What do Jay Z, Jermaine Dupri, Russell Simmons, and Tyra Banks all have in common? They all have their own social networking websites. This week I found out about Jay Z’s new social networking website Life + Times. And in a previous blog, I did a spotlight on Tyra’s current web project, Type F. But lately, I’ve noticed many celebs are increasing their web presence.
One of the main things I wonder is “Why?” I mean, don’t they do enough already? All are entrepreneurs with many different roles. But to an extent celebrities are just like the rest of us out there trying to expand our web presence. I’m sure there’s no way that we all can listen to Jay Z or Jermaine Dupri songs all day long. Eventually, the America’s Next Top Model reruns go off. But the internet doesn’t go off. By creating these website, they can expand their personal brands.
Check out each one of their websites:
1. Jay Z – Life + Times
Lifestyle site featuring sections on Fashion, Leisure, Sports and Technology
My take: I like the simple layout and the plethora of information
2. Tyra Banks – Type F
Fashion and beauty customized for individual readers
My take: I really like TypeF in particular the Daily Look section where readers can upload their look and be featured on their Facebook page and also let’s you shop the look.
3. Russell Simmons – Global Grind
Global Grind describes itself as the world according to Hip Hop
My take: Global Grind features some thought provoking articles and stories that I often bookmark. I also like that the site goes from hard hitting real news, to less heavy topics like Celebrities, Entertainment and Fashion.
4. Jermaine Dupri – Global 14
The site is a “discussion based” website built to stimulate discussion with over 500 groups talking about relationships, music, cooking and education.
My take: This site reminds me of Ning.com a little bit. I would sign up for it. But I’m not sure if I would come back frequently.
Have you heard about these celebrity driven websites? Which of these sites would you go back to?
