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Comma Club Founder and recent exonerate Ruel Sailor talks Brand, First collection & Future plans. 2020 Collection

Before we go into your brand Comma Club, you have such a unique story I want people to understand who you are and how you got to this point.

 First, let’s let the people know who Ruel-Sailor is. Where were you born and raised?

I am RuEl Sailor, father, and husband, entrepreneur and exoneree. I was born and raised in Cleveland Ohio.  I am the owner and creator of Comma Club Clothing. I always loved fashion and the hustle of business, so with Comma Club, I get to express both. 

  Many people tend to say people from Cleveland have an aura about themselves. How would you say growing up in Cleveland has shaped you as the man you are today?

 I grew up on the East side of Cleveland, on St. Clair where I learned how to survive at an early age. I always took pride in my city, but St. Clair helped mold me into the man I am today.

  I had the honor of hearing you speak about your trials and tribulations the past 15 years. For the people who are not familiar with your story can you explain what you went through?

  I was wrongfully convicted of aggravated murder and sentenced to 28 years to life in prison, I spent 15 years in prison before being exonerated. 

 A situation like yours can leave someone with so much hatred in their heart, where do you channel all that anger?

  Before I was released, I told myself I couldn’t come into the free world with a weight of bitterness and anger holding me back. So I channel my anger into my hustle… Comma Club

When did the idea for Comma Club come to you? 

  While I was still in prison, Comma Club started as an acronym for a program to help others. 

What is the meaning behind Comma Club?

 Creating Options Making More Achievements 

 For the people who are new to Comma Club, how long has it been available to the public?

 Comma Club clothing has been available to the public since 2018

What was that feeling like when you released your first collection?

 With my first 25 shirts, I couldn’t even get anybody to buy them. So my feeling was questionable until my second collection dropped and then it was a hit and that feeling was amazing, it was a rush.

The concept of putting your creativity into the world can open new doors for you and give you a new perspective on life. What would you say is one of the biggest revelations you experienced? 

 Having something that puts people in all walks of life in common with each other. 

With the fall here and the winter around the corner, what can people be on the lookout for the next collection from Comma Club?

 My next collection called the “Free Collection” which will be dropped in 2020. Will be hoodies and sweatshirts with the Free Stamp and Comma Club.

  What is the release date for the next collection?

 My next collection will be available in January 2020. Stay Tuned!!!

 A1 cloths would like you to know that we are here to support you in your endeavors. We would like you to know that you can always reach out to us to help. 

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Blame The Label Founder Chris Bell Talks Brand, Team, UpBringing & Fashion History

Let's get straight into it, where did the idea for Blamethe label clothing line come from?

The original idea for Blame The Label ties into music. With the idea that big music label’s would sign artist to contracts. That would limit their creative control taking away they’re ability to release their art on their own terms. 

Growing up were you always into fashion? Or was it something you grew to love? 

For me it was definitely something I grew to love. Growing up I was always in sports all year around. So for me earlier on I would always just looking to be comfortable couldn’t go wrong with a pair of sweats and a hoodie. It wasn’t till after I graduated I was able to do a deep dive into the fashion industry in depth. 

Now, for the people who might not know you and your brand, tell them a little about who you are & and where you come from?

  My name is Chris Bell from Clevaland, OH. In april of 2019 I launched my clothing brand Blame The Label Collective currently based out Columbus, OH. 

Were you born and raised in Cleveland Ohio? 

Yes, born and raised on in Cleveland. OH. Which definitely holds a close place to my heart. Its place that molded me into the man I am today. I feel like the when you from the city the hustle built in you runs deep.   

Now as we talk about your brand? What drove you to dive into the fashion business, being that's it’s one of the toughest?

I’ve always been someone who’s up for a challenge no matter what that may be. Once i figured out that I could really turn this company into something. l made the choice to bet on myself and not look back. 

Where did the idea of Blame the Label come from?

 The message behind Blame The Label Collective came from the idea of not letting anyone put you in a box. No matter what you decide to do in life and what goals you want to achieve. You want to be able to make those decisions for yourself that will ultimately            make you happy. Often our generation encounter outside people no matter who it may be. Trying to tell us right or wrong way to achieve the goals you decide to pursue no matter what that may be. I think it’s important to make those decisions for yourself. Only you know what will truly make you happy in the end. 

 Who does Blame the Label team consist of? 

 At the moment, It’s just myself i’ve been able to reconnect with a childhood friend Nick a few years back. He currently is the CEO of his clothing Unspoken Truth based out of Cleveland. Nick has became my mentor and an important part of my company through this process as i continue to grow my own brand. He’s been a big part of a lot of things that go on behind the scenes that people don’t see. 

With so many people trying to get into the fashion game. What do you believe separates you from the rest? 

One unique thing I think separates my brand from others is. Once a piece of merchandise is sold out it is never restocked. Each piece has a different message and I think that helps me connect with customers in a different way that other brands mights 

  With so many brands short lived. What do you think is going to set you apart from the rest? 

I think with my brand you’ll be able to see a lot of different pieces. Each one is always different giving customers variety in what they decide to purchase. Also with that being said I think the message I’m trying to pushing behind the merchandise really applies our generation now.

 With the winter here, and springright around the corner. What can the people be on the lookout for from blame the label?

