I hate to admit it but I do love Kanye West! Yes, he is a controversial figure, but currently he is the main topic of conversation and whether he is being slated or applauded, any attention is good for his brand because people want to know more. With 19.4 million followers and counting on twitter, he uses this as his platform of communication. Tweeting about risky topics just encourages the amount of press, resulting in more people talking about him. As an FCP student, we learn the pros and cons of brands and look at their strategies of promotion. Personally, I applaud Kanye! His Yeezy Season 3 A/W 16/17 show at Madison Square Gardens was a genius. Although his clothing is not the best, he used very clever techniques in order to promote his brand. Before you start to completely dismiss my thoughts about Kanye, here is why I think he is a very clever business man:
1- Music
Before the show, Kanye's new album was playing - The Life of Pablo, the initial promotion for his new album, the audience had no choice but to listen to the new release
Photo Credit - Google Images
2- The Audience
To Kanye's advantage the entire Kardashian family attended the show. Kim is a massive idol to many and as a fashion icon, the press always want to know when she is around. The family were dressed in exclusive clothing coordinating Balmain x Yeezy. North also made an appearance, along with Lamar Odom who hasn't been seen since his recent hospitalisation. Aside from family, celebrities such as Jay-Z, Olivier Rousteing, 50 Cent, the Hadid sisters, Tyga and many other faces were spotted in the audience.
3- The Models
Kanye always has such a diverse selection of models. Naomi Campbell made a surprise appearance which also got everyone talking.
Photo Credit - Harpers Bazaar
4- The Live Stream
Yeezy Season 3 was only made available to live stream on the app 'Tidal' - unbeknown to many, this app is owned by Kanye himself! Although this is frustrating and the app has had many complaints, everyone still downloaded it because they wanted to see the show!
5- The Merchandise
The merchandise sold at the show was linked to his new album. This is exclusive because the people at the show were the first to be able to purchase the stock.
6 - Twitter
Kanye constantly tweets controversial statements. Recently, he admitted his 'greatest shame' - 'personal debt' which obviously is going to cause uproar amongst social media! Although this seems absurd, it's clever because he has just released his album.
Kanye constantly tweets controversial statements. Recently, he admitted his 'greatest shame' - 'personal debt' which obviously is going to cause uproar amongst social media! Although this seems absurd, it's clever because he has just released his album.
Criticise as much as you want, but Kanye has got the promotion of his brand down to a t!
