Theory N’ Practice

Whatever happened to the Weakest Link? It seemed like one second it was the most popular TV show in the world, and the next it had gone the way of MC Hammer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I3riquh8WE

Could it be that the American Public has a short attention span? I think so. With such an explosion in media, we’re witnessing massive cultural ADD. These days, life is about what’s next: What can I put on my Ipod? What new video has been posted on Youtube?

What is staying power these days? Is there a common link among cultural icons that have real staying power these days? From a short list of media stalwarts, a few common featuers stand out:

They’re Innovative. Example: Seinfeld. Seinfeld did something no one had EVER done before: ditch the traditional sit-com structure (situation-problem-solution) and made a show about nothing. The real effect of innovation is that it provides a refreshing change from the common.

They Re-invent themselves. Example: They Might Be Giants. The two misfit rockers from Brooklyn started with a few hit songs, and could’ve been a one-hit wonder like half the other 80s bands. But they have one of the strongest Indie followings, and their forthcoming CD The Else instantly rose to #1 on the Itunes chart when it was released. How did TMBG reinvent themselves? They followed their fans. Now that their fan base has come of age and is most likely now raising their own kids, TMBG has started producing children’s music that’s hip enough for their older fans to enjoy.

Yet…they never forget who they are. Example: Disney. Ok, so some of their recent moves have been questionable, and Eisner’s questionable legacy remains a rough topic, but they’ve always stuck to what they are: The leading provider of family entertainment. Their current marketing campaign at their theme parks “The Year of a Million Dreams” follows that, by emphasizing the timeless memories that families can enjoy.

Obviously, these are only a few of the Staying Power Variables, perhaps you have a few examples of your own and would like to share them….

Or, perhaps you’re like me, and wonder how long before Howie Mandell’s Deal or No Deal joins the Weakest Link in syndication on the Game Network.