Like I mentioned previously, we know who the man behind the curtain is. It doesn’t bother me all that much from an artist’s perspective. Do you, yaknaimean? What does bother me is the idea that there might be even one individual out there that thinks we’re mindless and we will blindly consume. So to that point, I’ll take this as an opportunity to plainly state that I dislike Soda. And I especially dislike the high fructose corn syrup that goes into them. I dislike the aftertaste and I dislike the fact that these soft drinks never really quench my thirst. I reject this sponsor and I see this as a deterioration of their brand. But yeah, video and song ain’t that bad. Peace.
Oh, before I go, if you want to learn a bit more about the debate between supporters of High Fructose Corn Syrup as a sweetner and those that would argue that more natural sweeteners, like Cane Sugar, provide a better taste and less health risks try reading this LA Times article. Recently published, it explores what could be characterized as the early stages of a shift in consumer demand. As the article goes on to point out, even some bottlers are revising their product makeup. And let me not front like I don’t drink Soda. I do. I actually have an extended history (who doesn’t?) with Coca-Cola and other carbonated beverages. Growing up with Coke as a house staple, I can’t help but sometimes be drawn to it’s cool aluminum finish and sizzling downpour. Not to mention it works so well with Bourbon. But the difference between my adult experience as a soda drinker and that experience of the younger G is that, nowadays, I tend to suffer a lot of consumer disonance when buying or consuming these gaseosas, and I’m getting more intensely heated about the entire situation.
Also, as anyone who has visited a Latin American country has probably experienced, Coca-Cola and it’s countless brands and competitors have had a tremendous impact on the urban and rural visual experience in many countries. Not to discount the similar impact it has had in the United States but, it hurts (me) more when I visit remote villages in South America and undoubtedly find a large Coca-Cola awning or banner in the midst of a poverty stricken people. Coca-Cola’s historic marketing efforts are taught in business schools all over but let’s not get into that right now. Let’s just keep it simple. Why is a questionable product so ingrained within countless cultures? Is there any way to disturb it’s prominence? Should we want to disturb it’s prominence? And of course, what does this have to do with hip-hop? Nothing, directly. But lets just say, implicit acceptance is still acceptance. My relationship with soda and other questionable diet practices has been a regular conflict-ridden part of my life but I’m working it out. For my sake and my children’s sake. Ok, I’m really out this time. Ok, almost. One more recommendation. If you’re interested in diet practices and/or the history of food products and their impact on our health and society, I recommend reading, In Defense Of Food by Michael Pollan. A lot of current, practical information presented clearly and concisely. Out!
