Sneek Peek

In his late 2010 hit “6 Foot 7 Foot ,” Lil Wayne famously proclaimed, “real Gs move in silence like lasagna,” and my next interviewee really took that to heart. Like Weezy, Brooklyn native Sonny Martinez’s actions speak so much louder than words. As a matter of fact, he hardly writes captions for his Instagram posts because the visuals alone are undeniably eye-catching.  Whether he’s showcasing high-end threads, his all-inclusive vacation settings or midnight adventures, Martinez simply leaves a suitable emoji under the flicks/vids so viewers can fully bask in their lavish content.

Sonny aka “Sneek” and I became friends from his habitual shopping sprees at Nigo’s former SoHo workshop. The humble businessman’s friendly nature was truly refreshing, and it was always a pleasure talking to him about all things fashion on the second floor. I haven’t seen or spoken to Sonny in a few years so I decided to catch up with him during this plandemic (yes, I spelled it right).  Furthermore, this opportunity will give me a chance to know more about the inner workings of a man with such flashy exterior. 

Enjoy my insightful sitdown with Sonny below as I provide a “sneek” peek into his fascinating life.

FRENDY: What’s good, homie? Thanks for your time. We’ve known each other for about 8 years now and it’s great to see there’s no love lost.

SNEEK:  For sure.  I think Bape was just such an influential part in my love for art and fashion.  You being there just cemented that relationship. 

FRENDY:  Well said.  Which part of Brooklyn are you from?

SNEEK:  I was Born at Lutheran hospital and raised in Park Slope when it was known as “Park Slope Dope.”  Not the hipster hotspot it is now *Laughs*.

FRENDY:  *Laughs* I love Park Slope. That area of Brooklyn actually holds a very special place in my heart. My first love went to Bishop Ford HS...after class we used to kick it at the surrounding pizza shops.  Good times. How is it now?

SNEEK:  Unrecognizable. It's all brand new condos and pre-k centers, mixed with thrift stores and bars. I remember being on 5th Ave after school, running into Bobbys Sportswear and Jean Stop to see all the exclusive sneakers you wouldn’t find at Foot Locker. A lot of great memories.

FRENDY:  That’s awesome. Speaking of sportswear, your style is on point. When did your love for fashion come about? Did your parents school you?

SNEEK:  Nah man quite the opposite *Laughs*. I grew up an only child to a single parent so there was no money for clothes or kicks— just the essentials. I remember my first “name brand” sneaker (not Payless or Fabco) was a New Balance, and that was because of their considerate price points. 

I would say my love started with Hip Hop culture and 90s media. I remember watching Michael Jordan, Will Smith, the Wayans brothers, and just always examining and admiring their style.

FRENDY:  The power of love coupled with imagination can transform any situation. In your case, the inspirations you took in gave you something to look forward to. As far as being able to cop whatever you wanted in the future. Did you ever get frustrated about not being able to wear what you really wanted back then?

SNEEK:  Not at all. Luckily, social media wasn't a thing for our generation so what you had was what you needed and it stopped there. The artistic side of me always wanted more but I would express that in drawing, coloring, etc. I was the cliche 90s only child raised in front of the TV. I’ve always excelled academically, but my true passion has always been the arts.

FRENDY:  Which HS did you attend?

SNEEK:  John Dewey HS by Coney Island.

FRENDY:  That’s crazy, I went to Lafayette HS. I was on the basketball and volleyball  team—we played against y’all often.

SNEEK:  God bless you, bro *Laughs*.  Lafayette was rough.

FRENDY:  Bruh! Who you telling? The night before my first day of school, I couldn’t sleep at all. I eventually realized it wasn’t as bad as I thought. A lot of the Asian kids had it bad there though.  Ever paid us a visit?

SNEEK:  Lafayette was on the D train line right? 25th Ave stop?

FRENDY:  Yeah.  I think so.

SNEEK:  Well, I haven’t been to Lafayette, but the kids from there would visit me and my pockets on the train ride home *Laughs*. Luckily, it was never anything serious.

