How A Malt Liquor Company Changed Rap History

Introduction

This tutorial explores how a malt liquor company significantly influenced rap history by providing endorsement deals to various artists in the late 80s and early 90s. It highlights the transformative role of these deals in giving exposure to rappers who later became iconic figures in the industry.

Step 1: Understand the Context of Rap Endorsements

• Recognize that rap artists historically struggled to secure endorsement deals compared to today’s standards.
• Familiarize yourself with notable endorsement examples:
  • Travis Scott with McDonald's
  • Jay-Z with Reebok
  • Drake with Sprite
• Note that in the late 80s and early 90s, the landscape was very different, and opportunities were limited.

Step 2: Explore the Role of St. Ides Malt Liquor

• Identify St. Ides as a key player in providing valuable exposure for rappers during this era.
• Understand the marketing strategy:
  • St. Ides partnered with prominent artists to create commercials.
  • The commercials featured catchy marketing techniques that resonated with the hip-hop culture.

Step 3: Analyze Iconic St. Ides Commercials

• Watch the following essential commercials to see how they shaped rap culture:
  • Eric B and Rakim St. Ides Commercial
    Watch here
  • Snoop Dogg St. Ides Commercial
    Watch here
  • MC Eiht St. Ides Commercial (1994)
    Watch here
  • Ice Cube - Jackin for Brews!
    Watch here
  • Wu-Tang St. Ides Commercial
    Watch here
  • Notorious B.I.G - St. Ides Commercial
    Watch here
  • 2Pac & Snoop Dogg St. Ides Commercial (Remaster)
    Watch here
  • 1994 - Can You Dig It Commercial
    Watch here
  • Ice Cube and The Geto Boys St. Ides Commercial
    Watch here

Step 4: Recognize the Cultural Impact

• Discuss how these commercials helped solidify the connection between malt liquor and hip-hop culture.
• Consider the long-term effects of these marketing efforts:
  • Elevated the artists' profiles.
  • Established malt liquor as a staple in hip-hop lifestyle.

Conclusion

The partnership between malt liquor companies and rap artists in the late 80s and early 90s changed the landscape of endorsements in the music industry. By analyzing these influential commercials and understanding their cultural significance, you can appreciate how they contributed to the careers of many iconic rappers. Next steps could include researching further into the evolution of endorsements in hip-hop or exploring the impact of other brands in the industry.