The document discusses whether materialistic music videos improve an artist's chances of success. It analyzes research showing that audiences who prefer genres like R&B place more importance on materialistic elements in music videos than other audiences. However, the research also indicates that materialism may not influence success for all genres, as audiences of genres like indie/rock care less about materialistic content. For the group's target indie/rock audience, materialistic music videos would likely not enhance success the way they might for some R&B artists.
Sneakers and the Commodification of Hip-Hop & Basketball: The Interrelationsh...Mulu Habtemariam
I partnered with my academic major advisor and mentor Dr. John L. Jackson (Dean, School of Social Policy & Practice/Richard Perry University Professor) to develop a curriculum for a research-based independent study course that we called COMM399-001: If The Shoe Fits, Wear It: Exploring Sneakerhead Culture.
The use of stories is not a new phenomenon: it has existed as long as people have interacted with each other. But using this technique in advertising has created a radical shift in today and tomorrow’s brand marketing. Throughout the years, stories have become more and more ‘individualistic’. New media has enabled people to engage each other in stories again. During his presentation, Jef will guide you through the basics of storytelling and how stories can create or enforce belief systems that match your brand identity. Discover what storytelling can do for your brand!
Jef Pelkmans lives and works in Antwerp. After his studies in Social-Cultural work and Communication sciences, Jef found his passion in advertising and communication. At Brandhome he became part of the strategic deparment and currently holds the position of Strategy Manager.
At Brandhome, Jef has been engaged in numerous projects, for different types of clients. His main task is to help brands determine their vision, mission, ambition and identity and find the right strategy to reach their goals. Within Brandhome’s mission, Jef is always striving to make brands grow faster than their competitors.
Sneakers and the Commodification of Hip-Hop & Basketball: The Interrelationsh...Mulu Habtemariam
I partnered with my academic major advisor and mentor Dr. John L. Jackson (Dean, School of Social Policy & Practice/Richard Perry University Professor) to develop a curriculum for a research-based independent study course that we called COMM399-001: If The Shoe Fits, Wear It: Exploring Sneakerhead Culture.
The use of stories is not a new phenomenon: it has existed as long as people have interacted with each other. But using this technique in advertising has created a radical shift in today and tomorrow’s brand marketing. Throughout the years, stories have become more and more ‘individualistic’. New media has enabled people to engage each other in stories again. During his presentation, Jef will guide you through the basics of storytelling and how stories can create or enforce belief systems that match your brand identity. Discover what storytelling can do for your brand!
Jef Pelkmans lives and works in Antwerp. After his studies in Social-Cultural work and Communication sciences, Jef found his passion in advertising and communication. At Brandhome he became part of the strategic deparment and currently holds the position of Strategy Manager.
At Brandhome, Jef has been engaged in numerous projects, for different types of clients. His main task is to help brands determine their vision, mission, ambition and identity and find the right strategy to reach their goals. Within Brandhome’s mission, Jef is always striving to make brands grow faster than their competitors.
The fifteen years since the launch of Napster have eviscerated what we once knew as the music industry. In the face of this free-fall, innovators within the music industry have had to re-think every aspect of their approach to marketing strategy.
The scary truth that every business executive must acknowledge is that any industry can be swiftly and devastatingly Napster-ed.
In this session, we will examine the how the re-invention of the music industry can inspire any industry to stay ahead of their Napster. With specific case examples and tangible tools, this session will both illuminate new ways of thinking and give attendees pragmatic ways of immediately applying this new thinking to their companies.
Topics to be covered include:
· Pharrell’s “Happy" and How to Design Hit Brand Experiences
· Avicii, Aloe Blacc, and The Age of Liquid Expectations
· Beats by Dre, Emily Dickinson, and the End of the Consumer Insight as We Know It
The session will be led by John Greene, whose nearly 20 year career has been inspired by how creativity and commerce can combine to create transformational business results. As Senior Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Translation, John leads all strategic efforts and co-manages one of the fastest-growing and most influential marketing agencies in the country. With services that range from strategic consulting to advertising to new product development, Translation has been dubbed “The McKinsey of pop culture” by Businessweek. An alumnus of Kellogg’s EMP 70, John looks forward to an afternoon of provocative discussion and far more hip-hop references than have ever graced a Kellogg classroom.