FRENDY:  Aww, man *Laughs*. Truth be told, I’m such a disciplined person now because I played organized sports there. It kept me away from trouble. You learn a lot by being in a group of goal-oriented individuals. How was it like in Dewey?

SNEEK:  Dewey was amazing to me—I loved it. We were an “electoral” school where you saw your counselor and built your schedule like a college so it set us up for success. I also loved how I was able to learn about so many cultures while being there. We had it all from the Chinese community to the Italian, the Russian, Latino, goth/emo, the skateboarders, you name it we had it.

FRENDY:  Just like Lafayette.  Were you studying a specific subject at Dewey? Like a mini major before heading off to college?

SNEEK:  I attribute that to Brooklyn—particularly Coney Island. All the communities are blocks apart so we’re forced to just learn and interact with each other.  That’s why so many creatives come from here and are so diverse and successful.

I was always art obsessed. The requirement for art electives was two quarters, half the scholastic year. By the time I graduated I had taken an art class for all four years straight. And from there I went to Kingsborough College to study Graphic Design and Illustration.

FRENDY:  My brother actually graduated from Kingsborough studying graphic design as well. What was the determining factor that ultimately made you major in Graphic Design? I know you always had a love for art, but some people would back out of it because of job security etc. You know, some would rather go the  “safer” route.

SNEEK:  I grew up poor so I didn’t really think that far ahead *Laughs*. I just wanted to do something I was happy doing. Sadly, art education is very expensive—the term “starving artist,” isn't farfetched. Art has remained my passion which I feed when I can while I found a career in retail.  And unlike some, I actually enjoy it.

FRENDY:  We’ll definitely dive into your career in a second.  Kingsborough is a two-year school. Which college did you attend after graduating?

SNEEK:  None because of finances. I had no desire to take a loan and be indebted. I actually had a pretty successful career in retail from a young age and I was happy with that. I still learn on my own through different mediums and outlets.  I had friends in SVA [The School of Visual Arts] and Parsons just slammed with crazy debts from tuition.  I made the decision to just avoid that.

FRENDY:  Smart move! Our lives are pretty similar. I wasn’t able to graduate from Brooklyn College because of finances. We both made a way for ourselves through determination. When did you start embarking in the world of retail? During HS?

SNEEK:  Yeah, my first retail job was Foot Locker at 16, and then Bloomingdale’s at 19.  Both definitely fueled my love for sneakers and clothes that much more. Till this day probably my two favorite jobs I’ve held outside of my current job with StockX.

FRENDY:  You must have been pretty hyped to work at a sneaker shop at such a young age! I bet Foot Locker was the first place you applied after receiving your work papers *Laughs*.

SNEEK: *Laughs* Man, it felt surreal just being around all the things I loved and having the means now to acquire them. I learned so much there that built me into the man I am today and I am forever grateful.

FRENDY:  What were some of the lessons you learned at Foot Locker?

SNEEK:  At Foot Locker I was the only Latino there *Laughs*. My coworkers were all Chinese and my managers were Russian and Italian. My co-workers were already heavy into what we all know now as reselling. Reselling has always been huge in the Chinese community even before options like the internet and consignment shops. They also put me on to all things in the culture which was already a passion of mine because of art and pop culture.

FRENDY:  What inspired you to get a gig at Bloomingdale’s? Did you want to dive deeper into fashion?

SNEEK:  At 18, I was already an avid shopper going around the city daily.  When I didn’t have work I’d visit Bloomingdale’s, Barneys, Bape, Stussy, Kid Robot, Supreme etc. I decided to apply with a “what if?” mentality and they actually reached back. It was bittersweet leaving Foot Locker, but it definitely was an amazing experience.

FRENDY:  No risk, no gain! Congrats on that feat. Was it hard for you to get adjusted working at an establishment that didn’t mainly sell kicks? 

