Boy, Dr Pepper must have a lot of faith in Axl Rose….

The soda pop giant just announced a new Guns N’ Roses-themed promotional campaign where it will give a free can of Dr Pepper to "everyone in America" if the looooong-delayed Chinese Democracy arrives anytime during 2008.

WTF?

"It took a little patience to perfect Dr Pepper's special mix of 23 ingredients, which our fans have come to know and love," Dr Pepper director of marketing Jaxie Alt said in a statement. "So we completely understand and empathize with Axl's quest for perfection -- for something more than the average album. We know once it's released, people will refer to it as 'Dr Pepper for the ears' because it will be such a refreshing blend of rich, bold sounds - an instant classic."

“Dr Pepper for the ears?” is that how Axl wants us to think of this album, his first full length in 15 years? 

Of course, GNR's label, Interscope, was unavailable for comment and there is no official word as to whether Axl and the group are involved in this campaign in any way…but the idea of the soft drink company banking its image and street cred on 1. Chinese Democracy EVER actually getting released, and 2. it being any good is INSANE!

FYI, Chinese Democracy was most recently scheduled for release on March 6, 2007, but yanked from the schedule months ago without a new date being set.

Oh, Dr Pepper has also launched a blog in conjunction with its offer. Isn’t that hip?

Billboard.com: Dr Pepper Sweetens Pot For 'Chinese Democracy'