is one of the most popular singers in the history of music in the world and an undisputed icon of pop culture. He has released as many as 14 studio albums and dozens of timeless hits. One of them is undoubtedly the single “Like a Prayer”, which was used in Pepsi.
Pepsi’s collaboration with Madonna cost $5 million. Shortly after broadcast, the spot was taken off the air
Negotiations of cooperation between Madonna and Pepsi began in May 1988. At that time, the artist was preparing to create her fourth album, so participating in the spot seemed to be a good form of promotion. Ultimately, the contract, worth a staggering sum of $5 million, was signed after 8 months. However, the star set conditions. She agreed to appear with a can in her hand, but refused to drink the drink on camera. She claimed that the soundtrack should play the first violin, which, in her opinion, was supposed to influence the subconscious of consumers. Therefore, her “Like a Prayer” was used in the material.
The spot was announced long and loudly in the media. It was finally released on March 2, 1989, but the reaction was completely different from what was expected. Controversy was caused by numerous religious references and scenes in which the Madonna, among others, he kisses a black saint and dances in front of burning crucifixes. Catholic circles considered it a shameful mockery and called for a boycott. Ultimately, the ad was taken off the air and replaced with a video featuring Robert Palmer.
Madonna recalls the controversial ad. She appealed to Pepsi
However, the controversy did not negatively affect the reception of the singer’s music. A few months later, she received an award for the single at the MTV Video Music Awards. The album began to climb the rankings and receive only positive reviews from critics. To this day, it is even considered one of the diva’s best artistic achievements. After Pepsi recalled this collaboration a few days ago by publishing a modified version of the clip on YouTube, Madonna also decided to speak out. In her Instagram post, she referred to memorable events.
34 years ago I shot a commercial with Pepsi to celebrate the release of my song “Like a Prayer.” The commercial was immediately canceled when I refused to change any scene in the music video (…). This was the beginning of my illustrious career as an artist who refused to compromise on her artistic integrity. Thank you Pepsi for finally realizing the genius of our collaboration. Artists are there to disturb the peace
This time, however, the clip was positively received. Without a doubt, the generation gap influences the perception of scenes that were once considered shocking. Admiring words poured out in the comments.
That’s why they hate your genius and courage, because they themselves lack both
Queen of the revolution
You set trends in culture
Pepsi today regrets that it has withdrawn the advertisement from the air.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
