Monday, April 29, 2013

Branding basics from Jacqui

It must have been 20 years ago when I met Jacqui Naylor. She was helping her then-husband Lat Naylor at his fashion clearance event. Unfortunately, Lat Naylor was wrapping up a ten-year run as a fashion designer. I recall reading about his show in New York for his Think Tank line, so he'd definitely made it. I was a fan and was hoping to pick up (sadly) some remaining pieces.

I remember speaking to Jacqui briefly at checkout. She introduced herself and handed me a flyer promoting her upcoming show. She even included a sample track (which was later included in her first album). She was very pleasant. Unassuming as an artist, with a shy appeal about her.

Jacqui Naylor has since become a successful jazz vocalist in her own right. She's released numerous albums, with a few garnering some rave reviews. The critics have definitely been kind.

The Jacqui Naylor brand still interacts with me to this day. I listen to her music. I look forward to her emails. I get them at least once a month or so. No frills and very personal. Sometimes she'll throw a story in. I know for a fact she writes them all personally. From day one, their tone and connection have been unmistakably familiar. 

Jacqui's stayed true to her brand through the years, so you always know what to expect. Just like her vocals.