In 2011, residents of Detroit launched a protest and online petition demanding Nickelback not perform at the NFL's Detroit Lions halftime show during American Thanksgiving. Now it seems a similar protest across the Atlantic is attempting to prevent Chad Kroeger and company from playing in London.
Time reports a crowdfunding campaign created by Craig Mandell entitled "Don't Let Nickel Back" has launched with 41 backers thus far. According to the Tilt.com campaign's official site the goal of $1,000 has $188 thus far with a photo of a younger Chad Kroeger shown with the universal prohibited symbol over the photo.
"Following the recent crowdfunding of a Foo Fighters gig in Richmond, Virginia that did not exist, the Foo Fighters agreed to play the gig -- subsequently traveling to Richmond and performing for thousands of adoring fans who helped make it happen," the description reads. "In a similar vein, we are attempting to ensure that Canadian 'rockers' Nickelback do not come to London, England to play a gig. With your help, we can ensure that the band do not schedule any gigs here, do not attempt to come here -- nor even phone here.
"Just imagine, thousands -- perhaps tens of thousands of music lovers -- all not witnessing an exclusive concert by Nickelback in London. It will be glorious. Legendary. Dare we say, game changing?"
The site also posted an update saying the campaign was not about "personal profit" and that proceeds will go to charity. "Or perhaps therapy for those who've been affected by the band."
A brief FAQ is included with the first question and answer being as follows: "What's wrong with Nickelback? Go listen to them."
A $1 donation will see an email sent to Nickelback's management on the donor's behalf "kindly requesting" to leave London off their touring itinerary. A $5 donation will see an email sent "forcefully insisting" the same request. A $10 donation will see the message laced with "explicit phrases" while a $50 donation will see a Nickelback MP3 sent to the band in an email.
Nickelback has yet to respond or comment to the campaign.
The band recently released two singles -- "Edge Of A Revolution" and "What Are You Waiting For" -- which will come from their upcoming studio album "No Fixed Address" set for a Nov. 18 release in North America. Thus far no tour dates have been announced according to the band's official site.
(Yes, Nickelback tops this worst Canadian songs list)