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Clinton Video Leads to Unintentional Guffaws

This story just goes to prove that the road to hell in the blogosphere is paved with good intentions.

Last August, Gene Wang, Silicon Valley executive (he handles the overseas marketing for Hewlett-Packard's handheld division) and ardent Sen. Hillary Clinton supporter, decided to do something to support her. Last August he got together a lot of young people and some musicians (including himself - he plays the flute)and some video makers and he created "Hillary4U&Me."

He uploaded the video to YouTube and it sat there for a while ... through the late summer, through the fall fund raising follies, through Obama's victory in Iowa, through the Clinton comeback in New Hampshire, through Super Tuesday and the Potomac Primaries ... but on the Internet, nothing remains buried for long.

Maybe it was the recent video by Will.i.am for Obama, with its high-powered film and music stars and slick production values, that made people look for other "music videos" about the candidates. Whatever the reason, "Hillary4U&Me" was rediscovered this week. The result was a bloodbath.

The video quickly became fodder for the kind of attacks that one can only find in the blogosphere. The reaction was so negative, some bloggers actually put forward the theory that it was created by the Obama camp to discredit Clinton.

The video itself? Think "Up with People" in the Nixon-era. Here it is:


But to his credit, Wang is not backing down. He told The New York Times that he's proud of the work he's done.

"I do agree that some of the Obama videos are better. But we have the better candidate by far," he wrote in an e-mail message. He added: "For all the naysayers, I'd like to see their YouTube music video."

He believes that the criticism is born of the antagonism some Obama supporters feel toward Clinton. And, far from being discouraged, he said the critics have inspired him: "It kind of makes me want to do another one."

Er, maybe that needs a little more thought.

 

Comments

Oh dear. I'm for Obama myself, but out of respect for the dignity of Senator Clinton, could this guy PLEASE not make another video for her? Seriously.

The "Up with People" comparison is apt, though one friend of mine described it perhaps even more precisely: "It sounded dangerously close to 'I'd like to buy the world a Coke.'"

Sent by Victoria Marinelli | 11:26 AM ET | 02-15-2008

Oh, come on people. It isn't THAT bad, especially for a non-professional effort. The real question is, where can I get one of those T-shirts?

Sent by Kerry R. | 11:34 AM ET | 02-15-2008

Good grief I couldn't even finish it. Oh the humanity!

Sent by TK | 12:34 PM ET | 02-15-2008

Tee hee. Yes I found it actually charming. Sorry. Don't know what all the Hillary-hate is coming from. It's just a bunch of people with no rhythm dancing around.

The Will.I.Am video is much worse in my opinion. I'm allergic to celebrities.

I like both candidates.

Sent by Nathan in Holland | 12:48 PM ET | 02-15-2008

If eight-year-olds could vote, I'm sure this would be a great way to reach them. It's not the Coke jingle they're ripping off -- it's an old (OLD) Jackson Five song.

Sent by DM | 1:08 PM ET | 02-15-2008

I like the Clinton video far better than the slick, hyped, over "celebed" Obama one. I couldn't watch it through. I am fatigued by Americans love of famous people. Maybe most Americans really do think they are electing David Palmer from the show, 24. I thought the Clinton video was made in a country I would like to live in, with real people, doing some real things.

Sent by judith | 1:28 PM ET | 02-15-2008

Was this made by the same team that produced the Appalachian State University is HOT HOT HOT promo?

Sent by SB | 2:31 PM ET | 02-15-2008

It is kind of nice to see some average people making a video for their candidate. That said, this was pretty humorous for the 70s feel and the smiles the choreographed dancers had. Whether you love or hate the will.i.am video, it has a lot more appeal to young people than this video. The number one reason is definitely that this Hillary video is using a Jackson Five song. If they are trying to get the youth vote excited about Hillary (which I would think is at least part of the point, since it is on YouTube), they should definitely use a more "now" song rather than one that was a hit before anyone in the 18-29 bracket was born. Just a suggestion.

Sent by JP | 2:36 PM ET | 02-15-2008

@DM - "If eight-year-olds could vote, I'm sure this would be a great way to reach them." The funny thing is, my husband, my teenager and I are all for Obama (husband and I voted Tuesday here in Virginia) - but my eight year old is the one Clinton holdout.

