I was just at the department store around 1 hour ago. A sign above some beats saying “Beats by Dr Dre”. Apple have the rights to use his name in advertising it seems.
I have to admit I have a pair of Powerbeats Pro and which I bought before I knew of his history.
My main point is not whether we should buy or not buy products based on the name but the hypocrisy some people have when they refuse to buy on the basis of a particular name (in the case a dislike of a person based on her image) but would be happy to purchase when a name permanently attached to the brand is someone far worse. I would suggest given these 2 people, and if someone is aware of their history the decision to lambast Kim K in this instance is purely misogynistic as one is a powerful woman and the other a proven DV Offender.
I totally understand and agree with your point of shifting standards. I’m not a fan of Kim K, but I am less of a fan of Dr Dre. I spent 25 years photographing assault victims in my job, most of which were DV victims, so I’ve seen the worst and it’s something I’m clearly passionate about 👍
I appreciate your thoughtful response.
I agree that it is unfortunate (and hypocritical of Apple) to keep Dre’s name associated with any product considering what has now come to light about his abusive/violent behavior. They
should look at dissociating his name from the product line. It
is a worse look than an ‘influencer-model’ who is problematic only in that I personally object to her messaging/brand and what little of value she communicates. As far as I’m aware, she’s never inflicted physical violence on anyone. Whether social and cultural appropriation could be considered a form of violence is something for consideration. But in no way comparable to a violent man who attacks women. That is frankly disgusting.
Unfortunately, something which most people in this country seem underaware of is the amount of violence which men inflict on women, it is quite widespread. Most cases never go to court, and most women never escape their abusers (husbands, fathers, lovers, whatever they are). Many die or live brutalized lives. I also have witnessed the results personally in women I have known and few things make me angrier.
In terms of someone like Kim K., I would be as critical if she were male and famous for the same reasons. Though it is interesting that probably such a role would not be as accessible for a male, which in itself says something about the power dynamic in our society. I do think that she has admirable business acumen. She has created a (multimillion dollar) global brand out of the ether! That is something highly valued in our society, and it certainly will make a better life (at least economically and socially) for her children. And perhaps for other children ‘of color,’ if only than through visibility as socially relevant individuals. Which is also something for consideration.
I am definitely
not the market target for this particular branding! Though I do like the idea of a palette of colors, they’re attractive and will be good accents. I just wish that Apple had chosen a brand ambassador or collaborator with more of an artistic history, like a musician, artist, or actor.
