Lord Adarius

December 19, 2023 by Frendy Lemorin in Original Stories

What’s good, everyone? I am extremely happy to release my final Original Story of 2023 featuring the forever-stylish Adarius Patton. It’s not too often you meet someone with a name like Adarius nowadays, but this is simply an indication of the type of individual he truly is: very rare.

The 31-year-old New York native and I have known each other for more than a decade. Despite having only one short conversation in person throughout the years, our mutual respect for each other has remained stronger than Gervonta Davis’ vicious left hook.

Aesthetically, Adarius fits the bill of someone who works in fashion or somewhere within the entertainment industry. However, beyond the flashy threads and tats you’ll discover an F.I.T graduate who is spiritually rooted with a deep passion for inspiring those around him.

I recently sat down with Adarius to discuss his come up in NYC, working for Dior, worldwide travels and everything else in between. Enjoy!

FRENDY: Adarius, this has been a long time in the making. I remember almost a decade ago while I was walking on Broadway, you stopped me and stated that we were going to work together one day. Here you are now with a feature on my site—I love full circle moments.

ADARIUS: Facts! I always reference the conversation we had that time. It sticks with me till this day—definitely a full circle moment.

FRENDY: How are you? I know you’re a busy man, globetrottin’ and what not.

ADARIUS: I’m doing good, bruv. [I’m] just working like crazy on so many things. Currently at Dior working with different clients. Outside of that, working on my YouTube channel, getting ready to move to London in 2025. I’m also building my own brand.

FRENDY: I’m genuinely happy for you. We’ll definitely talk about your excursions and work-related happenings later on. Are you originally from New York City?

ADARIUS: Yes! Brooklyn—Flatbush to be exact. But I also spent some time growing up in Florida. So I’ve seen all types of crazy shit. These last 11 years I’ve been in the Bronx which is so different from Brooklyn. It’s like I have a piece of home from all over.

FRENDY: I spent some time living in Flatbush as well during my high school years. For some reason, I always thought you were a Harlem cat. Where was your favorite place to live?

ADARIUS: Honestly, it has to be Brooklyn. It’s so rich in culture and history that it can’t be touched. I have some family in Canarsie so it’s always nice to be on that side of the parks. Plus, you can’t beat all the greatness that comes from BK.

FRENDY: Oh, most definitely. I don’t know exactly when we first spoke but I was always aware of your presence in the SoHo area. How’d you discover the Downtown scene?

ADARIUS: Growing up I was always hanging out with older cousins and friends so they were always speaking on the Downtown scene. However, it was truly my uncle who put me on. He was a booster/hustler so he was always selling clothes out his trunk or in the neighborhood. He was the first person to introduce me to luxury and streetwear. I remember Von Dutch, ENYCE and Baby Milo like it was yesterday.

FRENDY: Shout out to your uncle, for real. My dad put me on to SoHo and I never looked back since. What were your favorite spots to hit up there?

ADARIUS: West Broadway where the old BBC/Ice Cream store used to be. Right next to G-Shock. If you're a student of fashion you know that area like the back of your hand. Everyone that was somebody always posted up in that area. It was the place to be—especially during Fashion’s Night Out. Also, my old stomping ground Opening Ceremony on Howard St, BAPE, & VFiles when it was VFiles.

FRENDY: That last line was funny *Laughs*. I feel you though. Do you think SoHo has changed drastically post pandemic?

ADARIUS: 100%! I feel like SoHo has turned into the new forty-deuce. It’s like Times Square on crack! It just doesn’t seem genuine anymore from streetwear to the people posted on the streets. It’s like everyone is looking to be seen rather than to create.

FRENDY: I’m sure there are many people who share the same sentiment. How often do you go back to soak up inspiration that only SoHo could offer?

ADARIUS: Honestly, not often. I sometimes try avoiding SoHo because it’s too overwhelming. If I do go, I’m checking in on my homies who are still working in the area or popping through to see what newness that are in the boutiques. I find myself going more to the Lower East Side [of Manhattan] for pieces now or just copping pieces from places I travel to.

FRENDY: You worked at the legendary Opening Ceremony store from 2017-2020. How was your experience there?

ADARIUS: I miss it! Looking back now it’s a blessing to say I was able to be a part of that [establishment]. It was a hell of an experience from being able to meet so many creatives, work with so many brands that are major now, meet celebrities on a personal tip, and connect with the community. There’s no better feeling than connecting with creatives and picking their brain.

FRENDY: Trust me, I totally understand where you’re coming from. According to LinkedIn, you were a sales leader at the shop in 2018. I know it must have been tough to persuade customers into copping fire pieces when there are other equally stylish and knowledgeable sales associates on the floor. How’d you make yourself stand out?

