Thankyou Bob - thanks for educating us & for pioneering sustainable guitar manufacturing. We love your guitars & we trust you completely to continue making beautiful instruments that ensure the sustainability of all the resources you use. I would love to see similar statements coming from the other major guitar brands.
Lets hope that he's living up to what he says....I'll certainly take him at his word for now. Sometimes (actually most of the time) people get quasi government granted monopolies like this and talk a good game while doing the opposite behind closed doors. It's not hard to understand why when you think of the incentives though. Another point is this, I can't help but wonder if its possible to start looking at a way to farm these trees like is done with other woods - it would certainly take some time, but I think it would eventually help the supply curve problems. It seems there are plenty of environmental space available now seeing that other places that had the wood have been harvested out.
Actually, that's not only a good idea, but the solution. We tend to use things up - sort of like locusts. For example, way back when fishermen would go to the Grand Banks and catch all the cod they wanted. Now the cod are all but gone. n West coast, the same with salmon. Used to be giant redwood trees, now they're only enough for display. Sure they cut the smaller trees, but you buy redwood and even top grade has knots. What does an ebony tree need to grow? Could we grow some here on tree farms?
Miriam Conrad I surely hope he’ll live up to his words since he owns 75% of commercially available ebony. I am an amateur guitar builder, more of a hobbyist and am using Richlite and as of recently Rocklite because ebony trees take so long to grow to a commercial grade size. Good on him
"...we decided to live in the truth of the forest" This man has articulated perfectly why guitar consumers have a responsibility to the environment. Much respect and patronage in the future. It would be nice to see a list of companies that buy from Taylor so we can buy from them.
This video made me buy a Taylor.. so I was in the shop testing taylors with a friend.. and I liked one guitar better in sound, but it had a nice blonde spot on the fretboard.. my friend mentioned it.. you shouldn't buy that guitar because it has this ugly spot on the fretboard.. I told him.. I buy this guitar precisely because it has this 'ugly' spot on the fretboard. Another day a player also commented on the blonde spot... he said it was cheap stained.. I said.. oh no that's not stained, it's ebony. then told him this story from Bob in a nutshell... Personally I wouldn't mind a mix of white/black ebony as a fretboard it'll look wicked.
Personally, I think it can look great, sometimes better than a perfectly black board, but it can also look ugly. It’s kinda 50/50 for me depending on the size and shape of the spots/stripes. But as he said, it doesn’t matter because we won’t have any ebony left if we continue to be so picky.
I’m with you...I think the blonde streaks in the ebony is very attractive...I own a 2016 710 and was disappointed to find out that the blonde streaked ebony was saved for the 800 & 900 series guitars
Then that's your prerogative. No one is forcing you to purchase a $5000 814ce with a skunk striped fretboard; but you won't be getting one with a pitch black fretboard either.
Powertuber1000 So you would be part of destroying the environment? And in the future, there will be no more ebony at all, then you pay thousands for a guitar entirely made out of fiberglass
I own and absolutely love my Taylor acoustic. After watching this video, I can honestly say how proud I am to have purchased an instrument from a company who truly cares more about the protection and cultivation of our natural resources.than satisfying peoples vanity and greed. Bravo! There is an important lesson here for us all. And for those who have "disliked" this video, I can't even express how truly unfortunate your lives must be to so easily dismiss this with ignorance. Shame.
The truth is, if there was actually more pure black ebony than specimens with streaks and colors, we would be chalking over huge amounts of money for the stuff with the color. It makes no difference. Its just in our heads. Good for Taylor. And Bob is a fucking G
I don't think you understand what he implies by saying he's a G. To say that CrazyCow isn't a decent specimen of a human being because of a 100% positive comment says a lot about what kind of human being YOU are. An ignorant judgmental one.
I am awed by this video. Mr. Taylor, you are an example of integrity that is much needed in all businesses. At the end of the day, I want great sound, no matter what the wood or what it looks like. Thanks for giving the people who make their living harvesting this wood a fair shake.
This man and the way he does business makes me so glad that I bought a Taylor guitar. Not only is he saving the forest but he is seeing to it that the people of Cameroon are earning a livable wage and improving their lives. A great man making great decisions that benefit us all both now and in the long run.
If this were Taylor's only attempt to be sustainably ethical it would be one thing, but it's not. Taylor's way ahead on this not only in using figured ebony but also in passing forward, as in the Holden Village edition of the GS Minis, built with old-growth Engelmann that was cut as a part of a superfund clean-up of an old mine site whose arsenic-filled tailings were being washed into Lake Chelan. Expenses connected with logging and transport of the trees, milling, shipping and much of the building cost were donated, and Taylor in turn donated a substantial part of the purchase price on to a water reclamation project in Central America. He's walking the walk, friends, despite the catcalls of those on the fringes who know little about any of this.
Brilliant! Great to see someone who has power over what we see and get for our instruments doing something right....many thanks to Bob Taylor and his company for taking the lead here :)
An incredibly heartfelt video by an intelligent enlightened guy. I tip my hat to you sir, if there were more people like you in this world: it would not be so screwed up. Makes me want to buy a Taylor guitar! Thanks for trying to save ebony!
At least one guitar builder is thinking ahead. His move benefits the people working in Cameroon, many other guitar manufacturers and Taylor's company itself. 45 people here are qualified to become either politicians or oil mine owners.
