The Women of 2023
Source: BusinessWire
It has been said that the combined force of Taylor Swift, Barbie, and Beyonce saved the U.S. economy this year. I believe it. There were actually quite a few women who had milestone years to great brand success. I’d like to celebrate these women who shaped our collective culture, did extraordinary marketing, and leaped new boundaries. Celebrate, in alphabetical order!
Barbie: My pick for “Brand of the Year,” deservedly so. Most brand collabs in movie history.
Barbra Streisand: Years in the writing, her autobiography gives us a glimpse into what it’s like to be her brand of legend.
Beyonce: Her “Renaissance” tour broke records, once again. And her ongoing collab with Tiffany’s was just beautiful.
Cher: Big year for this icon, who ties the Rolling Stones for having a #1 song in seven consecutive decades. And she launched an ice cream called Cherlato.
Dolly Parton: After being inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Dolly released a rock album and partnered with NBC and The Olympics to gear us up for the Games in 2024.
Donna Summer: Her daughter Brooklyn brought us a documentary that sheds light on the “Queen of Disco” brand. Did you know the record company wanted Donna to give her song “Bad Girls” to Cher?!? Love Cher but so glad Donna kept it for herself. And “Dim All The Lights” was written with Rod Stewart in mind but she also kept that one for herself too.
Jane Birkin: The celebrity muse for the Hermes Birkin bag sadly passed away. RIP.
Kelly Clarkson: Big year personally and professionally as her new album made quite a statement and her show continues to make moments worth cherishing. She also hosted the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center to great delight. Her brand just continues to thrive.
Madonna: Her debut album turned 40 this year, and she kicked off a retrospective world tour to celebrate it.
Mariah Carey: While she didn’t land the official “Queen of Christmas” trademark, she was still ever-present during the holidays and her classic song once again went to #1. New video and all.
Martha Stewart: 2023 saw more brand partnerships (like Tito’s for Dry January) from this DIY Pro plus she also landed the cover of the “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit” edition. Her brand is ageless.
Rose Mattus, of Haagen-Dazs: The brand celebrated International Women’s Day by bringing out their founder’s favorite flavor.
Oprah: She continues to drive pop culture and her “Favorite Things” continues to drive sales.
Suzanne Somers: Yes we first knew her as Chrissy, but through the years this business powerhouse influenced a great deal. RIP.
Taylor Swift: “Time” Magazine’s person of the year with the biggest concert tour of all time (just to name one accomplishment this year).
Congratulations to all these incredible women, and thank you for making the world just a better place.
Here’s to more in 2024! What’s your experience? JIM