Each individual has a personal brand that depicts the way others view them. Our actions create a brand that paints a picture for all to see, whether we realize it or not. It describes who we are, and it displays our personality.

In this blog, we are going in-depth about a great musical artist who had a very consistent personal brand, otherwise known as Prince Rogers Nelson. Specifically, we will be discussing some key takeaways that marketers can learn from his branding style.

Before we get into the takeaways, let’s briefly mention Prince’s personal brand. The picture above is a perfect image displaying the components that make his brand. For example, the color purple was used a lot in his wardrobe and throughout his concerts. This color represented who Prince was, and as his signature color, it also held a lot of meaning for his popular song, “Purple Rain.”

This picture also shows his unique but well put together style. Prince always made sure that he had a clean, remarkable, and stylish appearance whether he was performing, or just going out in public. In fact, he made it a requirement for all of his employees to dress well. If their wardrobe was not up to his standards, they would be given the option to change their outfit or be fired. Lastly, this photo displays his stage name, which is an unpronounceable symbol. In terms of what this represents towards his brand, this “love symbol” is his personal logo.

What should marketers take away Prince’s branding style?

1. Brand Name
2. Logo
3. Creativity and Consistency
4. Target Market
5. Products
6. Attention to Detail

Brand Name 

Prince Rogers Nelson had multiple nicknames throughout his lifetime. However, despite the multitude of names he had, everyone knew him by his real name, Prince. The name was pretty fitting since he was one of the best performers of his time.

His brand name ironically linked the generic definition of a prince to the artist himself. It sent a message that described his personality and his talent that reigned in the music industry. The name, Prince, told a story of his brand in itself.

We should take note of how his brand name combined storytelling with an automatic association of his name and image to the definition of an actual prince, or in this case, one who is superior in his profession.

Brands should include storytelling to promote and establish interest and loyalty within the target market. By doing so, it will define the way people view your brand by painting a clear picture of it.

Logo

Most artists do not have a specific logo. However, Prince did. His stage name was his logo. He chose an unpronounceable symbol, the love symbol, to be his stage name, and he displayed it at all of his concerts. This symbol represented who he was and what he believed in.

Prince’s logo was so well-known, that his personal brand was automatically associated with it whenever someone saw the symbol or heard someone refer to the love symbol.

As a marketer, we should all strive to have a logo that is easily recognizable to the extent that it creates an instant association and awareness for our brand.

Creativity and Consistency

Prince was an extremely creative and talented musician. He built his personal brand through the consistency of his logo and the creativity of his appearance and music.

Once he changed his stage name to a symbol, he routinely displayed it at his concerts, whether it was on his microphone stand, his guitar, or even the stage itself, he made sure to proudly show his logo to his fans. By doing so, he created brand awareness by associating his new logo with his personal brand.

He was also known for creativity in the stylish way that he dressed. His outfits were fashionable, and he was constantly setting new trends every time he made an appearance. With an unforgettable, inventive attire, Prince established a memorable personal brand. His fans could depend on him to come up with a new, distinct look whenever he went in public.

We should take Prince’s example of his branding style of consistency and creativity as an example of how we should establish our own personal brand and even within the brands that we market through our career.

Brands are successful if they are consistent and different than their competitors. By being original, brands can stand out among their competition. As for consistency, it leads to brand recognition and customer loyalty.

Prince’s amazing talent, consistency, and innovative style produced loyal fans and made his personal brand recognizable to everyone.

Target Market 

As a popular 80’s musician, Prince targeted people in Generation X. He captivated his audience through his spectacular music. His fans were loyal and continue to be so to this day. He wrote his songs based off of seduction and prayer, and his songs inspired so many people. In fact, not only did he write his own lyrics, but he also wrote songs for other famous performers as well. Some people took inspiration from his work that they based their own off of his.

It’s safe to say that he created an influential brand and established customer loyalty. His reputation defined his brand, and his target market loved what he had to offer. As a marketer, think about what your brand has to offer to your target market. Also, your brand
should inspire people and remain a credible brand that doesn’t stray from its reputation.

Products 

Prince’s “products” consisted of his outstanding music, instrumental talent, and great vocals. At a young age, he learned how to play multiple instruments, and he was excellent at each. It’s not a surprise at how musically gifted he was, since both of his birth parents were very talented as well. He grew up around music, and he continued to thrive in the music field throughout his entire life.

Prince was a complete introvert and had a very calm personality. Although he may have been relatively quiet off stage, his talent shined and he was very enthusiastic the very moment he stepped on stage and began to perform. He played his music and sang passionately at every concert.

Through his brand, he created an experience for all of his fans and he inspired people through his music and lyrics, which is a goal that every brand should aim for.

Attention to Detail 

This artist branded his personality and highlighted his characteristics through the way he presented himself. Even the little details contributed to his success in building up his image. For instance, his signature color was purple which purple, represents royalty and creativity. Although it is simply a color, it had significant meaning that connected with his name and symbolized who he was.

As you reflect on your own personal brand, pay close attention to the details that make it up. Each specific feature can stand for a much deeper meaning than you may realize.

Now that we have analyzed Prince’s branding style, what was it that he particularly wanted to be known for? To find out, watch the clip below.

Well, he sure did accomplish that. He will always be remembered for his outstanding talent throughout the music industry.