Branding In Hip-Hop
I have created this blog as a way to show the relationship between branding and hip-hop. Branding is more than just a name and logo. A brand has a culture and a background. They symbolize an idea. Rappers, using heavy metaphors, use brands as a way to creatively express their ideas and overall messages.
I've been obsessed with hip-hop since I was 6. Figured I would create something related to it while utilizing my media/advertising background. So enjoy the product placement!
*I do not own any of these images
Foxy Brown – Ain’t No
Don’t give a fuck about how you move with them other mamis/ I push the Z, eating scampi with rocks larger than life/ fuck them reebok broads, you made it known who your wife was
On “Ain’t No”, Jay-Z and Foxy Brown are talking about how no other person can compare when it comes to a relationship. In Foxy’s case, no other broad can compete with her when it comes to her man’s attention. While she is eating high class food with rocks (jewelry) that are sure to grab anyone’s attention, other women are just lower class broads that probably wear Reeboks. Quite a contrast from Joanie Dega’s and Charles Jordan.
Even though Jay released a sneaker with RBK about decade ago, luxury is still luxury and Reebok is a no no for his lady. And if Foxy is worth it, then she will not be a Reebok broad. Rather, she is the chick with the “coach bag looking half black and Flipino.”
Joe Budden - Monsters In My Head
Got a few talents but looking for a new challenge/ I’ll let you walk in my shoes once I find a New Balance
One key trait for success is to always seek new challenges to better yourself. In Joey’s case, he understands that he is a man of many talents, but wants to do better. Always the misunderstood one, Joe is allowing anyone who doesn’t get him to walk in his shoes. However, it’s still too soon to do this and he first needs to find a new balance. And yes he is referencing the shoe company, but only as a metaphor. The new balance he is speaking about is referencing the balance he will find in his life after he seeks out new opportunities.
Hopefully everyone can have their own New Balance someday, whether it is a new pair of 574s or stability in one’s personal life.
