Publications
Partners
Surprising numbers of you were fooled (and a few of you weren't) by our story claiming that Van Coke Kartel lead singer Francois Van Coke was being sued by the Coca-Cola Company over his use of the name Van Coke. But more surprising was that we managed to punk the man himself. Francois himself was briefly duped this morning when his publicity people and bassist Wynand played along with the prank by calling him to say that the police had asked for his address and were on their way to serve him with papers!
Many of you expressed your loyalty to local musicians by swearing never to drink Coke again, or offering to switch to Pepsi. The truth is, it’s April 1st, and Coke is NOT sueing Francois. However the truth is stranger than fiction, it seems! Fact: South African musicians playing Coke Fest are, for the most part, not being paid to appear, but are mostly doing the gig in exchange for publicity.
Yes, the best way to fool people is still mix lies, and the truth – just ask your friendly Member of Parliament if you don’t believe us.
The original story:
"Exclusive! Coca-Cola Company is has launched legal action against alternative Afrikaans rock star Francois Van Coke of Van Coke Kartel and formerly Fokofpolisiekar, citing the greasy-looking star's use of their brand as a stage name as "hugely damaging" to Coca-Cola's fun, sunny image.
"Coco-Cola takes great pride in our brand, and we can't afford to allow it to be hijacked by those wishing to exploit it for their own purposes," said Coca-Cola.
Coca-Cola added that they are strong supporters of South African music.
"We wouldn't want to do anything to harm local musicians. We respect and support them through projects such as the Coca-Cola Zero fest, where they get to play free of charge to small audiences before the overseas acts arrive," a spokesperson added.
When contacted for comment, Francois 'Van Coke' was "unaware" of the legal action being brought against him.
"They probably sent the letter to my wrong address. But maybe Wynand [bassist] will know what's cutting? In any case, that's not really the kind of coke I named myself after, so they can piss off. What are you doing calling me this early for about this kak?"
"Bye-bye you," he added wittily, before slamming down the phone.
The legal action against Francois comes in the wake of other difficulties faced by the Afrikaans rock star. Francois "Van Coke" was recently refused KKNK Festival accommodation in the conservative small town of Oudtshoorn, because (among other reasons) the star is rumoured to enjoy wild parties but claims that he was looking forward to enjoying a "quiet time" at the festival. "
