The King of Pop

How could I avoid blogging about Michael Jackson? I tried, but it didn't work. I just had to write about The King of Pop and how The King of Pop became The King of Pop. And by the way, just in case you missed it, Michael Jackson is The King of Pop. And that's what I call BRANDING.

So let's talk about this "King of Pop" business. This is the grandiose title used every time Michael Jackson's name is mentioned. It's mentioned by reporters, by news anchors, by journalists, by friends, by fans and even by his family. So, who crowned him the King of Pop? Michael Jackson did, that's who. Yep, he came up with the self congratulatory title all by himself, and the media bought it hook, line and sinker. Why? Because the media loves titles. Hooks. Lines. Something catchy that rolls off the tongue.

So how Michael he do it? It's no secret that he sent out a press release years ago announcing that he would now be known as "The King of Pop." He went about feeding stories with that title in the heading. Then he made sure all interviewers used that title in their intro. Then he made sure that all stories written about him included that title. Then he made sure all his pals referred to him as "The King of Pop." And it stuck.

The lesson? It doesn't matter who comes up with your brand, or even if it's true. As long as you declare it, and use it enough, it's your brand. If you call yourself "Psychic to the Stars" then that's what you are. If you call yourself "The Foremost Expert in Eyebrow Shaping", then by god, that's what you are. If you call yourself "The King of Pop" and demand that that's how they refer to you, then "The King of Pop" is born.

Michael Jackson was an amazing entertainer. He was also and amazing marketer. The proof is in the headlines.