I'm not typically an outspoken environmentalist, but I cannot find myself disagreeing with him at all. He's not raving at the viewer or condemning the human race, just simply explaining why we need to be conscientious about how we use these woods. It's good to cut waste wherever possible, in both a business sense and a conservationist sense. I just ordered a custom guitar with an ebony fingerboard, and I was expecting the usual flat black wood, but this one had gorgeous brown swirls mixed in the grain. Definitely something unique.
Cool! I hope you like your new guitar. :) I have to agree with what you said too.I like the tone of this video a lot; Mr. Taylor isn't on some soapbox and lecturing us about our greedy and destructive black-wood wanting ways. He is simply giving us a businessman's practical approach to the way the world currently is, and the way the world is going to have to work in the future if we are going to continue to enjoy ebony fingerboards. I can respect that approach.
Good comment. Actually, though most environmentally conscious people are not raving or condemning the human race. I think more often that is a false characterization (comment not directed at you) put forward by vested interests. This is what conservation and environmental stewardship looks like, and an example of what so many "environmentalists" advocate for.
here here Bob! that's what this world needs more of....positive action. a lot of changes simply won't be made by companies fearing a short-term loss of profit over the responsible route that needs to be taken. I take my hat off to you sir.
Well said. As a wood worker I know that there many grades of wood and the different grades of wood are used in different applications and the thought of just throwing away all but the "A" grade lumber is terrible. The age of excess is over. Soon people won't be able to just buy a new guitar when they want and the old ones will have to repaired so we can keep playing. But for now enjoy all you have.
Well said, Bob. All efforts to increase the sustainability of rare tropical wood use are much needed and appreciated. I have shared this video with several luthiery groups on Facebook and it has received universal support. Non-black ebony fretboards should be regarded as a badge of honour by any guitarist or other instrumentalist.
Thank you, Bob, for taking a stand and educating us. It is inspiring to see people make decisions with the future in mind, instead of simply focusing on short term profits.
That's exactly what he's doing! Only reason he wants to "educate" us, is because there is so little Ebony left, and he wants to make money on every last piece of bark! If Bob really cared about the environment he would stop this madness and focussing on eco-friendly alternatives.
I bought a Taylor 714ce yesterday. I found this video while researching how to care for the ebony fretboard. While trying out this guitar for the first time, I actually remember being struck by how beautiful and natural the ebony fretboard looks. I actually prefer the natural look over the all black look. I'm so sad that so much was wasted trying to find only the pure black wood. Guitars are near and dear to my heart, and this video actually had me tearing up a little. Thank you Bob for making the right decision here. Love to see Taylor taking the lead in stewarding resources so that future generations can continue to enjoy wood guitars.
Taylor are pioneers in the sustainability of wood. I just bought a GS mini and it does indeed have a couple of pale marks in the ebony. I feel proud to own it. I parsed up the Martin Dreadnought Junior because it had a Rich-lite fingerboard and bridge, now i know why.
I think what he's doing is amazing and inspirational. I personally love the look of Ebony with mixed spots. I was honestly a little bummed when my taylor guitar came in with a almost entirely black fretboard😂 I think the coloration gives it so much more personality.
He should have gotten some award or some recognition for taking the time to point all this out. I mean, he owns the company, he didn't have to say anything about this. It shows that the guy really has a heart, a conscience, and a soul.
I am so glad to be a Taylor artist. Started over 30 years ago to love playing Taylor guitars. they are in all my recordings, and performance. So glad to be part of the Taylor family and guitars that respect the planet. Thank you Bob and the team at Taylor.
Wise decision. Videos like these really need to get more attention, or else we won't be left with any good wood to make guitars with and might even end up with high prices of guitars with softer and lower quality wood...
Love Bob Taylor, love my Taylor guitar. I will always support a company that finds a way to be socially responsible and smart. How smart Bob was to listen to the workers and have the courage to lead a positive change for everyone. Go Bob!
As a woodworker and a guitar player, it is insane that others would be that picky to only play or build guitars that used only the blackest ebony. Thank you Bob for making this decision.
Mr. Taylor, thank you for not only manufacturing wonderful guitars like my new 714ce, but for embracing the chance to be a steward of our forests. Bravo!
My new Taylor recently had some colour in the ebony, I was excited to see it because it made the guitar look so much cooler. Now knowing this story it only makes it so much better. Definitely does not feel like a compromise to have colour in the ebony.
42 thumb downs? Really? I guess that means there's 42 complete imbisules that have watched this. Way to go Mr Taylor. We need more folks with your mindset.
Imbeciles*. Anyway, there's no real way to know if the dislikes are from real people or RUclips algorithm bots. Either way, RUclips removed the dislikes, so now y'all's feelings won't be hurt anymore. 🤷♂️
I just ordered a Taylor guitar the other day. While waiting in anticipation for it’s arrival, I stumbled upon this video. I cannot tell you how good I feel about spending my money with Bob Taylor’s company! I am even happier about my purchase, and proud to support such a great company!
You are a beautiful human being!!! I own my most favorite guitar which is a Keisel/Carvin electric with ebony fretboard. Photographed it looks black. But if you saw it in person it has PLENTY of color variation and I LOVE IT that way. It has so much blonde and brown and I can't get enough of looking at it. It's like watching the ocean. Most important of all the guitar sounds out of this world, looks sexy (in person or photographed) and I couldn't be happier! God bless you sir!!! You are what the world needs now!! Peace & Love
He doesn't answer the most obvious question... is there any difference in sound between black and streaked ebony, or is the difference purely aesthetic?
