Claustrophobic (Music Video)

Man, kudos to my little sister for putting me on to PJ Morton.  If the multitalented crooner looks familiar, it’s because since 2012 he’s been one of the keyboardist for Adam Levine’s super successful pop rock band, Maroon 5.

I would of dug a little deeper into the background of the Grammy-nominated New Orleans artist, but words aren’t needed when an act is that good—the music always speaks for itself. Allow me to present “Claustrophobic,” the first single from Morton’s 2017 album, GUMBO.  The song truly is an anthem for all artists who are unapologetically two-stepping to the beat of their own drum. (makes sense why I like it so much.)

Check out the inspirational tune’s visual below, and if you loved what you heard, feel free to explore his fascinating discography.

LA PRKWY Tunes: Days In

Elijah Mora is working diligently to shine bright in the mainstream Hip Hop scene.  I met the emerging rapper this summer while on a shoot with photographer Deandre Mitchell.  Admittedly, I had no clue Elijah was going to tag along, but I’m glad he did. During our various location changes we had a chance to bond and I was thoroughly impressed by his ambition.

The confident 23-year-old spitter is representing the Big Apple to the fullest—more specifically, Laurelton Parkway. Born in Brooklyn with Haitian roots, Elijah and his family moved to the aforementioned Queens suburb at the young age of seven.  “I grew up in Laurelton, definitely a West Indian middle-class area, not the worst of hoods but having friends in different areas showed me shit ain't sweet,” he states. “Although things settled down now, I legit remember days when I couldn’t take my phone out on the bus in certain neighborhoods. Queens just prepared me for the world in general and how to stay on point. Anything can happen at any time.”

With his head on a swivel and an insatiable appetite for success, Mora unleashed a mixtape commemorating his beloved setting aptly titled, LA PRKWY Tunes. The sonic body of work consists of eight original tracks produced by fellow burgeoning artists OOLUWAA, Losco and Wavy J.  Setting himself apart from the pack, Elijah produced a short film alongside More Like This Media titled, LA PRKWY Tunes: Days In, to fully accent the tape’s four premier tracks. He further explained the visual’s significance by saying: “I felt like I have the mind for it, so why not bring a cinematic aspect into music. I was trying to capture just a day in the life type of feel. Kind of like watching the movies ‘Boys In The hood’ or ‘Friday’, showing you different areas of where I’m from and how we maneuver.”

Sit back, relax and watch an eventful day in the life of Elijah Mora below:

Rox Brown's Air Jordan 1s

The growth of Rox Brown is incredible!  During the early years of my dominance at the New York location of Nigo’s former empire, Roxanne was making her own mark at Pharrell Williams’ Billionaire Boys Club/Ice Cream shop in SoHo.  After BBC, she moved on to be the “it girl” at VFILES, while solidifying herself as one of Downtown’s shining personalities.  Her consistent grind has paid off as she is now living her dream as a full-time stylist and creative director.

Roxy’s latest stunt is in the form of a new sneaker! That’s right, she is the latest influencer who has been given the chance to create a stand-out Air Jordan 1.  Her iteration receives a satin upper in an all-black colorway.  Furthermore, Reflective 3M detailing is spread throughout the shoe with a bright red rose graphic embroidered on the heel and tongue replacing the usual “Nike Air.”  Last but certainly not least, Rox’s signature is hidden within its reflective detailing.

The Rox Brown x WMNS Air Jordan 1 is scheduled to drop at select Jordan Brand retailers on Dec. 12 for $160.

Finding: J-Kwon

“One, here comes the two, to the three, to the four/ Everybody drunk out on the dance floor!” I hope you guys aren’t tired of me and my habitual method of writing song lyrics to kickstart a poppin’ write up. Jay-Z said it best: “What you want me to do?  I’m sorry!”  Whenever I’m in the zone—especially when the article is music centered—my hands start typing whatever Source energy tells me.  This particular piece revolves around a Rapper that most people have forgotten about (his Hip Hop prominence occurred during my braided hair era), J to the mothaf%#$ Kwon!

