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FCTRY LAb and NLE Choppa Drop Exclusive “Duck Boot” Collaboration

April 16, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The black-owned footwear creatives FCTRY LAb just released their groundbreaking collaboration with multi-platinum rap sensation NLE Choppa as they unveil the exclusive “Duck Boot.” This innovative partnership between FCTRY LAb Co-Founder Omar Bailey and NLE Choppa promises to redefine footwear fashion with its bold design and forward-looking vision.

The Duck Boot made its grand debut on the main stage at Rolling Loud and courtside at a Lakers game alongside Co-Founder Omar Bailey, solidifying its status as a must-have item for trendsetters and sneakerheads alike. With this collaboration, NLE Choppa joins the ranks of music icons disrupting the footwear landscape with their distinctive style and entrepreneurial spirit.

“FCTRY LAb looks for creators who want to build product lines and brands together,” stated Bailey. “By giving these artists, athletes, and creators the opportunity for profit sharing and equity ownership, we go beyond the typical collaboration fees and endorsement deals offered by most footwear brands. I’m a big fan of what Choppa is doing musically, collaborating on the Duck Boot with him has been inspiring, his entrepreneurial mindset really puts him ahead of the game.”

NLE Choppa echoed Bailey’s sentiments, expressing his admiration for Bailey’s bold designs and entrepreneurial journey. “When it came to making my own shoe, I knew I had to do it with him and his team at FCTRY LAb to make a real creative statement and impact,” Choppa shared. “He has bet on himself every step of the way, which is in my DNA as an artist and entrepreneur. I can’t wait for y’all to go crazy over these!”

FCTRY LAb has a proven track record of success, having sold out their first shoe, the “Knight RNR,” created by Bailey himself. With over 20 years of global product design and development experience, Bailey has crafted footwear for entertainment icons such as Jay-Z and Lady Gaga, as well as athletes and culturally impactful brands.

The Duck Boot introduces a fresh twist to a classic shoe concept, featuring a playful theme of yellow ducks combined with innovative materials and exaggerated elements. Its distinctive exterior shape makes a bold fashion statement, while its interior is crafted for ultimate comfort using high-quality materials. From initial sketches to final product, the Duck Boot embodies innovation and collaboration, fulfilling Bailey’s vision of redefining footwear fashion.

To showcase this exciting collaboration, the Yellow Duck Boot will be prominently featured in NLE Choppa’s forthcoming music video, filmed at Rolling Loud and FCTRY LAb’s unique LA design studio and development lab. This collaboration marks a new chapter in footwear fashion, blending NLE Choppa’s bold style with FCTRY LAb’s innovative designs to create a shoe that pushes boundaries and captivates audiences worldwide.

Photo Credit: Thomas Welch

Stylist Credit: Miquelle West

The post FCTRY LAb and NLE Choppa Drop Exclusive “Duck Boot” Collaboration first appeared on The Source.

The post FCTRY LAb and NLE Choppa Drop Exclusive “Duck Boot” Collaboration appeared first on The Source.

Burrell Communications Unveils Groundbreaking Campaign for ANTA KAI 1 Basketball Shoe

April 16, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Burrell Communications Group, renowned as one of the world’s premier Black-owned advertising agencies, has launched a groundbreaking campaign today: “KAI 1, The Origin Story.” This campaign marks the agency’s inaugural collaboration with ANTA, supporting the release of the second colorway of the ANTA KAI 1 basketball shoe, dubbed “Enlightened Warrior.”

The campaign, a visual journey through the life and ethos of global basketball icon Kyrie Irving, portrays his ascent from childhood to collegiate stardom and professional success. Irving’s story, anchored by familial support and cultural heritage, is depicted through a fusion of live action, AI, and anime-influenced animation, showcasing ancient African and indigenous imagery transitioning to the modern day.

Led by Burrell CCO Khari Streeter, the project involved a collaborative effort with Group Creative Director Corey Seaton, Creative Director Desmond Williams, and Senior Art Director Claudio Garcia. Natalie Lum Freedman served as executive producer, alongside Taryn Haughton as producer, and Ruben Emmanuel as project manager. The campaign’s production company, ThinkDiffusion, pioneered innovative techniques combining AI, CGI, motion graphics, and compositing.

“KAI 1, The Origin Story” coincides with the retail launch of “The Enlightened Warrior” shoes, demonstrating an unprecedented speed-to-market since the Burrell-ANTA partnership announcement in February. This latest iteration of the ANTA KAI 1 reflects mysticism and cultural symbolism drawn directly from Irving’s lineage and heritage.

