The 80's New Wave band Devo is suing McDonald's over a Happy Meal Toy. The toy, New Wave Nigel, is part of McDonald's American Idol-related line of give-aways based on various genres of music.
Devo's Jerry Casale says
"This New Wave Nigel doll that they've created is just a complete Devo rip-off and the red hat is exactly the red hat that I designed, and it's copyrighted and trademarked.
"They didn't ask us anything. Plus, we don't like McDonald's, and we don't like American Idol, so we're doubly offended."
Sounds like Q.E.D. to me and something of a surprise that an organisation like McDonalds could be so naive - did they even know who Devo were (or are - do they still perform?). I'd be especially careful about appropriated things from the cultural landscape in advertising - especially if on the grounds that 'it was part of my childhood'. You may not own your memories. I wonder if Lemon & Paeroa got permission to use the 'Stubbies' brand (of shorts) for use in its commercials? (and if anyone would lay claim to being their creator?)
VIA Fast Food News
apparently new wave nigel also plays music, and rather bad music at that. this flickr page just goes to proove how deep the devo link is perceived
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/photos/carianoff/2423604433/
and listen http://www.flickr.com/photos/carianoff/2431828908/in/set-72157604611635474/