Phoenix Studios
What brands can learn from Elvis
15th December
/
5 min.
Last week, the Phoenix Studios team took a culture trip to step inside the legacy of Elvis at the Direct from Graceland: Elvis Exhibition in London Bridge.
Whilst none of us can profess to be Elvis’ No.1 fan (that gong goes to the client who joined us), we always have a keen eye on pop culture and we appreciate an icon.
When you picture Elvis Presley, you probably think of him in a glittering, garish, show-stopping jumpsuit, but his background was far from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Elvis came from modest beginnings, with a strong work ethic instilled in him from a young age. Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi – he was an ordinary boy from an ordinary background with parents who worked very hard to provide for their family. And he didn’t forget it. It is this ordinary start to life and humble beginnings that really connected him at first to small-town America and later, to the world. He was relatable which resonated with people both near and far.
Despite trends of the time, he took inspiration from the music he genuinely loved. He fused and blended rhythm and blues, country and gospel, creating a new and distinctive sound that attracted a completely diverse audience and inspired future generations of artists to be bold.
Elvis challenged norms. He pushed musical and societal boundaries, and he was fearless in doing so. Whilst an eccentric style is widely accepted and celebrated as an expression of our individuality today, in the conservative climate of the 1950’s, flamboyant flares & hip-swinging was most definitely considered provocative, but Elvis was not afraid to be controversial (or individualistic) in his approach. Bold, unique, loud outfits served as an extension of his personality setting him apart from other artists at that time.
Beyond the jumpsuits, the essence of Elvis lies in those extra special qualities that made him the cultural icon he is remembered for. His charm and charisma, on-stage presence and ability to connect with his audience on a personal level made him more than just a music brand. He formed genuine and sincere emotional connections with others and had the ability to make you feel something through his music.
Elvis was authentically and unapologetically Elvis. He mastered the ideal combination of being bold and fearless whilst remaining humble.
This unique storytelling of Elvis’ life is brought alive through artefacts, stories, fashion, memorabilia, art, film and music at the exhibition and this sparked our inspiration – what can we learn from Elvis and what can take back to the studio with us to help us do our work?
Last week, the Phoenix Studios team took a culture trip to step inside the legacy of Elvis at the Direct from Graceland: Elvis Exhibition in London Bridge.
Whilst none of us can profess to be Elvis’ No.1 fan (that gong goes to the client who joined us), we always have a keen eye on pop culture and we appreciate an icon.
When you picture Elvis Presley, you probably think of him in a glittering, garish, show-stopping jumpsuit, but his background was far from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Elvis came from modest beginnings, with a strong work ethic instilled in him from a young age. Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi – he was an ordinary boy from an ordinary background with parents who worked very hard to provide for their family. And he didn’t forget it. It is this ordinary start to life and humble beginnings that really connected him at first to small-town America and later, to the world. He was relatable which resonated with people both near and far.
Despite trends of the time, he took inspiration from the music he genuinely loved. He fused and blended rhythm and blues, country and gospel, creating a new and distinctive sound that attracted a completely diverse audience and inspired future generations of artists to be bold.
Elvis challenged norms. He pushed musical and societal boundaries, and he was fearless in doing so. Whilst an eccentric style is widely accepted and celebrated as an expression of our individuality today, in the conservative climate of the 1950’s, flamboyant flares & hip-swinging was most definitely considered provocative, but Elvis was not afraid to be controversial (or individualistic) in his approach. Bold, unique, loud outfits served as an extension of his personality setting him apart from other artists at that time.
Beyond the jumpsuits, the essence of Elvis lies in those extra special qualities that made him the cultural icon he is remembered for. His charm and charisma, on-stage presence and ability to connect with his audience on a personal level made him more than just a music brand. He formed genuine and sincere emotional connections with others and had the ability to make you feel something through his music.
Elvis was authentically and unapologetically Elvis. He mastered the ideal combination of being bold and fearless whilst remaining humble.
This unique storytelling of Elvis’ life is brought alive through artefacts, stories, fashion, memorabilia, art, film and music at the exhibition and this sparked our inspiration – what can we learn from Elvis and what can take back to the studio with us to help us do our work?
Last week, the Phoenix Studios team took a culture trip to step inside the legacy of Elvis at the Direct from Graceland: Elvis Exhibition in London Bridge.
