The three icons that I have chosen are Hannah Montana/Miley, MySpace and Starbucks. First, Hannah Montana is the Disney Channel character played by Miley Cyrus, daughter of 90’s country singer Billy Ray Cyrus. Second, MySpace is an online community used for many different purposed by millions of people. My third choice is Starbucks which is a coffee house originating in Seattle, Washington.
On the show Hannah Montana, Miley (whose name is also Miley in the show) plays a teenage girl living the secret life of a famous pop star. This is something that a lot of young girls probably dream about, which is most likely the root of success of the show. Miley is an average girl living every little girl’s dream. I remember dreaming of being a famous singer myself when I was a teenager dancing around my bedroom singing into my hairbrush.
MySpace is a bit of a phenomenon in the world of icons. The online community is used as a dating website, a networking tool, a way to find old friends and stay in touch with family and friends. MySpace is now being used to launch new record deals and stand up comedy careers under MySpace Music and MySpace Comedy. I think it is an icon because it has been developed by the people, for the people. It is for virtually everyone, giving it a great lasting appeal.
Starbucks is more than just coffee; it’s an experience and considering it’s coffee that makes it an icon. While the java that is served up at Starbucks is spectacular, it’s the music, the seating and the service that sets them far above the rest. Many have tried to reach the level of Starbucks and failed. Personally I never go through the drive-thru at Starbucks because then I would miss out on the entire experience of being a Starbucks customer.
References (Photos)
Hannah Montana (2009), http://www.wallpaperbase.com/wallpapers/celebs/hannahmontana/hannah_montana_2.jpg, Retrieved January 17, 2009.
MySpace (2009), http://wordsaboutthings.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/starbucks-cup.jpg, Retrieved January 17, 2009.
Starbucks (2009), http://wordsaboutthings.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/starbucks-cup.jpg, Retrieved January 17, 2009.
I complete agree with your view of Starbucks. The coffee is really great, but if they didn't give the service etc... the experience wouldn't be worth getting out of the car. As for being a singer...nope not me, I rather have been Nancy Drew following the clues with the Hardy Boys. Though I also feel the same about MySpace, I think people should be a little more careful what they put on this due to employers surfing the site to find out more about people they are interviewing...makes you think huh???
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