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
Jay-Z - 3 Kings
Oh, stuntin’ to the max, I’m so wavy/ Used to shop at TJ Maxx back in ‘83/ I don’t even know if it was open then/ I ain’t know Oprah then
Jay-Z has always been recognized as a stylish and fashionable celebrity with his multiple clothing lines and creation of fashion trends (button ups). On “3 Kings”, he unapologetically lets it known that he is so wavy while he stunts (or being flashy) to the max (a metaphor about Max B, an incarcerated rapper that always kept it wavy with his huge fanbase). The surprising thing that many may not know is that he has always been stunting, even back in 1983 when he shopped at TJ Maxx. TJ Maxx, with recognizable brand name clothing sold at affordable prices, is a great way to get style without hurting your pockets. Though he didn’t know Oprah in 1983 nor landed “Man of the Year” on GQ, he still made sure to keep it fresh and presentable as he wore clothes from the popular department store.
TJ Maxx gleefully responded to the line shortly after, letting Hova know that they kept people wavy since 1977. 35 years strong, the discount department store continues to provide men, women and children with the gear they need to stay fly and save their money.