ANTA Sports, established in 1991, has been a leading international brand in sportswear, offering professional sports products including footwear, apparel, and accessories. NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving’s appointment as Chief Creative Officer in 2023 signifies ANTA’s strategic move into the American market.

The release of “KAI 1, The Origin Story” marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Burrell Communications Group and ANTA, showcasing the power of collaboration in bringing cultural narratives to life within the advertising landscape.

“Our agency is excited for this first opportunity to showcase our work with our ANTA brand partners and the Irving family. We’re proud of the team’s efforts,” says Khari Streeter, Burrell CCO. “We delivered on the spirit of the Enlightened Warrior story by bringing to life the authentic identity of the basketball legend and cultural warrior that is Kyrie Irving.”

“This newest shoe offering is deeply rooted in cultural symbolism, color psychology and trending fashion, conceived to pay homage to Kyrie’s gifts, his heritage, legacy-in-the-making and his identity,” states noted Black footwear Design Director Jared Subawon of ANTA U.S. “What we wanted to rise to the fore was a treatment that pushed the boundaries of design, and at the same time showcased ANTA’s commitment to uplifting talent and narratives across the sneaker space, coupled with our investment in diverse, progressive representation. The vibrant new ‘KAI 1, The Origin Story’ spot seamlessly completes our product vision.”

“At A11Even Sports, we’re committed to cultivating partnerships that reflect the pulse of our audience—delivering beyond the expected into the realm of the groundbreaking,” said Shetellia Riley Irving, CEO. “Our latest collaboration with Burrell Communications Group wasn’t just about pushing boundaries. It was about offering a platform for voices and talents that resonate deeply with sneaker and basketball culture—creating work that authentically represents their vibrancy and spirit.”

The post Burrell Communications Unveils Groundbreaking Campaign for ANTA KAI 1 Basketball Shoe first appeared on The Source.

The post Burrell Communications Unveils Groundbreaking Campaign for ANTA KAI 1 Basketball Shoe appeared first on The Source.

PUMA and Breanna Stewart Unveil the ‘Stewie 3’ in Paris

April 12, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In collaboration with WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart, the global sports brand PUMA proudly presented the Stewie 3 today, a cutting-edge addition to the celebrated Stewie franchise. Drawing inspiration from Stewart’s illustrious career, the Stewie 3 ‘Dawn’ pays homage to her journey with a tapestry of influences intricately woven into its design.

Inspired by Stewart’s international triumphs, the Stewie 3 ‘Dawn’ features vibrant hues and floral motifs that tell the story of her rise to greatness. Tokyo’s cherry blossoms symbolize life’s fleeting beauty and nature’s resilience, while Rio de Janeiro’s golden trumpet tree inspires the golden accents reminiscent of championship gold medals. Spain’s red carnation blooms pay tribute to Stewart’s spouse, Marta. Original blooming seed patterns on the outsole honor Stewart’s daughter, Ruby, and her commitment to growing the game.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Stewie 3 Dawn is engineered for peak performance. It boasts a high-abrasion outsole for superior grip and a dual-density Profoam+ midsole for targeted cushioning, ensuring stability and energy return on the court.

Launching on May 14th, the Stewie 3 Dawn will be available for $125 at PUMA.com, the PUMA mobile app, the PUMA NYC Flagship store, and select retailers including Dick’s Sporting Goods and Champs Sports. Don’t miss your chance to step into greatness with the Stewie 3 Dawn.

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Look 1 Breanna Stewart 0145 RGB

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Look 1 Breanna Stewart 0245

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Look 1 Breanna Stewart 0339

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Look 1 Breanna Stewart 0389 RGB

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Look 2 Breanna Stewart 0023 RGB

24SS BB Stewie 3 Dawn Macro Florals 012 RGB

The post PUMA and Breanna Stewart Unveil the ‘Stewie 3’ in Paris first appeared on The Source.

The post PUMA and Breanna Stewart Unveil the ‘Stewie 3’ in Paris appeared first on The Source.

Drake and Nike’s NOCTA Unveil Hot Step 2 Sneaker

April 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake and Nike’s NOCTA have set the sneaker world ablaze with the release of their highly anticipated Hot Step 2 Sneaker in Total Orange. Priced at $200.00, this stylish and innovative footwear option made its debut on Nocta.com yesterday, April 2nd, sending sneakerheads into a frenzy.

The Hot Step 2 is not just another sneaker – it’s a statement piece. Crafted with a synthetic leather upper featuring a reflective finish, this shoe catches the eye with its sleek design and attention to detail. The unique eyestay and textile webbing for lace lockdown add both style and functionality, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for wearers.

