When your client meets the system.

Let’s switch gears and focus on the legal aspect of public relations and entertainment.  There are several ways to handle the public relations and marketing aspect of dealing with your client during a trial. Three of the cases that caught my attention were the most recent with Lindsay Lohan, Charlie Sheen and 2009 trial with Chris Brown. The following cases all resulted in criminal offenses and civil offenses. Let’s take  a look at the following cases in detail. 


Criminal Case: 

State of California vs. Lindsay Lohan http://blogs.findlaw.com/celebrity_justice/2011/02/lindsay-lohan-necklace-case-is-she-a-jewelry-thief.html

The case between 24-year-old Lindsay Lohan took place in Venice Beach, California for allegedly stealing a $2,500-$5,000 necklace from a reputable high-end boutique in California. It doesn’t stop there! Lohan necklace investigation in the eyes of California is considered theft of property, which is a grand theft felony. Uh oh. Lohan pleaded not guilty on February 9, 2011. If Lohan is charged she can be facing up to one year in jail with additional punishment for a parole violation. In the stores defense against Lohan, the Los Angeles Police Department reportedly has a store surveillance video to support their claim.

 Lohan and her representatives are looking for the fast route to moving past this claim and in her defense use her career as a way to move past this. Dina Lohan says, "Lindsay is up for a couple film roles and we want this behind us the quickest way possible," she continued. "We're speaking with the attorneys tomorrow and we'll make that decision after we talk."

CASE PENDING VERDICT: As of recent March 24, 2011, Lohan is considering of pleading no-contest in her necklace theft case according to Daily News.  

Now that we have a clear understanding of the trial, how do you handle this as a publicist or business representing a client going up against the system?  Well there are several ways to handle this. If Lohan were a client of Price Entertainment Group, the first step would be cleaning up her name within the media. Pitching, sending out FOR IMMEDIATE press releases and having her seen in court and no where else. Her image this point needs to be stripped. There is never a day when you hear “Lindsay Lohan” and something good comes from it. Well at least not since Parent Trap. (That was below the belt, I know) But take a look at my suggested three-step process for this particular case:

1. Community service and or public speaking for troubled teens.  Get her in the community and speaking with teens that can relate to her. Her target market is youth who are doing foolish things in my personal opinion as she is.

2. All forms of Public Relations. Constantly pitching good things about her, sending pictures of her doing community-based things, blogging about her success. Utilizing all forms of non-media and media channels in her defense.

3. If things don’t work as you hoped, you then need to focus on her mental state. Rehab or seeking assistance may be the best option for her Lindsay.

Civil Case: 

Warner Bros. Chuck Lorre vs. Charlie Sheen and the show crew on March 10, 2011

http://blogs.findlaw.com/celebrity_justice/2011/03/charlie-sheen-sues-show-creator-chuck-lorre-warner-bros-for-100m.html

 Bi-Winning Charlie Sheen is up against Warner Bros. Chuck Lorre, co-producer and executive of Two and Half men for $100 Million. This lawsuit against Lorre primary premise is based on personal jabs, accusations and “harassment” against Sheen. Sheen also allegedly is filing for “several causes of action in connection with his firing, including breach of contract claims and intentional interference tort claims. The suit claims that Warner Bros. had no problem signing another two years to Sheen contract even though he was dealing with substance issues and had pending felony and misdemeanor charges against him.  http://money.cnn.com/2011/03/29/news/companies/time_warner_charlie_sheen/

The following allegations are based on an attempt to prove someone’s dislike towards someone else. As stated in the article, “the lawsuit claims that Lorre’s dislike of the actor led him to stop producing scripts months ago. Which resulted in Sheen attacking Lorre on air and Lorre shutting down Sheen once and for all.

CASE IS STILL PENDING

 

Unfortunately, Lorre and Warner Bros. used Sheen addiction to their advantage and blamed Sheen for the stop in production although; it was the producer Lorre’s fault. In Lorre’s defense he has successful shows making millions which Warner Bros. are backing up. Now how do you handle this as Charlie Sheen publicist? Well Price Entertainment Group would take this all the way and use the idea of intentional torts to our advantage. Press releases would be released stated the misrepresentation of our client and infliction of emotional distress is affecting our client ability to function. (A little extreme, but you have to do what you have to do) Unlike the case with Lohan, there is no Three-step process but more so suggestive tips.

1.     Use the emotional affects to your advantage

2.     Continue to talk about the issue. Never drop it.

3.     Discuss your success on the show and how if it weren’t for you, there would be no show.

Chris Brown vs. Rihanna February 9, 2009

When being “Unfaithful” makes Chris Brown go Wall to Wall.

The case between at the time 19-year-old Brown and 20-year-old Rihanna was one we have all heard about more than we can bare. But this case stuck out to me simply because of the publicity behind it. Let’s take a look.

