Bernie Rico Jr Guitars Update
So if you’re a guitar enthusiast you’ve probably heard of Bernie Rico Jr. Guitars. He is the son of Bernardo Chavez Rico or the founder of BC Rich. I have had the pleasure of playing a few of these instruments and I must they they are every bit what the hype says they are.
I was just recently in need of a new 7 string. And I have been desperately looking for a builder that I can bond with to make the type of guitars I love to play. My first thought was BRJ. I knew the build times were a bit long but the end product of any high end fiddle normally is. And like I said I have played a couple and they’re totally top notch.
But as of recently I noticed people saying that BRJ had gone dark. No response, orders not getting fulfilled. I personally knew a couple of cats that had worked with BRJ getting guitars built and toured the shop and met up with BRJ. So I held out. Well last night Bernie’s wife took to social media to address Bernie’s situation. I have to say this is totally sad to read and at this point one must say screw guitars just get better!! So I personally hope for the best for Bernie and his family.
Below is her statement that was posted on the BRJ Guitars and BRJ’s Facebook page.
“I am speaking to you tonight on behalf of my husband, Bernie. Bernie is currently unable to deliver this message, himself. I am not affiliated with BRJ Guitars in any professional sense, so I am unable to address any specific issues regarding outstanding orders with BRJ Guitars. In no way is this statement designed to assuage the confusion and anger those of you feel towards BRJ, or justify the extended delay on your orders. I am here to state facts, not give excuses.
Bernie is currently receiving acute psychiatric treatment in a controlled environment. By controlled, I mean that he has no access to phone, email, or basically any medium to conduct business with. Bernie has been admitted for psychiatric treatment several times since early 2012. More recently, Bernie was admitted 8 weeks ago, and his date of release has yet to be determined. My husband has developed a mental illness and is a danger to himself, and has been for some time.
As you can imagine, all of this has been devastating to our family. I have been left with a situation that I am in no way qualified to handle. I have limited and scheduled communication with my husband, so I am unable gain any immediate resolution in regards to his business. I won’t tell you to be patient, because I know that has been asked of you for far too long. I simply hope that this helps you understand why closure to this situation has been delayed, and why it will continue to be delayed.
On behalf of the Rico family, I sincerely apologize.
Teresa Rico.”