ADARIUS: My tactic was always to be myself. I’m a very personable person so I wasn’t trying hard to sell the brand, but more so focusing on getting to know the client. You can say that helped me majorly in my time there because so many stylists and celebrities appreciated that. They wanted a disconnect from the industry. A sense of familiarity and normality.

FRENDY: What do you miss most about OC?

ADARIUS: I miss the people, the partnerships with the brands, the newness in clothes, and just being excited about the state of the industry. Now, I feel like New York in a sense has resorted to other places for inspiration. I miss when we used to be the source for it all.

Adarius w/ former Opening Ceremony coworkers

FRENDY: About a week ago, Kai Cenat, the number one streamer in the world, gave you props on your style while he was rating his viewers outfits from Instagram. Rapper, Lil Yatchy, was there and he showed you major love as well. When did your love of fashion come about?

ADARIUS: As a yute! I was always inspired by what I saw on TV, film, music and the streets. I looked up to people like Lenny Kravitz, Andre 3000, Pharrell, Johnny Depp and Taz Arnold. Daring individuals who didn’t care what people thought and wore what they love. For me, fashion is art. It’s an expression. It’s a feeling. It's a way of being. Fashion creates character!

FRENDY: How would you describe your style?

ADARIUS: I remember when people used to ask me this question and I never had a definite answer. But now I feel as though the way to describe it is I see myself more as a chameleon. I don’t have a set look or sense of style because I do everything. My style is always evolving and changing. One day I’m inspired by Marlon Brando, and the next day I can be looking at a Gordon Parks picture and get influenced by that.

FRENDY: Are you big on designer pieces or do you prefer digging up thrifted gems?

ADARIUS: I’m truly “Mr.Thrifty Nifty!” That’s the nickname I’ve given myself because that’s all I’ve known throughout my life. Yes, I can buy designer clothes but I would rather not. It’s an incredible feeling when you can find gems around the world and wear them. It’s like clothes that are thrifted have a story to them. It’s rich in originality!

FRENDY: What’s one staple piece everyone should have in their closet?

ADARIUS: Most definitely a nice coat. Whether it’s an overcoat or down jacket, I feel like it can make an outfit. I’m a sucker for outerwear.

Adarius wearing a dope overcoat in Paris

FRENDY: You received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. How did that achievement aid in landing a job in the Fashion industry right out of college?

ADARIUS: It took some time—especially graduating college in 2019 and then COVID happening. However, when the opportunity came about I was excited! More so to create and open doors for other black and brown kids trying to enter the fashion industry. I think it’s important for us to be in places such as Dior, or wherever, to shake things up and let people know we are worthy and we belong here. We are the ones setting the precedent for fashion and what’s being heavily marketed so why can’t we be a part of it?

FRENDY: I totally agree. Where did you intern during your senior year at F.I.T?

ADARIUS: I didn’t get an opportunity to intern because I was working full time and going to school full time. I had limited time on my hands. But I feel like OC was like an internship for me. It taught me a lot about the industry, how it operates and what to expect of it.

FRENDY: What is your current role at Christian Dior?

ADARIUS: Dior Sales Ambassador. I work at the 5th Ave location where I cater to new and old existing clients. Making sure I create the ultimate client experience that will keep clients coming back. Whether it’s taking clients to shows in Paris or Egypt, booking appointments to see the archive in Paris, down to having dinners at Cipriani.

FRENDY: Blessings. What is your dream job?

ADARIUS: My dream job is entrepreneurship! I want to have my own creative agency, my own clothing brand, and be able to travel the world and document it for the world to see.

FRENDY: Your IG handle, @vacationboii, describes your life precisely. How often do you travel a year? It seems like every other month or so you’re in a new hideout spot somewhere in the world.

ADARIUS: Yes, indeed *Laughs*. I love traveling. It soothes my soul. I travel probably eight to nine times throughout the year. I already have next year planned and sketched in. It’s crazy because people are like, “Damn every week you go somewhere new. I can't keep up!” Traveling is such an experience that it sticks with you for a lifetime.

FRENDY: What are the top three places you’ve visited thus far?

ADARIUS: Hands down Cape Town is one of my favorite spots. It’s beautiful to see Africa in a different light than what's depicted on TV. London because it’s just fire. Lastly, Faro, Portugal because it’s low-key and peaceful. Looking forward to my trip to Japan for 3 weeks at the top of 2024. I know that will soon become part of my top three vacation spots.

FRENDY: How important is it for you to take these yearly trips?

ADARIUS: It is really important because for me it creates this urge to do better, be better, and live better. Moreover, it helps in creating. So much inspiration comes from traveling and seeing what’s out there.

FRENDY: You’re out here looking brolic. I have a feeling you’re in the gym as much as I am. What keeps you motivated on your fitness journey?