Edward Holystone Every experienced electric guitarist knows an ebony fretboard on a guitar - all other variables being identical - yields a different-sounding instrument than a maple neck. This simple truth means that your assertion is factually incorrect. And ebony isn't employed as a top on acoustic or electric instruments, is it? In addition, and ultimately more importantly than its tonal characteristics, it is employed for its hardness (think how long a spruce fretboard would hold up), strength, and beauty. I am ever embarrassed for the many people like yourself who confidently make assertions on the web that simply can't be supported...
Paul Hopkins Couldn't agree more! May I direct you to the RUclips video of Pete Thorn demonstrating the James Trussart Steelcaster - an electric guitar with an entirely metal body. Perhaps you can explain how, since putative tonewoods have no tonal effect on a guitar's sound and are only chosen for aesthetic reasons, the guitar sounds EXACTLY like it was made of steel - and not wood. Just a coincidence, I'm sure...
Edward Holystone "The problem with this question is that ebony has no effect on sound. It just doesn't." --- just as you said, where's the proof? "it just doesn't" isn't proof.
Tana Butler Every electric or acoustic guitarist can't know the difference between an ebony or non-ebony neck with all other variables held constant. All variables held constant would mean that one guitar is played with an ebony neck and then refitted with a non-ebony neck and played again. That just doesn't happen and even if it did, there would be variables in how the guitar is played with each neck. I imagine it could be done with a machine that held the playing dynamics constant. And then there is the problem of our hearing memory which is terrible. Hearing comparisons of small differences need to be made with the variations switched immediately.
Marty Tippens Intending no disrespect, it "sounds" to me as though you're waaaaaaay overthinking this - the topic at hand is whether different guitar components affect amplified tone, not the means by which subtle differences might be detected and quantified. Several people have confidently (and ignorantly) asserted that the very idea of "tonewoods" is a spurious notion, as no components of a guitar other than pickups affect tone - others have agreed with them. They are all utterly wrong. To anyone who doubts that different body, neck, fretboard, etc materials and means of construction (set neck vs bolt-on or hollow body vs solid) affect tone, I invite them to view any of the videos here featuring Trussart Steelcasters and then return to this forum to explain why it is that these steel-bodied instruments sound EXACTLY like steel-bodied instruments rather than wood-bodied, if their assertions are indeed correct. I promise - hilarity will ensue. Case closed.
I was sent here because this video was mentioned in a PR class I'm taking. Very fascinating to not only learn about the challenges in ebony wood sourcing for use in guitars but also the PR campaign that Taylor put together to convince other guitar manufacturers to join him in sustainably sourcing this type of wood. He's absolutely right. Who cares how it looks? Sounds and plays the same as pure flawless ebony. Kudos to Bob for prioritizing sustainability and credit to him and his PR team for the campaign to convince others to go along.
Hey Bob, good luck harvesting the world's last available ebony. When I finally had enough money to buy any guitar I wanted, I went to Blue Note Music, in Berkeley. I spent the whole day playing all the high end guitars of the style I was looking for. I really liked Taylor & Santa Cruz guitars, but wound up buying a Martin 000C-16RGTE. I just preferred the sound and feel. It wasn't until some time later that I found out the fingerboard was a composite material -- Richlite. Now, after 12 years, the fingerboard shows no signs of wear at all, and after listening to your sad story about ebony I'm even happier about the instrument I chose.
i had a les paul studio 2011 model. It had what people here are calling "imperfect streaks". I call bullshit on that. Being unbiased, i felt the ebony looked beautiful. The streaks gave it unique character. People want pure black, richlite exists for that. Anything more is just selfish bullshit semantics by the privileged. I feel the future of guitars lies mostly in synthetic materials. Whether people embrace it or not is a different story.
Thanks for not only creating change, but making it happen. You've set the example of awareness-in-action for the rest of the world to follow. You are an inspiration, Bob, and I'm so grateful I watched this video today.
You'll absolutely love it. Have had a 314ce for about half a year, and it quickly became my most cherished musical instrument. Worth every penny and more.
Lots of Hair but No Money I own an Artist Cameo Seagull flame maple back and sides ebony fretboard 2017...beautiful looking and playing guitar...don’t know when but after I got my Seagull they have started to use Richlite on their fretboards 🤮
This is the correct attitude in my estimation. You don't whine, you don't wring your hands and go apathetic, you look at what is and come up with an optimum solution. Thanks Bob!
My wife just surprised me with a Taylor for my Birthday, I was blown away needles to say, so eventhough I've been playing for 30 years I was just doing research and found this video, it makes me love it even more.
I am in the UK and recently bought a Taylor 514ce and as I sit here strumming my daughter is in Cameron working on a education project for two months as a volunteer. You have to admire the corporate organisations that occasionally take the same stance as the selfless individuals that work for free to help others and be environmentally responsible with a long term view, rather than short term profit. Well done Bob!
Kudos, Taylor Guitars! I get my guitars custom built by my friend and Australian luthier, Grant Burkitt. I have two guitars with "figured" ebony fingerboards and they are not only great guitars but BEAUTIFUL guitars. People comment on the fingerboard colouration and ask what it is. I tell them what it is and why I CHOOSE this type of ebony! We're talking about a man that makes maybe a dozen guitars a year. To know that a company as influential as Taylor have made the decision to use the perfectly good ebony that would otherwise rot in the Cameroon forests, lifts my heart. You are leaders in the guitar industry already, I hope the other major guitar manufacturers follow your lead. WELL DONE TAYLOR!
Mr. Taylor, Thank you for being a good steward of the natural resources that God has given man kind. I have played Taylor guitars for 10+ years and will continue til I leave this world. Thank you, thank you, thank you. It is very nice to see a company embrace efforts.
