K.R.T. x Harvard Law School
“Kings Inspire Harvard Law School “
For the first time since its existence, the prestigious Harvard law school was a long awaited participant of the 39th annual regional law school basketball tournament, held on March 9 – 10,2013 at the western New England law school in Springfield , Massachusetts. Harvard law school and K.R.T recently joined forces and collaborated for the optimum experience.
Behind The King: Curran J for Philadelphia’s Magazine “20 Best Dressed Philadelphians”
“The Best of Philadelphia”
I can remember a few years back reading the Philadelphia Magazine in the barbershop saying I need to be in this magazine. I always considered myself as a fashion maven residing in the area so I knew that one day a kings dream would come true. Now 3 years later I had the pleasure of being featured in the March 2013 issue for fashion highlighting “20 best dressed Philadelphian’s”. It was a honor to be recognized in such a notable level amongst many other fashionable people in the city of Philadelphia. As fashion is something I breathe, to be labeled as this in the city that I was born and raised in and carry it on my back everywhere I go is an honor and truly an amazing feeling.
K.R.T. Press: Kings Inspire King James
“Kings Inspire King James”
All Star Weekend was hosted this year in Houston, Texas. We were super pumped when we found out that arguably the best basketball player on the planet LeBron James of the Miami Heat had worn our K.R.T x NBHB “Kings Inspire Kings” collaboration pin, front row at the 2013 NBA Slam Dunk contest.
The Coalition Presents “The Love Story” Documentary
The Love Story from Derrick Woodyard on Vimeo.
Five of the most influential brands (Chill Moody, Billy Abstract (Abstract Thought), Beano, Villa and Curran J of K.R.T.) are at the forefront of the new renaissance in Philadelphia. We are combining our energy and resources to put together dope events, projects and overall opportunities of Philadelphia’s finest artist.
K.R.T. Press: Teyana Taylor wearing K.R.T.
”Queen of Harlem”
Recently, Singer/songwriter/actress/
K.R.T. Press: Marsha Ambrosius
“Queen Marsha Ambrosius supports the brand” – K.R.T.
The inspiring and talented singer/songwriter Marsha Ambrosius continues to be a loyal supporter K.R.T. Marsha was recently spotted wearing the iconic “Queens Inspire Kings” sweatshirt, while spending time with her family. Marsha is no stranger to the brand, you may remember seeing her debuting some of her talent on K.R.T’s blog, as she was the first Queen we interviewed for our “Queens Inspire Kings” video segment. Which can be viewed Here. – K.R.T.
K.R.T. Press: Bow Wow wearing K.R.T. Young King Hoodie
”Young King Bow Wow”
One of Kings Rule Together supporters Bow Wow was recently seen wearing K.R.T. Apparel on more than one occasion. The picture above shows the entertainer at work hosting the B.E.T. hit series 106 and Park wearing our “Young King” hoodie in red.
The picture below shows Bow Wow hanging out with a group of friends enjoying lunch, while wearing our “Young King” hoodie again but in Black. I guess its easy to say that Bow Wow considers himself a “Young King”. This hoodie is availble for purchase at our online store. – K.R.T.
A King’s Journey: London, England
“It’s not the destination it’s the Journey”
Visiting the great city of London, England was always a dream/goal of mine. I didn’t know how soon it would be nor that I would be there with two of my closest friends Shaheed and Nehemiah. My main reason for going was to experience London Fashion week first hand. Although I would be going for the last two days It was a something I wanted to partake in. Needless to say I didn’t want to come back.
K.R.T. Tees Vs Tanks Basketball Tournament Recap
”photo shoot turned into a movement”
The TeesVsTanks concept came about last year around this same time as a photo shoot titled “A King’s Theme: Tees Vs Tank“ highlighting 5 of some of the dopest brands out of Philadelphia. This year I’ve decided to take it a step further bringing 16 notable local clothing brands together for a 15 game 3 on 3 basketball tournament which took place at Parkside Evans Playground on 53rd and Parkside here in Philadelphia.
