We’re celebrating Black History Month by highlighting black creators, supporting black-owned businesses, and fueling the dreams of black artists. Follow Us on Instagram @daretoliveright as we highlight African-Americans who have made contributions that have impacted the world and shaped our culture.
Mission 1865: DARE TO CREATE
CALLING ALL CREATORS
Dare To Create was designed to inspire and highlight artists within the black community. Art has always been a way of expression within the black community. This year we have put out a call to artists everywhere to submit a piece of art based on our Black History Month theme “Black & Proud: Past, Present & Future”. Select artists will be judged by top artists and the winners will be featured in all DTLR stores on screens, social media, and DTLR.com.
SUBMISSION IS EASY:
- Post your art on IG
- Use #DTLRMission1865
- Tag @DareToLiveRight
THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING:
- $1,000 Gift Card
- Art featured on ALL DTLR store screens
- Digital feature across all DTLR social platforms
- Blog post on DTLR.com
MISSION 1865: BLACK HISTORY BUCKS
During the month of February, DTLR Community Outreach will continue supporting black
owned businesses by:
- Telling their story
- Purchasing their products
- Distributing their product on a first come first serve basis
On a random day in select cities, we will pop up to the business and purchase products to show our support on behalf of patrons who are present at the moment.
- (Locations and dates TBD)
THIS IS FREE OF CHARGE, on behalf of DTLR, Inc. (Community Outreach)
]]>We were delighted to host an exclusive event to celebrate the launch of our newest men's boxer briefs, SAXX. This collaborated celebration provided our community with a night to remember-- signature SAXX-themed beverages, delicious appetizers, amazing music from DJ Diamond Kutz, a pair of the world's most comforterable underwear for our guests, and a raw and honest conversation about men's underwear from our hilarious panel. DTLR's own Ty Davis, podcast host and comedian Syd Washington, and actress Dee Nasty used their genius comedy as a comfortable way to talk about a sometimes uncomfortable topic; balls.
SAXX was designed in 2006 as a way to deliver revolutionary comfort every step of the way. Our panel, while educating our guests on the benefits of SAXX's equipped BallPark Pouch and its super-soft and supportive 3D pouch for men, was also successful in delivering the benefits for women as well. Why should the men get all the fun, right ladies!?
The event created an environment full of laughter and good energy. We're still relishing in all the praise of SAXX's comfort, incredible prints, and innovative branding. Check out photos from the event below:
]]>Post Malone and going Platinum, name a better duo. Post Malone is no longer a striving new artist, he's been around for a couple years now. With hit after hit, Post Malone knows what it takes to make your records stick and spread like wildfire. As an artist, Post has the pedigree to understand what works for him and what doesn't, allowing him to thrive and succeed with consistency and individuality.
In 2016, which seems like forever ago to many, Post Malone dropped "Congratulations" with Quavo and "White Iverson." The masses took these songs with heart and the rest is history. By setting himself up with a strong foundation, Post Malone subsequently gave himself high expectations. His debut album, Stoney, had a strong, positive reception. But then he followed that up with beerbongs and bentleys, which had "rockstar" with 21 Savage and "Psycho" with Ty Dolla $ign. When it comes to second albums, artists either have a sophomore slump or a natural progression. In Post Malone's case, it was clear he knew his sound and worked hard to perfect it. Many of his songs have reached or are close to reaching a billion streams on streaming services, which is insane for any artist of any genre. He's proven time after time that he has what it takes to be successful in this musical environment.
Even without an album, Posty was still able to make some sort of influence in 2019's soundscape. Teaming up with Swae Lee, Sunflower was created to accompany Sony's Into the Spider-Verse. For weeks, this song was everywhere, topping charts and getting radio plays. This was such a strong effort from the two, helping solidify Post Malone's status as an artist at the top of his genre (alongside Swae Lee). Hollywood's Bleeding aims to capture the success Post Malone has received, as well as demonstrate some sort of evolution.
Due to the numerous tracks on the album, I will group songs together if needed.
Post Malone begins his venture with a song titled the same as his album. In this introduction, Post Malone utilizes a bit of a slow build up, adding riffs and drums later on. Once the beat kicks in, you just know it's a Post Malone track. This track hits on overcoming the toxicity in the business, as he sings Hollywood is bleeding, but we call it home. It's a hard-hitting opener, one that surely sets a serene tone for the album.
With an almost eerie trap beat, Post Malone has fun with this one. Utilizing his iconic autotune vocals, this is a mix of feel-good music and laid-back vibes. In the chorus, he emphasizes how hard he's worked for his success, and this track celebrates the outcome of his dedication. It's classic Post Malone, and this album is already off to a great start.