In this speech, I talk about how the re-invention of the music industry illuminates new ways of thinking about four fundamental questions that can help any industry stay ahead of their Napster. I have given variations of this speech to several companies and classes over the past few years, and I'll deliver this version to students at the Kellogg School of Management on May 16, 2014.
This is the fifth episode of Digital Trends.
Here are the highlights,
1. Brands and the US Presidential Elections
2. Trending Hashtags
3. Topical Trends
4. Tech Trends
5. Marketing Trends
The fifteen years since the launch of Napster have eviscerated what we once knew as the music industry. In the face of this free-fall, innovators within the music industry have had to re-think every aspect of their approach to marketing strategy.
The scary truth that every business executive must acknowledge is that any industry can be swiftly and devastatingly Napster-ed.
In this session, we will examine the how the re-invention of the music industry can inspire any industry to stay ahead of their Napster. With specific case examples and tangible tools, this session will both illuminate new ways of thinking and give attendees pragmatic ways of immediately applying this new thinking to their companies.
Topics to be covered include:
· Pharrell’s “Happy" and How to Design Hit Brand Experiences
· Avicii, Aloe Blacc, and The Age of Liquid Expectations
· Beats by Dre, Emily Dickinson, and the End of the Consumer Insight as We Know It
The session will be led by John Greene, whose nearly 20 year career has been inspired by how creativity and commerce can combine to create transformational business results. As Senior Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Translation, John leads all strategic efforts and co-manages one of the fastest-growing and most influential marketing agencies in the country. With services that range from strategic consulting to advertising to new product development, Translation has been dubbed “The McKinsey of pop culture” by Businessweek. An alumnus of Kellogg’s EMP 70, John looks forward to an afternoon of provocative discussion and far more hip-hop references than have ever graced a Kellogg classroom.
In this speech, I talk about how the re-invention of the music industry illuminates new ways of thinking about four fundamental questions that can help any industry stay ahead of their Napster. I have given variations of this speech to several companies and classes over the past few years, and I'll deliver this version to students at the Kellogg School of Management on May 16, 2014.
This is the fifth episode of Digital Trends.
Here are the highlights,
1. Brands and the US Presidential Elections
2. Trending Hashtags
3. Topical Trends
4. Tech Trends
5. Marketing Trends
A collection of useful insights and news, picked up by Neosperience, about technology, innovation trends, mobile devices and digital customer experience.
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philos...Rodney Thomas Jr
#SSAPhilosophy #DjangoUnchained #DjangoFreeman #ExistentialPhilosophy #Freedom #Identity #Justice #Courage #Rebellion #Transformation
Welcome to SSA Philosophy, your ultimate destination for diving deep into the profound philosophies of iconic characters from video games, movies, and TV shows. In this episode, we explore the powerful journey and existential philosophy of Django Freeman from Quentin Tarantino’s masterful film, "Django Unchained," in our video titled, "From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philosophy of Django Freeman!"
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained – The Philosophy of Django Freeman!
Join me as we delve into the existential philosophy of Django Freeman, uncovering the profound lessons and timeless wisdom his character offers. Through his story, we find inspiration in the power of choice, the quest for justice, and the courage to defy oppression. Django Freeman’s philosophy is a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding drive for freedom and justice.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to SSA Philosophy for more in-depth explorations of the philosophies behind your favorite characters. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest videos. Let’s discover the principles that shape these icons and the profound lessons they offer.
Django Freeman’s story is one of the most compelling narratives of transformation and empowerment in cinema. A former slave turned relentless bounty hunter, Django’s journey is not just a physical liberation but an existential quest for identity, justice, and retribution. This video delves into the core philosophical elements that define Django’s character and the profound choices he makes throughout his journey.
Link to video: https://youtu.be/GszqrXk38qk
Are the X-Men Marvel or DC An In-Depth Exploration.pdfXtreame HDTV
The world of comic books is vast and filled with iconic characters, gripping storylines, and legendary rivalries. Among the most famous groups of superheroes are the X-Men. Created in the early 1960s, the X-Men have become a cultural phenomenon, featuring in comics, animated series, and blockbuster movies. A common question among newcomers to the comic book world is: Are the X-Men Marvel or DC? This article delves into the history, creators, and significant moments of the X-Men to provide a comprehensive answer.