Great thing that you’re doing and glad you made this video. I would love a guitar that had a lot of colors in the ebony. Taking wood shop in high school left me with a great appreciation for all types of woods and grains.
It makes me happy to see such a responsible and genuine guy. The way he speaks is just charming. Well, here goes my old acoustic to a rusty case. Here I come, Taylor!
Thank You Bob! I Love my Taylor curly maple and spruce GS series guitar. I am a cabinetmaker by trade and the woods you use are beautiful. Above all this is the sound and how your whole body vibrates with the spirit of the woods and spirit put into the making. I've been playing over 50 years and my Taylor is always a thrill. Now that you have been sharing your stories about the woods and harvesting them in the most respectful way to the trees and people involved, I Love my Taylor even more. Thank You for walking your talk and respecting our Mother Earth and her people. And providing a guitar with amazing quality and sound. This is so important in our time as we don"t have much time left without efforts like yours. DaveyJO Weaver
I plan on buying a taylor guitar I've been researching the product and after watching this video I only feel more confident in my decision to buy one much respect to the company and the worker's providing a beautiful instrument
About 30 years too late, but completely refreshing and fantastic to here someone high-up in a major guitar company admit the past mistakes, and the positive steps already taken to secure the future of this rare and valuable resource.
I was thrilled to find this posted on FB this morning. I recently purchased a GS mini that had the brown and blond streaks through the fret board. The sales person did not have much information on why, but I thought it was beautiful. Well done Taylor!
Bob, You are the Man! This job came into the hand of the right person. As a young man learning to be a luthier I am inspired by you in so many ways. Your conservatism and doing it right it first and foremost. You are doing a great job for the future of fretted instruments. And guys like us that will be in the business soon should all thank you personally. Thank You Sir!
Bravo, Bob! Speaking as a small builder and long-term repairman, I hope that you never bow to pressure from this industry. It's time for us, as an industry and as a culture, to Grow Up, before it's too late. Keep up the good work!
My Taylor Big baby....Has streaks down the fret board one of the reasons I picked this guitar was because they made it look unique/beautiful. I am even more happy I picked this one after seeing this video.
This is why I buy Taylor. All businessmen should be this dedicated to making a fantastic instrument while taking care of the environment. Thank you Bob!
So so proud of playing Taylor. So much respect for Bob, such a good hearted person. In truth, I like the highlights in the Ebony but this was great to watch.
Great video. Thanks for the education on ebony. Your commitment to the environment and the future of guitar craftsmanship is admirable. Touring your factory is high on my To-Do list!
A man in a position to make a difference is doing just that! Thank you for your stewardship to the planet and for the education. The mixed colors look good. Like some sort of exotic wood. Imagine a fingerboard that color on a Koa guitar! Kudos to Bob Taylor!!
Wow. This is fantastic. I'd happily have a fretboard with some colouring in it. Each guitar is even more unique. I truly hope and wish more companies take an ethical approach like this.
I couldn't agree more. Well said and better yet, well done. Thank you for using your position to positively impact the way we use our planet's resources.
Thankyou Bob - thanks for educating us & for pioneering sustainable guitar manufacturing. We love your guitars & we trust you completely to continue making beautiful instruments that ensure the sustainability of all the resources you use. I would love to see similar statements coming from the other major guitar brands.
What a good person. I appreciate it a lot when people in positions of power use that power for good.
+CoDisafishy I actually like the color in the wood anyway, I have a Washburn with a pure black ebony fretboard and it's kind of dull in comparison.
Lets hope that he's living up to what he says....I'll certainly take him at his word for now. Sometimes (actually most of the time) people get quasi government granted monopolies like this and talk a good game while doing the opposite behind closed doors. It's not hard to understand why when you think of the incentives though.
Another point is this, I can't help but wonder if its possible to start looking at a way to farm these trees like is done with other woods - it would certainly take some time, but I think it would eventually help the supply curve problems. It seems there are plenty of environmental space available now seeing that other places that had the wood have been harvested out.
Actually, that's not only a good idea, but the solution. We tend to use things up - sort of like locusts. For example, way back when fishermen would go to the Grand Banks and catch all the cod they wanted. Now the cod are all but gone. n West coast, the same with salmon. Used to be giant redwood trees, now they're only enough for display. Sure they cut the smaller trees, but you buy redwood and even top grade has knots. What does an ebony tree need to grow? Could we grow some here on tree farms?
I have known Bob and his wife since they were in their early twenty's. He is a man of his word, a man of incredible truth, honesty and fairness.
Miriam Conrad
I surely hope he’ll live up to his words since he owns 75% of commercially available ebony. I am an amateur guitar builder, more of a hobbyist and am using Richlite and as of recently Rocklite because ebony trees take so long to grow to a commercial grade size. Good on him
"...we decided to live in the truth of the forest" This man has articulated perfectly why guitar consumers have a responsibility to the environment. Much respect and patronage in the future. It would be nice to see a list of companies that buy from Taylor so we can buy from them.
His company is the lone supplier from the last producer on the planet. If its ebony it from Bob Taylor or it’s from the black market.
This video made me buy a Taylor.. so I was in the shop testing taylors with a friend.. and I liked one guitar better in sound, but it had a nice blonde spot on the fretboard.. my friend mentioned it.. you shouldn't buy that guitar because it has this ugly spot on the fretboard.. I told him.. I buy this guitar precisely because it has this 'ugly' spot on the fretboard. Another day a player also commented on the blonde spot... he said it was cheap stained.. I said.. oh no that's not stained, it's ebony. then told him this story from Bob in a nutshell... Personally I wouldn't mind a mix of white/black ebony as a fretboard it'll look wicked.