The brands included Bellargo, TOBH, Neo Daviso, Dosage’s “3D“, Abstract Thought, Anderung, Red Penguin, Chill Moody’s “nicethings“, Natrl Brn Heart Brkrs, Stay Cool,Geek Clothing, Anml Hse, Ibn Majid, Syck Dayz and of course the home team K.R.T. This was a promotion of peace bringing brand recognition in “kingly” love to show our city that anyone of any diversity, social background, and even financial status can come together for a common good or a friendly game of basketball.
Check out the video recap by Garron Gibbs of Concrete Cakes:
A King’s Read: Bereolaesque
“Style transcends far beyond the naked eye.” – Bereolaesque
To be considered a true gentleman of style one must demonstrate the proper etiquette in both appearance and behavior: knowing how to treat your Queen, what to wear to an event, how to work the room with just your charm… having proper etiquette at any given time, no matter the circumstance. Most men nowadays may not learn this from a father figure, which is why I appreciate my mother for the way she raised me. I can honestly say she taught me how to be a gentleman or, at the least, demonstrated her idea of what she thought it took to raise a young King. Queens really do inspire Kings to better themselves.
K.R.T. x 1st Class Dreamz Promo video/shoot
” Videos and photos shows the story”
I recently had the opportunity to do an amazing video and photo shoot on a Brooklyn rooftop with 1stClassDreamz (Nadir Nelson) and photographer Natasha Lynette to display some of my looks and new K.R.T. collection. This collaborative effort has been talked about for quite some time but we finally manage to get things done. In the video below you will see the entire shoot from my style to some of our many laughs during this day. – K.R.T.
I was asked in the video what were 10 words that represent the Brand and myself:
- Peace
- Respect
- Unity
- Power
- Longevity
- Change
- Consistency
- Inspiring
- Visionary
- KING
K.R.T. x 1stClassDreamz Promo Video from Kings Rule Together on Vimeo.
A King’s Event: K.R.T. 1st Annual Tees Vs Tanks 3on3 Basketball Tournament 9.7.12
“It’s going down on the King’s Court September 3rd Labor Day Monday”
Around this time last year I curated a photoshoot titled “A King’s Theme: Tees Vs Tank“ highlighting 5 of some of the dopest brands out of Philadelphia. This year we have decided to take it a step further by hosting Kings Rule Together (K.R.T.) first annual “Tees VS. Tanks” 3-on-3 basketbal tournament from 6pm-10pm at Parkside Evans Park (53rd & Parkside) Friday, September 7th. This event will be sponsored by Vitamin Water and Changemakers Org and Cory Townes.
Come out and cheer on your favorite clothing brands as they compete for a team and MVK ” Most Valuable King” trophy. A total of 16 games will be played amongst 16 notable local clothing brands including Bellargo, TOBH, Neo Daviso, Dosage’s “3D“, Abstract Thought, Anderung, Red Penguin, Chill Moody’s “nicethings“, Natrl Brn Heart Brkrs, Stay Cool, Geek Clothing, Anml Hse, Ibn Majid, Syck Dayz and of course the home winning team #KRT.
All proceeds from this event have been spent on school supplies for the young kings and queens of Philadelphia as they prepare to head back to school on September 7th. Spectators are free to come out to enjoy our friendly competition, jam out to DJ J5ive, go nuts on our moonbounce, and shop amongst the the various competing clothing lines – make sure you bring plenty of cash. Ricky Codio & Darren Burton will be conducting photoshoots on site, live broadcast by @PodCastWeds and all video footage from the days events will be shot by Derrick Woodyard. This is one royal event you don’t want to miss! See you Friday!
K.R.T. Press: Actor Julito McCullum Living A King’s Vision
“Above picture posted on theybf.com”
Recently Julito McCullum, best known for his role Namond Brice starring in the HBO’s hit series the wire was spotted on set on a new movie being film in Brooklyn with Sparkle actor Jordin Sparks wearing the new K.R.T. “Living A King’s Vision” tank in black available HERE. The movie is called “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete” .
This directed by George Tillman Jr (Soul Food and Men of Honor) and produced by Alicia Keys. It tells the story of two inner city kids who are forced to protect themselves over the summer after their mother was taken away by authorities.