(If this form will permit links, you can see the blog post on that here:

http://tinyurl.com/3xf988 .)

But back to the video. I played it for the whole family last night (gave it a completely straight-faced, irony-free introduction); my husband and thirteen year old cracked up laughing, while my eight year old was bobbing around and signing along in absolute earnest.

If eight year olds could vote, Clinton would have this election in the bag.

Sent by Victoria Marinelli | 3:39 PM ET | 02-15-2008

I enjoyed watching the video. Could someone explain exactly what is considered so wrong about it?

Sent by reza | 6:37 PM ET | 02-15-2008

This is not an amateur video at all, that's the sad thing.
It is not made by just 'average' people. It cost a few bucks to make, probably more than the Obama ones.

Sent by nerd | 7:15 PM ET | 02-15-2008

OBAMA video sucks - just like a prono video! This speaks with honesty. Credits given to where its due. Not to some striptease Obama girl flaunting herself and showed how Obame will turn the White House into - a porn house!

Sent by vincent | 7:34 PM ET | 02-15-2008

someome worked hard on it, and is sincere. you elitists should simply leave it at that, and ask what YOU have done for YOUR candidate.

Sent by history professor | 9:46 PM ET | 02-15-2008

I'm an Obama supporter, but regardless, this reminds me of a kids' television show.

Sent by Dawn | 10:38 PM ET | 02-15-2008

This the first time I heard of and seen the video. This is a good spirited, heart driven video by the ardent citizen. A non-profession, nor polished performance. Yet filled with fun, joy and sincerity. A slash of refreshing love and care that has been absence for a long time in this country. **** STARS.

Sent by ob | 1:15 AM ET | 02-16-2008

So THIS is what 'So You Think You Can Dance' and 'American Idol' losers do after Simon gives them the boot.

Sent by Debbie G | 5:57 AM ET | 02-16-2008

What is wrong with you snobbish, mean-spirited critics? This video wasn't a slick, professional product but it wasn't meant to be. It WAS genuine; however, a group of like-minded people showing their enthusiasm and doing something positive. In my opinion we could use far more of that in this campaign. Lay off, you smug cyber bullies!

Sent by Shari T. | 8:57 AM ET | 02-16-2008

Okay some of the lyrics I am hearing sound like it is Obama's message.

It is talking about , fighting a war we shouldn't have authorized?.

About the world is ripe for a change?

Instead of war, we can negotiate (sounds like Obama).

I think the guy had good intention but he just got the wrong message, clinton is contesting based on experience and past results why change that?

Sent by Mike | 12:31 PM ET | 02-16-2008

Please, somebody call the Jackson 5...this is copyright infringement.

Except that the Jackson 5 have probably forgotten more about "funky" than the songwriter, lyricist, and performers involved in this project have *Ever known*.

Sent by Elise in NH | 1:35 PM ET | 02-16-2008

Vincent and the Obama prono (sp?) video: Thank you for your utter nonsensical deride, it's now clear why some people should not be allowed to vote. Are you a simpleton?

And for Hillary4U&ME: well, guess some will go to any lengths to infuse "cool". For me it says more about what she is not. Fact is few have the "it" and if you're looking for aplomb look no further than Obama. A once in a lifetime magnet..he just has it, the innate ability to unite. Call it whatever, but isn't that what we are looking for in the end?

Sent by geeman | 2:26 PM ET | 02-16-2008

Stale and boring. Just like Hillary. At least Obama inspires people to do something a little more expressive, adventurous or meaningful. That is what's at stake in this election. Same old stuffy people, stale, lame and discouraging or we are inspired ourselves to keep moving forward into our future.

Sent by Matthew | 4:35 PM ET | 02-16-2008

WOW... almost as bad, repetitive and boring as the gal herself.Sorry, but it is time for a change and this ain't it !

Sent by Jane F | 4:53 PM ET | 02-16-2008

a vid by the people who are standing up for what they believe in. professional or sleek? no. so what?

Sent by Greg S | 5:43 PM ET | 02-16-2008

A 'controversy' or 'story' like this clearly shows how petty and dumb is our political landscape. This video is honest and not so badly done.

