Advertising Revolutionary: The Life and Work of Tom Burrell

Tom Burrell, a Chicago-based ad executive, revolutionized the image of Black Americans in advertising by building brands like McDonald's and Coca-Cola and using his entrepreneurial gifts to build an agency that opened the door for Black artists, copywriters, directors, and other professionals to earn livings, build careers, and become leaders in the industry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

Tom Burrell, a Chicago-based advertising executive, had a remarkable forty-year career that profoundly impacted the industry and revolutionized the way African Americans were portrayed as human beings and consumers. Jason P. Chambers offers a comprehensive biography of this groundbreaking creator and entrepreneur, delving into Burrell's pivotal role in establishing brands such as McDonald's and Coca-Cola within a deeply resonant vision of integrating positive images of Black people into the mainstream American narrative. While highlighting Burrell's remarkable achievements, Chambers also weaves a parallel narrative that sheds light on the motivations of advertising creators who viewed their work as being about more than just selling. Through meticulous archival research and engaging interviews with Burrell and his colleagues, Advertising Revolutionary presents a long overdue portrait of an advertising industry legend and his era.

Burrell's journey in advertising began in the 1960s, where he worked as a copywriter for a small agency in Chicago. Despite facing discrimination and barriers in the industry, he persevered and eventually landed a job at the prestigious Leo Burnett agency. It was at Leo Burnett that Burrell truly made his mark, creating iconic campaigns for clients such as McDonald's and Coca-Cola.

One of Burrell's most significant contributions to advertising was his unwavering commitment to portraying Black people in a positive and authentic light. He recognized that the industry had historically marginalized and stereotyped African Americans, and he set out to challenge these narratives. Burrell's campaigns often featured Black individuals in lead roles, showcasing their talents, achievements, and humanity.

In addition to his creative work, Burrell was also an entrepreneur and visionary. He founded his own advertising agency, T.B. Burrell & Associates, which provided opportunities for Black artists, copywriters, directors, and other professionals to earn a living, build careers, and become leaders within the industry. Burrell's agency was a trailblazer, breaking down barriers and opening doors for marginalized communities.

Through his work, Burrell not only changed the image of Black Americans in advertising but also had a profound impact on society as a whole. His campaigns helped to break down racial barriers and promote inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Burrell's legacy continues to inspire and influence advertising professionals today, and his vision of integrating positive images of Black people into mainstream American life remains a critical goal.

Advertising Revolutionary is a compelling and multidimensional book that combines archival research, interviews, and personal anecdotes to provide a comprehensive portrait of Tom Burrell and his times. Chambers' writing is engaging and accessible, making it an ideal introduction to the world of advertising and the impact of Burrell's work. The book also includes a wealth of historical information and insights into the social and cultural context of the 1960s and 1970s, which helped shape Burrell's career and his vision for the industry.

In conclusion, Tom Burrell's forty-year career in advertising revolutionized the industry's approach to African Americans as human beings and consumers. Through his unwavering commitment to portraying Black people in a positive and authentic light, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his vision of integrating positive images of Black people into mainstream American life, Burrell helped to break down racial barriers and promote inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Advertising Revolutionary is a valuable contribution to the literature on advertising and the impact of race and culture on the industry, and it serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and vision to shape society.

Weight: 481g
Dimension: 235 x 156 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252087646