardo
gave his "release" for the use of his likeness in some advertisements in
return for a couple of free clarinets and a little beer money--and that the
release had no provisions requiring exclusivity.

If he gets sued, then we'll know.

kjf

-----Original Message-----
From: Roger Garrett [mailto:rgarrett@-----.edu]
Subject: Re: [kl] Question for Mr. Kloc

On Fri, 24 Jul 1998 Maestro645@-----.com wrote:
> I wouldn't think it would be that big of a deal. Leblanc has Ricardo
> endorsing soprano clarinets, in particular, the Opuses and Symphonie VII.
> There is probably no contract saying he has to play Leblanc Bassets (if
there
> is a contract, that is). What do you have to do to endorse anyway
(besides
> being famous)?
> Chris Hoffman

The Buffet Basset Clarinet is an A Soprano Clarinet with an extension to
low C. There are some key changes to accomodate accoustical needs, but we
are still talking about a soprano clarinet.

Regarding an endorsement for which someone is paid to perform on a
particular brand.....compare it to Michael Jordon wearing Reebock shorts -
even though he endorses Nike shoes. That is a no-no....but there are
others who know more about the legalities than me......perhaps Kevin Fay?

Roger Garrett
IWU

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