Personally, I think it can look great, sometimes better than a perfectly black board, but it can also look ugly. It’s kinda 50/50 for me depending on the size and shape of the spots/stripes. But as he said, it doesn’t matter because we won’t have any ebony left if we continue to be so picky.
I’m with you...I think the blonde streaks in the ebony is very attractive...I own a 2016 710 and was disappointed to find out that the blonde streaked ebony was saved for the 800 & 900 series guitars
that is what he was counting on. Soon the mottled ebony will go away and then what?
I will always respect the decision to go with natural looking ebony! Thank you Taylor!
now I want to buy a Taylor
+Isaiah Knoot They are great guitars.
Ditto!
Sorry, I am not going to pay $5,000 for Taylor 814ce DLX with a skunk striped fret board.
Then that's your prerogative. No one is forcing you to purchase a $5000 814ce with a skunk striped fretboard; but you won't be getting one with a pitch black fretboard either.
Powertuber1000 So you would be part of destroying the environment? And in the future, there will be no more ebony at all, then you pay thousands for a guitar entirely made out of fiberglass
I own and absolutely love my Taylor acoustic. After watching this video, I can honestly say how proud I am to have purchased an instrument from a company who truly cares more about the protection and cultivation of our natural resources.than satisfying peoples vanity and greed. Bravo! There is an important lesson here for us all. And for those who have "disliked" this video, I can't even express how truly unfortunate your lives must be to so easily dismiss this with ignorance. Shame.
The truth is, if there was actually more pure black ebony than specimens with streaks and colors, we would be chalking over huge amounts of money for the stuff with the color. It makes no difference. Its just in our heads. Good for Taylor. And Bob is a fucking G
+CrazyCow500 you are so right!
+Carolyn Darrier Actually, he's a decent specimen of a human being. More than can be said about you.
I don't think you understand what he implies by saying he's a G.
To say that CrazyCow isn't a decent specimen of a human being because of a 100% positive comment says a lot about what kind of human being YOU are.
An ignorant judgmental one.
TIMExBANDIT thanks for standing up for me but I think Colin was saying that towards someone that deleted their comment.
I just got an old martin d16gt with striped ebony fretboard and bridge, absolutely gorgeous!
Bob, you go down as one of my hero's because of this. As a human on planet Earth, thank you!
I am awed by this video. Mr. Taylor, you are an example of integrity that is much needed in all businesses. At the end of the day, I want great sound, no matter what the wood or what it looks like.
Thanks for giving the people who make their living harvesting this wood a fair shake.
This man and the way he does business makes me so glad that I bought a Taylor guitar. Not only is he saving the forest but he is seeing to it that the people of Cameroon are earning a livable wage and improving their lives. A great man making great decisions that benefit us all both now and in the long run.
If this were Taylor's only attempt to be sustainably ethical it would be one thing, but it's not. Taylor's way ahead on this not only in using figured ebony but also in passing forward, as in the Holden Village edition of the GS Minis, built with old-growth Engelmann that was cut as a part of a superfund clean-up of an old mine site whose arsenic-filled tailings were being washed into Lake Chelan. Expenses connected with logging and transport of the trees, milling, shipping and much of the building cost were donated, and Taylor in turn donated a substantial part of the purchase price on to a water reclamation project in Central America. He's walking the walk, friends, despite the catcalls of those on the fringes who know little about any of this.
So, is the arsenic why those GS Minis sound so good? ;-)
Brilliant! Great to see someone who has power over what we see and get for our instruments doing something right....many thanks to Bob Taylor and his company for taking the lead here :)
This was an inspiration, Bob Taylor! Thank you
An incredibly heartfelt video by an intelligent enlightened guy.
I tip my hat to you sir, if there were more people like you in this world: it would not be so screwed up.
Makes me want to buy a Taylor guitar!
Thanks for trying to save ebony!
At least one guitar builder is thinking ahead. His move benefits the people working in Cameroon, many other guitar manufacturers and Taylor's company itself. 45 people here are qualified to become either politicians or oil mine owners.
Looking to get my first steel string acoustic and Taylor definitely just earned so much of my respect for this video.
Checked out your channel, looks like your admiration translated into a sale for Taylor. Very cool to see!
I’ve been back three times to rewatch this video. So good to see.
I'm not typically an outspoken environmentalist, but I cannot find myself disagreeing with him at all. He's not raving at the viewer or condemning the human race, just simply explaining why we need to be conscientious about how we use these woods. It's good to cut waste wherever possible, in both a business sense and a conservationist sense. I just ordered a custom guitar with an ebony fingerboard, and I was expecting the usual flat black wood, but this one had gorgeous brown swirls mixed in the grain. Definitely something unique.
Cool! I hope you like your new guitar. :) I have to agree with what you said too.I like the tone of this video a lot; Mr. Taylor isn't on some soapbox and lecturing us about our greedy and destructive black-wood wanting ways. He is simply giving us a businessman's practical approach to the way the world currently is, and the way the world is going to have to work in the future if we are going to continue to enjoy ebony fingerboards. I can respect that approach.
Good comment. Actually, though most environmentally conscious people are not raving or condemning the human race. I think more often that is a false characterization (comment not directed at you) put forward by vested interests. This is what conservation and environmental stewardship looks like, and an example of what so many "environmentalists" advocate for.
here here Bob! that's what this world needs more of....positive action. a lot of changes simply won't be made by companies fearing a short-term loss of profit over the responsible route that needs to be taken.
I take my hat off to you sir.
