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
Rev Run “Rock Box”
Calvin Klein’s no friend of mine/ Don’t want nobody’s name on my behind/ Lee on my legs, sneakers on my feet/ D by my side and Jay with the beat
Rev Run (of Run D.M.C. fame) expresses his avoidance of showing off a brand name. Declaring his independence, he clearly states that he doesn’t desire wearing Calvin Klein clothing. Not only is he uninterested in walking around with the CK brand name on him, but he has no personal reason to promote Calvin Klein and his brand. Calvin Klein is not his friend nor does he desire to be his friend, especially when he has partners like DMC and Jam Master J. If I had to guess, I would say he is ok with Lee jeans because the logo is not heavily featured on the product. Wearing a Calvin Klein vest, on the other hand, will only make Run look like those ostentatious rappers that need to show the brand names (that they don’t even own) to the world. Maybe for some companies, it is best if the brand name isn’t so visible on their products. That way they don’t alienate those who do not want to be walking advertisements.