Skeem Saam in June 2024 available on ForumIsaac More
Monday, June 3, 2024 - Episode 241: Sergeant Rathebe nabs a top scammer in Turfloop. Meikie is furious at her uncle's reaction to the truth about Ntswaki.
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - Episode 242: Babeile uncovers the truth behind Rathebe’s latest actions. Leeto's announcement shocks his employees, and Ntswaki’s ordeal haunts her family.
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - Episode 243: Rathebe blocks Babeile from investigating further. Melita warns Eunice to stay clear of Mr. Kgomo.
Thursday, June 6, 2024 - Episode 244: Tbose surrenders to the police while an intruder meddles in his affairs. Rathebe's secret mission faces a setback.
Friday, June 7, 2024 - Episode 245: Rathebe’s antics reach Kganyago. Tbose dodges a bullet, but a nightmare looms. Mr. Kgomo accuses Melita of witchcraft.
Monday, June 10, 2024 - Episode 246: Ntswaki struggles on her first day back at school. Babeile is stunned by Rathebe’s romance with Bullet Mabuza.
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 - Episode 247: An unexpected turn halts Rathebe’s investigation. The press discovers Mr. Kgomo’s affair with a young employee.
Wednesday, June 12, 2024 - Episode 248: Rathebe chases a criminal, resorting to gunfire. Turf High is rife with tension and transfer threats.
Thursday, June 13, 2024 - Episode 249: Rathebe traps Kganyago. John warns Toby to stop harassing Ntswaki.
Friday, June 14, 2024 - Episode 250: Babeile is cleared to investigate Rathebe. Melita gains Mr. Kgomo’s trust, and Jacobeth devises a financial solution.
Monday, June 17, 2024 - Episode 251: Rathebe feels the pressure as Babeile closes in. Mr. Kgomo and Eunice clash. Jacobeth risks her safety in pursuit of Kganyago.
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Episode 252: Bullet Mabuza retaliates against Jacobeth. Pitsi inadvertently reveals his parents’ plans. Nkosi is shocked by Khwezi’s decision on LJ’s future.
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Episode 253: Jacobeth is ensnared in deceit. Evelyn is stressed over Toby’s case, and Letetswe reveals shocking academic results.
Thursday, June 20, 2024 - Episode 254: Elizabeth learns Jacobeth is in Mpumalanga. Kganyago's past is exposed, and Lehasa discovers his son is in KZN.
Friday, June 21, 2024 - Episode 255: Elizabeth confirms Jacobeth’s dubious activities in Mpumalanga. Rathebe lies about her relationship with Bullet, and Jacobeth faces theft accusations.
Monday, June 24, 2024 - Episode 256: Rathebe spies on Kganyago. Lehasa plans to retrieve his son from KZN, fearing what awaits.
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - Episode 257: MaNtuli fears for Kwaito’s safety in Mpumalanga. Mr. Kgomo and Melita reconcile.
Wednesday, June 26, 2024 - Episode 258: Kganyago makes a bold escape. Elizabeth receives a shocking message from Kwaito. Mrs. Khoza defends her husband against scam accusations.
Thursday, June 27, 2024 - Episode 259: Babeile's skillful arrest changes the game. Tbose and Kwaito face a hostage crisis.
Friday, June 28, 2024 - Episode 260: Two women face the reality of being scammed. Turf is rocked by breaking
From the Editor's Desk: 115th Father's day Celebration - When we see Father's day in Hindu context, Nanda Baba is the most vivid figure which comes to the mind. Nanda Baba who was the foster father of Lord Krishna is known to provide love, care and affection to Lord Krishna and Balarama along with his wife Yashoda; Letter’s to the Editor: Mother's Day - Mother is a precious life for their children. Mother is life breath for her children. Mother's lap is the world happiness whose debt can never be paid.
Meet Crazyjamjam - A TikTok Sensation | Blog EternalBlog Eternal
Crazyjamjam, the TikTok star everyone's talking about! Uncover her secrets to success, viral trends, and more in this exclusive feature on Blog Eternal.
Source: https://blogeternal.com/celebrity/crazyjamjam-leaks/
Panchayat Season 3 - Official Trailer.pdfSuleman Rana
The dearest series "Panchayat" is set to make a victorious return with its third season, and the fervor is discernible. The authority trailer, delivered on May 28, guarantees one more enamoring venture through the country heartland of India.
