Whassup

Whassup (also known as Wassup) is a commercial catchphrase and campaign created by Charles Stone III for Anheuser-Busch Budweiser beer in 1999. The campaign was originally conceived from a short film titled "True", directed by Stone himself. The ad debuted on television during the 1999 Super Bowl and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The campaign features a group of friends greeting each other with the phrase "Whassup?" while enjoying a Budweiser.

Background

The "Whassup?" catchphrase originated from a short film called "True", which Charles Stone III created. The film showcased the director and his friends saying "Whassup?" to each other as a form of greeting. Recognizing the potential for a unique advertising campaign, Anheuser-Busch adapted the concept for Budweiser. The commercials depicted friends watching sports and talking on the phone, all the while greeting each other with "Whassup?" in a humorous and exaggerated manner.

Cultural Impact

The Whassup campaign was a massive hit, quickly permeating American pop culture. It was referenced in various television shows, films, and other media outlets. The phrase "Whassup?" became synonymous with casual greeting among friends, showcasing the campaign's ability to influence vernacular speech. The success of the campaign also led to several parodies and variations, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Awards and Recognition

The Whassup campaign received numerous awards for its creativity and impact, including the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity's Grand Prix award. Its widespread appeal and innovative approach to beer advertising were cited as reasons for its success in the advertising industry.

Legacy

The Whassup campaign is remembered as one of the most iconic advertising campaigns of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Its influence extended beyond the advertising world, affecting pop culture and language. The campaign's success demonstrated the power of relatable and humorous content in creating a lasting impression on the public.

See Also

• Advertising campaign
• Budweiser
• Cultural phenomenon
• Viral marketing