Recently, BET premiered a new episode of their docu-series, Finding, featuring the “Tipsy” king, where he detailed his struggles and triumphs in the “manipulative” music industry.  He’s more than ready for a major comeback, let’s see what happens!

For now, check out the clip below:

Kawhi's "New" Shoe Deal

Breaking news! Kawhi Leonard has just signed a multiyear contract with none other than the grandfather of all dad shoes, New Balance.

Yup, I know exactly what you’re thinking: “This is a move only Kawhi would make!”  The new face of the Toronto Raptors organization is sort of regarded as a rather...unique NBA superstar with a questionable laugh [insert The Joe Budden Podcast sound effect here], but his latest feat is just as clutch as he is during the final seconds of a championship game.  NB certainly doesn’t have enough hops to jump over the Jumpman, however, they’re dishing out major cash that would entice any player in their elevated mind.  According to ESPN, Leonard, 27, was offered more than $5 million per season, positioning himself among the top 15 shoe endorsement deal earners in the league! Kawhi’s last sneaker venture was with Jordan Brand where they paid him less than $500,000 a year.

Twitter is having a field day with this unexpected news.  Check out some of the humorous tweets below:

The Lion King (Trailer)

“Nants ingonyama bagithi baba!!” The Lion King is arguably the greatest movie ever made.  Disney’s classic animated film initially released in 1994 when I wasn’t able to speak English fluently. Despite the annoying language barrier, the Don Hanh-produced masterpiece was still able to move me in ways that transcended time and thought by its enchanting storyline and spirit-lifting hymns.  When I heard there was a live action remake in the works my younger self was back-flipping for joy, now I’m ecstatic to present its very first trailer.

Premiered on Thanksgiving Day, the CGI teaser accurately displays the opening of Disney’s 32nd animated feature where Simba is raised by Rafiki on Pride Rock to the kingdom’s animals.  Fortunately, my man James Earl Jones will reprise his role as Mufasa (he was born for that part), alongside a star-studded cast featuring Donald Glover, Beyonce, Chiwetel Ejiofor and many more.  Additionally, Elton John and Hans Zimmer are returning to fine tune the movie’s magical soundtrack.

Disney’s nostalgic Lion King remake will be released in theaters on July 19, 2019.  For now, check out the trailer below:

Frida Kahlo Exhibit

Frida Kahlo was a magnificent Mexican artist who used her short lived, yet eventful life as a muse to produce incredible surreal paintings and self portraits.  Just in time for the holiday season, the Brooklyn Museum has announced a new exhibition chronicling the revolutionary painter’s work.

The show’s title, ‘Frida: Appearances Can Be Deceiving’, perfectly sums up Kahlo’s aesthetic as she concealed her physical disabilities with elegant Tehuana dresses and jaw-dropping accessories.  Tons of Frida’s unreleased artwork, belongings and even hand-painted corsets and prosthetics used throughout her lifetime will be displayed at the presentation.  (Damn, no wonder why it’s the largest U.S exhibition in a decade).

Tickets for the ‘Frida: Appearances Can Be Deceiving’ exhibit are available for purchase at the Brooklyn Museum site on December 3rd. For now, if you don’t know much about the beautiful artist (is it just me or does she really resemble my alt-reality boo Beyonce?), check out the clip below:

D'Evils (Music Video)

Just in case you didn’t follow through and dive deep into the discography of SiR (I briefly mentioned him in my last post), I decided to showcase the video of one of my favorite recent cuts from the sensational TDE multi-hyphenate.

Coined “D’Evils,” the irie riddim, found on Sir Darryl’s—yeah, that’s his real name—first full-length album November, samples late reggae artist Billy Boyo’s legendary hit “One Spliff A Day.”  Its flawless production blended in with the Inglewood native’s smooth vocals will most certainly keep your ears on fire during this chilly weather.

Rightfully so, the music video for the blazing single takes place in none other than Jamaica, where SiR is found with his lovely lady taking in the island’s organic vibes, and of course, enjoying “one spliff a day” to keep the evil away.

