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A$AP Rocky never even got to the logo stage. Instead, a simple direct message turned into a public debate about trust, professionalism and whether clout is worth more than confidentiality. They say clout is a hell of a drug and this may be a great example.
A$AP Rocky slid into the DMs of respected logo designer Allan Peters.
“Good morning Allan. How much do u charge for brand logo revisions? Assuming you would be willing to do so I would be honored, love ur work, god bless.”
It seemed straightforward enough. Rocky admired Peters’ work and wanted to discuss revising a brand logo. There was no contract yet, no announcement and apparently no expectation that the conversation would become public. Guess what dude did?
Peters shared a screenshot of the private message on Instagram with the caption, “I have no words.” He was too excited…
Maybe it was a milestone worth celebrating. Rocky is a global superstar and he reached out so unexpectedly. But this particular celebration was short lived.
Rocky wasted little time making his feelings known in the comments.
“THIS IS JUST DISTASTEFUL. WELL I GUESS WE WON’T BE WORKING, BEST OF LUCK BUDDY.”
A potential creative partnership dissolved before it ever began. Damn.
I am thinking he can get over this. The press he is getting over the world is going to create more business. Whether or not it is A$AP type of business remains to be seen.
Across social media, people are debating whether Peters crossed an unwritten rule of professional etiquette. Many creatives believe confidentiality starts the moment a prospective client contacts you, regardless of whether money has changed hands. Others argue there was nothing confidential about the exchange because it contained no sensitive business information, only an expression of admiration and a pricing inquiry. AHHHHH…I think he played himself.
The entertainment industry operates on discretion. Stylists, photographers, producers, attorneys and designers often build reputations not only on talent but also on their ability to keep quiet.
Social media has changed that. There is another economy where ANY celebrity interaction can dramatically increase visibility overnight. Still, Rocky’s response suggests he values privacy above praise. There is one more maxim: secure the bag! Bro was not thinking money. He was thinking flexing.
As for Allan Peters, he gained plenty of attention, but whether it was worth losing the opportunity is a question only he can answer. At least it was not Rihanna.
Wanna take a stab at the AllHipHop logo, Allan?
or maybe create a logo for me?