Well said.
As a wood worker I know that there many grades of wood and the different grades of wood are used in different applications and the thought of just throwing away all but the "A" grade lumber is terrible.
The age of excess is over.
Soon people won't be able to just buy a new guitar when they want and the old ones will have to repaired so we can keep playing.
But for now enjoy all you have.
Well said, Bob.
All efforts to increase the sustainability of rare tropical wood use are much needed and appreciated.
I have shared this video with several luthiery groups on Facebook and it has received universal support.
Non-black ebony fretboards should be regarded as a badge of honour by any guitarist or other instrumentalist.
Thank you, Bob, for taking a stand and educating us. It is inspiring to see people make decisions with the future in mind, instead of simply focusing on short term profits.
That's exactly what he's doing! Only reason he wants to "educate" us, is because there is so little Ebony left, and he wants to make money on every last piece of bark!
If Bob really cared about the environment he would stop this madness and focussing on eco-friendly alternatives.
I bought a Taylor 714ce yesterday. I found this video while researching how to care for the ebony fretboard.
While trying out this guitar for the first time, I actually remember being struck by how beautiful and natural the ebony fretboard looks. I actually prefer the natural look over the all black look. I'm so sad that so much was wasted trying to find only the pure black wood.
Guitars are near and dear to my heart, and this video actually had me tearing up a little. Thank you Bob for making the right decision here. Love to see Taylor taking the lead in stewarding resources so that future generations can continue to enjoy wood guitars.
Taylor are pioneers in the sustainability of wood. I just bought a GS mini and it does indeed have a couple of pale marks in the ebony. I feel proud to own it. I parsed up the Martin Dreadnought Junior because it had a Rich-lite fingerboard and bridge, now i know why.
As many times as I have watched this, I get all the feels every time. Thank you Bob.
I think what he's doing is amazing and inspirational. I personally love the look of Ebony with mixed spots. I was honestly a little bummed when my taylor guitar came in with a almost entirely black fretboard😂 I think the coloration gives it so much more personality.
Way to go Bob. Your company is one of the reasons why I LOVE Taylor guitars. Thanks for helping save our environment.
He should have gotten some award or some recognition for taking the time to point all this out. I mean, he owns the company, he didn't have to say anything about this. It shows that the guy really has a heart, a conscience, and a soul.
I am so glad to be a Taylor artist. Started over 30 years ago to love playing Taylor guitars. they are in all my recordings, and performance. So glad to be part of the Taylor family and guitars that respect the planet. Thank you Bob and the team at Taylor.
Wise decision. Videos like these really need to get more attention, or else we won't be left with any good wood to make guitars with and might even end up with high prices of guitars with softer and lower quality wood...
Love Bob Taylor, love my Taylor guitar. I will always support a company that finds a way to be socially responsible and smart. How smart Bob was to listen to the workers and have the courage to lead a positive change for everyone. Go Bob!
A fantastic decision, and one that should have been made. Good on you Taylor!
That there are nearly 5000 likes and only 81 dislikes gives me a glimmer of hope for our world. This is such an inspiring story.
As a woodworker and a guitar player, it is insane that others would be that picky to only play or build guitars that used only the blackest ebony. Thank you Bob for making this decision.
Mr. Taylor, thank you for not only manufacturing wonderful guitars like my new 714ce, but for embracing the chance to be a steward of our forests. Bravo!
My new Taylor recently had some colour in the ebony, I was excited to see it because it made the guitar look so much cooler. Now knowing this story it only makes it so much better.
Definitely does not feel like a compromise to have colour in the ebony.
42 thumb downs? Really? I guess that means there's 42 complete imbisules that have watched this. Way to go Mr Taylor. We need more folks with your mindset.
Make that 43
Imbeciles*. Anyway, there's no real way to know if the dislikes are from real people or RUclips algorithm bots. Either way, RUclips removed the dislikes, so now y'all's feelings won't be hurt anymore. 🤷♂️
@@SuperBowser87why?
I just ordered a Taylor guitar the other day. While waiting in anticipation for it’s arrival, I stumbled upon this video. I cannot tell you how good I feel about spending my money with Bob Taylor’s company! I am even happier about my purchase, and proud to support such a great company!
I'll take my next slice of ebony with a spoonful of vanilla.
Well done Bob Taylor.... I thank you for your commitment to change for the better. Bravo!!!
This guy is a boss.
A man with integrity and vision, well done Bob Taylor!
04:29 "It was black, it was beautiful, it was hard"
Nobody else thought of it that way except you. Now, we all know what you've been watching. 🤷♂️
You are a beautiful human being!!! I own my most favorite guitar which is a Keisel/Carvin electric with ebony fretboard. Photographed it looks black. But if you saw it in person it has PLENTY of color variation and I LOVE IT that way. It has so much blonde and brown and I can't get enough of looking at it. It's like watching the ocean. Most important of all the guitar sounds out of this world, looks sexy (in person or photographed) and I couldn't be happier! God bless you sir!!! You are what the world needs now!! Peace & Love
He doesn't answer the most obvious question... is there any difference in sound between black and streaked ebony, or is the difference purely aesthetic?
Edward Holystone Every experienced electric guitarist knows an ebony fretboard on a guitar - all other variables being identical - yields a different-sounding instrument than a maple neck. This simple truth means that your assertion is factually incorrect. And ebony isn't employed as a top on acoustic or electric instruments, is it? In addition, and ultimately more importantly than its tonal characteristics, it is employed for its hardness (think how long a spruce fretboard would hold up), strength, and beauty. I am ever embarrassed for the many people like yourself who confidently make assertions on the web that simply can't be supported...
