Sunglasses are popular accessories for musicians, and many of them turn to one of the best in the industry for their shades. Ray-Ban has been in the eyewear business since the early 20th century, but despite its long history, it’s still one of the most well-known and iconic sunglasses brands in the world. Many musicians spanning all kinds of eras and genres have sported a pair from the brand. The versatility, craftsmanship, and innovation have made these sunglasses timeless must-haves for artists; here’s why:
The everlasting Ray-Ban brand
Ray-Ban has long been a trailblazer in the eyewear industry, founded in 1936. Its sunglasses became massively popular after the release of the Aviator sunglasses, which were initially developed for US Air Force pilots. Its sunglasses soon became spotted on top stars and in movies, helping it gain widespread fame. Since then, the brand has branched out into other offerings like prescription eyeglasses. Its prescription sunglasses combine sun protection and vision correction and come in classic models like the Wayfarer and Erika frames. The brand has also ventured into tech with smart glasses, having recently launched its newest Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
Iconic looks
Musicians often wear sunglasses to help create a signature look and develop style. Ray-Ban sunglasses provide a classic and recognizable look with their timeless frames but also offer modern and trendy styles. Some of the biggest names in music have worn a pair, from Bob Dylan donning Wayfarers in the 1960s to Guns n’ Roses guitarist Slash making it an integral part of his rockstar look. These shades are as classic and legendary as these artists, who’ve also helped make them popular by incorporating them into their everyday fashion. Newer models still get some love. Lenny Kravitz recently modeled the brand’s Ray-Ban Reverse collection, a new take on the well-known frames.
Style
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Ray-Ban sunglasses have been a favorite brand of musicians thanks to the instant touch of style they add to any look. They’re versatile enough to be worn on stage, in music videos, and for dodging paparazzi when going out and about. They pair well with a classic suit, with all-black frames like Wayfarers channeling Roy Orbison or Ray Charles. They can also ground a flashy and flamboyant outfit, much like the eccentric and glittery looks Michael Jackson wore his Aviators with. Alicia Keys wears styles like the Round Metal or geometric Yevi frames to elevate a casual ensemble, preventing it from looking boring. Putting on a pair of Ray-Ban shades is a quick and effective way for musicians to amp up any look and help them look their best.
Tech
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Ray-Ban honors its heritage but isn’t afraid to keep innovating. Its venture into high-tech specs showcases its commitment to staying modern. The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses are its most recent product. They boast high-quality cameras, speakers, microphones, and artificial intelligence (AI) features, all while looking like regular sunglasses. Musicians are a great market for these Ray-Bans since their busy lifestyles can make daily life hectic and stressful. The campaigns for these shades have featured artists like Erykah Badu, Maluma, Coi Leray, James Blake, and more, who use the shades to give them downtime and help them connect to their craft, others, and themselves. They can use the shades in various ways, such as taking pictures and uploading them on social media, marketing their latest hits, listening to music and taking calls from managers or agents, and asking the Meta AI assistant questions. All of these can even be done hands-free, lending well to the fast-paced life of a musician.
