Marketing Music Through Movies
50 years ago, The Beatles promoted their album “Help” through a movie-musical of the same name. Seems a bit backwards, doesn’t it? Well, it works.
Since then, we’ve seen this done and replicated time and time again through movies like "The Graduate," and more recently "The Fault In Our Stars," "Begin Again," and "Fifty Shades of Grey," along with the upcoming Eminem-produced "Southpaw." The theory behind this is that the film — most likely known to be a commercial success —will influence the desirability and appeal of the soundtrack, which would drive it in the public eye.
READ MORE: Soundtrack Review: 'Begin Again'
Just like you associate “Mrs. Robinson” with "The Graduate," songs like “Boom Clap” from "The Fault In Our Stars" and “Lost Stars” from "Begin Again" are embedded into films to not only market the song itself, but also the film. Essentially, It works either way.
The collaboration between music and movie has created a symbiotic relationship, both fiscally and aesthetically, which will drive fans to the theater, and likewise, a catchy song in a film will drive fans to iTunes…or Spotify….or Tidal.
READ MORE: Apple Music And What It Means For The Industry
If you think about Christian Grey every time you hear “Earned It” on the radio, don't worry. It’s not your fault — it’s the nature of the business.
Reach Staff Reporter Jenny Kim here.