Jitendra Kumar keeps on sparkling as Abhishek Tripathi, the city-reared engineer who ends up functioning as the secretary of the Panchayat office in the curious town of Phulera. His nuanced depiction of a young fellow exploring the difficulties of country life while endeavoring to adjust to his new environmental factors has earned far and wide recognition.
Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav return as Manju Devi and Brij Bhushan Dubey, separately. Their dynamic science and immaculate acting rejuvenate the hardships of town administration. Gupta's depiction of the town Pradhan with an ever-evolving outlook, matched with Yadav's carefully prepared exhibition, adds profundity and credibility to the story.
New Difficulties and Experiences
The trailer indicates new difficulties anticipating the characters, as Abhishek keeps on wrestling with his part in the town and his yearnings for a superior future. The series has reliably offset humor with social editorial, and Season 3 looks ready to dig much more profound into the intricacies of rustic organization and self-awareness.
Watchers can hope to see a greater amount of the enchanting and particular residents who have become fan top picks. Their connections and the one of a kind cut of-life situations give a reviving and interesting portrayal of provincial India, featuring the two its appeal and its difficulties.
A Mix of Humor and Heart
One of the signs of "Panchayat" is its capacity to mix humor with sincere narrating. The trailer features minutes that guarantee to convey giggles, as well as scenes that pull at the heartstrings. This equilibrium has been a critical calculate the show's prosperity, resounding with crowds across different socioeconomics.
Creation Greatness
The creation quality remaining parts first rate, with the beautiful setting of Phulera town filling in as a scenery that upgrades the narrating. The meticulousness in portraying provincial life, joined with sharp composition and solid exhibitions, guarantees that "Panchayat" keeps on hanging out in the packed web series scene.
Expectation and Delivery
As the delivery date draws near, expectation for "Panchayat" Season 3 is at a record-breaking high. The authority trailer has previously created critical buzz, with fans enthusiastically anticipating the continuation of Abhishek Tripathi's excursion and the new undertakings that lie ahead in Phulera.
All in all, the authority trailer for "Panchayat" Season 3 recommends that watchers are in for another drawing in and engaging ride. Yet again with its charming characters, convincing story, and ideal mix of humor and show, the new season is set to enamor crowds. Write in your schedules and prepare to get back to the endearing universe of "Panchayat."
Tom Selleck Net Worth: A Comprehensive Analysisgreendigital
Over several decades, Tom Selleck, a name synonymous with charisma. From his iconic role as Thomas Magnum in the television series "Magnum, P.I." to his enduring presence in "Blue Bloods," Selleck has captivated audiences with his versatility and charm. As a result, "Tom Selleck net worth" has become a topic of great interest among fans. and financial enthusiasts alike. This article delves deep into Tom Selleck's wealth, exploring his career, assets, endorsements. and business ventures that contribute to his impressive economic standing.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
The Foundation of Tom Selleck's Wealth
Born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom Selleck grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. His journey towards building a large net worth began with humble origins. , Selleck pursued a business administration degree at the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. But, his interest shifted towards acting. leading him to study at the Hills Playhouse under Milton Katselas.
Minor roles in television and films marked Selleck's early career. He appeared in commercials and took on small parts in T.V. series such as "The Dating Game" and "Lancer." These initial steps, although modest. laid the groundwork for his future success and the growth of Tom Selleck net worth. Breakthrough with "Magnum, P.I."
The Role that Defined Tom Selleck's Career
Tom Selleck's breakthrough came with the role of Thomas Magnum in the CBS television series "Magnum, P.I." (1980-1988). This role made him a household name and boosted his net worth. The series' popularity resulted in Selleck earning large salaries. leading to financial stability and increased recognition in Hollywood.
"Magnum P.I." garnered high ratings and critical acclaim during its run. Selleck's portrayal of the charming and resourceful private investigator resonated with audiences. making him one of the most beloved television actors of the 1980s. The success of "Magnum P.I." played a pivotal role in shaping Tom Selleck net worth, establishing him as a major star.