Check out the scenic, Karena Evans-directed clip below:

Old Age (Music Video)

Whenever someone happens to catch me on the cobblestone streets of SoHo (or anywhere else in the city for that matter) they suddenly become bug-eyed and yell out : ”Yo Frendy! you got that Pharrell syndrome—you really don’t age.”  Now, I do not fancy anyone wishing any sort of malady on me, but this particular symptom, I’ll gladly accept. Before you start thinking all crazy, let me just say that I am not anywhere near the legendary super-producer’s length of life. I’ve just celebrated my 25th year on earth just a few more times than the average person  *insert smiley face emoji here*.

Back in August, “TrapHouseJazz” pioneer Masego released a majestic tune which dealt with the theme of age and its irrelevance. Man, let me keep it real, he’s basically crooning about his desire to court a genetically blessed, older woman. “I need me a sugar mama, old lady, foxy mama, sophisticated,” is how the multi-talented singer kicked off his daring single, so you know he ain’t playing no games!  Featuring TDE ’s most slept on and extremely talented artist SiR, “Old Age” serves as a soundtrack for those who are bold enough to shamelessly receive most of the benefits in a romantic relationship *Laughs*.

Check out the track’s comedic, Keoni Marcelo-directed visual with appearances by the hilarious Renny and thicka-than-a-snicka goddess herself Yaris Sanchez as “Ms. Johnson” below:

Wow Freestyle (Music Video)

I’ll start off by apologizing to all of the die hard Jay Rock fans reading this post.  I finally took the time to listen to the TDE lyricist’s Redemption album right after watching the music video for his trunk-rattling hit, “Wow Freestyle.”  That song is so hard I couldn’t hold off listening to the project any longer!

Featuring the incomparable Kendrick Lamar, the 11th track found on Jay’s latest effort truly displays the tandem’s clever wordplay and sensational synergy. Its visual, directed by Jack Begert, finds Top’s artists in their old hood where they use to freestyle before the fame.

Check out the clip below:

Rap Radar Interviews Tay Keith

“Tay Keith, F*ck these N*ggas up!” is arguably the best producer tagline in Rap today.  For the saying to be as potent as it is, the artist behind the infamous line has to actually be lit, and fortunately, the Memphis maestro passes the requirement with flying colors.

The distinguished Hip Hop journalists of Rap Radar recently sat down with the super producer to talk about his origin, schooling, megastar collaborators and more.

Check out the informative clip below:

Human Made x KFC

I haven’t eaten chicken from KFC in about 6 years, but with the announcement of its new collaboration with NIGO’s fashion label Human Made, I just might break my (semi) strict diet to taste what the hoopla is all about.

To be brutally honest, this joint venture is the epitome of a “weird flex but ok,” Instagram caption. Fortunately, the track record of the legendary Japanese designer is more than commendable so, in my book, his unlikely pairing with the fast food chain is…genius (haha).

Not much information is revealed about Human Made’s KFC mash-up but we can expect their delectable debut on November 16, 2018 in NYC. For now, check out the dramatic promotional video captured in Japan below:

Off Deez

“Off Deez” might actually be J.I.D’s very first publicly released song with a J. Cole feature.

Destin (yeah, I just spilled his government name) felt that he wasn’t ready to receive a coveted verse from Dreamville’s head honcho on his 2017 debut album, The Never Story.  Furthermore, the rising spitter wanted to fully express his come-up to the world alone. After one full year—filled with countless fiery freestyles and memorable performances (please go watch his appearance on COLORS)—the East Atlanta native has leveled up, and is now preparing to release his sophomore effort with a little help from several musical heavyweights...and yes, Jermaine is certainly not left out.

Produced by ChaseTheMoney, the Cole-assisted banger is from J.I.D’s forthcoming project Dicaprio 2, which is slated to drop on November 26th, 2018.  I honestly have no words to describe how scorching this track is.  All I can say is that if you had any doubts about why J. Cole signed this dude (seemingly out of nowhere), they will cease to exist after hearing it.

