The row over the use of Kurt Cobain’s likeness in a new Guitar Hero game has deepened, with manufacturers Activision lashing out at Courtney Love.
Guitar Hero is a huge selling phenomenon. With its unique guitar shaped controller, the game has become the ultimate in post-pub entertainment, allowing fans to step into the shoes of their favourite musician.
However a new instalment has caused a furious row between the remaining members of Nirvana and manufacturers Activision. Guitar Hero 5 contains a new character modelled on Kurt Cobain that fans can use to play any song.
Obviously, those close to the late singer have reacted furiously arguing that it is insulting towards Cobain’s memory. A hugely important figure in modern rock music the Nirvana singer retains a special place in the hearts of all who have heard his music.
The remaining members of Nirvana Dave Grohl and Kris Novoselic have issued a statement condemning the move by games company Activision, arguing that Guitar Hero 5 should be re-programmed to make Kurt Cobain linked to only Nirvana songs.
However Activision hit back by claiming that they had bought the rights to use Cobain’s likeness from his widow Courtney Love. Making things even more complicated, Love has threatened to sue Activision.
Speaking to NME, Dan Rosensweig has claimed that Courtney Love signed a legal agreement with Activision to allow them to use Cobain’s likeness.
“I do know that there’s absolutely a contract and we know that the cheque has been cashed,” he told NME. “I can only deal with the facts. It’s very clear what the terms are.”
“We care about the artists more than anyone else and we would like to make artists happy in every circumstance,” he said. “I’m disappointed in this case that there seems to be confusion between the band and the estate.
“It’s really not Guitar Hero’s confusion. We went and spoke directly to the estate and made it crystal clear, got the rights, paid for the rights, and really we’ve done what we’ve always done. The fact that the rest of the band and the estate did not communicate – I’m not aware of those facts”.
“I can’t speak for everybody being happy, (but) it gets done with complete consent from artists. These are the artists who fans love. We hope over time that the estate will appreciate that.”
Guitar Hero 5 is available to buy now.