Lately, I’ve been working hard on a couple different drops. I think people will really like some of the merch that will be releasing soon. One big goal I have for spring is to have a pop up shop in Columbus. My goal is to bring the city out and gather some feedback about where the brand is heading at that point and feed off that.

I was watching your brand, I seen you had your second collection release, how did that turn out? 

Man, it went well I always am surprised about the reaction of the merch. For it to start of as an idea on a paper go through the process of turning into merchandise is a amazing feeling like no other. For people to want something you put a lot of work into genuinely means a lot.         

For those who are looking to shop Blame the label clothing. Where can they find your product? 

As of right now merch is purchased through instagram.  @blamethelabelco

 For the people who would like to keep up with your brand and you, where can they find you at?

To keep up with merchandise and drops follow @blamethelbaelco or my personal account @bell1097

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Cleveland Native Loh Glizzy talks opening up for Playboi Carti, New Ep dropping, Fashion and love for music.

Before we get into who Loh Glizzy, let’s get the fans familiar with who you are.

Q: For the people who are new to you, who is Loh Glizzy?

I am a hip-hop artist from Cleveland, OH.

Q: Where did the name Loh Glizzy come from?

My name is Shiloh. When I was playing ball, Shy Glizzy dropped the Law 3 project and my teammates started to call me Shy Glizzy. When I started rapping I dropped the Shy and put the end of my name Loh and that's how Loh Glizzy came about.

Q: Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Cleveland, OH. I moved to Colorado with my mom and younger brother when I was young, then we came back to Cleveland when I was in 4th grade. I grew up in South Euclid with my dukes and two younger brothers and step father. My pops stayed in Garfield, Ohio. For the most part of my life he lived off of 131st with my Ganny. This is where me my sisters and brothers would all spend our time growing up together.

Q: As most people may realize, your upbringing can shape you into the unique individual you are today. What are some of the most significant situations in your life that brought Loh Glizzy to the point in his life?

Some of the most significant situations in my life that brought me to this point included, watching my mom hustle to always provide for me and my brothers no matter what. Whether she had it or not she always made a way. She ingrained that hustle mentality in me. Having my siblings look up to me as a role model. I always went hard in anything I did, and handled my business no matter what I got myself into. The biggest situation that changed everything for me, was when my older brother K.O. got shot and killed when I went to school to play ball in 2015. After that, my life did a whole 360.

Q: Growing up was music a passion of yours? or would you say it was something you picked upon later in life?

Growing up music always played a significant role in my life. I started playing the saxophone in my church every Sunday when I was 10 until I was 12. The sax opened my musical ear because it helped me learn how to read notes and know pitch tones. I was already a big hip hop head to add to that. I was a big Gucci, Chief Keef, Wiz Khalifa and Lil Wayne fan. I used to freestyle with my friends all the time growing up. At the lunch table, on the bus on the way to games, study halls all of that. My friends would always say to me even though we would play around, I was hard at it forreal. But I never paid it any mind forreal. When I went through my personal struggles and had to face my own demons, that's when I picked up the mic. Then it was all up from there.

Q: Most artists have some sort of inspiration when it comes to music, who do you look to for inspiration when you’re in the studio?

I don’t particularly look to any artist specifically for inspiration. I listen to all genres of music so my perspective is very broad. I make my music based off of my feelings at that moment when I'm writing or behind the mic. I rap about the things I've been through, I’ve seen and I’ve done throughout my life.

Q: How long have you been making music?

I have been making music and taking it seriously for two years now.

Q: I saw that you had the honor of opening up for Playboi carti at the Campvs Live, can you explain that experience ?

That was wild. It was 10,000 people there rocking out to my music. It was going! I got implemented into the show to perform right before him once Lil Tecca dropped from the concert. It was crazy to see all them people while I was on that stage. But it was even more crazy to see them turning up to my songs and a lot of them knowing the lyrics. I even got love showed to me from the Campvs Live coordinators and upcoming artist Luh Kel. They told me I was lit and to keep pushing because they really rock with my music and I made my mark showing I’m built for this.

Q: An experience like that can motivate someone like no one can believe, can you explain how it changed you? if had any effect over you at all?

Seeing all that love shown to me, and knowing everything I've been through leading up to the point of the concert, that just lit an even bigger fire inside me. It made me even more confident although I already was. It also was recognition to myself that I'm really doing this and going in the right direction. It made me wanna go even ten times harder.

Q: Opening up for Playboi carti could be considered a stepping stone, what can people be on the lookout for in the future?

Since the Carti concert, I have been getting booked for a lot of shows. My next show will be November 2nd, then another Shortly after November 16th. Other than my shows, people should be expecting a lot of new video content on the way. I've also been tapping into fashion and have been doing alot of Shooting with Chvd Porter and his upcoming brand ‘Chvd Justin” I am one of the familiar faces of Chvd Justin. My plans are to in the foreseeable future drop my own “Loh Glizzy” merchandise.

Q: For the people who would like to check out your music, what platforms are you available on?

I’m currently available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Youtube and Soundcloud. My soundcloud currently holds all of the songs I have ever released. The other platforms currently do not have ever song that I have ever dropped, but my music will be on all platforms very soon.

Q: A1 cloths would like a sneak peek; any release dates people should be on the lookout for?

Currently I have an EP I'm getting ready to drop called “Clearing Smoke”. It's Five tracks and people could expect it November 7th.