Film Career and Diversification
Expanding Tom Selleck's Financial Portfolio
While "Magnum, P.I." was a cornerstone of Selleck's career, he did not limit himself to television. He ventured into films, further enhancing Tom Selleck net worth. His filmography includes notable movies such as "Three Men and a Baby" (1987). which became the highest-grossing film of the year, and its sequel, "Three Men and a Little Lady" (1990). These box office successes contributed to his wealth.
Selleck's versatility allowed him to transition between genres. from comedies like "Mr. Baseball" (1992) to westerns such as "Quigley Down Under" (1990). This diversification showcased his acting range. and provided many income streams, reinforcing Tom Selleck net worth.
Television Resurgence with "Blue Bloods"
Sustaining Wealth through Consistent Success
In 2010, Tom Selleck began starring as Frank Reagan i
Scandal! Teasers June 2024 on etv Forum.co.zaIsaac More
Monday, 3 June 2024
Episode 47
A friend is compelled to expose a manipulative scheme to prevent another from making a grave mistake. In a frantic bid to save Jojo, Phakamile agrees to a meeting that unbeknownst to her, will seal her fate.
Tuesday, 4 June 2024
Episode 48
A mother, with her son's best interests at heart, finds him unready to heed her advice. Motshabi finds herself in an unmanageable situation, sinking fast like in quicksand.
Wednesday, 5 June 2024
Episode 49
A woman fabricates a diabolical lie to cover up an indiscretion. Overwhelmed by guilt, she makes a spontaneous confession that could be devastating to another heart.
Thursday, 6 June 2024
Episode 50
Linda unwittingly discloses damning information. Nhlamulo and Vuvu try to guide their friend towards the right decision.
Friday, 7 June 2024
Episode 51
Jojo's life continues to spiral out of control. Dintle weaves a web of lies to conceal that she is not as successful as everyone believes.
Monday, 10 June 2024
Episode 52
A heated confrontation between lovers leads to a devastating admission of guilt. Dintle's desperation takes a new turn, leaving her with dwindling options.
Tuesday, 11 June 2024
Episode 53
Unable to resort to violence, Taps issues a verbal threat, leaving Mdala unsettled. A sister must explain her life choices to regain her brother's trust.
Wednesday, 12 June 2024
Episode 54
Winnie makes a very troubling discovery. Taps follows through on his threat, leaving a woman reeling. Layla, oblivious to the truth, offers an incentive.
Thursday, 13 June 2024
Episode 55
A nosy relative arrives just in time to thwart a man's fatal decision. Dintle manipulates Khanyi to tug at Mo's heartstrings and get what she wants.
Friday, 14 June 2024
Episode 56
Tlhogi is shocked by Mdala's reaction following the revelation of their indiscretion. Jojo is in disbelief when the punishment for his crime is revealed.
Monday, 17 June 2024
Episode 57
A woman reprimands another to stay in her lane, leading to a damning revelation. A man decides to leave his broken life behind.
Tuesday, 18 June 2024
Episode 58
Nhlamulo learns that due to his actions, his worst fears have come true. Caiphus' extravagant promises to suppliers get him into trouble with Ndu.
Wednesday, 19 June 2024
Episode 59
A woman manages to kill two birds with one stone. Business doom looms over Chillax. A sobering incident makes a woman realize how far she's fallen.
Thursday, 20 June 2024
Episode 60
Taps' offer to help Nhlamulo comes with hidden motives. Caiphus' new ideas for Chillax have MaHilda excited. A blast from the past recognizes Dintle, not for her newfound fame.
Friday, 21 June 2024
Episode 61
Taps is hungry for revenge and finds a rope to hang Mdala with. Chillax's new job opportunity elicits mixed reactions from the public. Roommates' initial meeting starts off on the wrong foot.
Monday, 24 June 2024
Episode 62
Taps seizes new information and recruits someone on the inside. Mary's new job
Maximizing Your Streaming Experience with XCIPTV- Tips for 2024.pdfXtreame HDTV
In today’s digital age, streaming services have become an integral part of our entertainment lives. Among the myriad of options available, XCIPTV stands out as a premier choice for those seeking seamless, high-quality streaming. This comprehensive guide will delve into the features, benefits, and user experience of XCIPTV, illustrating why it is a top contender in the IPTV industry.
