American Crew, a Revlon brand, is sponsoring Berklee College of Music’s Institute for Creative Entrepreneurship (BerkleeICE) week-long celebration of Elvis Presley through a unique showcase and educational experience honoring one of the most influential artists of all time. Taking place from April 3 to April 7 at the Berklee campus in Boston, the event series, titled Music Makes an Artist, Style Makes an Icon, is designed to celebrate Elvis’ musical and cultural legacy and his iconic approach to artistry.
“Elvis’ influence surpasses the music he created, and through education we can continue to extend his legacy and global influence to creators and artists for generations to come,” said Nick Woodhouse, President and CMO of Authentic Brands Group, owner of Elvis Presley Enterprises, LLC.
“Elvis was like no other – a pioneer, a style trendsetter and an all-around cultural icon. He was the first artist-as-brand, the first multimedia icon, the first global superstar,” said Panos Panay, Founding Managing Director at BerkleeICE. “BerkleeICE’s mission is to foster the entrepreneurial mindset among the Berklee community, and there is no better role model for building an iconic brand than Elvis. We’re excited to team up with American Crew and Elvis Presley Enterprises to celebrate his life in a unique and special way.”
As a trailblazer of music and culture that blurred the social and racial barriers of the time, Elvis ushered in a new era of American music and pop culture. Still a top grossing brand in music, his long-lasting persona continues to inspire today’s musicians, designers, entrepreneurs and social influencers. With the support of BerkleeICE, an institution dedicated to fostering entrepreneurialism through creativity, business and technology, Music Makes an Artist, Style Makes an Icon will showcase Elvis’ entrepreneurial prowess and foresight in building an illustrious brand.
American Crew, who last year released a line of special edition Elvis Presley grooming products made exclusively for men, is the presenting sponsor of the event and has pledged a multi-year scholarship awarded to Berklee students for originality. Throughout the week, American Crew will be hosting styling workshops, teaching students about building their own personal style and providing complimentary makeovers.
“Elvis redefined grooming for men in America, and we’re thrilled to continue our support of his legacy by partnering with BerkleeICE for this historic – and stylish – celebration,” said David Raccuglia, American Crew Founder.
The week-long celebration will feature panels of Elvis experts, guest speakers and intimate discussions with those who knew him best, as well as various on-campus events based on Elvis’ music, legacy, brand and personal style, including an exhibition of personal artifacts from his estate. The week will culminate in a Singers Showcase, featuring vocals by Berklee’s award-winning a capella group, Pitch Slapped, and 10 of Berklee’s student vocalists performing Elvis classics like “Hound Dog,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “A Little Less Conversation,” and many more.
