First up, watch this video:
Now, this was Akon doing his thing (pun not intended) at a concert in Trinidad. He humped the girl (allegedly only 14) all over the stage. You would have expected all the repercussions to be coming along Akon’s way after this wonderful dancing performance and yet, it has claimed another victim in Gwen Stefani.
Verizon Wireless, the main sponsor of North American leg of Gwen’s Sweet Escape tour has pulled out from the contract citing Akon video as one of the reasons. The tour is currently underway and Akon is one of the co performers.
It seems Akon has really hurt Verizon’s moral sentiments because in addition to the above act, Verizon has removed Akon ringtones and music from its stores and handsets. Verizon TV spots featuring Akon are obviously history.
As far as Gwen is concerned, the Verizon decision has some serious financial implications. Analysts estimate that the deal between Stefani and Verizon could be worth between $1.5-$2 miilion. The marketing value, above this, could be as much as $1 million or even more.
Let’s see what interested parties had to say.
We had already agreed to sponsor the Stefani tour when Akon was brought in and we have kept that situation under review. We have now decided to withdraw and the video was part of that decision.
Stefani manager Jim Guerinot, of Rebel Waltz:
We’re surprised and shocked they’ve backed out of it. Akon has been a perfect gentleman on this tour.We have had no complaints — nothing but satisfied people.
(Whom is he calling satisfied people? not the girl, I hope.)
Until now, Akon remains on the tour and both the artists have not come out with their own comments.
As far as I’m concerned, Verizon should know better than punishing Stefani for something she didn’t have a role in. The Akon episode didn’t even happen on her tour. And please leave Akon alone, doesn’t Verizon know that he’s so ‘lonely’!