SNEEK:  It was easy—I was already a customer and I had love for the culture. It’s funny because I was hired to work in Women’s Shoes and it was actually a blessing. It was the easiest sales, the best commission in the entire store, and it taught me a lot about an area of fashion I was completely ignorant to. At 19, I knew the difference between a Mary Jane and a Stiletto.  Not many men can say that *Laughs*. 

FRENDY:  *Laughs* sheesh. I don't even know the difference. How long did you work at Bloomingdale’s?

SNEEK:  I was with them for two years at the flagship on 59th. An amazing experience at such a young age. I just learned so much about fashion, business, women *Laughs*, everything. Definitely a huge part of who I am now.

FRENDY: Fashion and women...say no more *Laughs*.  When we became friends at Bape, you were still at Bloomingdale’s? 

SNEEK: We definitely were because I was known for all Bape everything at that time. I’m sure you know a good friend of mine, Jordan, creator of the forum BapeTalk2. A huge staple for Bape fans since news wasn't as easy to find as it is today. 

Jordan worked with me at Bloomingdale’s and sold me my Bape duffle I’ve used in all my travels. He worked downstairs in Menswear. I would go see him everyday just to talk about Bape and Streetwear. Great friends till this day.

FRENDY: It’s a small world...especially in the Streetwear industry. Was Nigo’s former Workshop your introduction to the SoHo area?

SNEEK: Not even to be honest. You have to remember I didn't grow up with much so the Bape price points weren't even in my peripheral *Laughs*. I started out small time buying 501s at OMG and graphic tees at Yellow Rat Bastard. Supreme and Stussy were the more affordable options, but I would go to Union here and there and splurge on some Ice Cream and BBC. We both know though once I was making decent money, you couldn't keep me out of Bape *Laughs*. 

FRENDY:  That’s a fact *Laughs*. So I’m guessing your nickname “Sneek,” derived from your everlasting love for kicks?

SNEEK:  For sure. Being Latino and growing up in Brooklyn, Hip Hop culture was just a part of our everyday lives. Having a tag name was a must *Laughs*. I remember watching Wild Style and seeing the legends talking about how they got their names, the things to consider, and it just came so natural. I’ve been lucky enough that it hasn't been copycatted too much *Laughs*.

FRENDY:  We all know you have tons of kicks. What’s in your top five rotation right now?

SNEEK: Due to COVID-19 my Prada slides are currently one through five *Laughs*. I have a pretty deep collection because I do like the general releases as much as the hyped ones. If I had to pick five though I’ll go with the Jordan 5 Off-White, Nike Dunk High City Attack 1999, LV Trainer Sneaker Boot (the ones that look like the Jordan 3s), Jordan 4 Cool Grey (too good, match with everything and amazing quality), and lastly the CPFM AF1 white/white, the perfect summer shoe.

FRENDY: That’s an all star lineup right there. Earlier you mentioned working at StockX. What exactly do you do there?

SNEEK: I am the Lead of the Streetwear department, so basically everything we trade that isn't sneakers comes through my team.

FRENDY:  Wow, that’s a great look!  It’s well deserved. How’d you land such a crazy gig like that?

SNEEK: Good friends, man. My boy Chico Dusty (aliases only *Laughs*) had been there for some time and felt like the opportunity was a good fit for me. Till this day I thank him because it has truly been a blessing.

FRENDY:  This is just a testament that energy never lies, man. Impossible is nothing when you remain yourself and get things done in an efficient manner. The dots will connect themselves.  How long have you been working at StockX?

SNEEK: This July makes a year.

FRENDY: Nice. What are some of the things you’ve learned so far from being at such a profitable organization?

SNEEK: At the end of the day, the company is still technically a startup with less than five years in. It's dope to watch something grow right in front of you to new levels. It also feels good to know that I’m doing something with a passion that's been in me from day one. And I’m sure it's evident to my peers and my team.

FRENDY:  What are your views on the current state of Streetwear?

SNEEK: I love the current state of Streetwear. I love that I see so many new and old faces just reinventing the wheel everyday. To make something as simple as a graphic t-shirt feel new and refreshing in 2020 is a true skill.  And even if it doesn't fit your personal taste, you still have to recognize the effort.