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Filthy Genius Creator Aaron Sits Down With A1 Cloths. Talks Fashion Climate, Upbringing, Filthy Genius Brand, Future Plans!

Q: Before we get into the brand, we always like to give our audience an understanding of the Brand founder. So as we begin, who is Aaron AKA Retro is?

Im a 26 year old African-American Entrepreneur

Q: Where were you born and raised?

I was Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

Q: To resonate with filthy genius fans, we want the people to have a more in depth understanding of you. So, what was your up bringing like? and how has it molded you into the man you are now? 

My upbringing was kind of the typical black middle class up-bringing. I was raised by a single mother who worked hard to make sure me and my sisters had what we needed. I have 5 brothers and sister but I really grew up with 2 sisters. So I stayed to myself a lot being the only boy. I used to listen to a lot of hip hop and watch a lot of bet and MTV growing up. I really started by getting rap albums from the library growing up and I would get albums by artist like Ludacris, Lil Wayne, and Young Jeezy coming up and I started to really love hip hop culture and look up to these artist. I used to walk to school everyday listening to rap music. I always been an introvert I guess you can say. I never had a lot of friends and I stay to my self a lot. I never was really trying to fit in with the crowd, I never cared what other people were doing I just always did what I personally liked.

Q: Being a Cleveland, Ohio based brand , what got you started in fashion, was is it your passion or something you grew to transition into?

Well, My first introduction to fashion was watching rap videos on TV but I never liked to ask my mom for expensive things it didn’t feel right to me. So I would just see clothes on tv and stuff I did not really have many cool clothes. It wasn’t till I was 16 years old and I got my first job at finish line that I really started to buy my own clothes. When I first started working there was around right before the time wale really made the sneaker game popular. My coworkers would make jokes to me because I used to only wear chuck taylors to work. Working there I got introduced to all the latest sneakers and I start spending all my money on shoes and When tumblr came out I was on the blogs heavy looking at all the different cool brands online and I start loving fashion really getting exposed to it on social media. Honestly I didn’t even consider myself a good dresser until I notice people would always tell me at school and people would always compliment my clothes. I started to build a reputation and I didn’t even really realize it because I stayed to my self so much I didn’t know what people was saying about me and I didn’t care. But It really started sticking with me senior year when A lot of people were saying they voted me best dressed and It was all the people who I respected what they were wearing. I wasn’t popular enough to win the actual award lol. About a year later when I was in college I was in business school but I noticed they were not teaching me how to start my own business and That’s what I really wanted to do. So I thought it was smart to start a business to gain experience. I decided to start a clothing line because people always asked me about my clothes and I was already looking at clothes online all day anyway so it made sense. I noticed it was a passion of mine because it was something I was spending a lot of time and attention on in my free time. So that’s how the brand started.

Q: Growing up in Cleveland, its a known fact that only the strong survive, we have many fashion brands come and go, what would you say separates from the others that has help you last this long?

A lot of brands have come and went some people have changed the name of their brands or started new ones or stopped all together. I think What separates me from these other brands and why I have lasted to long is because I stayed focused on the brand and if I lost focus I always found my way back a lot of people gave up on their brands. Another thing that separates my brand is me, I’m the source of the designs. People have always liked what I wear compliment my clothes and that’s why I started this brand. Luckily for me that same energy translates when I go to make my own clothes. People love the pieces I make and they want to wear them. People love my perspective on dressing and that keeps me motivated to keep going and that also keeps this brand relevant. Because of the kind of person I am, I don’t follow all the trends so my brand is able to stay unique but still cool, timeless and relevant at the same time. I can drop a shirt made in 2012 and it will sell out. A lot of brands in the world can’t say that.

Q: As we transition into the brand filthy Genius , when was your brand established?

I started this brand in 2012 and I was one of the first Cleveland clothing brands. It was at a time when being an entrepreneur was not the cool thing to do like it is now. 

Q: For the people who might be new to hearing about your brand, what is the meaning behind Filthy Genius?

A Filthy Genius is a hustler, someone who makes a way to live their life in a way that makes them happy instead of living by what everyone else says you should do. I feel like this is especially relevant today. We’re in a new age where we have a lot of people are starting business and trying to make a living off their passions as opposed to the past when the route to success was going to school and get a job. Everybody is a genius in some way everybody has a talent or something they were put on this earth to do that they can do exceptionally better than a lot of other people. When you find your genius that’s what you should be working hard to perfect that’s you gift to the world. The term Filthy is all about abundance. Everybody wants to be Filthy rich and the best way to get to be Filthy rich is by finding and perfecting your genius. It’s not easy It take hard work and dedication you have to get it out the mud then you’re “Filthy”.

Q: Since you’ve been in the fashion industry, what would you say has been your biggest revelation from your beginning, till where you are now?

One of the of the biggest revelations I had was that Fashion and Streetwear is my Genius. When I sat back and realized how many people love to wear the brand and When I noticed the fact that a huge number of music artist who don’t know me at all personally were naturally finding the brand and choosing to wear it in their music videos that was a huge revelation for me. When someone shoots a music video usually they are trying to dress there best and look as cool as possible. It’s a big blessing that people are choosing to wear this brand to look their best. Even when my brand wasn’t known. When I think back on it the first shirt I ever made was worn in a music video. That revelation has caused me to set Very High goals and realize my potential and the potential of this brand.

