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HS: First of all, how did your partnership with etnies come about?
Mel: Hawaii Mike bought me in for a meeting. He said he wanted to do something with me and that something turned into doing tee shirts to doing a basic sneaker to doing to my two limited edition sneakers (64 pairs made) and my two tees (430 tees). The kicks and tees are not for sale.
HS: What was the process like in getting your own shoe? Any specific inspiration behind the color/silo choice?
Mel: The process was kind of confusing for me. I never designed anything before. So, I had to employ the services of a good friend Upendo ( Leroy Jenkins) to help bring my thoughts in my head to reality.
I wanted the sneaker to be basic and very clean, with the pop coming with the insoles. As far as the colors go, I love greens...all kind of greens. But this particular one stood out to me and I thought all the homies would like that color as well. How can you go wrong with black and green?
HS: The photo tee was inspired by Common's Electric Circus album cover and features a ton of your favorite people. Tell us a bit about some of the shots included.
Mel: Well 1st off I want to tell you who brought my idea to life. That guy would be named Ron J (Leroy Jenkins). He is on the tee along with: kid Cudi, Mos Def, Ian Reid, Q Tip, Cons, Black Thought, Questlove, Emeka, Scott (10 Deep), Timbo (Rad Collector), The Knux, Clipse, Little Brother, Talib Kweli and many more people.
One of the most significant shots on the tee is the one of Common. His photo is from a show back in 2002. One of the 1st concerts I ever shot. It
inspired me to do what I do.
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