FRENDY: Since we’re talking about graphic tees, I’m really digging what you’re doing with your clothing line, Save Mankind. Can you tell me more about the brand? What was the inspiration behind it?

SNEEK: For sure, and thank you for the compliment. Save Mankind was an idea I had in 2013 for a lifestyle brand with humanity and community as the inspiration. My end goal is a making a brand that makes you feel as good about the message as you do about the piece. It hasn't been easy as I’ve managed a lot on my own. Plenty of trial and error and money lost.  But it's something I'm confident in and I have no intentions of giving up.

FRENDY:  It’ll all be worth it in the end—trust!   You’ve extended your personal brand with a podcast as well. I checked out some episodes of “Ight So Boom,” and it was hilarious. Just you and your boys kicking it...very natural. 

SNEEK: Thank you, bro. We started in February of 2018, and just like the clothing line, it's been a lot of trial and error. Thankfully, we have a great team between myself, Jae Yannick (the host), Tony Whiteman (the OG), and Travis Whiteman (the human bot). I think what makes us special is how we are just genuine fans and consumers of the culture. We are not on a payroll, we don’t get plugged or seeded product. We are just four friends who like to roast each other while trying to figure out what we need and what we hate *Laughs*.

FRENDY: *Laughs* The best formulas are always the simplest. I couldn’t end this interview without talking about your favorite emcee in the entire universe, Lil’ Wayne. What do you resonate most with him?

SNEEK: Oh man,  where do I start? *Laughs*.  It started super early, I want to say 99-00. This is the corniest thing I'm going to admit but I lowkey follow the zodiac pretty closely, and Wayne being only a couple years older than me (birthday three days after mine), I just felt a connection. The one thing I want people to take from this question is how important Lil Wayne has been not only to rap but to fashion and Streetwear. 

He gets clowned a lot now for his eccentric style, but he has by far the most iconic Bape photoshoots and videos. I would even dare to say “Hustler Muzik,” is where Bape became a household name. Sure Pharrell, Cassidy, Curren$y all wore it first but Wayne did it best. I could go on, but I don't want to bore anyone.

FRENDY: This is a silly question: so what’d you think of “Mr. Me Too,” by Clipse? *Laughs*

SNEEK: As a true Wayne fan it was comical because if you follow Wayne, you know he doesn't care about anyone's opinion.  So to make a song about his choice in clothes is pure comedy.  As a fan of Pharrell and Clipse,  it was just an amazing song with a great music video. 

In that whole drama the only people that lost out were the fans because of the great music we were denied. On his mixtapes he has two records produced by Pharrell that even today would be hits, but they never saw the light of day due to...clothes?

FRENDY: I feel you on that.  I really do admire Wayne for having such a “I don’t give a fuck about what you think of me,” attitude.  It’s really one of the keys to success—remaining true to yourself. 

SNEEK: If you want to be original, just be you. They can copy it all but there will always be only one you.

FRENDY: That’s a fact!  With all of the amazing things you’ve got going on, what’s up next?

SNEEK: Continuing the clothing, the podcast, and just keep building my personal brand and portfolio. I’ve been lucky enough to have partnerships with brands like Hat Club and create relationships with people like Dennis Todisco (creator of @Outfitgrid) and @Hidden.ny on Instagram. I just want to keep creating, inspiring and just be genuinely happy.

Mr. Carter

“Hey, Mr. Carter tell me where have you been?/ Cause they’ve been asking/ They’ve been searching/ They’ve been wondering why.” Man, Lil Wayne was extremely reluctant to reveal his exact whereabouts on Tha Carter III’s JAY-Z-assisted hit “Mr. Carter.” But at least we were reassured that they didn’t skip a beat despite already earning secured spots on Hip Hop’s Mount Rushmore. Rising spitter Dayne Carter not only shares the same surname as these two master wordsmiths, he also mirrors their killer work ethic that’ll hopefully propel him to goat level status in the rap game and beyond.