Q: When it comes to Filthy Genius, what is the message that your are trying to convey to the public?

With Filthy Genius I’m trying to motivate the public and assist in giving people the confidence they need to go after they’re dreams. When you wear this brand, you are labeling you’re self as a Filthy Genius. Human beings are extraordinary. Our brains are powerful beyond measure. We are capable of so much and I use this brand to help people unlock their potential.

Q: Since the establishment of Filthy Genius, what has been your biggest accomplishment that you are most proud of?

One of my favorite Artist who I respect in fashion is an artist by the name of Sauce Walka. Sauce coined the slang ‘drip’ and ‘sauce’ which everyone on the planet is using right now to refer to style. My goal was to get Sauce Walka wearing my brand I literally listen to him when I design clothes. I thought that would not happened until this brand was world famous because he really only wears the finest most expensive designer clothes. But one day I woke up and He shot a music Video wearing a vest from my brand. This was a big day for me because I wasn’t that known and I thought this would happen when I was popular. But no, he was one of the first celebrities to recognize and endorse the brand. And that was so big for me because he has some of the most influence on fashion and hip hop in our culture. Everybody steals Sauce walkas drip. Almost every artist in hip hop has been influenced by him even drake and Jay-Z so for him to wear my brand was so big to me and I will forever respect him.

Q: With the fall right around the corner, what can the fans of filthy genius be on the lookout for?

With Fall around the corner people can be on the lookout for High quality clothes that’s going to make you look good. A few pieces to make you stand out and give u attention. What you do with that attention is up to you.

Q: With the city of Cleveland on the rise, does filthy genius plan to branch out? or is your main focus to still build your following in Cleveland? 

Yes, I plane to branch out and get some steam all over the country and eventually be a worldwide brand. We are most popular in Cleveland as we are the leading local streetwear brand in this city. But we also have a Buzz in Houston and Miami right now. I want this to brand to be known all over. I want Cleveland to be proud that one of the top clothing brands in the world was birthed in this city. This city deserves that. I’m not sure if people realize this but we are one of the stylish cities in the world and I’m going make sure we get our recognition.

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Uncommon Creator/Founder Meech Bell Talks Fashion, Cleveland, Fall Plans,Collaborations.

Q: When we discuss brands many people want to know the meaning behind the brand, and the creative individual behind it. So, for those who may not know who Meech is and what he represents, let’s give the people a little information about you and where you’re from?

I represent a clothing line called Üncommon which stands for being different, a lot of people rather be different than like the next person including me so therefore I felt that I always wanted to start a clothing line always was into fashion so i felt that was the appropriate name that will attract a lot of people.

Q: Where were you born and raised?

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio.

Q: As many people say, growing up Cleveland gives people a different kind of hustle, mindset, or aura about themselves. How would you say Cleveland has shaped you to this point in your life?

Cleveland definitely has a different type of hustle and I grew up around all hustlers, that’s how I became a hustler I never wanted to be a worker, tried it but didn’t liked it so I said let me become a hustler in something i like which is clothes/fashion.

Q: Before we transition into the topic of fashion, what has been your dream life growing up, rather its being a business man, fashion designer. What interest you as an individual?

What interest me is being a business man, I’m in college for Business management, I want to start as many businesses as i can and make each business become successful.

Q: Now , as we discuss the brand, where did the idea of uncommon come from?

The idea of Üncommon name brand came from me sitting at work one day thinking of names for my clothing line and i was googling names that were rare, and so as I type rare in synonyms pop up and uncommon sounded like a good name asked my cousins and friends how it sound they all said same thing that’s a catchy name do it! Never looked back and I always wanted to be different, and rare.

Q: When you decided to enter into the fashion industry, what was your first thought, do you feel like you were prepared, or were you just learning as you go?

I felt like I was prepared and also learning as I go from going to pop up shops, learning from people who already had clothing lines helping me as I go. I was prepared as far as knowing what people like, some items can sell slow, etc.

Q: In Cleveland I have seen many amazing brands grow to become something major in the city, are their any brands that you would consider collaborating with in the future?

Yes, there’s some brands I wouldn’t mind collaborating in Cleveland with in the future such as a couple of my homies who also has a clothing line that is popping in the city such as Ler and Ramsey, which their brands are called Trvpfvshion and W2TJ.

Q: We want to leave some questions for the next time we link up, as we end this and the fall coming upon us, what can be on the lookout for from uncommon ?

As far as what to look for in fall from Uncommon clothing brand, we will be dropping hoodies, jackets, and jogging suits.

Q: For the people who want to follow your brand and shop uncommon, where can they find you?

You can find Uncommon clothing brand on IG @uncommonapparel, website is also in the bio, website is uncommon-apparel.com

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A1 Cloths Links up with Cleveland Native Artist Mylez, Talks Childhood, Music Passion, Current State of Industry, Future Plans

Q: People may be new to you and your music, so let's get straight to it, tell the people who Mylez is and where you’re from? And a little about who you are? 

Im Mylez Owens from shaker heights, its a suburb 10 minutes from 116th.

Q: Its been a while since we last spoke, so let’s refresh people’s minds by telling them Where you grow up as a kid? And what was your upbringing like? 

I was raised on 124th and superior with my 4 cousins, my auntie, my mom and sister in a 3 story house. My upbringing had no man in the house. They were there however for the most part the woman raised us. They were hardly home because they worked, so you know as kids do we was outside with it till the lights came on, then we became rebels.