Check out the chune for yourself below:

Fukk Sleep (Official Music Video)

“F*ck popo, police, enemies, fake homies/ Can’t forget that I’m a OG, betta act like you know it.”  With that said, allow me to re-introduce myself--my name is Frendy! Sorry, I know that was a bit corny, but I’m extremely happy to be back writing for y’all. My regular readers would know that I often take breaks from the blog to recharge, and I must say, my latest one week hiatus was much needed.  There’s really nothing more important to me than delivering quality content, so just know that I have plenty more tricks up my sleeves for your inspirational needs.

Speaking of quality, the self-proclaimed PMF A$AP Rocky released an imaginative music video for his Testing stand-out cut “Fukk Sleep,” featuring FKA Twigs.  On paper, the combination of such artists sounds (as Mal from The Joe Budden Podcast would say) crazy.  Fortunately, the sonic outcome is eargasmic.

Produced by Object Animal & O Creative Studio, the Diana Kunst-directed visual opens up with an unconscious Rocky and Twigs in a contraption that disintegrates them into a world of their own, where they are causing major havoc.  The treatment isn’t far off from the duo’s reality as they are both unabashedly riding their own respective waves.

Check out the edgy clip below:

A Mess of Gigantic Proportions

On February 11th, 2017 I was fortunate enough to attend the homie Luka Sabbat and Photographer Noah Dillon’s inaugural Hot Mess art installation at Milk Studios.  Premiering in the midst of New York Fashion week, the duo’s exhibit displayed aesthetically pleasing pics capturing their feral adventures.  In less than two years, the creative compadres are back at it again with a larger than life art flex that’ll shut down any hater’s misconceptions.

Ahead of the Hot Mess boys merch release, Sabbat and Dillon have curated bootleg campaigns, titled ‘Free Advertising’, on billboards nationwide—their first stop: New York City. “We shot fake campaigns for select brands and have placed them on billboards in different states throughout America.  Everything shot and creative directed by HotMess corp,” Luka explains on Instagram.  “Will be posting more soon with updates on the rest of the billboards.   Merch will be dropping online for the first time soon.”  The brands on the fictitious Hot Mess campaigns include Snickers chocolate bar, The North face, and even Balenciaga. (Not your average mom and pop labels as you can see.)

The fellas are generating major hype for their first ever merch pieces. Will you cop?

Jansport's Desert Collection

Serious cojones were needed in order to rock a fresh JanSport bookbag back in my middle school days.  Yes, owning one of the iconic American apparel company’s bags automatically made you “the man”, but it also came with a hefty price of having to always be on guard against menacing classmates who were ready pounce on your unattended prized possession. (especially if the bag was decorated with multi-colored strings on its zipper.) Well, Jansport has returned with a new capsule in hopes of reigniting the grandeur it once possessed.  

Inspired by the sandy desert mountains, their Fall 2018 Desert Collection consists of the SuperBreak backpack, the Fifth Avenue waist bag and the Half Pipe FX mini.  Constructed with soft leather and suede, the bags are available in “mistral grey”, “vintage brown” and good ol’ black.

The Desert Collection is now stocked at NYC’s Extra Butter and will be sold at Jansport’s official website on October 28th.  Check out its lookbook below:

Who Hurt You?

Other than his surprise feature on the remix of fellow Canadian crooner Jessie Reyez’s smash hit single, “Figures,” and Anderson .Paak’s band Free National’s banger “Beauty & Essex,” Daniel Caesar has been laying low for the most part of 2018.  That is until now. Recently, the Freudian soul singer released a brand new single, which revealed a mildly wilder side of him we’ve never heard (or seen) before.

Titled “Who Hurt You?” The T-Pain-assisted jam finds Daniel singing about his infatuation with a bootylicious stripper from Atlanta who goes by the name of Priscilla. (I know, he took a page right out of Pain’s book.) Now, you might be confused at why the song is coined in such a mellow manner, but after a few listens, it can be inferred that the former dreadlock artist (yup, he chopped them off) is simply finding solace after a heart-wrenching heartbreak.

