Pitbull gets paid US$1 million for promoting ‘Sexy Beaches,’ Florida

American rapper Pitbull was paid US$1 million (AU$1.3 million) by Florida’s tourism marketing agency for the promotion of Florida as a tourist spot last year. He promoted the state on social media, live performances and even in his videos. On Thursday, Pitbull tweeted the details of the contract with Visit Florida.

“It’s been an honor to represent Miami and the Sunshine State. I’ve taken Miami and Florida worldwide – WAY before any contract, and will do so way after. I love my home state. When asked to take on a New Year’s show, I INSISTED it to be live from Flroida,” read Pitbull’s tweet that had a link to the details of the contract.

The amount of money that has been paid to Pitbull has received a lot of criticism. Florida House Speaker Richard Corcoran filed a case against PDR Productions, the management company of the American rapper. Corcoran insisted that the taxpayers should know the ways in which Visit Florida was spending their money.

The payment details of the contract were put down in different parts. US$250,000 (AU$342,000) as an initial fee, US$250,000 (AU$342,000) for the music video “Sexy Beaches,” US $100,000 (AU$136,000) for “Conquering Florida” video intro’s and outro’s, US$100,000 (AU$136,000) for the execution of first “Pit Package” promotion, and US$300,000 (AU$410,000) in total for social media and live performance promotions.

The contract details have raised eyebrows but Visit Florida has not commented on the issue. Pitbull in his tweet mentions that he is dedicated to Florida in spite of the expiry of the contract.