Jay-Z

1. Why do you think this person is one of today's most dominant entrepreneurs? Jay-Z is one of today's most dominant entrepreneurs because he markets his brand well. He adjusts his audience according to his profit margin. As he gets older, he adjusts his target audience appropriately. As we read in the article, Jay-Z has sold his share in Def Jam records to pick up a $150 million dollar deal with Live Nation. In doing so, he has sold his image as a young, hip guy. Instead, he appears to be aiming to be portrayed as an experienced businessman. Jay-Z realizes that as time passes, he becomes less appealing to the younger crowd. He has adapted his brand to fit a new audience and thus is able to continue his reigning success.

2. Do you agree with the ways in which this entrepreneur has marketed his or her image? I do not have much of an opinion as to the way in which Jay-Z has marketed his image. It is obvious that his marketing strategy is successful. He has made millions as a result of his clothing line, his investments in the 40/40 club and the New Jersey Nets and massive record sales. He has stepped away from Def Jam records for a deal with Live Nation. Sensing he was going out of style, he believed the $150 million contract was the best way to go, illustrating that he is interested in protecting his finances he has already made as well as increasing his wealth.

3. What effect do you think that this entrepreneur has left on the market place? Jay-Z has left a distinct impression on the market place. His enormous success left many to follow in his foot steps. A multitude of hip-hop, R&B and rap artists have expanded their image from solely music artists to clothing designers, investors, actors and more. He has paved a path for a new form of success, one that surpasses a single industry. He has created a multi-million dollar image as a business manager. Many others wish to achieve such success, thus altering the dynamic of the marketplace forever.