Rap superstar LL
Cool J is in negotiations to represent popular lip balm brand, Chapstick.The
negotiations are part of a brand extension strategy for artists LL Cool J and
50 Cent, which is being launched by Violator Artist Management.According
to industry trade magazine Brand Week, both LL Cool J and 50 Cent are seeking
to leverage their popularity as celebrities, through various endorsement deals.
"It’s
an obvious fit. LL has been licking his lips for 20 years," Lighty told Brand
Week. "They’ll get to speak to people who normally would not pick up
Chapstick."In
addition to his possible deal with Chapstick, LL is seeking to endorse a vitamin
supplement to capitalize on his popularity in the fitness/training market, since
his book LL Cool J’s Platinum Body hit stores in Dec. 2006. Violator
client 50 Cent is in negotiations with Glacéau Vitaminwater to star in
the company’s first national TV ad campaign. 50,
who will appear in a new nationwide print advertising campaign for Vitaminwater,
is also an investor in Glacéau.The
rapper will release a new energy drink this year, following the debut of his grape
flavored Vitaminwater energy drink, Formula 50.50
Cent is also executive producing LL Cool J’s 13th album Exit 13, which
hits stores in May.50
Cent’s album Before I Self Destruct is slated to hit stores in June.