But the Hot Step 2 isn’t just about looks – it’s about performance too. Boasting a NOCTA signature sockliner and a visible Air unit heel, this sneaker provides unmatched comfort and support with every step. The solid rubber outsole with custom NOCTA North Stars offers durability and traction, while the G-TEK outsole technology delivers superior performance on any surface.

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For those who missed out on the initial release, fear not – the Hot Step 2 will also be available via Nike’s SNKRS App on Thursday, April 4th, at 7 AM EST. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of sneaker history. Get your hands on the Hot Step 2 and elevate your sneaker game to the next level.

The post Drake and Nike’s NOCTA Unveil Hot Step 2 Sneaker first appeared on The Source.

The post Drake and Nike’s NOCTA Unveil Hot Step 2 Sneaker appeared first on The Source.

Jordan Brand Opens ‘World of Flight’ in Beijing’s Sanlitun District

March 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jordan World of Flight (WOF) will debut in China with the grand opening of its Beijing Sanlitun store on March 23. The store, which will occupy a sprawling 1,000 square meters across four stories, promises to be a beacon for basketball enthusiasts and streetwear aficionados alike.

Nestled in the vibrant Sanlitun area of Beijing’s Chaoyang District, WOF Beijing Sanlitun boasts exclusive access to Jordan Brand’s finest streetwear and performance gear. The store offers a wide array of products and unique experiences, including convenient pick-up services, customizable items, and member-only events.

“Jordan Brand has always shared a special relationship with China,” says Sarah Mensah, President, Jordan Brand. “China’s love for the game of basketball runs deep, and we’re thrilled to open Jordan World of Flight Beijing Sanlitun as our pinnacle expression of basketball culture and Jordan Brand at retail. Jordan World of Flight stores worldwide including Milan, Tokyo and Seoul are being embraced by consumers and we are excited to extend this innovative retail concept to our consumers in China. The unveiling of Jordan World of Flight Beijing Sanlitun is a pivotal moment for Jordan’s global strategy, signaling a new chapter for the Brand’s expansion and innovation in China furthering the Brand’s international presence.”

A key highlight of the store is the Wings Collection, a pinnacle of luxury streetwear curated by Jordan Brand. Available for purchase nationwide, this collection epitomizes exclusivity and style.

The store’s design pays homage to Jordan Brand’s legacy and Chinese culture. From incorporating local architectural elements like the iconic 京砖 flooring of the Forbidden City to showcasing the brand’s history through art installations, WOF Beijing Sanlitun immerses visitors in a rich tapestry of basketball heritage.

Moreover, the store engages local artists to infuse their creativity into its ambiance and product offerings. The Jordan Local Artist series, featuring collaborations with Chinese street artists, adds a contemporary flair to the brand’s lineup.

With its premium lounge, The Workshop for personalized customization, and a commitment to fostering community among basketball enthusiasts, Jordan WOF Beijing Sanlitun aims to redefine the retail experience for sneakerheads and sports fans.

The post Jordan Brand Opens ‘World of Flight’ in Beijing’s Sanlitun District first appeared on The Source.

The post Jordan Brand Opens ‘World of Flight’ in Beijing’s Sanlitun District appeared first on The Source.

Reebok Collaborates with Cam Hicks on Exclusive BB4000 II Sneaker Collection

March 21, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Reebok and creative director Cam Hicks reveal their highly anticipated footwear collaboration, centered around Reebok’s iconic BB4000 II basketball lifestyle shoe. The HICKS x Reebok BB4000 II, priced at $150, debuts on March 27 exclusively on hicks.fm, followed by a global release on April 5 via Reebok.com and select fashion outlets.

“It’s going to sound cliche, but family was the driving inspiration for this collab on the BB4000 II,” explained Hicks, a sought after creative director by way of Maryland and Virginia. “Following that, I wanted a classic basketball sneaker to give a shout-out to my life before all the creative endeavors.”

Inspired by Hicks’ Virginia roots and passion for basketball, the collection boasts a timeless design with nods to Hicks’ personal style. The shoe features a chalk, orange, and turquoise color scheme, premium leather upper, suede detailing, and exclusive branding. Each pair comes in a custom sneaker box, reflecting Hicks’ brand language and reimagining Reebok’s classic Union Jack packaging.

“When it comes to the shoes, the materials were extremely important,” emphasized Hicks. “And then I had to let it be known where they came from, of course, adding the big logo hit on the heel and “Reebok by Cam Hicks” on the tongue – standing on the design and being proud of it with the branding.”

The HICKS x Reebok BB4000 II launches on March 27, exclusively on hicks.fm, before its broader global release on April 5 via Reebok.com and select fashion stores. Stay tuned for further releases from HICKS x Reebok later this year.