Paul Hopkins Couldn't agree more! May I direct you to the RUclips video of Pete Thorn demonstrating the James Trussart Steelcaster - an electric guitar with an entirely metal body. Perhaps you can explain how, since putative tonewoods have no tonal effect on a guitar's sound and are only chosen for aesthetic reasons, the guitar sounds EXACTLY like it was made of steel - and not wood. Just a coincidence, I'm sure...
Edward Holystone "The problem with this question is that ebony has no effect on sound. It just doesn't." --- just as you said, where's the proof? "it just doesn't" isn't proof.
Tana Butler Every electric or acoustic guitarist can't know the difference between an ebony or non-ebony neck with all other variables held constant. All variables held constant would mean that one guitar is played with an ebony neck and then refitted with a non-ebony neck and played again. That just doesn't happen and even if it did, there would be variables in how the guitar is played with each neck. I imagine it could be done with a machine that held the playing dynamics constant. And then there is the problem of our hearing memory which is terrible. Hearing comparisons of small differences need to be made with the variations switched immediately.
Marty Tippens Intending no disrespect, it "sounds" to me as though you're waaaaaaay overthinking this - the topic at hand is whether different guitar components affect amplified tone, not the means by which subtle differences might be detected and quantified. Several people have confidently (and ignorantly) asserted that the very idea of "tonewoods" is a spurious notion, as no components of a guitar other than pickups affect tone - others have agreed with them. They are all utterly wrong. To anyone who doubts that different body, neck, fretboard, etc materials and means of construction (set neck vs bolt-on or hollow body vs solid) affect tone, I invite them to view any of the videos here featuring Trussart Steelcasters and then return to this forum to explain why it is that these steel-bodied instruments sound EXACTLY like steel-bodied instruments rather than wood-bodied, if their assertions are indeed correct. I promise - hilarity will ensue. Case closed.
I was sent here because this video was mentioned in a PR class I'm taking. Very fascinating to not only learn about the challenges in ebony wood sourcing for use in guitars but also the PR campaign that Taylor put together to convince other guitar manufacturers to join him in sustainably sourcing this type of wood. He's absolutely right. Who cares how it looks? Sounds and plays the same as pure flawless ebony. Kudos to Bob for prioritizing sustainability and credit to him and his PR team for the campaign to convince others to go along.
Hey Bob, good luck harvesting the world's last available ebony. When I finally had enough money to buy any guitar I wanted, I went to Blue Note Music, in Berkeley. I spent the whole day playing all the high end guitars of the style I was looking for. I really liked Taylor & Santa Cruz guitars, but wound up buying a Martin 000C-16RGTE. I just preferred the sound and feel. It wasn't until some time later that I found out the fingerboard was a composite material -- Richlite. Now, after 12 years, the fingerboard shows no signs of wear at all, and after listening to your sad story about ebony I'm even happier about the instrument I chose.
What’s crazy is I prefer the streaks in the ebony. I loved my 614ce limited. Been looking for it again
i had a les paul studio 2011 model. It had what people here are calling "imperfect streaks". I call bullshit on that. Being unbiased, i felt the ebony looked beautiful. The streaks gave it unique character. People want pure black, richlite exists for that. Anything more is just selfish bullshit semantics by the privileged.
I feel the future of guitars lies mostly in synthetic materials. Whether people embrace it or not is a different story.
Almost everyone in the US is privileged. 🤷♂️
Thanks for not only creating change, but making it happen. You've set the example of awareness-in-action for the rest of the world to follow. You are an inspiration, Bob, and I'm so grateful I watched this video today.
My next acoustic guitar will be a Taylor. 'Nuff said. This story of abuse to our Earth enrages me. Humans can be such viruses to this planet!
You'll absolutely love it. Have had a 314ce for about half a year, and it quickly became my most cherished musical instrument. Worth every penny and more.
I have a seagull. They grow their own wood in Canada. Its easily a 1500 dollar sounding guitar. Check them out.
Lots of Hair but No Money I own an Artist Cameo Seagull flame maple back and sides ebony fretboard 2017...beautiful looking and playing guitar...don’t know when but after I got my Seagull they have started to use Richlite on their fretboards 🤮
This is the correct attitude in my estimation. You don't whine, you don't wring your hands and go apathetic, you look at what is and come up with an optimum solution. Thanks Bob!
I find that elephant tusk and ivory is a lot better sounding than ebony, I plan on using that on my fingerboard to save the trees.......
ivory would only work well as nuts and picks. Even then TUSQ is better.
Wise decision!
@@michatee Get a sense of humor. 🤦♂️
My wife just surprised me with a Taylor for my Birthday, I was blown away needles to say, so eventhough I've been playing for 30 years I was just doing research and found this video, it makes me love it even more.
Honestly Bob Taylor is a hero.
I am in the UK and recently bought a Taylor 514ce and as I sit here strumming my daughter is in Cameron working on a education project for two months as a volunteer. You have to admire the corporate organisations that occasionally take the same stance as the selfless individuals that work for free to help others and be environmentally responsible with a long term view, rather than short term profit. Well done Bob!
Kudos, Taylor Guitars!
I get my guitars custom built by my friend and Australian luthier, Grant Burkitt. I have two guitars with "figured" ebony fingerboards and they are not only great guitars but BEAUTIFUL guitars. People comment on the fingerboard colouration and ask what it is. I tell them what it is and why I CHOOSE this type of ebony!