The production on the first track is bouncy and is a similar formula that Post Malone has used before (see Spoil My Night ft. Swae Lee). On top of that, DaBaby comes in and adds his own spin, rapping that he went double platinum with no features. As 2019 was a tremendous break-out year for DaBaby, his inclusion only further helps to bolster his status. Enemies speaks on the loss of Post Malone's friends, but with his successful career, he's able to move on.
Allergic speaks on a potential relationship epitomized by sad vibes only. It discusses an impossible relationship that forces Post Malone to be reclusive and hide himself. In this track, he compares his lover and his demons. Similarly, A Thousand Bad Times repeats a lot of the same values that Allergic offers, which is the idea that he's letting someone else (probably a lover) "ruin" his life.
While the past couple of songs have been a bit more sad, this production is groovy and uplifting, even if the lyrics aren't. Post Malone emphasizes heartbreak, and you can feel it in his vocals (who hurt you?). Circles is one of those records that feels bittersweet, smooth and rough. This is a highlight of the album, for sure.
In this section of his album, Post Malone adds the help of a handful of other artists to create some bangers. In Die For Me, Future and Halsey add their own perspectives on relationships, while On The Road showcases the sacrifices and work ethics of Meek Mill, Lil Baby, and Posty. While both songs are solid efforts, there's not too much that stands out.
The year is 2019: you look at your phone and you see a track with Ozzy Ozbourne, Travis Scott, and Post Malone. It's real, and the song goes hard! Ozzy's vocals with the guitar riffs at the beginning add another dimension to the track, infusing rock with rap. In today's era of modernizing genres and fusing music, this track is memorable and a surprise, for sure.
I'm gonna be what I want... I'm gonna do what I want. Post Malone is just oozing with confidence, so much that he seems fearless in every way. It's contagious, even to the point where he asks the listener if they can feel the same vibes he does. A confident Posty is one that makes good music, and we appreciate that.
If there were songs that were meant to follow each other in this album, it is definitely these two. By now, everyone knows about Sunflower and the energetic production that just makes you want to dance and feel good. Staring At The Sun mimics that energy and unites SZA's vocals with the positivity emerging from the sound. It's fun music; it's for everyone.
This song reflects Post Malone's distaste towards the Internet and how social media has been used negatively in regards to the lives of many artists. From music leaks to social media hate, it is understandable why someone as famous as Post Malone could be harmed by it.
Post Malone recruits Young Thug for a track about desiring someone to be gone from his life, but it's too difficult for him to handle. The trap-heavy beat emphasizes how melodic his relationship was, covering up the struggle to break it off. In a similar vein, Myself speaks on how Post Malone would've wanted to experiences some of his biggest moments by himself, knowing how other people treated him. The third track, I Know follows the trend of heartbreak with a good melody. Production is on par, as per usual.
Sometimes you just have to save the best for last, and that is exactly what Post Malone has done. In terms of replay value, Wow. definitely blows the others out of the water. It is a certified banger, one that is sure to break your speakers and send the dance floor into a frenzy. With this album, Post Malone definitely got us saying wow.
Post Malone has definitely mastered the whole "coming out with an album" ordeal. His theme was consistent, his features complementary, and his production at a great level, as always. I'll have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of Post Malone, but I give credit where it's due. He's endlessly putting out hits and utilizes his vocals as an instrument for prosperity. I enjoyed this album. Standout tracks for me were Saint-Tropez, Circles, Take What You Want, and Wow.
If you like his older stuff, this album doesn't stray too far from his sound
There's plenty of diversity; a good mix of trap, sadness, and good vibes
Good replay value, as well as some songs for parties
We have partnered with Def Jam in support of their new Undisputed roster and in celebration of their 35th Anniversary. We are the first partner for the Def Jam Undisputed campaign, having led our HBCU Tour in 2018 with Def Jam undisputed artists, DaniLeigh, Fetty Luciano, Bernard Jabs and more!
At this event, we drove with the artists (S3nsi, Molly, Lil Brook and TFL Kelvin) for two days through three markets including D.C., VA, Charlotte. Stopped at Howard, VSU and pulled up to CIAA to perform at the band competition
Other highlights included DTLR Radio /Def Jam meet & greets along with prize giveaways at the our booth, hosted Gunna in-store at Westerly Station, and night life events.
Undisputed, a compilation album, drops March 8.