Q: I know coming out of Cleveland is a task in itself. But, a lot of people don’t see making it out as an option, or even living to make it to 21. What made you go against that mindset and pursue a rap career? 

As my close friend Jessi Jetz once said “ Stack my paper stay lowkey so they can’t say nothing about me”

Q:  Now, let’s talk a little about your upbringing, when did you realize you had a love for music?

l came up on MJ so i knew i fell in love with music once i heard “A Kid Name Kudi”.

Q: Growing up did you ever think you would pursue a music career growing up? 

Yes, in some way I knew I would be apart of it in some way.

Q: The city of Cleveland has seen some major changes throughout the city, what would you say is the state of the music scene?

All over the place. To me alot of things disgust me, however I can only do me.

Q: For many years, getting creatives in Cleveland to collaborate is a monstrous task itself, are there any artist that you would like to work with in the future?

All of them its not one person i dont want to work with i feel like i can learn a lot from them cleveland is my motivation to be better its not just about me or you its about the 100 years

Q: A1 Cloths is all about showing love and giving credit when its due, are there any artist you would like to give a shoutout too?

Honesty there are too many for me to list and honestly i dont want to miss no one because i wouldn’t want to be missed out so in my famous line “ Hiyao For Peace, Luv Enjoy”

Q: I know being from Cleveland. The temptation is hard to stay away from the streets. What would you say keeps you motivated to stay positive? 

My baby sister (Maylin)

Q: As your music following starts to grow what are your plans down the road? You plan on branching out and going international? 

Staying Constant and true to myself.

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Q: Before we get into the details of your brand, let’s let the people know who DaMarcus is.

I am DaMarcus X. I am a 23 year old creative director, graphic designer, music artist, & founder of Know Identity Global, a creative studio focused on sustainable product development, brand identity systems, and using design as a means to guide global change. I am an entrepreneur and design student at the Columbus College of Art & Design & I have a passion for using creativity to make positive impactful changes on the world & humanity. Q: When we talk about where we come from, it plays a big part in our life, it shapes our mindset, lifestyle, reactions to certain situations. How would you say where you’re from has shaped you as an individual? I was born & raised in Cleveland, OH & grew up in Columbus, OH. I differentiate being raised and growing up because although I spent much of my early life in Cleveland, I moved to Columbus at the beginning of my high school career and it was there where I really began to discover myself as an individual & as an artist. Although only two hours apart in distance, Cleveland & Columbus are two very different places in terms of city structure, people demographic, and culture. I really appreciate having close connections with both because it allows me to be able to understand and relate to a wide range of people from different backgrounds and I value that soft skill as a person, businessman & creative. Q: In the realm of the design industry, its hard to get a foothold in the industry, what would you say separates you from the rest? I am confident in my creative skills, but I believe it is my mentality that I hold over creativity that makes me different. I will never stop learning. The only constant in life is change & being a designer, I believe that one has to obtain knowledge and know how to apply it, but also be open and able to continually flow in the constant changes of our modern technology driven world. When you think you know it all or have found “The Way”, is when you become stagnant. Conditions are always subject to change.

Q: Being in the design industry, whether its fashion, logos, furniture. People need a source of inspiration, what is your greatest source of inspiration? I find design everywhere. It is an all pervasive activity that governs every area of human endeavors. In our cities, in nature, it is what we consist of as humans. On a more personal level, I find great inspiration in other creators that are reaching their goals. Seeing someone else reach their dreams inspires me, because it allows me to realize that I, too, can reach my dreams & goals. I am the creative director of my life. Virgil Abloh, creator of global fashion/product/art label, Off-White, is someone who brings me a magnitude of inspiration. Q: Before we go any further, what brought you to the design/advertisement industry? As a kid, I always told myself that I wanted to be an “inventor”. I love to make things. I was always all over the place from making weapons, to art, to random conceptual pieces from whatever I could find, like cardboard boxes. Going into college, I began as computer science major being very familiar with the computer as a system, but always had an artistic self inside of me. I just never knew there was an entire industry out there of design. Sometime during my first couple years at university I had heard of graphic design which seemed like a combination of two things I enjoyed: computers & creating and I decided to pursue it. Q: People always want to know what sparked that interest in someone to bring them to a hidden talent, what brought you to this point in your life? I always knew that I was a creative minded individual and thought “outside of the box”, but it was not always easy for me to express this growing up. I didn’t really even know how to express myself. There weren’t many others that looked like me and surely not thinking how I did so I always felt like an outsider. In high school, I met a great friend of mine til this day, Nick Morbitt, and after us hanging out & smoking a lot of weed as teenagers, I began to feel comfortable being myself as weird and “artsy” as I am. I remember he got a digital Canon camera and started taking these super cool videos of our adventures around town, so I went out and bought an analog polaroid camera followed by my own digital Canon. I began capturing memories and absolutely the loved the feeling of creating through the still photograph. Photography was my entry into consciously expressing myself through a given medium and really owning it as my art.

