Ozzy, Paul Stanley, Joan Jett Poke Fun at Term ‘Rock Stars’ in Super Bowl Ad
by Best Classic Bands StaffOzzy Osbourne, Joan Jett and Paul Stanley lead a group of classic rock icons in a new ad timed for Super Bowl LVII admonishing the corporate world for co-opting the phrase “rock star,” noting it should be used sparingly, and only for those who have rightfully earned it through years of decadent, defiant behavior.
Ozzy Osbourne in a scene from Workday’s “Rock Stars” ad
From the Feb. 6, 2023, announcement from technology company Workday: Workday is known for creating “rock stars” in the workplace, including more than half of the Fortune 500 companies, and a customer community of more than 60 million workers around the world. Workday has brazenly celebrated its finance and HR “rock star” customers via advertisements and social media campaigns. Following this outrageous display, several real icons felt their voices could no longer remain silent.
“Back in the day, we were wreaking havoc in every town, not managing processes through ‘real time reporting and analytics,'” said Osbourne. “In fact, I don’t even know what that means. Real rock stars don’t ‘circle back,’ or ‘take it offline,’ and we sure don’t send ‘friendly reminders.’ Really mate, I’m happy Workday makes your job easier, and I bet your boss even likes you more. I’ve got to say, the thought of making a boss happy really annoys me…”
Stanley, legendary frontman of Kiss, opens the new commercial pointing out the ongoing offense and reminding rock fans, “9 to 5? Sure! 9pm to 5am! I love my office because I share it with 50,000 fans and the only suit I wear has studs all over it. Now ‘Who’s a rock star?'”
Billy Idol said members of the rock and roll community were disheartened by the flagrant proliferation of the term “rock star” in emails, pings, and meetings.
The “Rock Star” commercial reminds viewers what true rock star antics look like, with Gary Clark Jr. demonstrating the commitment required to shred a guitar lick, Jett reminding viewers she’s been touring since she was 16, Idol recounting the determination required to trash hotel rooms in 43 countries, and Osbourne recalling the complete lack of business synergy that led him to do his fair share of “bad things.”
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1 Comment so far
Jump into a conversationSold out to the man! For the long, mean green! Oh, the humiliation! The disappointment of millions . . . nay, BILLIONS of fans worldwide and galactic.
I guess Alice Cooper holding a headless bat was out of the question. Ditto Jimmy Page and a fish.
Grab that cash in both hands and make a stash. I shoulda learned to play the guitar.