Check out the Jordan Evans & Matthew Burnett-produced scorcher for yourself below, and let me know if my deep dive is valid or not.

Kareem's Pick: UMI

For some reason, nostalgia always feels heavier in the fall. Music can vocalize the emotions that are hard to put into words. “Remember Me” by UMI is the perfect translation of how I’ve been feeling on the low.  

The Los-Angeles based singer/songwriter/angel ‘s track reminds me of a few risky texts I’ve sent in my lifetime. In the song, UMI pens a heartfelt letter to an ex lover detailing the memories they made together.

Nostalgia isn’t always gentle. Thankfully, this song reminds me that I’m not the only one suffering.

Written by Kareem Hilaire

The Flame Style 36 SF

These new kicks from Vans are absolutely fire in every sense of the word! This summer, my shoes of choice were the Flame Old Skool Blacks from the popular American skate company so I’m really happy to see that they’ve made a new iteration of the scorching silhouette.

Coined the Flame Style 36 SF, the fiery footwear is made in a monochrome colorway (unlike the aforementioned sneaker with orange and red flames embellished on each of its side).  The Flame Style 36 SF features an UltraCush insole and a rubbertoe cap. Furthermore, the Style 36 SF Vans includes sturdy canvas and suede uppers, water-based inks and glues, and classic waffle rubber outsoles.

Cop your pair now for a measly $62 here.

The General

Whenever I was asked about my work experience at BAPE in past interviews, I always made sure to mention that I got the job after my third attempt. Heck, I even briefly spoke of the Busy Workshop employee who actually took interest in my resume, which eventually was passed on to the higher-ups. With the creation of this #FrendyOriginals series, I thought it was the perfect time to further reveal the major players who aided me in landing a coveted spot at the shop. It is my absolute pleasure to finally introduce the man who hired me at the stand-out SoHo establishment: the former Ape General himself, Michael Vincent.

My BAPE NYC interview was easier than MJ playing a one-on-one basketball game against Stevie Wonder (no disrespect). For starters, I knew everything about the Japanese luxury streetwear brand. Secondly, Mike and Zuki—NIGO’s right-hand man and former BAPE NYC general manager—were extremely chill so there was no pressure causing me to get out of character. Truth be told, Michael was the person who assigned me to work on the second floor. Mike worked at the shop since its opening in December of 2004. He later resigned in 2007 to pursue his entrepreneurial endeavors.

I recently sat down with the seasoned creative merchandiser to discuss his BAPE beginnings, love of streetwear, and find out what he’s currently doing in the corporate retail industry. Check out our conversation below:

FRENDY: This is the first time we’re having a full on conversation in years. Crazy how life comes back around.

MICHAEL: Hey, Frendy. What’s good?! Yes, it’s been a while indeed. A lot has happened since the BAPE days—crazy to think that it’s been over 10 years now.

FRENDY: You want to know something crazier? I think you interviewed me for the job on this exact month in 2006? *Laughs*.

MICHAEL: Yes, I remember—it was hoodie season and we were building up the team for the holiday shopping rush. BAPE mania was still prevalent in the city. I’ll never forget when you walked down to the office for the interview. You had on a huge leather jacket, red shirt, black trousers, some pointy loafers. And back then, you had dreads—definitely not something you forget.

FRENDY: Swag *Laughs*. I can't believe you still remember that! Yeah, I had my signature braids back then. And for sure, I was definitely dressed like I was heading to the club—I had no other choice but to go all out because this was the job I always dreamed of getting. What did you honestly think of me before we spoke?

MICHAEL: To be honest, I had a stack of resumes. We were shuffling through them the previous week. I was looking for someone that was unique. Your resume actually fell from the batch because I think you had attached a modeling photo. Seriously, I was like ‘WTF?! Who does this? You know what? Get him in here! Let me give him five minutes to make a case.’ From there you came in and answered all the questions, and I thought you would bring a good vibe to the team so we pulled the trigger.