The New Jersey native and I met through David Biral and Denzel Baptiste, better known as the Grammy-nominated DJ/Production duo, Take A Daytrip (insert their infamous tagline here). I’ve known the brilliant maestros for years. David and I became great friends when he was in HS. While living in Vermont, Dave and his awesome dad would frequently visit me at BAPE where we would chop it up about music, fashion and life in general. As a matter of fact, he was the mastermind behind my Facebook artist page *Laughs*. When Dave attended NYU, he introduced me to Denz and the rest is history. I honestly didn’t speak much to Dayne the first time we met in Soho, but his vibrant energy alone indicated how much of a genuine person he was.

Months after our initial meeting, I surprisingly bumped into Dayne at a Daytrip party in Brooklyn—Kinfolk, to be exact. We practically hung out the entire night and I was blown away by our conversation. Apart from being a budding rapper, Dayne revealed that he worked full time at the integrated marketing agency, The Robot Company , that is co-founded by Maverick Carter and Paul Rivera. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of other artists who are making ends meet by working a 9 to 5. The only difference is how many of them can actually say they love it while they’re continuously pursuing their heart’s passion?

Upon hearing just a fraction of his story, I immediately told Dayne that I would love to continue our conversation on the #FrendyOriginals platform. One year later, here we are! Check out my long-awaited sitdown with the hustler that is Mr. Carter below:

FRENDY: What’s good, D? I’m glad we’re finally able to have this talk. First off, how many people have ever asked if you’re actually related to Weezy or Jay? *Laughs*

DAYNE: What up, Frendy! *Laughs*. I used to get that all the time when I was younger! My first rap name was Lil Dayne but nope, no relation. Carter is a strong last name though!

FRENDY: You already know I had to break the ice with a little joke. My conversations always start with laughter—it’s good for the soul. In any case, you started working as an intern at The Robot Company since its inception in 2014. How did that come about?

DAYNE: Great question! I have a cousin who always had a career path I admired. She was heavily involved in music and did some A&R work on the side. I was getting ready to graduate and had no clue what I wanted to do. I called her to get some advice on how she got to where she was. She said she’d look out in case anything came up. 

One thing led to another, and she mentioned she had a mentor [PR] who was starting his own company. No background on the company or what they do, but it was a dope opportunity that involved music and sports. Almost 6 years later, and I’m still here. I love it. 

FRENDY: That is absolutely incredible. It was written!  We’ll def talk more about your schooling in a bit. I checked out your LinkedIn profile and it stated that you are the company’s Talent & Influence Manager.  What does the role entail?

DAYNE: It’s a new role that I’ve been in for the past few months. Basically, I help to identify talent and create unique opportunities that connect them with brands. A lot of times, the approach can be very one-sided and transactional. Our goal is to create partnerships and moments that are mutually beneficial.

FRENDY: And I'm sure you’re doing a great job at it.  It’s funny how you’re working with talent on the corporate side of things while you’re one yourself. Are you ever tripped out by that?

DAYNE: *Laughs* I appreciate that! I don’t view myself as talent, but it’s helpful having a lot of friends that do dope things due to my interests. Since I make music, I happen to know a lot of creative people. I understand their mindset, and find that I’m more approachable than someone who might not come from their world. It brings the guard down and allows for a more meaningful relationship.

FRENDY: Speaking of meaningful relationships, last week I peeped your Instagram story showcasing how proud you were of your dad for his latest career move. How close are you with your parents?

DAYNE: Very close! We talk all the time, and our relationship continues to grow as I get older. It’s amazing to watch them pursue their passions. I want to be just as supportive to them, as they have always been to me.

It’s funny, man. A lot of my friends who do music viewed their parents as obstacles. I did a show at Pianos earlier this year, and my parents were front row rapping every song word for word. My dad is always bumping my music in the car, and my mom has my songs on her gym playlist. Every time I perform, they invite their friends. Sometimes when friends can’t make a show, their parents show up with mine.

