You Sleep When You Die

Technically, Clemons may not have been the E Street band’s front man, but he was a brand unto himself every time he picked up his horn. Springsteen recognized, and celebrated, the emotional power of Clemons’s brand early on.

Thanks to Jumeirah and Oakley’s willingness to take a chance on a rising star, these two firms are now enjoying a global windfall of exposure for their brands.

The lesson: Taking smart risks on emerging opportunities can pay off big.

Take a look at a recent Nissan spot, one that I was particularly proud of. It uses gentle humor to hit two powerful “hot button” issues: the rising gas prices we are all facing these days … and the Nissan line’s impressive record of fuel economy.

Thanks for your questions! Remember, get your questions about advertising, business, the economy and more answered every Wednesday by posting comments to blog posts or on Twitter @JZspeaks via #askjz.

I noticed from your recent post you have an eighth grade girl graduating, congratulations!

While reading Business Week, I saw a story about the Silly Bandz founder and thought of you, seeking your sage retail advice. My granddaughter, a bit younger than your graduate, goes crazy for the “bandz.” My question, and that of most (including Silly Bandz owner) is how does an entrepreneur manage such explosive retail growth effectively and build a sustainable brand?

Thanks to @casegilbreath for providing one of this week’s top questions. Remember, get your questions about advertising, business, the economy and more answered every Wednesday by posting comments to blog posts or on Twitter @JZspeaks via #askjz.

Jordan – what are your thoughts on performance marketing, affiliate marketing, CPA advertising?