AP File Photo
Black Eyed Peas (AP File Photo)
THE BLACK EYED PEAS
The story: When the guys who brought us happy tunes like ‘Where is the Love’ and ‘I Gotta Feeling’ announced that they would be gigging in Malaysia on September 25th, as part of Guinness’ Arthur’s Day celebration, there was a huge uproar. Being a rather strict Muslim country where consuming alcohol is a huge no-no for Muslims, the government called for the gig to be banned as the party was being sponsored by a beer company. In a statement released by the officials, Malaysian Muslims were initially banned from attending the concert, but non-Muslims were given the green light to “go and have fun”. After weeks of going back and forth, the government finallyagreed to let Muslims attend the event.
The outcome: The Black Eyed Peas celebration gig is a go. Guinness has struck a win-win deal with our local authorities; agreeing not to sell alcoholic beverages at the gig or use its logo in promotional material relating to it.