FRENDY: Holy! *Laughs* I totally forgot I attached my photo to the resume. Honestly, I gave my third resume at the shop after leaving an interview with Abercrombie & Fitch. I was tired of working at the NBA Store on Fifth avenue at the time, and I was trying my best to get another gig. After my failed attempt to work at A&F, I decided to go downtown and try my luck at BAPE again—I had nothing to lose. Thank god I made that last minute decision.

MICHAEL: Yeah. I guess after that day you became the longest tenured employee at BAPE US.

FRENDY: Amazing. How exactly did you land the manager position at BAPE US when it first opened? I could imagine there were so many applicants for that gig.

MICHAEL: I actually didn’t apply for the manager position. I was actually on my way to medical school—I was only looking for a summer job at that point, and I had known the shop’s manager. I was brought in to do only sales. I was able to go from sales to floor manager, then make it back to the office for a short period of time.

In retrospect, a summer job in a brand that I truly enjoyed has become a career in fashion retail—I haven’t looked back since.

FRENDY: Wow. It all makes sense now. I took a look at your resume online, and it showed that you graduated from Rutgers University with a Biological Sciences degree. What captivated you to remain in the fashion retail industry?

MICHAEL: I’ve always been into the whole streetwear scene before I got to BAPE in 2004. I grew up like any other kid watching Michael Jordan and tried to be like him, rocking all the Air Jordans—actually, the sneaker that really got me into the biz was the Air Max 1. But that’s another story in itself. To make a long story short, MJ and his kicks got me ingrained into the culture of music, fashion, etc. I just fell in love with everything that had to do with it. During college, my roommate and I were actually resellers—that’s how I met the manager at BAPE back then because they were buying Nike SBs from us. So before that I’d say the entrepreneurial spirit was already in me and the intrigue of the fashion retail business had started.

When I was at BAPE, all of those just fused seamlessly. I wanted to learn more about business— not just the hype aspect of the retail game, but the operational efficiency and product design aspect of it. So what exactly captivated me? I’d say a love for everything that impacts the culture, and the desire to understand it in a 360 degree perspective.

FRENDY: Who are you referring to when you mentioned “they” were buying Nike SBs from you and your roommate? You meant the entire BAPE crew, or just the manager there at the time?

MICHAEL: I’d say a majority of the crew.

FRENDY: Damn, that must mean you had major heat to sell to the very first staff of the BAPE US. What got you into sneaker selling?

MICHAEL: During the early 2000s, it was all about retro Js and Nike SBs. It was peaking at that time so we were able to get our hands on all the heat. What got me into sneaker selling? Easy: so I could cop the next fresh pair. As a college student in a ramen noodle diet—I had to figure out how to cover tuition and the kicks.

FRENDY: I feel you. Were you camping out for shoes, or simply ordering them online?

MICHAEL: Mostly camp outs or [ I ] made deals with shop owners for some backdoor deals. Camping out was actually another reason that got me really into the fashion retail business. I remember camping out for BAPE Superstars at the Adidas Originals store on Wooster Street back then. It was brick outside. And I must have been number 10 on the line—they only had 6 pairs on sale! After that moment I said ‘fuck it! I’m not doing this shit anymore.’ *Laughs*

FRENDY: Rutgers [University] is located in New Jersey. Are you originally from there? I’m asking because you’re a trooper if you constantly commuted all the way from Jersey for some kicks in the city.

MICHAEL: Back then, yes. We drove in from New Brunswick for that sneaker camp out I spoke about earlier. When I wasn’t in school, I was living in Jersey City, which was a quick train ride to the New York.

FRENDY: I got you. Your infatuation with the fashion retail industry grew to monstrous proportions after landing the job at BAPE. What did your parents think when they found out you weren’t going to med school? Were they disappointed?