Jordin Retweeted Julito’s picture, Whoo good work today!! 
RT @IamJulito @JordinSparks & I Shooting “The Inevitable Defeat Of Mister and Pete”! (picture shown above)
Special shout out to the stylist for the movie Charlese Antoinette. - K.R.T.
Queens Inspire Kings Video: Marsha Ambrosius
“Queens Inspire Kings Video series”
Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Marsha Ambrosius while vending at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia. Not too long after, I was able to speak with Ambrosius about her life and her music for my first Queens Inspire Kings interview series.
She is first remembered for being a member of the music duo Floetry. With her sultry sound, powerful vocals and gifted writing ability, it was only a matter of time before she went into solo recording. Hailing from England she currently resides in Philadelphia.
Marsha was nominated for a Grammy for “Best R and B Song”. Despite the nomination, Ambrosius explains that she does not write or record songs as what she feels will win her an award or what will give air play. Ambrosius goes into detail about the creative process behind creating her music.
When I asked about her move from Liverpool, England to Philadelphia she explained that she visited Philadelphia, because someone bought her a ticket. Not too long after leaving for a short period of time she fell in love with it.
Ambrosius describes the surrealism of writing “Butterflies”, a come back song for the pop legend Michael Jackson, but also explains the intended purpose for writing the song. Originally the song was not written for Jackson, but actually was a confessional she wrote it about a man that she had a crush on in London. Upon her arrival to Philadelphia a demo was recorded. Along with “Butterflies”, “Say Yes” which was recorded by Floetry was also on the demo. Out of the few songs that were on the demo Jackson chose “Butterflies”.
Having this time to be able to speak with the Queen Marsha Ambrosius was definitely a humbling experience. Check out the video.
Video by Julian of Forever Dope Society.
A King’s Essential: Armstrong & Wilson Pocket Square
“It’s ok to be a square”
There was a time when I would wear a blazer without a pocket square and thought nothing of it. Maybe because I thought of it as just a handkerchief with no real purpose, or maybe it just reminded me of old men. I never realized how much of an impact this small accessory could make on an outfit, giving it that perfect polish. Every time I see a well dressed man in a suit or blazer, I look to see if he has a pocket square or how he accessorizes his look. Now whenever I wear a blazer of any kind, pocket squares are my go to accessory.
Behind The King: i am OTHER behind the scenes video
“He’s (Pharrell) a King and I’m inspired by him… Kings inspire Kings.” – Curran J
Back in December I had the opportunity to be apart of a video for Pharrell Williams for an innovative movement called i am OTHER. As explained by Pharrell “i am OTHER is a cultural movement dedicated to Thinkers, Innovators and Outcasts.” Here is a behind the scenes look at the i am OTHER video. Director, Justin Francis, explained the videos concept, which was a loose parody of the extraterrestrial and science fiction films of the 20th century (more than likely “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”).
The overall message was that it was time for those who are creative, different, and socially outside of what is considered to be normal to step outside of their comfort zones and just be who they are. Pharrell as well as his artists Buddy, Maxine Ashley, and Leah LaBelle gave cameos and spoke of the project.
Check out the video below. You can see the young King at the 34 second mark and even speaking of my experience during the filming of the project at 2:10. mark. – K.R.T.
K.R.T. Press | Pharrell Williams Presents i am OTHER Video
“I am different, I am weird, I don’t fit into your world”- Pharrell Williams
The wait is finally over! Back in December I took a trip to Los Angeles, California with my good friend Shaheed to be apart of a video for musician, producer and entrepreneur Pharrell Williams‘ new media group called i am OTHER, which has finally launched. i am OTHER is a cultural movement geared towards thinkers, innovators and outcasts bringing these likeminded individuals together to create and share on one platform.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Pharrell and his artists Leah LaBelle & Maxine Ashley and they all received some K.R.T. apparel. Pretty dope right? Well regardless if they wear it or not the experience was worth it within itself. Check out the video below as you will see the Young King at the 15 second mark. - K.R.T.
