Year after year, Hard Rock Café fills the stage with moments that connect people. From musicians who offer captivating melodies to culinary teams that fill the table with delicious feasts, the locations across the globe bring people together. With Hard Rock Rising, Hard Rock Café and Coca-Cola raise a glass to the world’s greatest talents.
From London to Orlando and from Cancun to Singapore, Hard Rock Cafes have celebrated unity. While people might speak different languages and come from different cultures, music bridges those differences.
As guests dine on tasty meals, ambiance sparks conversations. From remembering the school dance that blasted Prince’s 1999 on repeat to the first-time hearing Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the food’s flavor is boosted by the music and memories.
The new Hard Rock Rising collaboration between the brand and Coca-Cola is both a music endeavor and culinary masterpiece. As local artists showcase their talents on stage, guests can enjoy bold new food options and refreshing beverages.
According to Eric Martino, President of Hard Rock Cafe and Retail at Hard Rock International, “Hard Rock Cafes have always connected people through the power of music with local artist residencies, open mic events, Battle of the Bands competitions, and pop culture memorabilia. Now, Hard Rock Rising is a natural extension of that mission to empower emerging artists to perform their original music. Together with Coca-Cola, we’re proud to provide a platform where musicians can be seen, heard and celebrated in their communities, and for the winner, around the world.”
Hard Rock Rising Beverages Feature Favorite Coca-Cola Products
Since food and beverages build excitement before, during, and after performances, the Hard Rock Rising event includes exclusive cocktails and mocktails featuring Coca-Cola products. The drinks showcase not only the beverage brands versatility but also the global reach it has.
The specialty beverages are: Last Call Dragonrita, Orange Cream Soda, and Spiced Yuzu Soda. The three options are both familiar and a nod to current beverage trends.
The most innovative option is the Spiced Yuzu Soda. A riff on whisky sour, the cocktail combines Coca-Cola, whisky, yuzu puree, and spiced brown sugar. It feels slightly tropical yet familiar.
The yuzu adds a bold citrus note that helps create a round finish. While there are multiple sweet notes, it never feels cloying. Both the acid and touch of warm spice help to add complexity to the cola-forward cocktail.
This drink is a great example how Coca-Cola is a global drink. No matter where people are in the world, they can enjoy that classic cola beverage. It is a familiar friend that welcomes people to the table.
The other cocktail and mocktail capture current trends. The Orange Cream Soda is a smart use of Fanta. It is simple dirty soda yet feels a little naughty. That touch of creaminess is like a strong musical beat that draws people into its indulgence.
The Last Call Dragonita is a lovely twist on a margarita. The sweet dragon fruit gets lifted by the Sprite floater. Even the fresh berries add to the drink’s vibrancy.
Hard Rock, Coca-Cola, and Music Are a Memorable Combination
The Hard Rock Rising collaboration is smart for all parties. Not only does it give emerging artists a platform to share their musical talents, the event creates a welcoming space for all those involved.
Adding the food and beverage aspect to the campaign creates a lasting connection. When people heat that song, they will thirst for a Coca-Cola. When they recall the night, they crave the special dish.
While this campaign has a finite duration, it will be interesting to see how Hard Rock and Coca-Cola leverage their collaboration going forward. Just like theme parks and movie theaters use the Freestyle machines to create signature drinks, Hard Rock could have a signature beverage, too.
More importantly, these options could be served across the globe. When a person can sip that Spiced Yuzu Soda in London and Orlando, they will toast with that favorite beverage time and again.
More information on the music contest, restaurant items, and other Hard Rock Rising offerings can be found at cafe.hardrock.com/hard_rock_rising.
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