The Drum Awards for Marketing - Extended Deadline

-d -h -min -sec

McDonald's

McDonald’s criticised for glib #slownewsday response to SXSW band query

Author

By John Glenday, Reporter

March 6, 2015 | 2 min read

McDonald’s has found itself out of tune with public sentiment after posting a glib response to a Facebook query from the band Ex Cops as to why the burger chain had no budget to pay artists at its SXSW showcase.

The question drew a sarcastic rebuke from the restaurant’s global media relations director, who replied: “We follow the same standard protocol as other brands and sponsors by inviting talented and emerging musicians to join us at the SXSW Festival. We look forward to serving McDonald’s food, drinks and fun in Austin. #slownewsday.”

This left many in the music industry distinctly unimpressed with criticisms centring on the tone of response and the fact that it was also untrue that sponsored showcases do not pay their artists.

Speaking to Rolling Stone magazine Ex Cops’ band member Amalie Bruun said: “They’re not following any guidelines because everyone else is offering money. They’ll have to take that up with South by Southwest if they think they’re following the guidelines … Other, much smaller corporations are offering us money.”

To prove the point Stereigum pointed to Dorritos splashing out $2.5m to secure the services of Lady Gaga in 2014… as did Samsung with Prince in 2013 and Kanye West in 2012.

McDonald's

More from McDonald's

View all

Trending

Industry insights

View all
Add your own content +