In the vast landscape of cinema, stories have been told, retold, and reimagined in countless ways. At the heart of this narrative evolution lies the concept of a "remake". A successful remake allows us to revisit cherished tales through a fresh lens, often reflecting a different era's perspective or harnessing the power of advanced technology. Yet, the question remains, what makes a remake successful? Today, we will delve deeper into this subject, identifying the key ingredients that contribute to the success of a remake.
As a film director, I have always been awestruck by the magic of animation. Animation, a medium once considered solely for the amusement of children, has undergone a significant transformation over the years. Its evolution from a rudimentary form of entertainment to a sophisticated form of storytelling has stirred my creativity and expanded my vision, offering limitless possibilities in the realm of cinematic storytelling.
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Media Investigation: Relating These Issues To My Production
1. Media Investigation: Materialism in Music – How Do These Issues Relate To My Production? The crucial factor here is this: do materialistic videos improve the chances of success for the artist? This is important because it relates to how we (my group) can improve our music video and either answer to the said question has the potential to influence our production. In order to explore the possible answers, I will put forward key talking points while considering results from my audience research to support or contradict each point. These key talking points will include the ideas of branding, genre and audience pleasures. Brands and status symbols are unquestionably important elements in modern life and have the potential to deeply influence our judgements of others. It seems that in any industry, be it clothing, cars or electrical goods, there is a hierarchy of what is deemed ‘desirable’ or ‘undesirable’. For instance, a Mercedes is widely recognised to be more desirable than a Skoda. But what is it that cements a product’s place in the ‘desirable’ category and becomes recognised as a status symbol (an indicator of wealth and/ or desirability)? In the case of Mercedes vs. Skoda, it is clear that a combination of differences in quality and price have lead to the longstanding perceptions of the two brands being on almost opposite ends of the desirability scale. However, this is a very ‘out-dated’ example (in the sense that the perceptions of each brands were shaped centuries ago – and with much less influence from the media than there might be today). In order to discuss the influence the media might have on shaping mass opinion on products, a more modern example, such as that of the iPod, must be considered. If the most important differences in desirability between Mercedes and Skoda were quality and price, can the same be said for the iPod compared to its rivals? Well, according to www.pcworld.co.uk on 28/11/09, it seems there is a very slim price difference, the most expensive iPod Touch (64GB) costs £299 whilst the most expensive non-Apple MP3 player is the Sony NWZX1060 Touchscreen (32GB) at £289.99. At the top of the range, then, it seems that in terms of price the iPod touch isn’t significantly more expensive than its nearest rival, but, in terms of quality, it out-trumps its rival with twice as much memory (64GB vs. 32GB). Lower down in the range though, an iPod Nano (8GB) costs £115 while the SanDisk Sansa Clip (8GB) costs £39.99. With the performance of these two products being equally balanced, why is it that the iPod is being sold for almost three times as much? And, more interestingly, why do people by the iPod over the SanDisk when it is, for apparently little good reason, this much more expensive?
2. However, it’s only when we start thinking about it that the question becomes difficult, the answer is really very simple; usually it’s either “because I saw it on TV” or “because everyone else has one” – last year in a Media Studies lesson a show of hands revealed that all (of which I must admit I was a part of) but one member of the class owned an iPod, and none except that one person checked out the specifications of competing MP3 players before making the purchase. Our classroom scenario is a little bit of proof that the majority of audiences respond more to advertising and word of mouth than private research and comparison. We can then perhaps assume that, in the modern world, the quality of advertising is equally or even more important than the quality of the product in the creation of a status symbol – for the quality of two products may be very similar, but the quality of advertising may be very different. The iPod is now undoubtedly an established status symbol; in the ‘Audio’ section of www.pcworld.co.uk there are separate categories for ‘Apple iPods’ and ‘Portable Audio’ ( http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/editorial/MP3_homepage/?int=left_nav ). It seems clear that materialist consumerism exists in these industries, but can the same be said for the music industry? After all, we do refer to it as an industry, but do audiences really consume music in the same way they do the car/ electronic/ clothing industries? Furthermore, do audiences of different genres consume music in different ways? It seems perhaps a little unlikely, since music has long been one of the most expressive of art forms. By assuming that audiences consume music in the same materialistic way as they do clothes, one effectively brings into question the validity of modern music as an art form. After all, you surely wouldn’t regard an advertising poster to have the same artistic values as a painting by da Vinci/ Raphael/ Monet/ Van Gogh? In my research I have shown that much of today’s most popular music videos are strongly materialistic and, in a sense, ‘advertisement-like’. For example, Taio Cruz’s “Break Your Heart” (number one in the UK singles chart on 11/10/09), portrays Taio Cruz as a very desirable protagonist, – at least, from a male point of view – he’s rich, fashionable and has all the women he could possibly want. By doing this, he creates an image or persona of himself and his music, using tools such as attractive women and glamorous locations to increase his desirability and consequently that of his music also. The point to consider is whether such techniques can create a hierarchy of desirability among artists and their music in a similar way as in other industries, i.e. will people listen to popular and fashionable artists in order to be seen as fashionable themselves – is modern popular music consumed as fads just as any other industry? Can an artist be regarded as a status symbol? A further point to consider is that Taio Cruz has also recently launched a fashion and accessory brand named Rokstarr which has so far had a focus on sunglasses and is becoming increasingly popular among other celebrities and artists (e.g. Kelly Rowland, JLS and Kanye West etc.).
