Jay-Z Leads Boycott Against Cristal

Source: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.4217

Jay-Z has taken the first step in boycotting the popular Cristal champagne drink by removing it from his 40/40 nightclub, after the ‘racist’ comments made in The Economist magazine by Louis Roderer courtesy of Cristal’s managing director, Frederic Rouzaud.

Last week, it was revealed that Rouzaud was unimpressed that the high market champagne had become popular with hip hop stars, calling the regular name-checks ‘unwelcome attention’.

“We can’t forbid people from buying it,” told Rouzaud. “I’m sure Dom Perignon or Krug would be delighted to have their business.”

His comments infuriated the Def Jam President, who has ordered its removal from his 40/40 sports club/restaurant.

“It has come to my attention that the managing director of Cristal, Frederic Rouzaud views the ‘hip hop culture’ as ‘unwelcome attention’,” said Jay-Z.

“I view his comments as racist and will no longer support any of his products through any of my various brands including the 40/40 Club nor in my personal life.”

The likes of Jay-Z, P. Diddy, and a whole host of other rappers have been supporting the upscale beverage since the late Nineties, often including the name in their lyrics.