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MIKEY VOTANO

From rockabilly roots to big band frontman, Mikey Votano’s artist rebranding captures the evolution of a vintage-inspired artist. This project reimagines his visual identity, blending retro grit with timeless sophistication. 

Together with costume designer and style visionary Darja Gerova, we rebuilt Mikey’s visual identity from the ground up—logo, color palette, typography, press imagery, and wardrobe—all working in harmony to redefine his artistic persona.

Mike Votano Artist Rebranding by Yvonne Hartmann

Design apProach

SCOPE

brand coaching, art direction

TONE OF VOICE

fun, creative, eccentric, unique

MIKEY’S FORMER VIBE

Before the big band transformation Mikey’s brand screamed vintage rebellion—think leather jackets and roaring hot rods. It was a tribute to rockabilly’s golden era – but as Mikey’s sound evolved, so did the need for a brand that could keep up.

DEFINING THE NEW VIBE

We started by crystallizing Mikey’s essence—who he is as an artist, the values he embodies, and the emotional resonance he wanted to create.  Through deep collaboration, we honed in on a vibe that felt fun, creative, eccentric and unique. This foundation shaped every creative decision, ensuring his rebrand didn’t just look striking, but felt unmistakably him.

Brand Coaching Mikey Votano - Tone of Voice Mindmap by Yvonne Hartmann
CREATING A VISUAL CONCEPT

Next, we developed a full visual makeover to bring the brand to life, crafting mood boards for a fresh logo, a custom color palette, eye-catching typography, and striking press photos. 

The design concept centered on a vibrant, retro-inspired palette—rich warm reds and oranges—paired with bold, playful typography infused with jazz energy. For the photography, we embraced eccentric poses and vivid colors in both wardrobe and backdrops, perfectly mirroring Mikey’s fun, unconventional, and original rebrand.

For fashion and style, Darja Gerova worked her magic, designing mood boards for Mikey’s stage and off-stage looks—timeless yet daring, blending classic charisma with just the right amount of boldness.

MIKEY BRINGING IT TO LIFE

With the new direction locked in, Mikey fully embodied the rebrand—bringing our vision to life through a bold new logo, striking press photos, and a wardrobe that perfectly aligned with our mood boards. Seeing him step into this elevated aesthetic, radiating confidence and authenticity, was magical. Every detail clicked into place, proving that great branding isn’t just visual—it’s transformational.