Whilst none of us can profess to be Elvis’ No.1 fan (that gong goes to the client who joined us), we always have a keen eye on pop culture and we appreciate an icon.
When you picture Elvis Presley, you probably think of him in a glittering, garish, show-stopping jumpsuit, but his background was far from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Elvis came from modest beginnings, with a strong work ethic instilled in him from a young age. Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi – he was an ordinary boy from an ordinary background with parents who worked very hard to provide for their family. And he didn’t forget it. It is this ordinary start to life and humble beginnings that really connected him at first to small-town America and later, to the world. He was relatable which resonated with people both near and far.
Despite trends of the time, he took inspiration from the music he genuinely loved. He fused and blended rhythm and blues, country and gospel, creating a new and distinctive sound that attracted a completely diverse audience and inspired future generations of artists to be bold.
Elvis challenged norms. He pushed musical and societal boundaries, and he was fearless in doing so. Whilst an eccentric style is widely accepted and celebrated as an expression of our individuality today, in the conservative climate of the 1950’s, flamboyant flares & hip-swinging was most definitely considered provocative, but Elvis was not afraid to be controversial (or individualistic) in his approach. Bold, unique, loud outfits served as an extension of his personality setting him apart from other artists at that time.
Beyond the jumpsuits, the essence of Elvis lies in those extra special qualities that made him the cultural icon he is remembered for. His charm and charisma, on-stage presence and ability to connect with his audience on a personal level made him more than just a music brand. He formed genuine and sincere emotional connections with others and had the ability to make you feel something through his music.
Elvis was authentically and unapologetically Elvis. He mastered the ideal combination of being bold and fearless whilst remaining humble.
This unique storytelling of Elvis’ life is brought alive through artefacts, stories, fashion, memorabilia, art, film and music at the exhibition and this sparked our inspiration – what can we learn from Elvis and what can take back to the studio with us to help us do our work?
Here are Elvis’ Top 5:
Identify your authenticity. Elvis perfectly demonstrated the power of authenticity – he did not pretend or strive to be something he is not. First and foremost, he was a born entertainer. He harnessed his talent and shared it with the world. When we work with brands we identify the core authenticity that exists within, and then make it distinct, ownable, engaging and entertaining where needed. Through great ideas, words and design — using the right media channels required to connect with customers in today's world.
Ground yourself. Elvis was rooted to his family, his hometown and his relationship with his fans. One exhibit referenced his return from his time in the US Army. In a communication to his agent, he made a point of requesting no fan-fare, he wished to be welcomed home in the same way the men he served alongside would be. His character off-stage was just as important as his presence on it. We believe that the strongest brands must have a clear sense of humanity and values that aren’t blah blah, demonstrated by action. Why, where and how you show up in the world transcends simply selling.
Deliver stage presence. From stage to screen, to merchandise, to events, to beyond. Elvis understood how to scale and have presence. If you have an awesome product… go for it. Elvis married the big ideas of his music with epic art direction, larger than life production values and an unwavering dedication to deliver the performance of his life, every single time. And if you exit the market for a while, embrace the comeback tour. Elvis needn’t have doubted himself. If you remain authentic, and build on positive experiences, audiences will be right there waiting. And they were.
Find your Originality. The hair, the shoes, the suits, the details — they matter. Even if you put Elvis on mute, you can only try to impersonate him. Take the infamous Gold suit. In fact any of Elvis’ jumpsuits. Nothing like it — ever. Both the music and the fashion were a bombardment to the senses, presenting the audience with an audio and visual experience never been seen before. With this in mind, we believe that originality unlocks iconicity. Brands that are truly original, over time, will become iconic.
Inspire and influence. As part of Britney Spears’ 2007 residency in Las Vegas she adorned a custom rhinestone jumpsuit in homage of Elvis’ own stint in Sin City. And again, in Jan 2023 RCA records launched Elvis Presley & Britney Spears - Toxic Las Vegas. From great reviews to other brands following your lead, we understand how to unlock the power that brands have to create impact, make a difference and make a lasting impression. Jumpsuits optional.
