FROM STAR TO STARLETTE TO....???

Stars like Madonna, Gwen Stefani, and Beyoncé established their identities first in one field (both in music) before branching off into others. They have one primary identity, with their other endeavours seen as side projects or supplementary.
New stars, however, who try to branch out too early run into the problem of weighing down their still-developing identities with numerous careers and products that are contingent on their identity as a brand. They may confuse their audiences by fracturing their identities. A prime example is Jessica Simpson. Simpson began by releasing a pop album, but then reached greater success with a reality TV show. She also released product lines, tried to crossover into acting, and gained more fame through headlines in celebrity gossip columns.Meanwhile, her subsequent albums and singles failed to become significant hits. Her songs most likely won’t be remembered, and there isn’t a signature tune that can be easily associated with her. Even her pop identity was somewhat unclear: was she a balladeer? Wholesome wait-until-marriage virginal popster? Or Britney Spears pop-tart knock-off?

www.straight.com
Dec 16 2008