"Joe Duplantier, Gojira frontman, discusses his journey with ESP guitars and his ongoing preference for Charvel instruments, clearing up any rumors about him having multiple instruments due to infidelity."
Joe Duplantier Switches to ESP Guitars for Olympic Games Performance
Joe Duplantier, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the metal band Gojira, made a surprising choice for his instrument during the history-making performance at the Paris Olympic Games last year. Duplantier played a custom ESP XJ-1 electric guitar, marking a shift from his long-standing relationship with Charvel.
The all-chrome ESP XJ-1, equipped with an EverTune bridge and DiMarzio Fortitude humbucker, was Duplantier's pick for the occasion. He explained that he wanted to have fun and try new things beyond his established Charvel instruments. Despite this shift, Duplantier clarified that he still uses his signature Charvel models and will continue to do so.
Duplantier's relationship with ESP dates back years, with Metallica's Kirk Hammett personally introducing him to the brand. His decision to switch was also influenced by his fellow musicians, such as Mastodon's Bill Kelliher. Duplantier views instruments as tools for creativity, not as personal relationships, and enjoys trying new things.
Duplantier has been experimenting with other brands, but his affection for Charvel remains strong. He has been using Charvel's Tele-style San Dimas models for over a decade and has several signature models, including the Joe Duplantier Signature Pro-Mod San Dimas Style 2 HH Mahogany.
ESP confirmed Duplantier as a signature artist last year, coinciding with Gojira's appearance at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games opening ceremony. Duplantier is embracing his role as a frontman and wants to make a more visible stage presence. He has been in talks with ESP's Head Of Artist Relations, Tony Rauser, about creating a new instrument.
In an upcoming interview, Duplantier will discuss his decision to switch brands and his plans for the future. Stay tuned for the full interview, which will be published on our website in the coming weeks.
Gojira's performance at the Olympic Games expanded their influence beyond the metal scene on the global stage. Duplantier's choice to switch to ESP was not a sign of any issues with Charvel, but rather a reflection of his desire to experiment and broaden his musical expression.
- Joe Duplantier, who has been using Charvel's Tele-style San Dimas models for over a decade, has also experimented with other brands, such as ESP, which confirmed him as a signature artist last year.
- During the Paris Olympic Games, Duplantier played a custom ESP XJ-1 electric guitar, marking a shift from his long-standing relationship with Charvel.
- Duplantier's fellow musicians, including Mastodon's Bill Kelliher, influenced his decision to switch to ESP, as did a personal introduction to the brand by Metallica's Kirk Hammett.
- While Duplantier enjoys trying new things, he clarified that he still uses his signature Charvel models and will continue to do so, showing his affinity for both brands.
- In the upcoming interview, Duplantier will discuss his decision to switch brands, his plans for the future, and his potential collaboration with ESP's Head Of Artist Relations, Tony Rauser, to create a new instrument.