MICHAEL: Definitely disappointed! I don’t blame them though…If I was them I would be disappointed too. I think the fear and disappointed feelings eventually dissipated as they saw me climb up the ladder. Also, they knew I was able to afford to put a roof over my head. I know that their disappointment was just their way of protecting me, but I also knew I had to pursue what I really wanted to. And hopefully the dollars eventually rolls in.

FRENDY: Since you already knew the manager at the shop, did you even have to go through an interview process to get the job? Who was he?

MICHAEL: His name was Martin. I had to go through an interview—it was super chill and laid back. I think I started a week after the interview.

FRENDY: What was going through your mind on the first day working at the shop?

MICHAEL: I think the normal feelings you’d get when starting a new job: nervous. Making sure I don’t fuck up *Laughs*. There was also a feeling of like you were a member of an exclusive club.

Wait a minute, I actually remember the first time I fucked up. It was maybe only after one month, I screwed up royally behind the register. Not sure exactly what happened, but the customer basically paid a $1000 short—I had to chase them down to get the rest of the money *Laughs*.

FRENDY: Damn! Were you able to track the customer down?

MICHAEL: Yes. I got the money—and still had a job.

FRENDY: What are some of your favorite moments from working there? Did NIGO stop by often?

MICHAEL: I had a bunch of moments, and definitely a lot of memories from the shop. I was able to meet a lot of influential people through BAPE that are still in contact with or doing business with me. My favorite moments were going to Japan. Being able to see the new products, and placing the orders for the next season. Seeing where the brand originated, and meeting the core group behind the brand in Japan.

NIGO would drop by the shop often in the beginning—usually when there are events like the MTV Video Music Awards happening.

FRENDY: Truth be told, I was really inspired to land the job at BAPE after I saw NIGO and Pharrell looking fresh as hell in their respective gear on the red carpet of the 2006 VMA awards in NYC.  I believed they stopped by the shop before they went over to Madison Square Garden where the ceremony was held. I didn’t know how I was going to get a job at BAPE, but I was extremely determined to *Laughs*.  Incredible things happen when you dream big.

MICHAEL: Dream big. High rewards. The brand definitely help launch my career in the correct path. Having the experience working at BAPE has helped me help run other companies and start my own business endeavors. Those early years definitely laid out the foundation to what I am doing now.

FRENDY: What was the real reason behind your departure?  Was it because you wanted to expand your company at the time, Mike23?

MICHAEL: Yes, that’s one of the main reasons. I wanted to continue my own personal and professional growth. I had a opportunity to expand my knowledge outside of just running the store, or doing the seasonal buys. It was a chance for me to take everything I’ve learned up to that point and take my own spin to it.

FRENDY: Can you tell me a little bit about the company?

MICHAEL: MIKE23 was a brand that was a tribute to Michael Jordan. The idea was of MIKE23 was conceived by Scott Nelson. Scott and I saw a void in the market that wasn’t being filled by any other brands. A majority of people back then wore Jordans, but didn't really wear the Nike gear that went with it that much. So we went out and created the brand with a lifestyle perspective. We made everything from clothing to sneakers, and even some furniture. We actually had help from another fellow BAPE alumni, Mike A.

FRENDY: Shout out to Mike A.  He’s such a great guy.  What caused the company’s demise in just one year?

MICHAEL: The brand was going well. Nike sent [a] C&D. Nike is more lenient these days. But I probably can’t talk much about the details of that part.

FRENDY: I totally understand.  After that occurred, did you somewhat regret leaving your stable position at BAPE US?

MICHAEL: No, I had no regrets—I was perfectly fine with my decision. Growing and my knowledge was more important for me. I’d only go back if I can have a significant contribution to the brand. And as long as you are relying on someone’s signature for a bi-weekly check there is no such thing as a stable position.

FRENDY: That’s a fact!  What were your next steps after MIKE23?

MICHAEL: I definitely had the entrepreneurial drive. I’ve been watching people succeed with their own brand or retail shops. I knew that in the long run that’s where I wanted to be. I also had to humble myself—I knew that I had to continue my fashion retail education.

