Listen, a fragrance by Herb Alpert, was launched in 1988 as part of his brief but ambitious foray into the world of perfumery. Best known as a legendary musician, bandleader, and co-founder of A&M Records, Alpert sought to translate his artistic sensibilities from sound to scent. Through his company, H. Alpert and Co., he introduced Listen for Women and Listen for Men, positioning them as sophisticated, high-quality fragrances sold in prestigious department stores like Nordstrom and Macy’s. The name "Listen" was not only a nod to Alpert's musical background but also an invitation to experience fragrance with the same attentiveness and emotional depth that one might give to music.
The word "Listen" originates from the Old English hlysnan, meaning "to pay attention" or "to perceive with the ears." It evokes an image of quiet contemplation, of being attuned to something beyond the surface. In a sensory context, it suggests an experience that unfolds gradually, much like a song or a delicate composition. Applied to a fragrance, "Listen" implies that the scent is nuanced, revealing its complexity over time, requiring the wearer to engage with it fully. The advertising campaign reinforced this connection, stating: "Once in a great while there comes a fragrance that hits the perfect note. All you have to do is listen." By intertwining the language of music and perfumery, the branding framed Listen as more than just a fragrance—it was an artistic experience.
