What CNN didn't say was that those artists that drop brands the most, also get access to vehicles for videos, access to invitation only unvielings (like the 2007 Esco event) and some get zero leases. In return the automaker gets to see their product jump off the lot...

80s
Suzuki Sidekicks
Toyota Maximas
Jeeps

90s
BMW 5 series
Acura Legend
Lexus
Hummer

2000
Escalades
Navigators
BMW 750
MB CLS
MB G-Wagon
MB Maybach
Range Rover

it's just the further commercialization and cross selling of everything TV-Movies-Sports-Music to become a MegaBrand like Shaq (movie, sports, music), Will Smith (tv, movie, music), Jamie Foxx (tv, movie, music). You wouldn't believe the time and energy these guys put into brand dropping and the behind the scenes deals. It's worse that the last Bond film.