In case you've been sitting alone in your basement watching MTV or something, here's a news flash: This is what *actual people* look like when they dance, etc.!

Sent by brian d. | 6:47 PM ET | 02-16-2008

I was for Obama but this video is just what I needed to turn me into a Hillary voter. EAQ

Sent by Edythe Ann Quinn, Ph.D. | 9:05 PM ET | 02-16-2008

Well done!!!

Sent by Florida for Hillary | 10:05 PM ET | 02-16-2008

The music was not original, but was preformed well (on the beat & in tune), and while not overwhelming, it wasn't that bad. I'm sorry to belong to a country condemning Hillary for something her fans clearly did out of patriotism. Here we go again: cynical liberals will ruin the next election as we make-fun of activism from our computer keyboards instead of getting out there & doing something for the good of humanity, whatever that might be.

Sent by margaret hoff | 10:25 PM ET | 02-16-2008

agree with brian d. above. I think it's kind of sweet, even tho I'm more inclined to vote for Obama.

Sent by Nettie | 4:08 AM ET | 02-17-2008

Hey, aren't we all idiots for worrying or thinking about any of this? I am glad to know that it is not an official campaign video, however.

Sent by Chris Harlan | 12:38 PM ET | 02-17-2008

I've been down with the flu all week, and this just made me laugh so hard it hurts.

In all honesty, I think it's kind of cute. The lyrics could've used some serious work of course. Still 'fired up' for Obama here, regardless.

Sent by Elizabeth M. | 2:11 PM ET | 02-17-2008

It's truly a shame that we're living in a time where a slick video/song, spotlighting famous entertainers, is the way to win an election. I think the Hillary video is a gem, and a true testament to the kind of voice that this country was built on...that of the common citizen, fighting for who or what they believe in. That's my kind of America!

Sent by Samara | 2:13 PM ET | 02-17-2008

One thing this video is missing is Mr.T. I couldn't even finish the whole thing.

Sent by Rena | 3:19 PM ET | 02-17-2008

Hey, I'm 70 years old and I liked the video. Maybe the video is not so "slick", but someone thought enough of Hillary to make it. Give him credit! As for the election, it's a tough choice, but I like getting 2 seasoned people for the price of one.
Old gal, Sal -- but still kickin'

Sent by S. Preski, PhD | 3:48 PM ET | 02-17-2008

this video and obama's are proof that we have been dumbed down!
still waiting for a real discussion from candidates.

Sent by randolph blanc | 3:57 PM ET | 02-17-2008

It that doesn't look like fun and a good direction for America, you might want to consider antidepressants..

Sent by David Wierdsma | 8:06 PM ET | 02-17-2008

Oh, dear. In a perception-is-reality world, it won't matter this this video was not posted as an answer to the Will.I.Am. When I first saw it I asked "was Pat Boone unavailable?" It is uncool. It would have been uncool 50 years ago. On the other hand, it reflects another perception-is-reality contrast between a serious candidate who takes herself, as well as her issues, seriously and another serious candidate who is able to take himself lightly. Is it real or is it Memorex? Who knows?

Sent by Richard Careaga | 9:06 PM ET | 02-17-2008

While some people here might like it, if it was meant to target younger people it failed miserably. One only has to look at the YouTube comments to see how they find it laughable with that cheesy 80s/90s production value.

Sent by Jason | 9:50 PM ET | 02-17-2008

I'm reminded of, when George Bush, Sr. was campaigning in 1992, several members of a young Republican group were paid to mingle with some Clinton supporters wearing shirts that said "Bush is the DUDE!" in an attempt to make Bush seem "cool" to younger people. We all remember how that turned out. :) Funny how the tables are turned now, with the Clinton camp looking just as uncool and out-of-the-loop. Obama has it. He's a brilliant politician and knows how to appeal to people. I think it would be hard to NOT be embarrassed by this.

Sent by C. | 9:42 AM ET | 02-18-2008

It's not easy to make these videos.

Anyway, last night I went in search of recent campaign videos, and I ended up voting for this Ron Paul video as my favorite for the night.

It's the Ron Paul video that mixes the famous Apple/Orwell 1984 Super Bowl commercial. Just go into Youtube and type in 'Ron Paul 1984' and tell me if you enjoyed this video as much as I did.