ADARIUS: Staying healthy and living long. My family deals with health issues so I wanted to be ahead of the game and beat the odds. Plus, a lot of people don’t know I used to be 240 pounds, which is low-key traumatizing, so I can’t go back to that. I feel like for people who have lost a significant amount of weight, the old you always stays in the back of your mind. You do whatever you can to not go back to something that wasn’t so pleasant.

FRENDY: What advice would you give to anyone who is struggling with inconsistent training habits?

ADARIUS: Stay focused, dedicated, and motivated. Just know you will persevere, you just have to keep going and remain optimistic. Sometimes we are hard on ourselves more than others and that can knock us off our tracks. However, if you continuously breathe positivity into your life things will happen the way you designed it.

FRENDY: What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

ADARIUS: That the journey of living life is ongoing. It’s a never ending journey—you're going to learn something new everyday. You just have to be patient and know that things will happen on God's time. Regardless of your beliefs or mantras just be patient and manifest. Everything happens the way it is supposed to happen.

FRENDY: Taking a page from Ray J’s book, if you had only one wish that could be granted, what would it be?

ADARIUS: I like this question *Laughs*. Ummmm…if I was young my answer would’ve been to teleport *Laughs*. But now, I would say it’s to live out every dream that I’ve dreamt of. That’s to travel the world more, create projects for the world to see, and even produce music. Low-key, as a yute I always had the dream of doing something with music. I haven’t touched a studio but always been in love with music and wanted to be a part of it somehow.

FRENDY: With your mindset, anything is possible.

ADARIUS: Thank you, G! Anything is possible for us all. Also, big ups to you as well. I always admired your work ethic and relentlessness. When I said I told everyone about the conversation we had on the street that one day I was deadass. Your words stuck with me till this day. I remember you saying, “You're going to be somebody one day, just know you can’t do everything on your own, you have to have a team around you to help build.” Those words stuck and still ring an alarm to my soul.

Soy's Sauce

May 25, 2023 by Frendy Lemorin in Original Stories

This platform is all about shedding light on individuals who are thriving in their respective fields. I take massive pride in having such an impeccable knack for showcasing exceptional talent who aren’t necessarily absorbed by the “masses” yet and my next interviewee is no exception. Allow me to introduce, Isiah Pointer.

Isiah aka “Soy” and I met during my later years at NIGO’s former SoHo workshop through mutual friends. His infectious smile and positive demeanor was always on full display each time we saw each other. So it wasn’t such a shocker when I eventually discovered he was actually hired at BAPE one year after I departed in 2015. Since working at the once coveted shop, Soy has evolved into a multi-faceted entrepreneur who is steadily making his mark in the fashion and music realm.

I recently sat down with the 33-year-old hustler to discuss his roots in Harlem, two-year stint at 91 Green Street, Hip Hop and the inspiration behind his fledgling label, Faux Friends. Enjoy our conversation below:

FRENDY: Soy, what’s good? It’s such a pleasure having this conversation with you. The vibes were always high whenever we saw each other in the city.

SOY: Frendy! What’s the word, my man? I appreciate the opportunity—it’s an honor. The vibes were super high, man. It’s like we belonged to a special tribe *Laughs*.

FRENDY: Facts! I know you’re an Uptown cat. Where exactly in Harlem are you from?

SOY: I’m from 151st & 8th Ave.

FRENDY: Harlem is a mecca in itself. Full of lively personalities, fashion, sprinkled with drug paraphernalia—and a dash of danger. How was your experience growing up there?

SOY: You literally described it! It was exciting, dangerous, fun, and it made me who I am today. Especially the summertime in Harlem. It's one of those mystical experiences, so to speak. The icee man, ice cups with liquor, the flyest girls, that New York energy. Neighborhood cookouts were something EVERYONE looked forward to, but sometimes they can get a bit dangerous after dark. That's when your spidey senses had to be on point.

FRENDY: How’d you get your nickname “Soy”? And what’s your real name by the way?

SOY: My real name is Isiah. Soy comes from soy sauce. When I first moved to my neighborhood no one knew my name, and while playing the dozens (cutting ass for those who don’t know), my boy Keonte was like: “you black as hell, fucc hot sauce this nigga is soy sauce”. Also, add to the fact I actually played basketball the name stucc. Everyone started calling me and introducing me as “Soy Sauce,” and then “Sauce” got dropped because there was too many syllables to pronounce on the go *Laughs*.

FRENDY: That’s a great origin story. You know photographer extraordinaire Sincere aka “The New Nyer” himself who I also had the pleasure of interviewing. He lives in LA now, but how’d you two become friends?

SOY: That's my brother right there and one of my biggest supporters. I’ve known Sin for about 10+ years and I can’t remember how we met exactly, but I’m sure it was at an event when the current culture was at its infancy. This was back when Downtown was like untapped potential *Laughs*. Like bacc when Santos was craccin, Alife was at the top of their game, Atmos was a staple Uptown! Yeah, bacc in those days *Laughs*.