You can see the product below.

The post Reebok Collaborates with Cam Hicks on Exclusive BB4000 II Sneaker Collection first appeared on The Source.

The post Reebok Collaborates with Cam Hicks on Exclusive BB4000 II Sneaker Collection appeared first on The Source.

Report: Touring Giants Live Nation and AEG Decline Kanye West for a Tour

March 8, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kanye West hoped to take his Vultures album with Ty Dolla $ign on the road. Unfortunately for him, Live Nation and AEG won’t assist.

According to Hits Daily Double, insiders state neither touring company will move forward with requests on a Ye tour that is being pitched by his agent Cara Lewis. The decision comes despite Ye moving over 10,000 tickets for his events, like the one in Chicago.

It is noted that Chicago companies Jam Productions and SPKRBX collaborated on the United Center booking days before the release.

Ye and Ty Dolla $ign are being sued by the Donna Summer estate for using the icon’s “I Feel Love” in the creation of “Good (Don’t Die).”

The suit is led by Summer’s husband, Bruce Sandano, stating the interpolation was not approved due to Ye’s “controversial history.”

Ye submitted a request for clearance, but it was denied on Feb. 3, 2024, in both written and phone communications. The song was submitted for clearance at Universal Music Enterprises as an alternative but was once again denied.

The estate is now seeking damages of $150,000 for each infringement.

Earlier this week, after Adidas announced a new stock drop of Yeezy sneakers at the end of the month, Kanye hit the net with a message stating he was sued.

“Not only are they putting out fake colorways that are not approved, they are suing me for $250 million,” Ye said. “And they also not paying me for these shoes they are putting out that has my name on it.

“They are using contract clauses and 50 years of business experience to rape an artist – one of y’all favorite artists – right in front of y’all in broad daylight.”

Kanye says Adidas is suing him for 250M while selling Yeezy’s with his name on it without paying him. Other celebrities need to speak out and bring attention to this because it could be them too one day pic.twitter.com/wxBBbiSHHA

— Ye Streams (@kanyestreams1) February 26, 2024

The post Report: Touring Giants Live Nation and AEG Decline Kanye West for a Tour first appeared on The Source.

The post Report: Touring Giants Live Nation and AEG Decline Kanye West for a Tour appeared first on The Source.

Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection

March 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Mallet London, renowned for its British luxury footwear, and The Smiley Company, an iconic symbol of positivity, have joined forces to launch their first collaborative capsule collection. The dream team just released their collection which introduces the Neptune style, infused with the vibrant spirit of Smiley.

This collaboration marks a fusion of fashion and positivity, as Mallet London and Smiley aim to spread joy and encourage people to embrace a lighthearted approach to life. The Neptune silhouette, available in black and white variations for both men and women, embodies this philosophy with unique baubles integrated into the design, creating a playful interaction with each step.

At the heart of the collaboration lies a shared ethos between the two brands. Mallet London’s Founder, Evren Ozka, expresses his excitement about partnering with Smiley, emphasizing the alignment of values centered around positivity and creating meaningful connections with consumers.

The design team at Mallet London drew inspiration from childhood nostalgia, incorporating Smiley icons reminiscent of ball pits and pinball machines. The result is a whimsical yet stylish sneaker that incorporates Smiley’s signature motifs while staying true to Mallet’s sleek aesthetic.

The attention to detail is evident throughout the collection, with Smiley slogans discreetly integrated into the design, inviting wearers to discover hidden messages that evoke smiles. Each pair of shoes is accompanied by a commemorative box, a Smiley branded keychain, and an exclusive Mallet jewel adorning the laces, further enhancing the unique charm of the collaboration.

Callum Ruane, Head of Marketing at Mallet London, reflects on the collaborative process, describing it as a joyous campaign that seamlessly merges Smiley’s brand narrative with Mallet’s identity. The result is a collection that exudes positivity and resonates with consumers seeking not only stylish footwear but also a meaningful connection with the brands they support.

Ross Wilson, Chief Product Officer – Fashion at The Smiley Company, praises the collaborative effort, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail that infuses fun and playfulness into every aspect of the Neptune collection. From the placement of Smiley icons dancing on the shoe’s bubble to the inclusion of hidden slogans, each element contributes to uplifting spirits and spreading smiles with every step.

This exclusive capsule collection embodies the essence of Mallet London and The Smiley Company’s shared vision of positivity and creativity. With its unique blend of style and optimism, the Mallet & Smiley Neptune collection promises to captivate fashion enthusiasts and spread joy one step at a time.

The post Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection first appeared on The Source.

The post Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection appeared first on The Source.

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