Q: Since you have been in the design business, describe your experience and how it has changed your perspective? I am still very early in my design career. Life has thrown a lot of wrenches and curveballs my way in a short timespan which has allowed me to learn fast. After a couple college design courses & learning how to work the software I realized that I could design for other people. I’ve always been about art for art’s sake, but I am also very practical in the sense that I want my art to be of service and be of use by people. After completing a few years, I didn’t attend university for about two years due to life circumstances, but during this time I began to build my creative company and continued to develop myself as a person & entrepreneur. This is where a lot of lessons were and are learned. Designing as a business on your own is much different than designing for a school project or even for an established company, as I’ve held several internships which allowed me to experience this. I am grateful for everything I have gone through thus far. It has made me a stronger & wiser individual & designer. Q: As you maneuver through the world and interact with different walks of life, what in your opinion is missing from the world that could change it for the better? Universal Love, Kindness, and Empathy. None of us are the same and that is okay. We need to look in the mirrors and see ourselves as powerful individuals, and then realize that we are only one part of a collective people. Within this collective, it is made of billions of others that think completely different than we do. There is no need to hate another person or force them to believe what you do, but to understand that they are an individual just as you are. Provide them with pure love and try to understand. Pure love & Truth transcends All and will always get through. The progression of all is rooted within the Individual. I hold strong to the mantra: [ I ] am only as great as [we] can be. Q: A1 Cloths has recently done business with you, and we are greatly satisfied with the work that was presented to us. If you could tell people why they should outsource their business to you, what would you say? I love what I do & designing is a part of my purpose in this life. I try my best to put my love, knowledge and best efforts into all that I do. My purpose is to make your vision come to life in the best way possible. Q: Since you have been in the design business, what would you say is you favorite piece of work/ brand to work with? I enjoy working with all the companies & people that I design for. I learn something new from each of them. It allows me to make someone else’s dream more close to reality. That’s been my goal from the start. There are a lot of people out there who do something similar to what I do, so if we cross paths & I create for you, I value that.

Q: We want to leave some information for the next time we speak, for the people reading. Where can they reach you? You can find my music on all streaming platforms (and I mean everything), as ‘ Ohknowhedid ’. Connect with me on Instagram, @ohknowhedid & keep updated with the company progression @KnowIdentityGlobal

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Trvp Fashion Creative Designer/Founder Ler talks inspiration, Progress since 2017, Future plans, Fall Collection!

Q: A1 cloths has been following your brand religiously since we first linked up in 2017. Since we last talked what milestones have you reached? Definitely, Definitely, I ended up linking up with a solid manufacturing company in China, they brought a lot of my ideas to fruition. Q: In the following years, we have seen brands come and go due to lack of authenticity, originality, or creativity. What would you say that has kept TrvpFvshion relevant over the past 3 years? I’ll say staying consistent man, knowing what you want outta your brand, and know where you going ... anybody can throw a logo on a shirt ... but everybody can’t interact and sell product that’s the hard part. Q: in the creativity realm of life, individuals sometimes lose inspiration, motivation. What do look to for your motivation, inspiration at times when you are uninspired? Tumblr give me all my inspiration, sometimes I get a creativity block, I think that happens to the best of us. Q: TrvpFvshion started out in Cleveland, throughout the recent years how much has your brand reached other platforms or even across the country, and how does that feel to see you have such an impact in the fashion game? I try to based the brand outta the hometown much as possible, cater to my people much as I can. But our internet store has had plenty outta town orders off word of mouth and networking so that’s a win in my book. Plenty NFL Players And High Profile Rappers Has Being Showing Love, and we feed off that energy to keep raising the bar with the brand. Q: As we get into fashion in 2019, What excites you about the current state of fashion and what doesn’t?

Fashion change every year, go threw the motions of the creators but 2019 fashion has been the best so far, a lot of high end and street wear brand had figured out being simple and clean can take you far in this game. Q: One could say you’re prolific. Do you have a certain way of approaching a creative project or does it change? Fo rsure, I got threw so much putting a collection together from the color pattern to the fabrics, you gotta have a clear vision when you creating cause one negative thought will throw your whole collection off. Q: With the future of generation in our hands, if you could give some game to the younger generation or any individuals thinking about getting into the fashion game, what game would you give them? Jumping into the fashion game is risky, take a chance, a leap of faith, in this game your the only one that believe in what you wanna accomplish and this game takes a lot of heart. Q: In regards to the fashion industry in Cleveland, what would you like to see in the future? Its a lot of designers in the city of Cleveland, Ohio in the near future all the designers definitely have to put together a fashion show. It’s just for the people and the supports that support these locals brand, if it wasn’t for these people our brands would be no were, so I feel like all the local brands owe that too the city. Q: We are halfway through 2019, what can the TrvpFvshion fans expect in the future to come? This summer we have been Release a ton of classic Logo T-shirts they all our Available On shop-TRVPFVSHION.com spring & summer collection. And next month in August we begin our fall 2019 collection. So the grind don’t stop it’s a On going hustle.

Q: we have recently seen the fashion industry transform to the idea of releasing special collections, what would you say that is your most successful collection to date? I did a collection about a month ago called MIAMI NIGHTS COLLECTION, it featured 2 collect T-shirts and a pair of swim trunks. That collection too time and patience, from picking the right material, to the pvc patches and the colors and themes. I put a lot into that collection. But this new fall collection will be very special. Q: We have yet, to see many brands collaborate and release a collection together, is there any brands that you could see yourself working with in the future? I move off people energy so we can bounce Ideas you know, I would love to work with Sundae Wynn I feel like she got here own wave and her work is consistent. Uncommon Brand is very clean and dope. And also Welcome To The Jungle is dope. I just like the vibes they bring to the culture.

