home share provider has apologized to a Senator from Newfoundland and Labrador for the use of an iconic folk song regarded as a part of the culture in questionable fashion.

Vrbo wove the song “I’se The B’y” into an ad cautioning those seeking short rental accommodations to be wary of the competition as they may end up in an undesirable place.

The association struck a nerve with many from this province on social media.

Vrbo saw a post on social media from Senator David Wells saying he wasn’t outraged, but he did ask them for an explanation. Wells says they wrote back and apologized, and promised to remove the song from the ad, which aired during the Super Bowl.

Wells accepts the apology and does not blame the company. He doubts there was any ill intent on the part of anyone, just a situation where the ad agency probably did not do their due diligence.

In a statement to National Post, Wells said, “I was surprised a Newfoundland and Labrador folk song that has cultural significance about hardworking people in the fishing industry was used in a condescending context. Am I outraged? No, but Vrbo should know better.” 👇… pic.twitter.com/nEzZ1F5ALQ

— Senator David Wells (@wellsdavid) February 13, 2024