FRENDY: Aww, man *Laughs*.  Did they cultivate your love of music?

DAYNE: I’d say so. I don’t think it was done intentionally, but they’d always play music at the house. They like a lot of soul and r&b. My dad loves Jazz music. He also plays the drums in church every Sunday still. One of the first songs my mom told me I loved as a baby was LL Cool J’s, “Doing It Well.” I loved the melody and always sang along to it on the radio, so she bought the record. However, she didn’t realize the radio version was completely different than the explicit so it didn’t last long at the crib *Laughs*.

FRENDY: We’re not even done talking and I already feel that this is my funniest interview yet *Laughs*.  Where are you from originally?

DAYNE: I feel like I’m from both NY and NJ equally. I was born in Queens, NY and lived there for 10 years. Then I really grew up in Hillsborough, NJ where my family still lives. But I went to college in NY and have been living here since. I’m always back and forth between the two.

FRENDY: How difficult was the adjustment moving from Queens to Jersey?

DAYNE: It wasn’t difficult at all aside from leaving friends. Two very different areas though. Hillsborough is what it sounds like: very suburban and a lot of farmland. It’s a beautiful place to grow up.

FRENDY: Do you have any siblings?

DAYNE: I have two older siblings. My brother’s name is Austin. My sister’s name is Ashley.

FRENDY: Nice, I see what your parents did with the letter A.  Do you speak to them often?

DAYNE: We’re close. We might not speak as often as we should, but when we do it’s like we haven’t lost any time. 

FRENDY: How important is it for you to forge your own path in the music scene?

DAYNE: It’s always been my mindset, and the process is more satisfying that way. I have friends that are killing it in music, and it’s motivating to see. I never want to be viewed solely as someone's cosign. I want longevity, so I’m trying to pave my own lane. 

FRENDY: Earlier you mentioned that you weren’t sure which direction to go after graduating college. Which one did you attend? and what was your major?

DAYNE: I went to Fordham University and majored in communications and new media studies. After graduation, I always used to feel like working towards a separate career and pursuing music was conflicting. Obviously, you have less time to dedicate towards it, but it’s allowed me to move smarter. I’ve learned a lot of things that most artists rely on other people to do or figure out for them through my job. It’s made me more self sufficient and better at managing my time. I haven’t released anything in a while, because I’ve got a few things I’m excited about in the future.

FRENDY: I was thoroughly impressed with your 2018 project, Roadtrip.  In its intro you stated that “you’ve been at it since the 6th grade.” What inspired you to start rapping at such a young age?

DAYNE: Ahh, man—that’s love! Thanks so much for giving it a listen and glad you enjoyed it. I’ve always been an outgoing person, but it takes a while for me to open up and have deep conversations with a lot of people. Music has always been an outlet where I enjoy being introverted and gathering my thoughts.

In high school, I didn’t really party much so I spent a lot of time in my basement writing and fell in love with the process. Recently, I’ve been waking up at 6am and writing for a few hours before work at a studio in SoHo. Nobody books sessions at 6am so the space is always open.

FRENDY: Was there any particular reason why you chose “Roadtrip” as the title for your album?

DAYNE: One meaning is the literal journey back and forth between NY and NJ. The deeper meaning is as humans, we tend to get complacent when we stay within the same environment for too long. Roadtrip is my journey in trying to break those comfort zones by exploring new surroundings and finding reassurance in what’s unknown. A topic I feel like we can all relate to.

FRENDY: One of my favorite tracks off the project is “Never Home,” feat Austin Charles. When did you leave your hometown to pursue your dream as a rapper?

DAYNE: Thank you! That and “Introvert” were my two personal favorites. Austin is a close friend from Hillsborough with a similar story to mine so it felt like the perfect song to have him on. My family is still there, but I haven’t really fully lived there since high school. College was the first conscious decision where I was like, “Where can I get an education but also pursue music?” That was a reason I picked my school [Fordham] having access to the city. Just knowing there is always something going on at all times meant more opportunity.