We're talking about a man that makes maybe a dozen guitars a year. To know that a company as influential as Taylor have made the decision to use the perfectly good ebony that would otherwise rot in the Cameroon forests, lifts my heart. You are leaders in the guitar industry already, I hope the other major guitar manufacturers follow your lead. WELL DONE TAYLOR!
It's a new world we live in and we are glad that you have the ability to share it with the future!
Mr. Taylor, Thank you for being a good steward of the natural resources that God has given man kind. I have played Taylor guitars for 10+ years and will continue til I leave this world. Thank you, thank you, thank you. It is very nice to see a company embrace efforts.
Great thing that you’re doing and glad you made this video. I would love a guitar that had a lot of colors in the ebony. Taking wood shop in high school left me with a great appreciation for all types of woods and grains.
It makes me happy to see such a responsible and genuine guy. The way he speaks is just charming. Well, here goes my old acoustic to a rusty case. Here I come, Taylor!
Thank You Bob! I Love my Taylor curly maple and spruce GS series guitar. I am a cabinetmaker by trade and the woods you use are beautiful. Above all this is the sound and how your whole body vibrates with the spirit of the woods and spirit put into the making. I've been playing over 50 years and my Taylor is always a thrill. Now that you have been sharing your stories about the woods and harvesting them in the most respectful way to the trees and people involved, I Love my Taylor even more. Thank You for walking your talk and respecting our Mother Earth and her people. And providing a guitar with amazing quality and sound. This is so important in our time as we don"t have much time left without efforts like yours. DaveyJO Weaver
I have a lot respect for this guy. This is a great development.
I'm so impressed with you Bob ! Its easy to change the eye of the beholder and so you are.
Wood with visible grain is just so BEAUTIFUL !
I love and fully support when a private enterprise takes initiative such as this. It is a worthy cause, and good for everyone involved.
This is inspiring. Thank you for asking the questions and having the guts to make the right call.
That was wonderful, Bob, thank you for your vision and wisdom.
What a great, insightful video. I like the way Mr. Taylor speaks, too. I could listen to him talk about anything.
Thank you for being who you are.
It moved me.
I plan on buying a taylor guitar I've been researching the product and after watching this video I only feel more confident in my decision to buy one much respect to the company and the worker's providing a beautiful instrument
I could not possibly be more proud of my Taylor guitars. Thank you for doing this for future generations.
About 30 years too late, but completely refreshing and fantastic to here someone high-up in a major guitar company admit the past mistakes, and the positive steps already taken to secure the future of this rare and valuable resource.
I was thrilled to find this posted on FB this morning. I recently purchased a GS mini that had the brown and blond streaks through the fret board. The sales person did not have much information on why, but I thought it was beautiful. Well done Taylor!
Bob, You are the Man! This job came into the hand of the right person. As a young man learning to be a luthier I am inspired by you in so many ways. Your conservatism and doing it right it first and foremost. You are doing a great job for the future of fretted instruments. And guys like us that will be in the business soon should all thank you personally. Thank You Sir!
Bob Taylor, thanks for this Video and i love my 94 Taylor 910 guitar.
Thank you, Bob for respecting the planet and teaching others to do the same for our resources!!!!
This was one of the most upstanding videos I've ever seen. I will never speak ill of this company
Bob is the man. I love hearing him speak.
Bravo, Bob! Speaking as a small builder and long-term repairman, I hope that you never bow to pressure from this industry. It's time for us, as an industry and as a culture, to Grow Up, before it's too late. Keep up the good work!
Beautiful story from a man who makes beautiful guitars, well done sir.
My Taylor Big baby....Has streaks down the fret board one of the reasons I picked this guitar was because
they made it look unique/beautiful.
I am even more happy I picked this one after seeing this video.
Thank you Bob. Way to be a visionary with a heart!
This is why I buy Taylor. All businessmen should be this dedicated to making a fantastic instrument while taking care of the environment. Thank you Bob!
God Bless Mr Taylor.
I like Bob Taylor!
My 314ce and I thank you for your care and concern and worldy approach to conservation and preservation.
So so proud of playing Taylor. So much respect for Bob, such a good hearted person. In truth, I like the highlights in the Ebony but this was great to watch.
Great video. Thanks for the education on ebony. Your commitment to the environment and the future of guitar craftsmanship is admirable. Touring your factory is high on my To-Do list!
What an extremely powerful video. I think Mr Taylor does a fantastic job of explaining the crisis here. Quite eye-opening.
Thanks Bob, everything you're saying is hitting home with me.
A man in a position to make a difference is doing just that!
Thank you for your stewardship to the planet and for the education.
The mixed colors look good. Like some sort of exotic wood.
Imagine a fingerboard that color on a Koa guitar!
Kudos to Bob Taylor!!
Bob Taylor, you are the pioneer of building musical instruments and a pioneer of how business should be run.
Bob I'm so proud, that you would use your power in authority to influence the entire guitar market. That a way to lead by example!!!
Bravo! that story was inspirational. Thank you Bob and Taylor guitars for being sustainable!
Mr Bob Taylor, you Sir, have my deepest and most heartfelt respect. My next acoustic guitar will be a Taylor guitar. Thank you for what you are doing.
Wow. This is fantastic. I'd happily have a fretboard with some colouring in it. Each guitar is even more unique. I truly hope and wish more companies take an ethical approach like this.
What a beautiful perspective, Mr. Taylor! I applaud your decision!
I couldn't agree more. Well said and better yet, well done. Thank you for using your position to positively impact the way we use our planet's resources.
I applaud you on this. Well done. Living within our means and within our resources is a mentality that we all need to adopt.