Marketing in the Music Industry

I, like millions of other people around the world, enjoy listening to music. But I have come to realize how large of a role marketing has in the music industry, whether creating a commercially successful artist or name-dropping the artists' favorite brands. For example, there are a million struggling artists with real talent not being able to make money with their music while rappers who can barely rhyme make millions. Why is this occurring you ask? Marketing is why. Marketing is the reason for everything. If a musician is able to create a brand around himself and create value for the listener they will for sure sell albums which will lead to tour dates, which will ultimately lead to profits. A prime example of this phenomenon is the rapper French Montana. French is the farthest thing from the most talented rapper but because he is charismatic and endorsed by the right people, he has been able to build a brand around himself while creating value for listeners.There is a flipside to this coin however, as immensely talented artists stay under the radar and never achieve success that they may deserve.

                                                           French Montana displaying his wealth

Also, branding in the music industry is very important. Rappers often brag about all the expensive things they buy with their money, giving listeners an implanted idea of lavish things they should aspire to own. Many clothing brands have benefited greatly from this. One listen to A$AP Rocky's song "Fashion Killa" will make you want to splurge on a fashion trip in Paris. Artists love bragging about the things they can afford and that will not stop as long as there is branding involved.