BAPE and MIKE23 was all streetwear and hype. I wanted to get down to gritty side of retail. I really wanted to understand the store operations side and buying side of things so I ended up in Training Camp. After that experience I saw the shift to E-Commerce so I went on to work for a startup called JackThreads. Unfortunately JackThreads folded after a few years so I decided to run my own business.

FRENDY: I do actually remember seeing you at Training Camp one time *Laughs*. Your determination to be successful in the retail industry is commendable.  Life has a way of humbling us down, which inadvertently enables us to freely learn whatever that is needed to level up. Congrats on your new business venture! Are you running a new shop?

MICHAEL: Yes. In Indonesia to be exact. There's a growing population of highly active youth who are really into the sneaker/streetwear scene. So [by] expanding ‘Invincible’ into Jakarta, I’m going to be bringing brands and tiers of footwear that's never been available to the country. After almost a decade in this industry, I think giving back everything that I've learned to not just a community but a whole different region was just the next stage in my career.

FRENDY: Such a powerful move.  Life is all about giving back and you’re doing just that with your passion. When is ‘Invincible’ scheduled to open in Indonesia?

MICHAEL: End of October or Early November. We’re in the middle of construction and receiving merchandise so probably won’t know until another week or two.

FRENDY: Definitely keep me updated with that information.   Do you think there’s a huge difference in the streetwear/sneaker industry today compared to when you first got in the game during the early 2000s?

MICHAEL: Yes, its beyond huge! From the consumer side and business side of things. Major corporations after BAPE started to cater more to the streetwear scene or lifestyle side of things. Streetwear has become a business. Roles have reversed. Big fashion houses are now doing street looks and selling for luxury prices. From a consumer point of view social media has changed personal individuality, the resell game, the way brands communicate to their target audience, and most importantly, the speed at which info spreads: trends surge and die at a faster clip.

FRENDY: What are you thoughts on the uprise of “merch” gear in the industry as a whole? As you can see, more musicians are conjuring up their on line.

MICHAEL: I have no problem with it. If done creatively it can be a good thing. I think Kanye first started the trend back in 2013, and probably peaked in 2016. To me it's just another trend that’s executed properly by a few artists who have interactive pop ups that gets the crowd excited. But as more and more people made their own merch, the novelty of it died down fast. And some of the limited products created more hype for the next artists to do it due to their resale value. But it was only a matter of time just like any trend to get ripped off by the likes of Zara and H&M.

Image via Lipstick Alley

FRENDY: Speaking of trends, what are your favorite sneakers on the market right now?

MICHAEL: Personally, I like What Nike is doing with the React line for now and what’s coming out in the next few seasons. I always got a pair of AJ 1’s around. I like how Adidas is pushing the envelope with 4D outsoles. Dude I like a lot of sneakers *Laughs*. Might be biased here, but the ‘Invincible’ 4D. The go to right now.

FRENDY: I asked you that question on purpose *Laughs*.  How many pairs of kicks do you even own?  You’re Instagram basically serves as your shoe flex platform.

MICHAEL: I own enough let's put it that way. I honestly don’t know. Being in this industry has its perks. So things add up easily. Let’s just say I got a warehouse. I probably got Wu Tang Dunks in there back from when I worked at Training Camp. Kanye BAPES and NERD Bapestas. A ton of samples that's been gifted or projects that I’ve worked on. And things that go back to mid to late 80’s.

FRENDY: Is it safe to say you’re still in the reselling game?

MICHAEL: Yes of course. Now I’m buying things directly from the source itself and flipping it in my own shops or establishments that I’ve worked for. That “resell” mentality that I developed has helped me succeed in the corporate level and on my own personal endeavors.

FRENDY: What a story!  Mike, I have to say I’m incredibly proud of you for manifesting your dreams into reality.  Do you have any advice for anyone out there who’s stuck in finding what their own passion is?

MICHAEL: This may sound cheesy, but you got to follow your soul. People say follow your heart. But you got to dig deeper into yourself. Do it for the passion and the “why” you are doing it and never lose sight of that. And most importantly, do what you believe is right.