Here are Elvis’ Top 5:
Identify your authenticity. Elvis perfectly demonstrated the power of authenticity – he did not pretend or strive to be something he is not. First and foremost, he was a born entertainer. He harnessed his talent and shared it with the world. When we work with brands we identify the core authenticity that exists within, and then make it distinct, ownable, engaging and entertaining where needed. Through great ideas, words and design — using the right media channels required to connect with customers in today's world.
Ground yourself. Elvis was rooted to his family, his hometown and his relationship with his fans. One exhibit referenced his return from his time in the US Army. In a communication to his agent, he made a point of requesting no fan-fare, he wished to be welcomed home in the same way the men he served alongside would be. His character off-stage was just as important as his presence on it. We believe that the strongest brands must have a clear sense of humanity and values that aren’t blah blah, demonstrated by action. Why, where and how you show up in the world transcends simply selling.
Deliver stage presence. From stage to screen, to merchandise, to events, to beyond. Elvis understood how to scale and have presence. If you have an awesome product… go for it. Elvis married the big ideas of his music with epic art direction, larger than life production values and an unwavering dedication to deliver the performance of his life, every single time. And if you exit the market for a while, embrace the comeback tour. Elvis needn’t have doubted himself. If you remain authentic, and build on positive experiences, audiences will be right there waiting. And they were.
Find your Originality. The hair, the shoes, the suits, the details — they matter. Even if you put Elvis on mute, you can only try to impersonate him. Take the infamous Gold suit. In fact any of Elvis’ jumpsuits. Nothing like it — ever. Both the music and the fashion were a bombardment to the senses, presenting the audience with an audio and visual experience never been seen before. With this in mind, we believe that originality unlocks iconicity. Brands that are truly original, over time, will become iconic.
Inspire and influence. As part of Britney Spears’ 2007 residency in Las Vegas she adorned a custom rhinestone jumpsuit in homage of Elvis’ own stint in Sin City. And again, in Jan 2023 RCA records launched Elvis Presley & Britney Spears - Toxic Las Vegas. From great reviews to other brands following your lead, we understand how to unlock the power that brands have to create impact, make a difference and make a lasting impression. Jumpsuits optional.
Here are Elvis’ Top 5:
Identify your authenticity. Elvis perfectly demonstrated the power of authenticity – he did not pretend or strive to be something he is not. First and foremost, he was a born entertainer. He harnessed his talent and shared it with the world. When we work with brands we identify the core authenticity that exists within, and then make it distinct, ownable, engaging and entertaining where needed. Through great ideas, words and design — using the right media channels required to connect with customers in today's world.
Ground yourself. Elvis was rooted to his family, his hometown and his relationship with his fans. One exhibit referenced his return from his time in the US Army. In a communication to his agent, he made a point of requesting no fan-fare, he wished to be welcomed home in the same way the men he served alongside would be. His character off-stage was just as important as his presence on it. We believe that the strongest brands must have a clear sense of humanity and values that aren’t blah blah, demonstrated by action. Why, where and how you show up in the world transcends simply selling.
Deliver stage presence. From stage to screen, to merchandise, to events, to beyond. Elvis understood how to scale and have presence. If you have an awesome product… go for it. Elvis married the big ideas of his music with epic art direction, larger than life production values and an unwavering dedication to deliver the performance of his life, every single time. And if you exit the market for a while, embrace the comeback tour. Elvis needn’t have doubted himself. If you remain authentic, and build on positive experiences, audiences will be right there waiting. And they were.
Find your Originality. The hair, the shoes, the suits, the details — they matter. Even if you put Elvis on mute, you can only try to impersonate him. Take the infamous Gold suit. In fact any of Elvis’ jumpsuits. Nothing like it — ever. Both the music and the fashion were a bombardment to the senses, presenting the audience with an audio and visual experience never been seen before. With this in mind, we believe that originality unlocks iconicity. Brands that are truly original, over time, will become iconic.
Inspire and influence. As part of Britney Spears’ 2007 residency in Las Vegas she adorned a custom rhinestone jumpsuit in homage of Elvis’ own stint in Sin City. And again, in Jan 2023 RCA records launched Elvis Presley & Britney Spears - Toxic Las Vegas. From great reviews to other brands following your lead, we understand how to unlock the power that brands have to create impact, make a difference and make a lasting impression. Jumpsuits optional.
Gemma Fulcher, Head of Client Services