FRENDY: Nostalgia ultra right there. Have you ever mingled with fellow Harlem reps Rocky and his A$AP cohorts?

SOY: Once upon a time, when everything didn’t involve social politics and acts for attention. Yeah, we all ran around together. I went to middle school with Bari & Rocky, and I met the rest of the crew at different times. I kind of stepped away from the Mob when I realized the lengths people would go just to say they were affiliated, and I didn’t want to be known as just another member of A$AP.

FRENDY: I totally understand, you have to do what’s right for you. I remember when the Mob would stop by BAPE before they blew up. Always good talks with them on the second floor—R.I.P Yams and Josh. How were you introduced to the SoHo section of NYC?

SOY: My boy Nice, and my boy 2nice. Nice and his team used to throw these Contemporary fashions shows at the Affina ballroom across the street from Madison Square Garden. He conducted them around NYFW and the infamous FNO (Fashion Night Out) events. Hanging out with these guys I was introduced to an entirely new crowd of people and culture.

Being from the hood, in those times, the SoHo area was taboo. If it wasn't for those guys I don’t know when or if I would have ventured into those areas. I was so fascinated and fixated on my neighborhood and the streets, SoHo/Downtown was the furthest thing in my mind *Laughs*. But when I learned there’s more to life, more to the world than just my blocc, oh boy! The moon was the limit.

FRENDY: What was your first impression when you actually visited the area?

SOY: It was nothing like everyone made it seem. Being from the hood everyone associated “the village” with SoHo. The way people spoke about it was as if there were aliens walking around in patent leather body suits with whips and chains. Homophobia was raging! IT WAS NOTHING OF THE SORT…I found it to be a safe haven. I was able to explore the things I was interested in but lacked in my neighborhood. I found that I was into fashion, and not just on a surface level. I was interested in how things were made, how they were designed and how I could actually make my own garments. It sparked the creativity inside of me. On my blocc I was just Soy, but in Soho I was Soy, the creative.

FRENDY: My father introduced me to the area when I was a youngin’ and I never looked back. A lot has changed over the years in the SoHo scene. What are some of your favorite spots there? Shit, are they even still around?

SOY: Some of my favorite spots were Alife, the OG BAPE store, Stussy, The Hundreds…just to name a few. Shout to the Privilege family! They’ve always shown me an abundance of love. They were the first and only store to carry FF® (Faux Friends). They are still going strong, putting on for the community.

FRENDY: You were hired at BAPE one year after I left. What was the temperature of the shop when you got there in 2016?

SOY: I want to say it was cooling down in the sense of it becoming more corporate—especially with NIGO selling the brand to the Chinese company, I.T. Like the allure of what BAPE was dying out to me. You (Frendy) were literally the last of that era. Then when I got there, Brandley and Kev were holding on and kind of passed the torch in a sense. But by then, it was less about community and more about the corporation and sales driven-atmosphere.

FRENDY: When did you initially find out about NIGO’s brainchild?

SOY: I want to say when I was 15 or 16, so 2005-06. That was around the time NIGO & BAPE burst onto the Hip Hop scene. I would see the BAPE camo [print] on certain celebrities but I didn’t know what brand it was until Pharrell started pumping NIGO. That was when it all came together.

FRENDY: Were you able to connect with many of the high-profile clientele that stopped by the shop?

SOY: Yeah, I connected with a few. One of my favorites was Jadakiss. Super down to earth, he became one of my clients I would personally shop for during my time at BAPE.

FRENDY: What made you leave the store after two years?

SOY: We parted ways *Laughs*. I was too hood for them, man. Me and Matt (General Manager) had some words, I didn’t necessarily like the way they handled certain things and I voiced my opinion. That resulted in my termination…but at the same time I was putting more energy into FF® so I felt my time had run its course anyway.

FRENDY: Everything works out for the highest good, my G. “Faux Friends” is a pretty interesting name for a clothing line. Was it inspired by tragedy in your friend group?

SOY: I mean, at the time I was dealing with issues with some friends and also figuring out my life at that point. But the name came about when I was coolin’ with my man Bobby on my balcony when I was living in the Bronx. We were talking about fashion, music and tattoos. He then mentioned he wanted to get “faux” tattooed. I asked what it meant and he said “fake in french.” At that moment my mind started to turn; faux-leather; fake leather; faux friends; fake friends! The rest is history.

So I’ll say it was inspired but not directly tied to any relationships at the time. It was more so the underlying connection that EVERYTHING is FAKE or rather not as it seems.

FRENDY: I dig it. What’s the correlation between the brand’s name and its ethos?

SOY: How many people do you associate with under the label of “friends,” but they don’t know much about you? Or rather how many times do you hear people name drop just for their personal gain to, let’s say, get into an exclusive party or get next to another person? You may think that person is a friend but they may just be an associate or just another person trying to “get on.”

