My very first press release and introduction to the career of Public Relations happened in New York City, back in 2004. I was attending college at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising, where I got my B.A in Fashion Marketing.

Even though I was attending a fashion college, my projects were always about something else, including the entertainment industry.  So I guess it’s not a surprise that my career now includes both fashion and entertainment, (with a sprinkle of education for good measure).

With the recent news of Ruby Veridiano being a finalist for head blogger at Alicia Keys’ project “I Am A Superwoman” (www.iaas.com), I realized that not only has Ruby’s career come full circle at this point and time (cause I believe she’s got this gig!), but so has my own, as a publicist.

You see, the project in my PR class, six years ago, involved planning an event, writing a press release, FAQ sheet, bio, and a press kit for a client.  The client I chose to take on was Alicia Keys.  I kept my project throughout the years, and I’m glad I can still look back at it now…

I always knew that my career, and my passion was about helping other people shine. Ruby and I have been working together since 2007, and over the years we’ve also become close friends, and family. It’s truly a blessing to work with her and see how she’s manifested her career.

I believe my success is in the success of others… I shine, you shine.

ps. Thank you Alicia Keys, for inspiring me all those years ago…

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 Publicist), 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?