Yeah it's unfortunate, but it seems that the relationship between some unhappy customers and John has become toxic. Maybe it's time to cut each others losses and move on before things really get out of hand.
I bought a second tune from another vendor because I didn't want to be held hostage to just the one, which put me back in control and now I have two to pick from.
Some might not be able to budget for a second tune, but for me, the cost factor far outweighed the grief factor of worrying about having a working tune.
GL to everyone