Nothing is what it seems nowadays, as if nothing is meant for what it was designed for, if that makes sense. Everyone damn near talks the same, dresses the same, goes to the same places etc. FF® disrupts that. It’s an ode to the way things were and how things could be.

FRENDY: I love your brand’s marketing as it takes cues from legendary streetwear brands. What would you say sets your line apart from other rising labels?

SOY: I feel what sets us apart is knowing about the past, being present in the moment but also looking toward the future. I feel a lot of brands don’t take the time to develop the story or build that brand identity. They just make a dope piece, get it on a person of stature and make a quicc bucc. I started FF® in 2013. We’re coming up on 10 years and I’m still learning the ins, outs and nuances of the game. I’m focused on longevity and legacy not Instagram likes and followers.

FRENDY: What are some of your favorite Faux Friends pieces? And why?

SOY: Wow! That’s a tough one. I’ll say my first FF® logo tee (the first tee I ever made). The Shaq tee, it was the first t-shirt that got attention outside my immediate audience, though it caught on like a year or two after I made it. Privilege in Japan carried it and sold out EVERYTIME it hit the racks—don’t tell Shaq *Laughs*.

Another favorite were the Dice jeans I made. It was hard denim with big dice embroidered down both legs. The details of the jeans always makes me smile because I’m a kid who went to school for auto-mechanics, supporting myself in an industry I have no experience in. I taught myself everything I know, no type of handouts or help. I’m fuccin’ proud of myself, man!

FRENDY: Imagination is more important than knowledge. Not only do you have a clothing line, you also basically provide services for other upcoming labels that factories can offer (i.e screen printing, embroidery etc.). What inspired the business move?

SOY: I had the idea. I had the brand. What I didn’t have was the funds to get bulks of clothing made of every design I came up with. I didn’t even have the money to get small amounts made so I found a way to print up shirts myself. That was fine and dandy until I realized I needed money to fund what I was doing. One of my friends asked if I only print for myself or did I print for others as well and I immediately took the job. Right after, I realized there was an abundance of up and coming brands and businesses that either like myself didn’t have the funds to gets bulks of clothing made or simply didn’t know how to even go about getting merchandise made. So I figured I could turn what I was doing into a business to help others, as well as a fund FF®. That is when CANAL STREET YACHT CLUB LLC aka CANAL ST PRINTING was born.

FRENDY: “Faux Friends” was founded in 2013 and you left BAPE in 2018. Is it safe to say you’ve learned a thing or two about the fashion game from your experience working at the coveted shop?

SOY: HELL YEAH! I learned how, if done right, you can have a huge impact on the culture you inhabit. I learned about how the business works and how important relationships are, wether they’re “real” or “ faux” *Laughs*. But yeah, I learned a lot working there I don’t regret anything, it was an awesome experience.

FRENDY: In my opinion, BAPE is a university. You started rapping at the tender age of 13. What propelled you to do so?

SOY: Music is in my blood. My grandfather dabbled in Jazz, his half brother was Ray Charles. My grandmother was a singer. My mother, my older sister and brother also sing. Music was all around me growing up, and Rap yoked me up by the collar. It allowed me to express myself in a way I wasn't allowed to at home. I grew up a Jehovah’s Witness, so rapping was definitely frowned upon *Laughs*. Especially what I was rapping about even at 13. I remember my mom found one of my composition notebooks and she looked so disappointed *Laughs* .

FRENDY: That’s funny *Laughs*. But damn, that’s crazy your grandpa was Ray Charles' half-brother. Who were your musical inspirations when you initially began rapping?

SOY: Yeah, it was weird how I found out. Growing up we always referred to him as “uncle Ray” when he was talked about. It wasn't until they were reading the obituary at my grandfather's funeral that I made the connection when they mentioned the relatives he was leaving behind.

Early on I was inspired by the greats: JAY Z, Lupe Fiasco, Kanye, Mos Def etc. I wasn't only inspired by their music but also their lifestyles. JAY Z making the transition to mogul, Lupe being a skater, his interest in fashion and anime. I ain’t gotta explain Kanye *Laughs*.

FRENDY: How would you describe your rapping style?

SOY: Underground Hip Hop.

FRENDY: Are you currently working on any new tunes? And where can people hear what you’ve got out right now?

SOY: I stepped away from making music to focus on the brand and getting it to a point where I don’t actively have to be involved every minute of the day. I am currently working on my third tape…I don’t even have a date in mind. People can find me on iTunes, Spotify etc.

FRENDY: Why do you think music and fashion go hand in hand?

SOY: Fashion and music go hand and hand because they move the human spirit, they both evoke emotion. In our world I don’t think they exist without each other. I’ve never been to a fashion show without music, and I’ve never been to a concert with naked musicians.

