There was a time when it used to be “just cool” to mention brand names in the lyrics of a song. It was the perfect way to show off and show your status. However, like many other things, it’s turned into pure business in pop music nowadays.
Original Influencers
Musicians are the original influences. Even before the term was used to describe people who became famous for being famous, it was public knowledge that popular musicians influence the masses.
All eyes are on what they wear, what they have, what they eat, which skin products they use… It’s all of interest to a fan or just to someone to who wants to keep up.
Commercials, Red Carpet Plugs, Sponsored Posts
This hasn’t gone unnoticed with companies and brands. We’re already used to seeing this on the red carpet where it’s all about who’s wearing who. Also for years, we’ve seen musicians starring in commercials. Nowadays, celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Mariah Carey send sponsored tweets. Of course, no one will publicly confirm this.
Suggestive Advertising
In just the last ten years, suggestive advertising has become less non-conspicuous in music videos. Just think of the Beats pill in Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” video. So, it’s no surprise that it moving straight into the music itself, like the lyrics. Is the music you love advert free?
Read more:
‘Advertainment’: How Brands Sneak Into Your Music (MoneyTalksNews)
‘Advertainment’ is on the rise in pop music (9news)
If You Want to Understand What’s Become of the Music Industry, Look At SXSW (mic)