On the night of February 9, 2009 the weekend of the 2009 Grammy’s, things take a terrible turn. As Brown turns himself in to Los Angeles Police Department and word gets out Brown has assaulted longtime girlfriend singer Rihanna. Detectives investigating the felony batter charges booked the singer for criminal threats (assaults) in the case and released him on $50,000 bail with additional charges may be filed. The victim has visible injuries and suffered from emotional distress in the case against Brown. This particular case was an assault and battery with no weapon found.

CASE VERDICT: Brown pleads guilty in Rihanna assault case

 A plea deal was reached and Brown faced charges of assaulting. Under terms of agreement, Brown will serve five years of probation and must serve 180 days in jail or the equivalent of 1,400 hours of labor oriented service.

 In this particular case, it is a little bit more straightforward and common sense. Your client is guilty but has room to grow as an artist.  Representing Brown, I would suggest he attends events that are battered women and teens and explain his story. Make him relatable and have a pity story. People eventually will move forward from the unfortunate event and will see him as human. 

To date, his publicist has done a phenomenal job on building his image and reputation within the industry. Although, he has lately been acting a plum nut within the media. Which resulted in his publicist contract all of a sudden being over. Sure it is. She just realized she can't deal with him anymore. Let's be real.

Until Next time,

Krystyn N. Price

KrystynNPR@gmail.com

ARE THEY REALLY WINNING?

As previously discussed in my prior blog post, artists in my personal opinion cannot thrive within the entertainment industry without a successful and knowledgeable publicist. It is inevitable to not reach your full potential within the entertainment market if you are not represented properly.  With that being said, what in the world is going on with Chris Brown and Charlie Sheen publicist? SERIOUSLY!?

As I sit and read about the various outbursts of both artists it is disturbing to know that this is accepted within the media market. Don’t get me wrong; I do believe the media is bias in accepting the actions of Charlie Sheen who is an alcoholic and abusive drug user who is now known for “WINNING”, compared to the actions of singer/actor Chris Brown. But the sad truth is Sheen is not winning, he is losing. The following artists are known for having a rough patch in the road but without a doubt are able to overcome their adversities and triumph.

Unless you are living under a rock, I am sure you are fully aware of the media stunts that actor Charlie Sheen has done within the past month and the outburst and photo leakage of singer/actor Chris Brown. The following artists have been media puppets and are being taken down a path in my personal opinion that causes rebellion and heartache.

So now let’s discuss ways to handle the following situations. My first question is:

1.     How do you handle this as a publicist?

2.     Do you utilize all the publicity and use it to your advantage or

3.     Do you step in and make a change?

Let’s start by painting a picture.

 Nonetheless, let’s talk briefly about the infamous “Winning interview” held at NBC with Charlie Sheen. As we all know, this is a man struggling with drugs and alcohol addiction. Instead of suggesting rehab or seeking help, Sheen is now receiving a stand- up comedy show (O_O PAUSE) Did I miss something? No, I didn’t. The fact that the media is milking Charlie Sheen for what he is worth proves people thrive off others failures and try to generate revenue in as many ways as possible.

 Now, as his publicist handling this situation to best meet the needs of your fans and artist you must step in and make a change. Sheen is in no position to work and produce a television series. So as a future publicist, it would be imperative to utilize the publicity by encouraging my artist to  attend rehab and work on having a “comeback story” down the line. The publicity he is receiving is generating a large amount of revenue for networks and personal use but is affecting the people around him and his life overall. He is being made a fool of within the media and unfortunately; he is not receiving any repercussions for his actions. This brings up another issue that we will later discuss in my upcoming blog post.

Now, let’s focus on Mr. Brown. Chris Brown who in the past at age 19 was charged with assault due to his altercation with ex girlfriend Rihanna. Not only has Chris Brown overcome harsh critics the past two years, his publicist handled his image and reputation the best they could. Until lately, he was given a pat on the back for the leakage of his private photos. In order to keep it PG-13 we will call it his special “F.A.M.E.ous Package”. Was this a coincidence this occurs two weeks before his album drops? Not to mention the day his album is released he decides to launch a chair through the window of Good Morning America’s dressing room.  Do better Chris Brown. You have GOT to do better.

Now here is my question to you, do you blame him? I am not agreeing with his behavior but bringing up a difficult time in his life during the peak of comeback without his consent is unfair and unruly in my personal opinion.

 Now in regards to Chris Brown publicist, they are in for a rude awakening in the near future. Their job at this time is to focus on revamping his image and allowing him to make change in a positive light. Brown is in a position where he has hardcore and consistent fans, but is in a position where fans are losing faith in the fact that he won’t do something stupid. No matter how good you can sing or act, your personal life is huge factor in your success. Chris Brown is no longer the baby face artist that we all fell in love with four years ago. He is now an adult who is filled with emotions making natural human mistakes. Unfortunately, he is not in a position to make “common” mistakes anymore. This is when his publicist steps in and asks the following question: Do I think he will continue to rise as an artist? Do I think as his publicist, I need to utilize this time to milk the media for positive use and nothing else? The answer is YES.