From France With Love

March 09, 2019 by Frendy Lemorin in Original Stories

The second floor of the shop (if you don’t know which one by now, please unfollow me on all social media platforms) truly allowed me to be up close and personal with not only outstanding New York locals, but also a plethora of fascinating individuals from all over the globe. Marseille’s very own Alexandre Meyrand is one of them.

Alexandre,35, was introduced to me about six years ago by our mutual friend Alex on an extremely slow day at work. Usually when there isn’t much traction on BAPE’s main floor, my supporters, frequent shoppers, and many of today’s brightest stars would all scurry upstairs, find a comfy spot on the infamous ape head camo couch just to speak with me for hours on end without any major interruption. When they overstayed, though, I was forced to politely kick them out.

Meyrand and I, on the other hand, didn’t converse much when we initially met—but I easily sensed his genuine nature so we kept in touch via social media. Believe it or not, we never really had a proper conversation until now!

Check out the transcript of our very first full length dialogue where we spoke about his younger days in France, fashion, booming business, and hotspots in Marseille.

FRENDY: What’s good, Alexandre? Let’s get it poppin’!

ALEXANDRE: Yo, bro! I am good. It’s the end of the day here, but it was a great weekend in our sunny city.

FRENDY: I know there’s a huge time difference between us. I really appreciate you for staying up late to chop it up.

ALEXANDRE: It’s a pleasure to be featured here, my man.

FRENDY: I’m humbled, thank you. Before we get deep into our conversation, I must ask: is there a friendly competition between Paris and Marseille?

ALEXANDRE: I don’t know if there is a friendly competition, maybe if you are talking about soccer *Laughs*. But I love Paris—it’s one of the best places in the world because of its architecture and history. Marseille is also one of the best places I have ever lived.

FRENDY: Oh yeah, that’s right. The two cities do have a great soccer team. I’m not familiar with their players, but I know the superstars for each squad *Laughs*. Marseille is known for its beautiful port and scenery, yet it is stated to be a victim of bad reputation...as far as violence. Is that true?

ALEXANDRE: Marseille is a big city so things happen, but violence is everywhere. I think that the media only show what they want to so that gives us a bad reputation. And that’s wrong. Things happen in every big city and violence can be anywhere. What’s totally true is that Marseille is one of the best destinations in the world. [There are] so many cultures here. So many good vibes.

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FRENDY: How was it like growing up in the second largest city in France?

ALEXANDRE: *Laughs* The funny thing is that I didn't grow up in Marseille. I was born in St. Etienne (a city close to Lyon), and I moved to the South of France in 2005. I spent my first years in Aix en Provence (25 minutes from Marseille), and I’ve been living in Marseille for the past five years.

FRENDY: What was the reason you moved from St. Etienne to the South of France?

ALEXANDRE: I used to work in a cool shop called Uptown, but I had the opportunity to move to the South of France for the opening of a big store called Corezone in Aix en Provence. My ex-girlfriend was also living there...so that was an easy decision for me.

FRENDY: Women always make matters easier *Laughs*. How old were you when you moved to work at Uptown? What was your position there?

ALEXANDRE: I was still young and fresh *Laughs*. I was only 21-years-old when I moved. I was just a seller at Uptown, and had the same position for the first years I spent at Corezone. When I moved to Marseille I became Store Manager and Buyer also (they had four stores).

FRENDY: You started in the retail game pretty early. When did your love for fashion come about? Was it through music or your own self-expression?

ALEXANDRE: I always loved fashion and I was inspired by so many things. Music is very important for me (you are right), I’ve been listening to a bunch of cool bands since my childhood (I’d like to thank my father for this). Art, tattoos are also things that feed my brain. I’ve always wanted to have my own style.

FRENDY: Which bands captivated you growing up?

ALEXANDRE: Maybe the bands I have seen perform live first. My father took me to a Marillion show at Le Zenith in Paris when I was 8 years old—when you are a kid in that big crowd everything seems so crazy! It’s still one of my best memories. I have also seen The Cure. I love their music, but their aesthetic is even crazier! The charisma of Robert Smith and all the fans that dressed like him in black makeup. You between fear and the energy that they give you!

FRENDY: Your senses were on overload due to all of the vibrant energy. Who are your favorite brands currently? Does Hip Hop influence your lifestyle as well?

ALEXANDRE: I have been listening to a lot of Rock, but I listen to a lot of Hip Hop too. Yes, Hip Hop has a big influence! Most of the sounds we play at my shop now is Hip Hop. I have so many favorite Rock bands including: Marillion, Tears for Fears, Genesis, The Cure, Metallica. I grew up listening to Blink 182 (Travis Barker was one of my biggest inspiration as a teenager), NFG, Underoath, Taking Back Sunday, GC. As far as Hip Hop : Wu tang Clan, Future, Shyheim, Mobb Deep, Kanye, Jay Z, Kid Cudi, Travis Scott , Drake.