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Cleveland Native Chad Porter talks his brand CHVD Justin,Future Plans, Fashion, inspiration.

  Q:For the people who may be new to you and your brand. Let them know about you? And where you're from. 

I am from Cleveland, Ohio. I started Chvd Justin in my dorm room at The Ohio State University. We have our Debut product the Wearpack TM

Q: Many people may not know that you also make music. What was that transition into designing fashion like?

  I feel like the transition was smooth, both have similar creative processes. I also made a chvd Justin song, Ive tried to intertwine them in a way.

 Q: What brought you into the fashion game? 

My main passion is inventing and fashion allows me to be creative and come up with new ideas.

Q: Growing up as a kid was this always a dream as a kid? Or did you grow interest as you grew older?

As a kid I wanted to be an inventor and to start a company, chvd Justin allows me to live out that dream.

Q: Fashion is the new wave for young Millennials. What do you expect to get out this game in the long run? 

I expect to grow to becoming one of the biggest brands in the world.

Q: When it comes to designing clothes. What is your go to for inspiration? 

I would say I mainly inspired by the world around me and just living everyday life. I enjoy the creative process!

Q: I know a lot of people look up to certain designers. Who would you say is your role model in fashion? 

I like artist like Kanye and jerry Lorenzo. Combine music with fashion as well as designing new and better innovative products.

Q: Know a lot of designers have a brand or designer that motivates them in fashion. What is your dream brand you would love to collaborate with one day? 

I’d be down to collaborate with Fear of God or Yeezy.

Q: Knowing that you are from Cleveland,  are there any brands that you see on the rise or that you want to collaborate with in the future? 

Of course Nuisance attire, Ilthy. It gets no better then them. 

Q: In the climate of the fashion industry, a lot of people say most brands lack originality. What does your brand offer that people can't find anywhere else?

We have a unique product called the wearpack, which is patent-pending. Chvd Justin will strive to introduce innovative and unique products.

Q: With the summer here, what does Chvd Justin have in the works?

A Pop up shop this July at  The BluePrint in Cleveland,Ohio

Q: For the people who want to shop Chvd Justin, where can they find your pieces?

They can find our products at chvdjustin.com

Q: For the people who want to keep up with you and your brand. Where can they find you at?

We have Instagram, twitter, and facebook at @chvdjustin

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Weallhaveheart Hear Collection Shorts

“C” logo at left hem

9" inseam

Sideseam pockets

Multi-needle elastic waistband with inside drawcord

Full athletic fit

2.1 oz., 100% polyester tricot lining

100% polyester mesh body

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White Weallhaveheart Script Collection T- Shirt

1" ribbed collar with double-needle topstitched neckline

Double-needle stitched sleeves and bottom hem

Set-in sleeves

Twill taped shoulder-to-shoulder

Preshrunk, soft-washed, garment-dyed fabric

100% ringspun cotton

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Weallhaveheart Script Collection Women's T- Shirt

Sideseamed

Slim fit

40 singles

3.6 oz., 52% combed and ringspun cotton, 48% polyester

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Weallhaveheart Script Collection T- Shirt

1" ribbed collar with double-needle topstitched neckline

Double-needle stitched sleeves and bottom hem Set-in sleeves

Twill taped shoulder-to-shoulder

Preshrunk, soft-washed, garment-dyed fabric

100% ringspun cotton

[a1-cloths-blog]

Weallhaveheart Script Collection T- Shirt

1" ribbed collar with double-needle topstitched neckline

Double-needle stitched sleeves and bottom hem

Set-in sleeves

Twill taped shoulder-to-shoulder

Preshrunk, soft-washed, garment-dyed fabric

100% ringspun cotton

[a1-cloths-blog]

Weallhaveheart Script Collection Women's T- Shirt

Sideseamed

Slim fit

40 singles

3.6 oz., 52% combed and ringspun cotton, 48% polyester

[a1-cloths-blog]

Q&A With Columbus native Mo Museitif! Talks Weallhaveheart Brand, 2019 plans, Meaning behind brand.

Q: Before we get into your brand. Let the people know who exactly who Mo is and what he represents? 

 I would best describe myself as a person who cares about the well-being of others and genuinely has everyone’s best interest at heart. Being open minded and understanding the beauty life has to offer allows me to have a more optimistic point of view on everything.

Q: For individuals outside the city give them a little insight on you background and upbringing? From the good to the bad that brought you to this point in your life?

I was a product of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, then moved to Columbus Ohio at the age of 3. Never had much growing up but a creative mind. My passion and love for fashion grew as I got older because it was something I had an eye for. The creative mindset helped shape the ideas of certain styles and designs I have thought of.

 Q: As we get into fashion, would you say it’s something that is just natural or would you say it’s something that’s just been in you since a young kid? 

  I would say this is something that I obtained throughout the years of growing up. Having different influences around me really sparked my creative mindset that I had then I ran with it. 

Q: Now, for the people who are not familiar with what you are working on, what exactly is the meaning behind your brand?  The primary meaning behind my brand is the manifestation love and positivity that I hope to be promoted throughout the world. 

