OVERVIEW
HIP-HOP RAISED ME – explores the profound impact of hip-hop culture on the life of Artist and Sneaker Designer Rick Williams. Williams delves into how Hip-Hop has shaped his identity, worldview, and artistic practice through a series of multimedia works. At its core, HIP-HOP RAISED ME is a celebration of the power of Hip-Hop to inspire, uplift, and transform. Through his work, Williams seeks to pay homage to the artists, musicians, and cultural icons who have helped to shape the culture while providing a unique perspective into who he is. From INSPIRE WALLS™(murals) and installations to gritty photography and original music, HIP-HOP RAISED ME is a dynamic and engaging exploration of one artist’s deep and abiding love for Hip-Hop culture. Whether you are a lifelong fan of the genre or simply curious about its impact on contemporary art and culture, this installation will leave a lasting impression.
ARTIST TALK
Join us for the HIP-HOP RAISED ME ARTIST TALK featuring Rick Williams and Royce da 59, an iconic rapper and hip-hop artist. In this talk, Rick and Royce will delve into the inspiration behind the art pieces in the installation, Rick’s journey as a sneaker designer and entrepreneur, and his love for hip-hop.
Rick Williams is a renowned artist and designer, known for his work in the sneaker industry and his passion for hip-hop culture. With “HIP-HOP RAISED ME,” he has created a collection of unique art pieces that pay tribute to the cultural impact of hip-hop on his life as a designer and, entrepreneur.
Royce da 59 is a legendary rapper and hip-hop artist passionate about the art form. Known for his lyrical prowess and honest storytelling, Royce has been a mainstay in the hip-hop scene for decades. He has collaborated with many of the biggest names in the industry and is respected as one of the most talented rappers of his generation.
HORIZON CAMO
The Horizon camo features the DISTINCT LIFE camo pattern on top of a signature gradient intended to represent the HORIZON line of the SUN. This iteration of the camo pattern was inspired by the SUN coming up during Rick’s early morning meditation (tap) sessions at the DISTINCT LIFE headquarters.
Intelligent Movement
This series features the DISTINCT LIFE HORIZON camouflage pattern as the backdrop for various quotes, song titles, logos, and icons taken from the world of hip hop. The use of bright green paint adds a vibrant and eye-catching element to the pieces intended to identify this body of work.
“Hip is to know; it’s a form of intelligence. To be hip is to be up-to-date and relevant. Hop is a form of Movement; you can’t just observe a hop; you have to hop up and do it. Hip and hop are more than music Hip is the Knowledge; hop is the Movement. Hip and Hop is Intelligent Movement.” – KRS ONE
THE geezy EXPERIMENT
THE geezy EXPERIMENT merges Rick Williams’ longtime passion for hip-hop and The Dance to create a wholly original, improvisational percussive opus. Williams assembled a roster of some of Detroit’s most talented rappers and musicians and added the element of improvised, unrehearsed hoofing, recorded in one take. He draws from various avenues of inspiration: “NORTHLAND” enlists ZO!, Tall Black Guy and DJ Dez to pay homage to a shuttered Detroit shopping mall, “WE ARE SEEDS” feeds off of a collaborative mural with artist BMike that pays homage to the resilience of Detroiters and New Orleanians, and “DETROIT’S SUN” enlists Guilty Simpson for the same lushly sampled, hard rhyming hip-hop that Williams grew up listening to. There’s an assortment of guest musicians and vibes, but God’s unfettered presence lives throughout.
INTRODUCING METAL FEET
Comic book culture and Hip-Hop have been hand and hand almost since the beginning with rappers taking on names like Grandmaster Flash (Flash Gordon) and the Furious Five (Furious 4). Metal Feet is a comic book character developed to pay homage to this aspect of the culture.
Metal Feet is a comic book character based on the life of Rick Williams, a Detroit-based percussionist, artist, and creative director. Raised by Hip Hop, Metal Feet is a powerful force of nature, connecting to the higher power through his unique form of meditation. He is a master of rhythm and sound, using his powers to create a sonic landscape that can move mountains. His passion for music and art is unrivaled, and his ability to bring people together through his creative expression is unparalleled. He is a symbol of hope and inspiration for those who seek to find their own inner power.
This concept is inspired by Metal Fingers (MF DOOM) a mainstay in soundtrack to Rick’s morning TAP sessions.
DL x Moab Paper Streets of Detroit Installation
The DISTINCT LIFE X MOAB paper print collection is a stunning collection of monochromatic landscape photos taken in the city of Detroit by Rick Williams. The collection features a unique twist, with the DISTINCT LIFE Horizon Camouflage pattern incorporated into the sky of the images.
The prints are made on high-quality paper, which gives them a crisp and clear look. The monochromatic color scheme adds a sense of drama and intensity to the images, while the DISTINCT LIFE Horizon Camouflage pattern in the sky ties the collection to the rest of the HIP HOP RAISED ME installation.
The collection is a celebration of the beauty and grittiness of Detroit, showcasing the city’s unique architecture, landscapes, and people. The prints are a perfect addition to any art collection, and they are sure to be a conversation starter in any room.
Overall, the DISTINCT LIFE X MOAB paper print collection is a must-have for anyone who loves photography, art, and urban culture. It is a beautiful and unique collection that captures the essence of Detroit and the DISTINCT LIFE brand.
INSPIRE WALLS
The DISTINCT LIFE INSPIRE WALLS project is a unique and inspiring initiative that aims to bring art and positivity to public spaces. The project consists of a collection of murals designed and painted by artist Rick Williams for the DISTINCT LIFE brand. Each INSPIRE WALL features the brand’s signature HORIZON Camouflage pattern as the canvas, with various subjects painted on top. These subjects are carefully chosen to inspire and uplift viewers, ranging from motivational quotes to images of influential figures. The INSPIRE WALLS are a beautiful and impactful way to bring art and inspiration to communities, and they serve as a reminder that positivity and creativity can thrive even in unexpected places.
HIP-HOP RAISED ME PODCAST
Welcome to the DISTINCT LIFE ‘Hip Hop Raised Me’ podcast, where we explore the power of hip-hop as a cultural force and its impact on our lives. From childhood memories to career-defining moments, hip-hop has been the soundtrack to our stories and shaped who we are today.
Through engaging interviews with some of the most influential artists, producers, engineers, and other key figures in the industry, we’ll dive deep into their personal experiences and prominent hip-hop memories. Our goal is to share inspiring and insightful stories that showcase the richness and diversity of the hip-hop community, and to give you a front-row seat to the moments that define the genre.
"READY TO DYE" EXPERIENCE
Join us for an immersive DISTINCT LIFE “Ready to Dye” event in partnership with Detroit Dye House on June 19th. This immersive experience allows guests to unleash their inner artist and create a one-of-a-kind tie-dye masterpiece using our Horizon colors.
The event is more than just tie-dye; it’s a chance to be part of a community that celebrates creativity and self-expression. Each participant will receive an exclusive premium DISTINCT LIFE shirt or hoodie, making this a unique event you won’t want to miss.
“Tie-dye is a relentless lesson in control…you don’t have any.”
-DETROIT DYE HOUSE-
The event will occur at Detroit Dye House, located at 1418 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216, from 6-9 pm. Cocktails will be available to help you get in the creative mood. Get your tickets now and be part of an evening of creativity, community, and fun.
