Paul T. Klein

United Breaks Guitars (via sonsofmaxwell)

I’ve somehow, and for some reason, spent the last few weeks avoiding Dave Carroll’s “United Breaks Guitars” video.  It exploded on Twitter recently, receiving more than four million YouTube views in four days, and even causing a TimesOnline commentator to claim the song cost United Airlines $180 million, after their stock fell 10 percent this week.

After reading a HuffPo article about the song, I finally gave it a go, and I’ve fallen in love with it.  Dave Carroll’s voice is beyond perfect.  This is a classic country western song, complete with that mid-tempo polka bass and guitar licks reminiscent of the best of the Tennessee Three.  The chorus remains in your head after every play, the harmonies ringing in the vaults of your mind.  The song snarls in the most up-beat way - this is an every man whose finally had enough of being beat up by large corporations.  I think this is why country music is important.  When it’s done well, when it’s done with feeling, country music has commentary and force in full effect, dripping from every note.

Regardless of United’s stock, Dave Carroll has made an impact with this runaway hit.  United Airlines has contacted Carroll, and has reportedly expressed interest in playing the video as part of their training program for baggage handlers.

I hope United takes this to heart.  I’m entirely tired of flying on airlines (United or otherwise) where my baggage is returned to me with stolen or broken items.  Losing baggage is a terrible experience.  Receiving broken baggage is even worse.  Airlines have written their rules so that they are almost never liable for baggage, and that’s wrong.  Companies must realize (and this goes beyond air travel) that they have a responsibility to their customers to offer the most in satisfaction and a quality experience.  If we’re going to pay money for movies, music, travel, and food, then we as customers deserve our value.  If my flight is going to cost $27, then I don’t expect much, other than a safe flight, but if I’m paying $200 or $300 for a plane ticket (often one way), then my luggage should be returned to me safe and sound.

End of the line, though?  This song rocks.