In an unforgettable special “press only” event at Guitar Center Hollywood on September 25, 2025, CEO Gabe Dalporto introduced guests to the reenergized Guitar Center—which is dedicated to forging a trusted and supportive community with serious musicians, emerging players, collectors, manufacturers, artists and educators.
As Dalporto walked the audience through Guitar Center’s flagship store, he revealed enhancements to the retail experience the company has innovated nationwide, including dedicated rooms for vintage and used instruments, drums, acoustic guitars, keyboards, live sound and more; easily accessible premium gear (the “good stuff” is no longer out of reach on high racks) and Pedal Stations that make trying out different effects boxes quick, effortless and fun. AI-powered tools—such as our Rig Advisor—are also part of the mix as Guitar Center seeks to revolutionize the shopping experience with helpful apps and other informational systems.
Pictured: Guitar Center CEO Gabe Dalporto Giving Pedal Station Demo at Guitar Center Hollywood
The event crowd was also treated to “only in Hollywood” happenings, such as the company’s famous RockWalk that bears the handprints and signatures of legendary players and industry icons, and the store’s collection of museum pieces that include Eric Clapton’s “Blackie” Stratocaster, as well as gear from Eddie Van Halen, B.B. King, Slash, Johnny Cash and other celebrated artists.
Guitar Center’s commitment to helping players evolve and refine their skills with comprehensive in-store lessons was demonstrated with a group guitar lesson lead by founding Velvet Revolver member, Grammy-winning guitarist and Guitar Center Senior Director of Music Education Experience, Dave Kushner. The attendees were taught some fundamentals on provided Taylor GS Mini-e Rosewood Sunset Blvd acoustic-electric guitars (a stunning special edition inspired by the Hollywood store) before Kushner showed them how to play the riff to a popular song—“Enter Sandman” by Metallica.
But the adventure didn’t end there.
Suddenly, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo walked out to surprise the guests by joining in to jam with them, answer questions and offer up some tips on playing “Enter Sandman.” Then, another surprise. Trujillo gave the audience a pre-release peek at his Guitar Center-exclusive Godin A4 Robert Trujillo Yellow Flame Acoustic-Electric Bass. The Godin A4 and companion 5-string version, the A5, are extremely rare collector’s instruments limited to just four units (two models each) in the United States. Only 12 units (six each) were manufactured for the entire planet, so those will rock a Godin Robert Trujillo Yellow Flame will be members of a very exclusive club.
Even more incredible, each bass is personally signed by Trujillo and comes with an embroidered strap designed and signed by artist Chloe Trujillo (the bassist’s wife). Those will buy one of Trujillo’s A4 or A5 acoustic-electric basses will also help Metallica fight hunger, support workforce education and sustain critical local services, as Godin is donating a portion of proceeds to the band’s All Within My Hands Foundation.
While the Hollywood event was a massive thrill ride for those who attended, it showcased Guitar Center’s dedication to providing creators everywhere with whatever it takes to follow their musical dreams.
The Guitar Center of right now is far more than just a store. Whether you visit one of our locations or peruse the gear and informational articles on our website, our team proudly celebrates and supports the vast community of live performers, home-studio musicians, producers, engineers, gear manufacturers, educators and all who create sounds that astound.