Selling it!

This little factoid about The Rolling Stones popped up on factinate.com. In 1981, The Stones embarked on an American tour to support their album Tattoo You. Sponsored by Jovan Perfume for a rumored $4 million, it was the first corporate-sponsored musical tour.

That financial coup was just one of the many things that The Stones’ financial adviser Prince Rupert engineered for them. The Prince’s relationship with the band began in 1968 when he went to visit Mick at his home in the posh borough of Chelsea in London. Inside, he was shocked by what he found. There was no furniture. And the reason was simple: in spite of Top Ten singles and international fame, Mick couldn’t afford any.

Prince Rupert soon began to map out a strategy to make The Stones wealthy…including huge tours and merchandising…and also corporate sponsorships.

It’s estimated that since 1989, The Stones have grossed at least $2 billion.  And it was all thanks to Prince Rupert.

The Rolling Stones have certainly come a long way since they were the ones shilling for advertisers!