3. ‘ Rokstarr’ is also the title of his latest album – allowing for simultaneous promotion of his music and his brand. This isn’t a unique occurrence; the rap group G-Unit launched the ‘G-Unit Clothing Company’ in 2003 in collaboration with Marc Ecko (the founder of Eckō Unlimited) and Pharrell Williams (rapper/ producer and member of The Neptunes, N.E.R.D and Child Rebel Soldier) launched two lines of luxury clothing; ‘Billionaire Boys Club’ and ‘Ice Cream’ in 2005 together with Nigo (founder of BAPE). All of these brands describe themselves as ‘luxury streetwear’ and consequently all have an aspect of exclusivity and can also be regarded as status symbols. The websites of the brands show extremely materialistic welcome pages: Note the immediate, blatant objectification of the female body as an advertisement tool.
4. This is an especially interesting advert for a pair of sunglasses, since only one half of the pair can be seen and the viewer is quite clearly drawn to another area of the image...and it isn’t difficult to guess which. This particular pair of sunglasses (The Mono – designed to make a statement) costs £165. We can note also that, when searched on Google, that the description of the website reads “ROKSTARR music production and high street fashion”, yet nowhere on the website is there any information about Taio Cruz’s music. This suggests that fashion and music are very closely linked, perhaps supporting the claim that audiences consume music in a similar way to other industries in which materialism dominates. It also suggests that the music a person listens to will heavily dictate what kind of clothes they wear, that each genre is exclusive to a particular type of audience holding a particular set of ideologies and that audiences seek to be included and labelled in these groups. This would also suggest that the true pleasure that audiences gain from music is more to do with social classification and recognition than the actual pleasure of listening to the music for sheer entertainment purposes. This would support the argument that audiences consume modern popular music in a similar way as they do fads from other aspects of popular culture (most notably fashion) and that social inclusion is key to an individual when choosing which music to listen to – just as it is when an individual chooses which clothes to buy.
5. The Billionaire Boys Club homepage is more quirky than ‘in-your-face marketing ploys’. However, when we ‘enter the store’ we are presented with a heart-warming message that reads ‘Wealth is of the heart and mine, not the pocket’, which becomes rather ironic, perhaps even laughable, when we look at the price of products.
6. A plain white t-shirt with the brand name costs $80. This jumper costs $515.
7. These Ice Cream trainers cost $205. Considering the price of these products, surely there is something contradictory about the motto?
8. These are printscreens of the Billionaire Boys Club ‘group’ (a fan page) on Facebook, which people have joined and then uploaded and commented on pictures of themselves and their collections of Billionaire Boys Club/ Ice Cream products. This is a good example of audiences using the music they listen to as a social tool and this particular group has 3, 715 members from many different countries – there are comments from France, Argentina, USA, UK, South Africa and The Mauritius. Of course, however, these examples and my research up to now has only shown a link between materialistic/ ‘advertisemental’ music videos and success without establishing a definite cause-and-effect relationship.
