There are few things that hip-hop legend and abbot of the infamous Wu-Tang Clan, RZA, hasn't done, and his new headphone line 'Chambers by RZA' adds another hyphen to his ever-expanding list of titles.
The Grammy-award winning producer, rapper, author, screenwriter, actor, and director has teamed up with Swedish clothing company WeAreTheSuperlativeCompany (WeSC) have teamed up to release 'Chambers by RZA,' named after the Wu-Tang Clan's classic debut album, '36 Chambers,' the headphones mark RZA's first foray into the technological game.
'Chambers by RZA' features noise cancellation technology, music sharing, and comes in two distinct styles -- premium and street style. Both will be available in a variety of colors after the product's release. 'Chambers by RZA' is expected to hit stores in September 2011.
Implications - Rap music has become one of the most dominant expressions of youth culture in the entertainment world. A company seeking to capitalize on this would be wise to invest in co-branded products with rappers, or sponsor a rapper through product placement. Both are strong opportunities to earn credibility with youth consumers, as well as receive subtle, long-term advertising through song lyrics referencing the brand.
Hip-Hop Hero Headphones
The 'Chambers by RZA' Connect Rap Royalty and Sound
Trend Themes
1. Co-branded Products - Companies can invest in co-branded products with rappers to capitalize on the dominance of rap music in youth culture.
2. Product Placement - Sponsoring a rapper through product placement can earn credibility with youth consumers and receive long-term advertising through song lyrics that reference the brand.
3. Noise-cancelling Technology - The use of noise-cancelling technology in 'Chambers by RZA' headphones represents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the audio equipment industry.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - The release of 'Chambers by RZA' headphones represents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the consumer electronics industry.
2. Music - Companies can capitalize on the dominance of rap music in youth culture by investing in co-branded products with rappers or sponsoring a rapper through product placement.
3. Fashion - The collaboration between RZA and WeSC on 'Chambers by RZA' headphones represents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the fashion industry.