idea blog

Marketing commentary for better. Or worse.

In an ambitious attempt to introduce their brand to a younger market, Radio Shack rolls out this spicy ad to promote the Beats By Dre wireless speakers. Pivoting the popularity of Robin Thicks single Blurred Lines, the ad nearly reached one million views on Youtube a week after its launch. The spot is identical to the original featuring the same cast grooving to the smooth, feel good rhythm. However, it gets risqué as the cucumber shaped speakers get in the mix

From the start, the ad highlights the speakers’ suggestive shape as it’s placed between a hot dog bun. In another scene, they are pushed on a tray and subtly allege alternative functions to the end. All this while the tagline #UWANTIT flashes over the screen.

For obvious reasons this ad rubbed some groups the wrong way. But you have to give the Shack team credit for taking a risk. They struck while the iron was hot and it worked.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbtewxfcptw

Client: Radio Shack