Now that the picture has been painted. How about we compare the two and see if they make sense to you. Charlie Sheen is utilizing the bad publicity and gaining a great deal of fans, money and success. Where Chris Brown is receiving bad publicity but not being able to go over this hump in the road. Why? Why is he unable to do so but Sheen can? The following questions have been on my mind all day. Then it clicked. Well duh Krystyn, Charlie Sheen is a household name that has been within the industry for years with an amazing publicist and a great deal of support. Where Chris Brown on the other hand, came into this industry young and was immediately viewed one way after one mistake. His mistake came before all his success and glory. 

So in this particular case, their publicist has to deal with different situations at hand when it all boils down. Although, I don’t agree with the result of the “Winning Interview”, I expected this too happen. Do I agree with the double standard within the media market, not at all. But do I see it changing any time soon? Not at all.

Until next time,

Krystyn N. Price

616 890 8535

KrystynNPR@gmail.com

www.necolebitchie.com
www.TMZ.com

Can an artist surive without a publicist? Say it with me: NO

When thinking of public relations and entertainment I can’t help but compare the following to the infamous relationship between Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston. Whitney and Bobby had a captivating relationship that you loved to watch and hear about but hated to hear about at the same time. Their relationship eventually became a destructive union that only affected the people surrounding them. Their relationship in relation to public relations and artist management is the same problem applies to this union as well. As a publicist you love working and fixing problems for your artist but hate fixing the same problems for the same artist. This particular issue only makes it hard on everyone working on the project.

Several publicists working within the music business representing various artists not only have a lot of work cut out for them but also have to develop a solid relationship with their clients. Publicist and artist relationship is a union that is intricate to separate unless the time is right but easy to build when handled correctly. Countless publicists have worked in the industry and have an understanding of what public relations entails. Don’t worry! We will cover the various issues of an artist image within the public, the relationship between artist/publicist and how they go hand in hand. Ready? Here we go…

As an artist within the entertainment industry it is a must to have a publicist working on your team. The role of the publicist entails a great deal of functions that a self-managing artist wouldn’t be able to successfully fulfill. Aren’t quite sure what a publicist is or what they do? No worries! Here is a brief explanation:

According to Webster dictionary: 


A publicist is a person who generates and manages publicity for a public figure. Publicist main function is to generate press coverage on behalf of clients, build a relationship between clients and create a positive image within the media.

The most important idea of public relations is any press is good press. The most successful artist within the music industry such as Jay Z, Carrie Underwood, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Black Eyed Peas and Christina Aguilera are all artists that have been in the media, which required their publicist to step in and fix the problem.

Of the following artist the most provocative and controversial artist is our good girl gone bad Robyn Rihanna Fenty. Not only does she grab your attention, but is also distracting at the same time. I say this because her music is decent and catchy, but her drama,lifestyle and image is far more distracting than anything else that you don’t pay attention to her as an artist. Let's admit it, instead of listening to her music fans are most interested in how she will look and what she will do next. Rihanna's most recent controversy resulted from her 2011 Grammy performance where she performed live with rapper Drake “What’s My Name” and “Rude Boy”. A week after her performance, Minister Farrakhan allegedly speaks at conference in front of 18,000+ people and states “Rihanna is Filthy, whose music is SWINE”, says Minister Farrakhan. (necolebitchie.com/) 

How does she respond?

TWITTER:

Here is her response:

                                       

 

Now as for her publicist, when do they step in? IMMEDIATELY! Her response was completely uncalled for and unnecessary. As her publicist, a statement should have been released stating she apologizes for how he feels but will continue to make music for her fan Etc. Unfortunately, it was too late. This situation causes issues for publicists because, you can explain the importance of reputation and image to an artist all day long but cannot control your artist 24 hours a day. The best solution is using the bad press for something good. Someone who did this well was Kim Kardashian (not really).  Kim Kardashian took a scandal and turned into million-dollar empire. This is very hard thing to do especially if you were in her shoes. 

For those who missed her performance: catch it here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OFmfa_kmm4

Lastly, as sad as it may sound, you hate to hear about the same drama about artist but can’t get enough of it. Just accept it people. All this means is publicists are doing their job and doing it well. They keep artist in the limelight and keep them being talked about whether good or bad. If a publicist doesn’t do anything, they must keep their artist being talked about but in a tasteful way. So what should you take from this post:

1.     If you are going to become a publicist for a thriving artist: keep them fresh, keep them talked about

2.     Build a relationship with your artist

3.     Develop a bond that can’t be broken

4.     Understand good and bad press

5.     Make money no matter what you do