6.6 million people are currently in the criminal justice system in the United States. - Bureau of Justice Statistics
Today, there are a bunch of sneaker retailers that give enthusiasts the opportunity to purchase kicks that are extremely hard to find. We have an accredited sneaker stock market to give you a fair cost/price assessment for a shoe you want to buy or sell. There are sneaker focused events being held for new releases and socials to spend time with like-minded individuals to enjoy. Yes, times have changed.
Along with cultural shifts in the culture, influence has done the same thing. It used to be about the professional athletes and rightfully so. The athlete is the one who makes memorable plays that make that shoe model historic. Today, basketball or football players have to share the spotlight with other professionals who have influence as well.
Recording Artists: For decades, rappers have made songs referencing their sneaker of choice, or making an entire song about it. With hip-hop being the most popular genre in music, companies have sought after rappers to endorse their brands. ASAP Rocky, Tyler the Creator, 2 Chainz, and Travis Scott are just a few of the many recording artists who have signature shoe designs with brands like Jordan, Versace, Converse, and Under Armour.
Actors: Some actors specialize in performing death-defying stunts, while others promote a healthy lifestyle by working out. Blockbuster phenomenon’s Kevin Hart, Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson all have sneaker deals due to their personal pride in exercising on a daily basis. Since they all post endless videos and pictures working out, it makes absolute sense for sneaker brands to provide them shoes to run in and clothes to wear.
Whether it is sports, music, or movies, the sneaker industry is influential across the board. Only time will tell what industry will tap into the culture next.
]]>We happened to be lucky enough to attend such an event and took much pleasure as we reveled in the hype. There were about 100 people lined up outside waiting to get their hands on the TDE x Nike Capsule Collection. The collection consisted of hoodies, tees, jerseys and limited pairs of the Kung Fu Kenny Cortez. The DJ was playing a lot of songs off the artist's latest album along with other artists on his tour.
Kendrick Lamar rolled through the pop-up around 4 o'clock unexpectedly and showed a group of fans love by shaking hands, giving away concert tickets, autographing merch and taking photos with a family whose kids are die hard Kendrick fans. Those fans were also gifted tickets to the show at Madison Square Garden the following night. The atmosphere was live and everyone working the event had joy in their hearts after seeing so many young fans gather to show support to Kendrick.This year, we set our mark at $100K and when the dust settled, we reached our goal with some change to spare!
100% of the profits from sales of the shoe go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital! The first time in St. Jude’s history!
The inspiration behind this imperative cause is DTLR employee Tremayne Lipscomb Sr.'s superhero son, TJ. TJ was diagnosed with a form of cancer called Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Radiation was not an option for his family, so they were led to a treatment that was offered only as a result of St. Jude’s special research. An uphill battle no doubt, TJ was in for a fight. As a young brave soldier, he fought with ! In 2017, New Balance, alongside our own June Sanders, created a special edition New Balance 530 inspired by TJ and his testimony.The Under Armour Story:
Offering unbeatable support and comfort is just one way to describe Under Armour's longest-tenured tactical boots-- and Pacino "Chino" Braxton agrees.
Chino, a 21-year-old West Baltimore native and motocross athlete, has already overcome great adversity. Today, he is determined to do good and uplift his community, and has recently joined the Under Armour Sportstyle category as a Pioneer.
"It feels good coming from where I grew up to be an influence for the kids and to show them there's another way out," said Chino, "I turned my craft into a lane. If I can do it, they can, too."
His first initiative includes partnering with B360 Baltimore to provide youth with a vision of success and a path forward. The organization utilizes STEM education programming to help fight the cycle of poverty. Chino will donate a customized bike on Charity Network’s Charitybuzz platform, with all proceeds benefitting B360. Chino is featured as the face of two limited-edition colorways of the UA Valsetz – black/metallic silver and metallic silver/black. Pairs are available now for $125 on UA.com and the 25 DTLR locations across the DMV area. Photography for the retail campaign was captured in West Baltimore by heralded Baltimore photographer Devin Allen.We connected with contemporary artist Ron English to serve as a creative ambassador to influence the launch of The New Balance 247 “The Collective.” Ron English is one of the most prolific artists of our time. Coined with the term POPaganda, his work is described as a mash-up of high and low cultural touchstones and has been seen in museums, movies, television and all around the streets.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sov810iXBDM&t=1s]]>For more information about the New Balance 247 "The Collective" go to RUVilla.com. Available Saturday, October 21, 2017.]]>Stay updated on events and future releases by following us on Instagram. Scroll to bottom.