FRENDY: Man, I’m not going to lie, Blink 182 was one of my favorite bands growing up as well. So you are pretty flexible when it comes to your sonic indulgences.

ALEXANDRE: Yeah, I can’t only listen to Rock. I need motivation so I need to listen to different genres. Depends on the mood I am in when I wake up, but I never listen the same thing in the morning and end of the day.

FRENDY: How’s the streetwear scene in Marseille looking like?

ALEXANDRE: The streetwear scene is pretty sick these days. You see a lot of people with great style in Marseille now. The scene has changed a lot, maybe because of Internet, but Marseille was always into streetwear. We have big scenes here: skate, graffiti in the whole city. A lot of budding musicians too. Marseille = Street!

FRENDY: You said the scene changed a lot before the internet. How was it like before?

ALEXANDRE: Yes, because if you wanted to have your own style, it was only easy if you were able to travel and bring back cool stuff. Most of the people were dressing the same, but the business of fashion has changed and it’s easier to find more brands to dress like your “icons.” People are more inspired in Marseille now with the internet because they have access to so many things.

FRENDY: What are your favorite brands currently?

ALEXANDRE: My favorite brands actually are Converse (only the 70s collection), the chuck taylor is a classic sneaker and I love its silhouette. Sacai is a very interesting brand, and I love the work that Dr. Woo did on the last collection. Needles, FDMTL and Kapital are also brands I love, they are part of the whole Japanese wave. I still love Stussy because it’s real streetwear, and of course I love Goudron *Laughs*. It’s becoming a brand now, not only a store.

FRENDY: Hey, I’m a living person and I’m a brand *Laughs*. Nothing is impossible! Whose style do you admire in the entertainment industry?

ALEXANDRE: Axl Rose, Travis Barker, Pharrell Williams, Scott Campbell, and Nigo.

FRENDY: Is there a particular meaning behind the name of your store, Goudron?

ALEXANDRE: Yes, there is a story behind the name. My brother ILK wanted to give me that name as a gift when I told him my plans to open a store. He said to me he saved that name for years in case he decided to make a brand later or a special project. So I thought a lot about it and I accepted “Goudron,” because I loved the name too—it’s short, easy to say in any language.

Goudron color is dark also, and black means a lot for us. We decided to add ILK in the project too because he is a sick graphic designer and a typographer.

FRENDY: It’s always great to have friends that actually care about our projects. No better feeling in the world than genuine support. Does “Goudroun” mean anything specifically in French?

ALEXANDRE: That’s true, brother. We are three partners and three very good friends. Yes, Goudron is like the asphalt, it’s something you walk on everyday so this is a part of the street. And we represent the streets too by selling these brands.

FRENDY: Perfect name. What was the process of building your own streetwear shop? Was it an extremely difficult one, or did you already have the moving parts to make it happen?

ALEXANDRE: It was not really easy. I stopped working at Corezone because they sold the stores. I had different projects and we talked a lot with Seb (my other partner and one of my best friends) about opening our own store. I had the support of brands and people who knew me [at my old jobs] so we decided to go ahead and find a good location to build a shop of our own.

What we wanted to show to the city of Marseille and also the aesthetic was very important for us, like our floor for example. It was one of the hardest things to do but everybody knows now that it’s us.

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FRENDY: Where is Goudron located in Marseille? And what made you choose that particular location?

ALEXANDRE: Goudron is in the city center, not in a main street but close to everything. The thing that we always wanted is to be located at a street corner, that’s why we are here.

FRENDY: Y’all have the whole aesthetic down packed! How long did it take to actually open up the shop?

ALEXANDRE: Let’s say around a year to prepare everything...to rebuild the inside of the store, to work on the name, to create the logo and to start to communicate.

FRENDY: That’s not a bad turnaround time at all. Did you guys cry on its grand opening? *Laughs*

ALEXANDRE: *Laughs* Yes, we had a cool opening and people were lined up for the first day so that gave us big fuckin’ energy! We also did an opening party months after and it was dope! Everything that happened gave us motivation to go harder.

FRENDY: What brands do you sell at the shop? How did you formulate a relationship with them all?

ALEXANDRE: We only sell brands we love and believe in. We are actually working with Neighborhood, Futur, Stone Island Shadow Projects, Harmony Paris, Edwin Japan, Levis Vintage, Converse, Grenson Shoes, Stussy, Asics, New balance (UK and USA stuff), Vans Anaheim, Goudron. I have known most of these brands in the past and some are friends that created their own line. I have good relationships with people because I think that I am true person and an honest guy so this helps people to trust me in the project. It’s important to be right with everybody.