9. My audience research shows that, out of the 52 participants aged 13-18, 63% said that ‘a bad music video can ruin a decent song and a good one can improve a mediocre song’, while 29% said that ‘only the music counts’. The same research also shows that R&B was the most popular genre. With the majority believing that a mediocre song can become successful with a good music video, this suggests a stronger link between the argument that artists can sell themselves by other means than their music, i.e. their desirability doesn’t rest simply on the quality of their product (the music) but also on other factors such as creating a fashionable image (advertising). This is also supported by a comment left by a participant in reply to the question “In your opinion, what/ which of the following is important in a good music video?” who said ‘dance routines that become ‘cool’ such as SOULJA BOY’ and the fact that R&B was the most popular genre, as we know it is rich in materialistic music videos. The comment left by the participant is significant because it supports the argument that artists can create a positive or desirable image of themselves by including factors that are ‘cool’ in their music videos. It is this ‘cool’ factor which can arguably turn a mediocre song into a status symbol of ‘cool’ – which audiences respond to and consequently consume as the latest fashion.
10. The previous graph shows the responses of those who selected one or more of either R&B, Hip-Hop or Rap as their preferred genre(s). It tells us that, while well-choreographed dance moves and relevant visuals are still the most important factor, other factors such as a desirable/ fashionable protagonist and glamorous locations have risen significantly compare to the initial sample of all 52 participants. We also notice that well-choreographed dance moves are more important than relevant visuals (the other way around compared to all participants). This is perhaps significant as well-choreographed dance routines provide an opportunity to include a ‘cool’ factor – just as in the example of Soulja Boy. The graph also shows a decline in the importance of attractive women, however this can be attributed to a heavily gender biased sample (6 males vs. 20 females). We can say this with confidence as 83% of male participants highlighted attractive females to be important, compared to the 50% from the initial sample who selected the answer. There was also a rise in the importance of attractive men from the female participants, rising from 39% of all females to 45% of females who prefer R&B/ Hip-Hop/ Rap. This pie chart suggests that R&B/ Hip-Hop/ Rap fans do place a higher importance on music videos than our initial, mixed sample did as the ‘not at all, only the music counts’ response dropped from 29% to 27% while the ‘music videos have the power to make or break a song’ response rose from 6% to 8%, the ‘very important, a song can only be good if it has a good music video’ response doubled from 2% to 4% and the ‘the quality of the music video is more important than the quality of the song’ response also rose.
11. So, we have identified that audiences who prefer R&B/ Hip-Hop/ Rap music are more likely to respond to materialistic content in music videos (such as glamorous locations, attractive members of the opposite sex, desirable protagonist etc. – all of which were included as ‘materialism signifiers’ in my previous research) when compared to a mixed audience. But is there a link between how important music videos are and what content is regarded as important? I shall now examine this by analysing the responses of those who regard music videos as either ‘Quite important, a really bad one can ruin a decent song/ a good one can improve a mediocre song’, ‘Very important, a song can only be good if it has a good music video’, ‘Music videos have the power to make or break a song’ or ‘The quality of the music video is more important than the quality of the song’. Here I will use a mixed audience (i.e. not a specifically R&B/ Hip-Hop/ Rap orientated audience) in order to focus more on the link between the importance and subsequent importance of content in music video rather than genre. Interestingly, this graph shows that materialistic factors such as attractive members of the opposite sex and glamorous locations are seen as less important in an audience who hold a higher level importance of music videos than an R&B/ Hip-Hop/ Rap audience. This suggests that there is a stronger link between genre and materialistic values than there is between the level of importance placed on the video and any materialistic content.
12. This therefore suggests that the answer to the initial question of ‘do materialistic videos improve the chances of success for the artist?’ could be yes for some genres (e.g. R&B) but perhaps not others. This is further supported by the results of our target audience (an indie/ rock audience) – among whom attractive members of the opposite sex, glamorous locations and a desirable/ fashionable protagonist were all seen as less important compared to the R&B audience. This would consequently seem to suggest that, when applying the initial question to our genre and considering our target audience, the high levels of materialism found in R&B music videos wouldn’t have the same influence if transferred to indie music videos. This has been reflected in my past research, since the song ‘Sweet Disposition’ by The Temper Trap (a rock/ alternative rock song) was a huge outlier compared to other songs in the top ten – scoring an all-time low of zero out of fourteen (Taio Cruz’s ‘Break Your Heart’ was ten out of fourteen). To our group, therefore, the answer to the initial question is ‘no’, given the low importance attributed to materialistic factors by our target audience.