Chapter 41: New Endorsements

[Chapter 41: New Endorsements]

The rehearsal for the live performance of That's the Way Love Goes went very smoothly. The choreography, band, backup dancers, and vocal harmonies were all very professional. Thanks to everyone's teamwork, they achieved a satisfying result in just three days.

On the evening of the 13th, Jimmy announced that the rehearsal had reached a satisfactory level and told everyone to remember today's performance quality. The rehearsal was over, and everyone was advised to rest for a few days to stay in good shape.

...

On the morning of the 17th, everyone gathered again to take group transportation to the Los Angeles Music Hall for a live rehearsal.

After the rehearsal, they returned to Universal, where image designers and makeup artists planned to work on their looks.

---

The next day, Linton called Mira to the estate to discuss endorsement choices in detail.

In the estate's office, Mira came in carrying a thick stack of materials -- well-organized and categorized endorsement invitations.

"Mira, please first introduce the endorsement opportunities you've screened," Linton said as he took the documents.

"Since last month, we've received more than 20 endorsement offers for you, but most are for mass-market brands. For example, endorsements for Adidas sportswear, toothpaste, shampoo, and pagers. These don't match your current image at all and would lower your style and class.

You're a rising star and a youthful idol now, so we suggest you maintain your current image. Even if you can't land the top luxury brand endorsements, you should at least focus on upscale, accessible luxury brands.

Also, when choosing endorsements, we need to consider whether the product's consumer base overlaps with your fanbase to maximize both your market value and the product's sales performance -- a win-win."

Then Mira shared some endorsement industry insights she'd recently studied.

The top-tier luxury brands generally don't use spokespersons.

High-priced luxury goods rarely endorse even popular celebrities.

However, entry-level luxury items -- such as perfumes, mid-to-high-end watches, leather goods, and ready-to-wear fashion -- commonly use popular stars as endorsers.

More common luxury brands use well-known stars extensively.

So, Mira advised Linton not to expect top-tier luxury endorsements. The best choice is to target accessible luxury or premium brands.

"Based on these considerations, my recommendations are these three: Armani menswear, Mercedes-Benz automobiles, and Timex watches.

Armani and Timex are offering $3.5 million per year each, with two-year contract minimums. Mercedes-Benz hasn't quoted yet.

All three are luxury or premium brands with consumer profiles that overlap well with your fans.

Partnering with them will positively boost your image, fame, and market value. Other brands don't align with your current positioning," Mira explained.

"These prices have more than doubled since six months ago. Linton, you're incredible," Mira remarked appreciatively.

"Armani menswear -- you mentioned that before. That must be from the Vogue magazine feature, right? But I guess their consumer base doesn't overlap much with my fans," Linton said.

"Yes, Armani menswear was surprising. Their customer base doesn't overlap much with your fans. But after that Vogue cover feature, your image and styling were highly praised in fashion circles.

Plus, the Armani suit you wore boosted sales significantly over the past two months, and that's why Armani sent you an endorsement invitation.

You could say the Vogue feature helped expand your influence beyond your usual fans to many business professionals," Mira clarified.

"Actually, it's mainly because I'm good-looking and the photographer did a great job," Linton said with a touch of vanity.

"You are definitely handsome and cool, so Armani came looking for you," Mira agreed.

"Mercedes-Benz -- is that for their business line?" Linton asked.

"No, it's not the business line. Business models don't hire you for endorsements. Mercedes-Benz wants you to endorse their G-Class SUV line. But this is just an initial invitation. If you're interested, they want to meet with you. If the meeting goes well, and they're satisfied, we'll start formal negotiations."

She added, "The Mercedes G-Class is the best resource we've accessed in automobile endorsements. Even Hollywood superstars find the Mercedes G-Class SUV endorsement a top-tier opportunity. Mercedes usually doesn't change endorsers easily unless there's a big issue. Plus, although Mercedes' brand effect isn't as huge as Coca-Cola or Pepsi, it still greatly enhances their spokesperson's fame, perfectly matching your needs."

Mira pondered a moment and added, "Compared to Mercedes, you are a bit young now, but luckily it's their sporty G-Class line. Its shape, style, and aura suit you very well.

The biggest downside is that your fanbase is mainly teenagers.

However, your advantages stand out. The G-Class SUV is powerful, rugged-looking, and tough, which matches your handsome features and strong temperament very well."

Thinking about it, Linton felt this endorsement was very important, and he really wanted to secure it.

"Okay, set up a meeting with Mercedes-Benz. After the AMA Awards, I'll have time. What do I need to do?"

"Nothing special. Just perform your best at the AMA live show. Your album sales and immense popularity are our strongest bargaining chips.

Also, you should learn about Mercedes-Benz's corporate culture and the G-Class SUV lineup -- their style and audience profile, and how it relates to you. I'll prepare those materials and deliver them in a couple of days."

"Alright, what's the story with the Timex watch endorsement?"

"Actually, Timex is the most suitable endorsement for you right now. Timex is known for an outdoor lifestyle and reliable, precise watches. It's one of the world's best-selling sports and casual watch brands.

Its brand recognition is broad, prices are moderate, and its primary consumers are young people, which overlaps greatly with your fans. Your collaboration would definitely be a win-win."

"Do Coca-Cola or Pepsi have any interest?" Linton couldn't stop thinking about those two soda giants, whose endorsements could massively boost a celebrity's popularity.

"Not yet, but with your current popularity and first album sales, if you win major awards at the AMAs and Grammys, I think they'll seriously consider you," Mira replied.

"Alright, let's choose these three. Start negotiations as soon as possible. We'll aim to shoot the commercials by February."

"Linton, have you thought about renewing your management contract?" Mira asked hesitantly.

Seeing Mira's expression, Linton understood her worry. She was afraid that if he became too successful too quickly, he might ditch her for a big-name agent, since her connections weren't as extensive.

"Don't worry, Mira. You're the perfect agent for me. As long as you don't make any major mistakes, we'll keep working together. After these endorsements, I'll go with you to the WMA to renew my contract. But you have to tell Logan that the company must show sincerity. The new contract terms, especially the commission rates, must reflect my current level."

"Okay, I'm relieved. I'll fight to get you the best contract terms and provide you with the best service," Mira said happily upon receiving Linton's promise.

Linton never considered replacing Mira. As he said, she was the most suitable agent for him.

Compared to big-name agents, though she lacked vast connections, she was extremely dedicated and responsible. She always advocated for his interests.

For endorsements, management usually aims to get as many contracts as possible during a short contract for commissions.

But, from the artist's perspective, choosing endorsements requires caution.

Linton was glad Mira always stood by him. Their cooperation was seamless for nearly a year.

Switching agents might change that.

If he had to constantly strategize and compete with his agent, it would be exhausting.

*****

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