By: Amanda Anderson-Niles
Rick Ross paid the ultimate price for his controversial lyrics in Rocko’s remix to “U.E.O.N.O.” The lyrics delivered by Ross sounded like an ode to date rape to most, and because he took forever to issue a decent apology, the rapper ended up getting dropped by Reebok and losing out on millions of dollars. Rick Ross’ artist Meek Mill says it was pretty ridiculous for the shoe company to sever ties with Ross, but Reebok felt it was necessary considering a decent apology was not issued quickly enough and women’s activist groups were not planning to fall back from protesting the company. On the subject, Reebok said while confirming it had parted ways with Ross via a statement:
“Reebok holds our partners to a high standard, and we expect them to live up to the values of our brand. Unfortunately, Rick Ross has failed to do so. While we do not believe that Rick Ross condones sexual assault, we are very disappointed he has yet to display an understanding of the seriousness of this issue or an appropriate level of remorse. At this time, it is in everyone’s best interest for Reebok to end its partnership with Mr. Ross.”
Reebok’s CEO Uli Becker opened up recently about the matter at the FNCEO Summit that although he feels Rick Ross is a great guy, he lost his endorsement deal because he has “stupid advisors” around him. Footwear news tweets:
In related news, Meek Mill seems to think dropping Rick Ross will kill the company, but it’s been rumored that they are already looking into finding another rapper to replace Ross and keep their ties to the Hip Hop culture.
I agree. Had he issued a real apology when it happened, he’d still have the endorsement. He’s stupid too.
Or he was just too arrogant to think he could get caught up. He’s not smart, so this won’t humble him any.
THIS.
Yeah, it sounds like these rappers are employing their enabling and idiotic friends to do their PR. And Meek Mill needs to shut his flop a-s up. His woman hating a-s is a disgrace to black men.
Reebok will be fine. Rick Ross thinks too highly of himself. He was out of line and took too long to do the right thing. He thought he was untouchable. And if he doesn’t quiet down his little chihuahua Meek Mill, he’ll lose even more. The hood will not help you go platinum. Play your cards right.
I agree with the CEO. When a company drops millions on you to endorse their product, you can’t be stupid. It’s business 101, protect your brand!
I have no sympathy for these women hating rappers who have no problem disrespecting women to make money! I support Reebok!
He apologized and it need nothing eles be said. I do not think that the pocket change will hurt him any way. I see him where more nikes anyway. He helo ed reebox more than they helped him