The media and society often depict success as a combination of fame, money, and beauty. Unfortunately, a majority of people believe this and buy into it, literally.
I’ve taken an interest in dissecting the fascination with fame and how that perceived status, dictated by corporations, media and the government (yes, the government), translates to success in mainstream society. The recent death of pop star Michael Jackson, and author Paulo Coelho’s novel “The Winner Stands Alone”, has further raised my concerns in this matter, especially since my career is based in Public Relations.
I wonder how many artists believe that their success is measured by album sales, how many autographs they sign, how big their diamonds are, what designer gown they get to wear, the list goes on and on… And then I wonder if they realize that these are images that can be fabricated by corporations, media, the government (yes, the government), to control your spending and lifestyle as a consumer. (Did you know that Public Relations was founded on the basis of controlling consumer spending?! Google Edward Bernays “The father of Public Relations”, and you’ll be amazed at how the concept of PR has affected almost every aspect of our lives and deeply intertwined in politics.)
The point I’m trying to make is that fame does not equal success! Yes, it can be used as a measuring tool. No, not all fame is bad. But, do not dictate your career on what the media has set as a standard. There is a lot you will compromise to be the next pop star, if that’s what you’re striving for. Don’t get blinded by the bling, privacy will become a luxury you can no longer enjoy, and your ego, a helium balloon left to deflate once the party has ended.
Perhaps I shouldn’t be sharing these thoughts with you (as a PR consultant), but I question the role I play in people’s lives, and recognize the responsibility that comes along with advising or representing an artists’ public appearances and interaction. The lifestyle you want to enjoy, your ethics, and comfort level with attention, are questions you should ask yourself as an artist when you decide what defines your success.
How will you measure your success? Is pop stardom your goal? If it is what are you willing to give up for that?
2 responses so far ↓
1 christina Luna // Jul 22, 2009 at 8:54 am
Beautifully said!
2 courtney // Aug 5, 2009 at 7:11 pm
im so glad you wrote this…bc success can mean so many different things to different people. I know we’ve had this conversation before, but its looks good (and probably feels good to have it on the ‘net) on the site!
xoxo
courtney
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