Digest

The episode begins with a review of the first half of 2024, highlighting significant events in politics and pop culture, including the rise of pop stars, rap beefs, and the presidential primary season. The conversation then delves into the theme of grievance, examining how it manifests in both politics and popular culture. Elena Moore, who covers young voters for NPR Politics, discusses the pivotal moments of the year, including the presidential debate between Biden and Trump and the Supreme Court ruling on Trump's immunity. Steven Thompson, co-host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, explores the theme of grievance in music, noting how artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé have released albums that address their personal grievances. The episode then shifts to the topic of brand advertising, specifically the recent trend of brands becoming quieter about politics. Michael Sorosio, Professor of Communication at Boston University, explains that this shift is due to a combination of factors, including consumer surveys indicating less interest in political brand statements, the Bud Light controversy, and the current economic climate. Sorosio argues that brands are returning to a more traditional approach of focusing on practicality and product identity rather than political messaging. The episode concludes with a discussion about the future of brand advertising and the potential for another shift in the pendulum depending on the outcome of the upcoming election.

Outlines

00:00:00

Dignity Memorial Advertisement

This Chapter is an advertisement for Dignity Memorial, a company that provides funeral and memorial services. The advertisement highlights the benefits of prepaying for funeral arrangements, emphasizing that it provides peace of mind for families.

00:00:18

It's Been a Minute: A Cultural Review of 2024

This Chapter begins with Brittany Loose introducing the episode of It's Been a Minute, a show that explores current cultural events. She introduces the guests, Elena Moore and Steven Thompson, and sets the stage for a discussion about the first half of 2024, highlighting significant events in politics and pop culture.

00:21:02

The De-Woking of Brands

This Chapter explores the recent trend of brands becoming quieter about politics. Brittany Loose discusses how brands used to be more vocal about political and social issues, but now seem hesitant to take a stand. She then introduces Michael Sorosio, Professor of Communication at Boston University, who provides insights into the reasons behind this shift.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the key themes that have emerged in politics and pop culture in the first half of 2024?

  The first half of 2024 has been marked by themes of grievance, both in politics and pop culture. This includes the rise of anti-establishment sentiment among young voters, the increasing polarization of political discourse, and the growing trend of artists using their platforms to address personal grievances.

• Why are brands becoming quieter about politics?

  Brands are becoming quieter about politics due to a combination of factors, including consumer surveys indicating less interest in political brand statements, the Bud Light controversy, and the current economic climate. Consumers are more focused on practical concerns like affordability, and brands are hesitant to risk alienating customers by taking strong political stances.

• What does the recent shift in brand advertising say about the era of "woke" marketing?

  The shift in brand advertising away from political stances suggests that the era of "woke" marketing, where brands actively engaged in social and political issues, may be coming to an end. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the potential risks and complexities of brand activism, as well as a changing consumer landscape.

• What are some examples of brands that have staked themselves politically to an "anti-woke" identity?

  Some brands have embraced an "anti-woke" identity, aligning themselves with conservative or traditional values. Examples include Black Rifle Coffee Company, known for its association with gun culture, and Chick-fil-A, which has been identified with its conservative Christian ownership.

• What does the future hold for brand advertising in the context of political polarization?

  The future of brand advertising in a politically polarized environment remains uncertain. Brands may continue to tread cautiously, avoiding overtly political statements, or they may find new ways to engage with consumers on social and political issues without alienating a significant portion of their customer base. The outcome of the upcoming election could also have a significant impact on the advertising landscape.

Show Notes