The seismic shift in music distribution is forcing artists into the merchandising of add-on products as a supplementary revenue stream. The alcohol segment and especially wine has been a lucrative brand extension for many artists including The Rolling Stones, AC/DC and yes, Elvis Presley. That is until now.
The State Alcohol and Tobacco Company of Iceland (ÁTVR), has banned sales of Motörhead Shiraz in the country because the name “Motörhead” is apparently a nod to amphetamine abuse. Launched by the British rock band’s frontman Lemmy Kilmister, ÁTVR has refused to sell the Australian wine in the 48 Vínbúðin off-licences it owns across the country. In defence of the move, the company said the wine promoted an unhealthy lifestyle due to references to war, unsafe sex and substance abuse in Motörhead songs (cant argue with that Lemmy). Several EU countries are presently engaged in an all out offensive against the “scourge” of binge drinking and strong anti-alcohol sentiments could pose a serious threat to the distribtion other celebrity wines.

Well, looks like Lemmy is just gonna have to be content with action figurines and iPhone 4 cases in Iceland.

This song earned Mastodon a Grammy nod. And, for those of you wondering, no. Snorting wood chips will not get you high. The other part about mushrooms giving you super strength and a rug of a beard, its a scientifically proven FACT.

The free market economy has spawned a management culture that worships money, titles and influence, but true leadership is about changing the world incrementally… with lollipop moments!

In a clear case of flavor-of-the-monthism, another Hollywood heavy-weight has joined the likes of Francis Ford Coppola, Dan Aykroyd and Antonio Banderas by launching her own wine. Must admit, I do like the label; designed by street artist Shepard Fairey, creator of the famous 2008 red and blue Barack Obama “Hope” poster.

The wine, an Italian Pinot Grigio, is fermented and aged in stainless steel tank, will launch in California at US$19.99 a bottle, before expanding its distribution across the US later in the year. 2,000 cases of the 2011 vintage have been produced.