FRENDY: I always gave Cudi so much props for leaving Cleveland with nothing to make it big here in NYC. He went through so many hurdles but never gave up on his dreams. Fortunately, you are able to focus on your bigger picture without the hassle of scrambling around for bread.  Are there any downsides though working full time in the corporate world while pursuing a rap career?

DAYNE: Cudi is dope! For me it was J. Cole’s journey that inspired me. It definitely has its pros and cons. The culture in music is a lot of late night sessions. It’s not conducive when you wake up at 6am. Nobody wants to collaborate at 6am either. Also, you have to be careful with what you say. Sometimes you come up with something witty, but it might not be received well when you’re representing a larger company. I’d definitely be an ill ghost writer though *Laughs *.

FRENDY: Get them checks!  What’s your weekly schedule looking like? Are you able to hit up the studio after work?

DAYNE: It varies depending on what’s going on. There are office hours, but if there’s a big project you’re kind of always on. I’ve become a morning music person though, because I can better control my schedule. But if someone wants to work late, I’ll definitely make it work. But if I’m just writing myself, I prefer mornings.

FRENDY: Smart man. Your very first headlining show in NYC took place late last year.  How was that experience for you? Were you nervous at all?

DAYNE: It was amazing! We finished school, so it’s not as convenient for my friends to come out late on a weekday. People have real responsibilities, and I understand that. I’m not the guy to text everyone and blow up social media begging people to pull up. I was definitely nervous that the show could be empty. The fact that over 200 people came out to see me was a blessing. It’s dope to have that type of support system. It makes you want to go harder.

FRENDY: Nothing tops genuine support, for real. How do you go about booking shows? 

DAYNE: *Laughs* It’s a funny process. Since I work in marketing, I’ve had a lot of experience in writing proposals. I have an alias “manager” account that I’ll use to reach out to promoters and venues. Most of the time, they never want to hear directly from an artist, so I’ll speak in third person.

FRENDY: Talk about a double shift *Laughs*.  Who would you love to collaborate with musically?

DAYNE: I’m down to work with anyone who has a story to tell and is in it for the right reasons. The dream collaboration would be J. Cole! He’s been my favorite artist since I was a teen.

FRENDY: What are the motivations behind your relentless grind?

DAYNE: I just want to show that it’s possible for anyone. You believe you can do anything when you’re younger, but once you grow up and life intervenes passions turn into hobbies. I want to prove that you can make it and accomplish success at your own pace if you keep working. Grind now, shine Later.

FRENDY: What advice would you give to those who are on the brink of giving up due to their pending “success”?

DAYNE: Don’t lose focus and always remember the reason why you started. If it’s worth it, keep pushing. You don’t want to look back 10-15 years from now and wonder, “what if I would’ve put my all into it?” I can live with failure, but I can’t live with a lack of effort.

Tha Carter V Gear

Lil’ Wayne fans worldwide are rejoicing after hearing the “Young Money Millionaire” proclaim he will be releasing his long-awaited, Tha Carter V, album on his birthday aka today, September 27th. Unfortunately, the project is nowhere to be found, which ultimately means that its official premiere date has been bumped up to Friday (cross your fingers).

What we can be sure of getting, though, is some good ol’ products, commemorating the highly anticipated project. The merch collection will consist of Weezy-centric gear conjured up by 14 designers. The first at bat is Kanye West’s longtime collaborator, Heron Preston.

Preston’s tee displays an airbrushed portrait of the megastar rapper on the front, with bright pink “The Carter V” branding positioned at its center, and of course, the designer’s name “Heron Preston” at the bottom. On the shirt’s back, Wayne’s famous “A Milli” line, “What’s A Goon To A Goblin,” is showcased in a bold green airbrush, while “The Carter V” branding is located at the bottom.

Like what you see? Then, head over to Tunechi’s online shop to cop. Damn, I almost forgot to mention these shirts are only available for 24 hours. Hope you were one of the lucky ones!