Musicians and actors seem to change their persona or stylistic choices almost overnight. One bad album release or a terrible film doesn’t appear to make or break their careers. It’s almost as if they reinvent themselves and try again — a complete “do-over.”
Fans’ willingness to go along with a new look or sound might have something to do with the way artists market their personal brands. They connect on an intimate level with listeners and movie audiences. Their storytelling transcends the physical being and creates a persona to whom nearly anyone can relate.
You don’t need to be a creative type to learn the marketing skills that help artists succeed in their businesses. Whether you’re looking for professional or personal inspiration, applying these methods can help you get ahead.
1. Reinvent yourself.
The entrepreneurial world clings to the belief that moving forward with relentless effort means you’re on the right track. Put another way: Motivation, tact, sleepless nights and maybe a little bit of luck mean your conviction will lead you from risk to reward. You’re free to relax only after you’ve reached the “safe point” (no longer having to choose between ramen and steak).
In truth, complacency is how the mighty fall. History bears this out. Titans of business have failed because they didn’t evolve with the market or their leaders simply didn’t understand how to reinvent themselves. (Toys R Us, anyone?)
Madonna has become known as the queen of reinvention. Since launching her first album in the summer of 1983, she’s undergone a near-constant evolution of her personal brand and self-expressionistic style. Decades later, she’s amassed hundreds of millions of dollars on tour. She’s the artist every female pop performer aspired to be. Those who study pop culture likely can hear a Madonna song and match it to a corresponding span of years on the nostalgia calendar.
Today’s audiences crave content and quickly lose interest — and businesses fail to move at the same speed. People get bored. Madonna and other artists aren’t afraid to take risks. In fact, she’s always used controversy to sell her brand. How can companies tap into that power?
Let’s assume you founded a social-media marketing consultancy, and interest in your business…