In the category of nostaligic campaign ads, I never tire of the 'JBJ Daisy Ad' on Youtube.

Also, for hoots, type in 'Mike Tyson Monster Mash' to view Typson and singer Bobby Brown performing the song on the Jimmy Kimmel show.

We do these little chores in the spirit of fun politics.

fred camorra call

Sent by fred camorra call | 10:00 AM ET | 02-18-2008

THIS VIDEO IS AWESOME!

I love it. It is clearly non-professional and heartwarming. It made me smile.

as for comparisons with "up with people" need I remind everyone that Nixon won- twice

Sent by Ronald | 11:15 AM ET | 02-18-2008

Let me get this straight. Some Clinton Supporter(s) makes a video that the Clinton campaign is embarassed enough about that they accuse Obama' camp as having created it.,,,,,,,,:These Clintonites are just too insecure. This si made by real people - although the author probably had done it to gain fame and favor from the Clintons.....None-the-less, this just goes to show that the Clintons are so afraid of Obama, and full of themselves - and can not stand to see another person basking in their self proclaimed glory. Even within the Clintons family, they compete for power. Heard Bil on the trail talking about himself, even lying that he and old pres GW Bush are going to be travelling to other countries to mend American reputation since young Bush screwed up our image. Old Bush ssd that was a lie. Isn'yt he supposed to be campainign for his wife? Not mending his legacy.

Sent by Don | 1:53 PM ET | 02-18-2008

It really didn't seem bad to me. I will take that over most of the ads that are out.

Sent by Chris | 3:27 PM ET | 02-18-2008

You know who else is a really great orator. Marion Barry thats who. Some people have good judgment many, many people do not. Go Clinton.

Sent by Dan | 3:41 PM ET | 02-18-2008

I don't mind the quality of the video. Frankly, this type of video would be applauded if it were done by an average citizen. Regardless, it's the lyrics and how it is edited that make it ripe for political fodder. We should all keep our eye's out for Mad TV's version, which will probably be coming soon.

Sent by M. Moore | 4:44 PM ET | 02-18-2008

Hmm...actually the band is good. There is nothing *wrong* with the video. It's just a little corny from my standpoint. But so what? It's heartfelt, I think.

Now, to get the youngsters, I think instead "borrowing" the melody from the Jackson's "ABC," perhaps he should have borrowed "I Want You Back" and done something like Jay-Z's "I.Z.Z.O"...you know, "H to the Izzell. A to the Rizzay." (i.e. "Hillary" translated to Snoop Doggy Dog "speak")

Sent by Phillip | 7:24 PM ET | 02-18-2008

I agree with those who say that this video is bad, but certainly not THAT bad. It is in fact, clearly heartfelt. I'll be voting for Obama, I see Clinton as wholly entrenched, etc. But what bothers me is the Clinton camp's dirty ball, and then the subsequent attacks, such as the one on this video, by those Obama supporters who can't rise above those tactics. It is Democrats, in general, behaving like Republicans - Ugly and Stupid.

Sent by Tony Peters | 8:19 PM ET | 02-18-2008

I kept wavering on whether it was a joke or not, a la the John McCain video, john.i.am. Cringe-inducing, indeed.

Sent by Jason Weaver | 8:19 PM ET | 02-20-2008

You know...considering that most people on the left have been critical of mass apathy and a general disassociation from the critical issues that face most Americans... I think it is hugely mean spirited to knock what this motivated supporter tried to do for his candidate. No...its not MTV ready (do they even show videos anymore) but it appeals to him...and to people like him. It was sweet and innocent and positive. What are we all in high school where we kill the messenger because he isn't cool enough? I personally would rather frank exuberance to super spin, over-produced, ultra slick sound bites of non-information. While I am an Obama fan, how cynical can we get?

Sent by Ruth Lee | 6:00 PM ET | 03-03-2008

I'm a conservative who wouldn't vote for Hillary on a bet.
... But, I loved the video. you people who are saying bad stuff about it - I challenge you to do better for your candidate!

Sent by Myron Barrett | 6:36 PM ET | 03-03-2008

Is this from the 80's....ahhhh the good ol days---knightrider and members only jackets.

Sent by jayhop30 | 7:24 PM ET | 03-03-2008



   
   
   
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