Band or Brand?

I have been left slightly bewildered by the backlash levied at The Sugababes since Keisha left last week.

Now, I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of their music, I definately don't own any of their CD's, but the confusion surrounds the statements from former member Mutya and fans who are disappointed to see that the record company is handling the girls as a brand, not a band!!!

HELLO! What are pop groups other than brands? The revolving lineup of the Sugababes is nothing new. Ringo Starr joining The Beatles, the ongoing battle in Oasis surrounding which brother will leave this month, Geri leaving the Spice Girls and Robbie wishing he was back in Take That. One thing is certain though, they all continue to make money with the altered lineups (ok the latter two made most of theirs once they reformed) but the fans were still there supporting them, their 'brand ambassadors'.

So let's not be quick to scorn the music execs. That's what they actually want in a way, a reaction, good or bad. All they are doing is what any good business does, provides a product fit for purpose and markets it well.