FRENDY: Amen, that’s how I became the brand I am today. Treating people right really goes long way. I’ve been back-stabbed numerous times and it made me lose hope on the human race *Laughs*. But I learned that I played a huge part in my suffering as well—the victim mentality. Now, I’m stronger, smarter, and kinder than ever! One of the reasons why I wanted to have this conversation with you is because I knew you were a good dude since Alex introduced me to you.

ALEXANDRE: Thanks for these words, bro. I remember the first time Alex introduced me to you at the store. He is still one of the best person I met in my whole life.

FRENDY: Yes, such a great guy. Very kind, humble and considerate. How did you guys meet anyway?

ALEXANDRE: I met Alex at a dinner during a trip to NYC in 2013. Kristi, a close friend, introduce me to him and since that day I knew that we must be friends. He’s a very interesting person. We have a lot of things in common, same love for music, passion for tattoos, same love for fashion, and great minds *Laughs*.

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FRENDY: Word, and same names *Laughs*. Birds of a feather, flock together! Alex is tattooed from head to toe, so are you..literally! How many do you have?

ALEXANDRE: I can’t tell you how many, but there’s a lot *Laughs*. I started getting tattooed at 19-years-old and I haven’t stopped. I am almost full too.

FRENDY: Do you remember your very first one?

ALEXANDRE: *Laughs* Yes, it’s at the top of my left arm. I had some old school stuff, but I blacked out my arm three years ago and got some cool stuff from [tattooist] Scott Campbell (white ink on black ink).

FRENDY: I skimmed through Scott’s Instagram and realized that he also tatted up Travis Scott’s head. His price must be pretty hefty, but well worth it obviously. When did you first meet him? And what do you like about his tattooing style?

ALEXANDRE: I got my first tattoo from Scott four years ago in NYC. I always loved his work, dollar bills sculptures, he has his own style of tattooing too—Scott’s lines are perfect. I love the atmosphere of his Tattoo studio as well (decorated with skulls, reapers, roses). His scripts are crazy and perfect! I love all the details and aesthetic around his work.

We did a big session the first time when Scott did my whole back (it took about seven hours and thirty minutes), and since then I have been friends with him. He is a very talented and humble person. There is a real connection formed when you get tattooed for hours.

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A post shared by scott campbell (@scottcampbell) on Aug 16, 2018 at 6:00pm PDT

FRENDY: Are you planning on tattooing your face as well?

ALEXANDRE: No, I will never do that. I am not into face tattoos. Even if I have a lot of tattoos, this is another step in your life.

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FRENDY: Totally! Like New York, Marseille is a melting pot of different cultures—no wonder why you like traveling here so much. What are some of your other favorite cities to visit?

ALEXANDRE: I love NYC so much, fam. I got so many friends there! I love London also, Los Angeles is so chill too. Barcelona, Milan, Lisbon are also great cities…but there are still so many places I haven’t been.

FRENDY: There are more street food trucks in Marseille than in Paris because, as one chef said: “the kitchen is very strict.” What are some of your favorite spots to eat in Marseille?

ALEXANDRE: We have a lot of good spots in Marseille and so many different kinds of food. Here is a list of my favorites, Coffee spots: La fiancée (best cookies on earth), Deep coffee roaster, Le Café de La Banque (Paris in Marseille). For a drink : Gaspard and Copperbay, Le Petit Bistrot, Le Café de L’abbaye. One of my fave restaurant is OTTO, an Italian restaurant. Always a good vibe there, fresh stuff and the boss Pierre Antoine is a good friend. He puts all his love in this place. Other cool restaurants include: Sepia, La Cantinetta, La Marmarita, Fratelli, Pastis & Olives, Shabu.

FRENDY: Damn, whenever I visit please take me to all those spots! Seems like life is less complicated in Marseille than Paris, all the way down to the simple yet delicious dishes. And people are said to be nicer in the South. Why do you think that is the case?

ALEXANDRE: I will bring you there, my man. Life is less complicated in Marseille because its more relaxing maybe, it’s not the same way of life. I love Paris, but people are more stressed and always in a rush. Plus, it’s harder to get a smile out of them too *Laughs*. But the city has so many beautiful places.

When you live in the South of France, it’s like you are on holidays most of the year.

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FRENDY: The Old Port is a major tourist attraction in Marseille. Are there any hidden gems in the city someone like me can check out?

ALEXANDRE: Yes, there are a lot of beautiful things to see here. I will bring you to Le Vallon des Auffes, Notre Dame de La Garde, Les Goudes, and one of the best thing is “Les Calanques” (we might drop a t-shirt soon with them).

FRENDY: Bet! Man, you’re living such a wonderful life in Marseille. You’re well-traveled, have a successful business, great friends, and family. What else are you looking to accomplish in life?

ALEXANDRE: I just want to make Goudron bigger, have more projects with my partners, and also have kids in the near future. I think I will be done after this *Laughs*.

The General

October 05, 2018 by Frendy Lemorin in Original Stories

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.

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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.

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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.

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.