Stephen Bunting Paid Big Money to Change Walk-On Song to ‘Bird is the Word’
In a surprising turn of events in the world of professional darts, Stephen Bunting, affectionately known as “The Bullet,” has agreed to a lucrative deal to change his iconic walk-on song to “Bird is the Word” by The Trashmen. The decision, influenced by a significant financial incentive, marks a striking shift for the popular darts player, whose walk-on tunes have always been a vital part of his brand and appeal.
### A Strategic Move
The deal, reportedly worth a substantial sum, was orchestrated by a marketing firm aiming to capitalize on the viral potential and nostalgic value of “Bird is the Word.” The song, a rock-and-roll classic from the 1960s, gained renewed fame thanks to its prominent feature in an episode of the animated TV show “Family Guy.” The marketing firm believes that the quirky and infectious tune will not only refresh Bunting’s image but also attract a broader audience to the sport of darts.
### Fans React
The news has elicited mixed reactions from the darts community and Bunting’s fans. Many long-time supporters have expressed their surprise, given Bunting’s previous adherence to his established walk-on music, which they feel is a part of his identity. Social media has been abuzz with comments ranging from excitement to skepticism.
“I’ve always loved Stephen’s walk-on songs; they get you pumped up for his matches. ‘Bird is the Word’ is fun, but it’s going to be weird at first,” said one fan on Twitter. Another commented, “This could be genius! Imagine the crowd singing along. It’s all about creating a memorable atmosphere.”
### Bunting’s Perspective
Stephen Bunting has addressed his fans directly via social media, acknowledging the change and expressing his excitement. “I know this is a big change, and it might seem out of the blue,” he posted. “But ‘Bird is the Word’ has a great energy to it, and I think it’s going to bring something special to my walk-ons. Plus, it’s going to be a lot of fun seeing everyone’s reactions!”
Bunting, a former BDO World Champion and a notable figure in the PDC circuit, has been known for his charismatic entrances, which play a crucial role in the theatrics and entertainment value of professional darts. The decision to switch his walk-on song is not just a personal choice but a strategic move that could enhance his marketability and appeal, particularly to younger audiences and those less familiar with the sport.
### Impact on the Sport
Professional darts has evolved significantly over the years, with walk-on music becoming an integral part of the players’ personas and the overall spectacle. These entrances often set the tone for the matches and can energize both the player and the audience. With the shift to “Bird is the Word,” Bunting joins a long line of players who have leveraged music to stand out and engage with fans.
Marketing experts suggest that this move could set a new trend within the sport, encouraging other players to consider unconventional or humorous walk-on songs to boost their popularity and create viral moments. The financial aspect of such deals also highlights the growing commercial opportunities within darts, as companies look to associate their brands with the sport’s rising stars.
### The Future
Only time will tell how this change will affect Stephen Bunting’s performances and his connection with fans. The introduction of “Bird is the Word” is set to debut at his next major tournament appearance, and all eyes will be on “The Bullet” to see how this bold new approach plays out. Will the crowd embrace the new tune with the same fervor as Bunting’s previous walk-on songs? And will this shift open the doors for more creative and financially driven changes in the sport?
For now, Stephen Bunting’s decision to switch his walk-on song to “Bird is the Word” is a testament to the evolving nature of professional darts, where tradition meets modern marketing strategies in a bid to capture the hearts and minds of a diverse and ever-expanding audience.