Q: In Columbus, we can say the fashion scene has been on a new wave, what would you say will separate you from the ordinary brand?  The difference between my brand vs others is that this isn’t a brand solely about clothes it’s the subjective message the clothing hold themselves. I want it to be a daily reminder were all good people at the end of the day and that we all have heart. 

Q: Most fashion designers have an idol of some sort they look to for inspiration when It comes to designs. Who would you say is someone that you could look at daily for inspiration?

 Ralph Lauren would have to be the most influential designer I looked up to growing up. The simplicity and consistency is what I admire in fashion. Keeping it simple but with purpose and meaning. 

Q:  Most brands like to create a stamp in their city before branching out nationally. What would you say is your all-time goal for Mo Museitif in the future?

 My all-time goal is to become one of the most well-known brands in Columbus that has a meaningful message. 

Q: I like to think, to have a brand that is destined to last you must have a unique collection, what can you the people be on the lookout for to come?

People can expect quality clothing with unique heart designs they’ve never seen before. 

Q:  2019 is going to be a good year. What is in store Mo Museitif?

I would say constant hustling and grinding will come from this year. I have a ton of goals I want to reach before 2020. 

Q: We have seen Pop-Up Shops have been the new wave. What is your opinion on those and is it safe to say we can see one in the future for Weallhaveheart?

 I feel as if pop up shops are an incredible way of promotion. I love what pop up shops have to offer because they allow the people to become engaged in the movement of the brand. 

Q: One of the most important aspects of a brand is having a specific market that you reach out to. Who is your targeted market that you look to connect with?

 As vague as it sounds, the market I want to reach out to is everyone. This isn’t a brand only for kids or college students it’s a brand for the people that support the movement of love and positivity. 

Q: Over at A1 Cloths we are about showing love and uplifting each other. Are there any brands or stylist that you would like to shout out?

 A unique person I enjoy talking to and is on the creative designing team for we all have heart. His name is Demarcus Nells aka D nells. 

Q: For people who are looking to connect with you and check out your brand. Where can they find you? 

 Instagram: Mo Museitif

Twitter: Mo Museitif. 

 A1 Cloths is here to support you on your endeavors, we look to see everyone to succeed. We wish you much success.

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Q&A With One of Cleveland's Hottest Self-Inflicted Currency Nightlife Promoter Chrishaw Clark. Talks Team, Plans For 2018, Keys To Success.

For the individuals who may be new to you, Give the people a little insight on your background and who you are? 

Chrishaw Clarke. Owner of Self-inflicted Currency. Jamaican Born. Cleveland Heights and Shaker Heights raised. Associates of arts degree. 25 years old. Single. 

 Before we get into your brand, let's give the people a little more background information. Where did you grow up?

I was born at Saint Andrews Hospital in Jamaica in 1992. I moved to America at the age of five.  I moved to Cleveland Heights, Ohio and later at the age of 14 I moved to Shaker Heights.

 As many people in Cleveland say, there is a lack of opportunity or everyone does the same thing. What would you say separates you from the average marketing brand?

 I would have to say staying consistent with the brand played a big factor in that. I always kept something going and always working on what's next or at least planning it.

Another thing, I came into marketing paying big attention to visuals when it came to my work. I always spent that extra dollar to make sure I had a great photographer and/or videographer involved with most projects. When people come to my social media or website I always had good visuals to attract their attention and to make them want to find out more or reach out.

The keys to success is to be able to see years ahead in business. What would you say is your keys to success that has kept you so relevant in the game so long?

That's brings us back to the consistency conversation. A lot of people in this city for some reason can't stay consistent with their work. They either lose motivation, get sidetracked or just flat out get lazy. That's what separates the successful individuals from the others in the city.

I would have to say that me and the company as a whole has always been known for was staying positive and giving the energy people are looking for. I received the energy in return and that creates a genuine relationship. #MajorKey🔑

 Now as we get in to the brand, Si Currency, where did this idea come from?

 The idea came around my senior year of high school. I looked at marketing as the creative way to make people spend time and money with your brand. As I went through college I learned more details about marketing and business as a whole. This sparked my interest even more. That's when I decided to start up the company to put what I learned into play.

 Many People say business is most successful unless you have a team behind you, how would you say your team has played a key role in your success?

Yes, my team played a great role in the success and growth of the company. It's good to have people you can trust around you. Expanding the team is actually something I'm looking to do in 2018. It's a lot of people that has been reaching out and we think now is a great time to reach back out and build some new relationships.

 Who does Si Currency consist of?

 Direct staff. 

Dominick Murray - Financial.

Camal McKellar - Visuals/Sounds.

Having your brand stamped here in Cleveland is great, what are your future goals? What's next for Si Currency?

We continue to attract guests from the Midwest region. We want to expand our reach more east and we specifically have eyes on the Washington D.C. Area.

Also, we want to continue to build our annual event in Jamaica called the "Port More Rumfest"

We have had a lot of success with it these past few years but as always, we are looking to take the event to the next level. We would like to have more guest from the city travel down to experience my culture and what it has to offer.

 With the new year here, what can the people be on the lookout for? 

We will be doing more signature events with themes and more events where young black professional can rub shoulders with one another. We want to do more day events this year and that's something that will attract a lot of guest

For people looking to keep up with the Si Currency brand, where can they follow you at? And how can they contact you?

Instagram & Snapchat: @SiCurrency

Search and like us on Facebook: "Self-inflicted Currency"

YouTube channel: SiCurrency