K.R.T. New Online Store Launch Recap & Videos
“Kings Rule Together New Online Store Launch”
Clothing lines, photographers, hipsters, the fashion foes brands alike gathered to show support to one movement two weeks ago, Kings Rule Together. On April 27, 2012 held the much anticipated launch of my new online store. During the K.R.T Online Store Launch, people quickly trickled in and taking in the scenery at The Gallery Exquisite ( 1040 N. American St, Northern Liberties) .
Upon one’s arrival it was hard to ignore the K.R.T. inspired paintings hanging on the walls by the artists Ivben Taqiy, Ibn Anderson, Bariq Cobbs and Ozlo. There was even a painting made in the likeness of myself. K.R.T released 4 new products – all now available on the new online store, which were displayed on an installation piece created by Search and Rescue.
People shared laughs over hor d’oeuvres and cupcakes designed in the likeness of K.R.T’s signature crowns. by the mights end multiple prizes had been raffled off including two designer watches from BlumLux and few new item from the clothing line. K.RT. ‘s first twenty-five guests who arrived that evening, received discounts on all apparel on the new online store. Custom INSPIRE t-shirts were available on site, where guests got to choose the colors of their shirt from OKG designs.
Dj Mike Lowry was on the 1s and 2s for the night, whereas photography was provided by Ricky Codio and Dominique Nichole. Videography was in full effect by Derrick Woodyard & Forever Dope Society(FDS).
The night ended on the best possible note with every guest leaving satisfied, emulating the king or queen they truly are. – K.R.T.
Video below is shot and directed by videographer Derrick Woodyard.
This video below by Forever Dope Society(FDS) captures the event from beginning to the end.
Check out the photos form the event HERE
A King’s Event | K.R.T. New Online Store Launch 4.27.12
“The beginning of the beginning”
It’s finally done! On April 27th, Kings Rule Together will be launching our new online store at Gallery Exquisite (1040 N. American St- right across the street from Darling Diner in the Piazza). Come out and have a good time with us for this long anticipated launch! From 7- 10 pm Friday night come check out K.R.T.’s spring line, some “photo fun,” food, and plenty of contests and giveaways all for FREE.
We’ll also be creating custom color “Inspire” shirts and tanks on site that night. The first twenty-five (25) guests will receive discounts on all K.R.T apparel whether on site or via the new online store. Come get inspired, and enter to win the “Royal Crowning King and Queen” contest upon entry. This is one K.R.T event you don’t want to miss! – K.R.T.
Music by Dj Mike Lowry
Photography by Ricky Codio, Color of Life and Dominique Nichole.
Videography by Derrick Woodyard & Forever Dope Society(FDS)
RSVP HERE:
K.R.T. Press | Jaden Smith Loves K.R.T.
“For all the jadenators”
Recently I had the pleasure of meeting the young superstar Jaden Smith. Jaden and his father Will Smith are currently filming a movie in Philadelphia called “After Earth” and it’s scheduled to be released in May 2012.
Since his arrival he has grown very fond of KRT, this will be the 3rd time he’s sported our apparel. Be sure to check out “After Earth” when it hits theaters we all know his talent doesn’t fall far from the tree. - K.R.T.
Jaden takes a picture wearing the signature K.R.T. design “Kings Inspire Kings” in his trailor on set at “After Earth” and posted it on his instagram.
Jaden has a sock line called Stance and he happily gave me a two pairs for myself.
K.R.T. Press | Terrence J of B.E.T. 106 and Park in K.R.T.
“Three times a charm”
This past Friday host of B.E.T.’s 106 and Park Terrance J was wearing the K.R.T. Limited edition black “Fatigue” hoodie on their popular freestyle Friday segment. This is now his third time he has been seen wearing the brand thanks to stylist Kwasi Kessi. He styled the hoodie with the Air Jordan IX “Olives” which are not due to be released until 11/2012. You can purchase this item for a short time period HERE. - K.R.T.
One of the guest on the show was west coast “Bay” area ambassador E 40
(Picture) I had the pleasure of watching the show live. This was my first time at 106 and Park and I didn’t want to be in the crowd so they let me watch from the v.i.p. section
which isn’t really v.i.p. because i had to stand the entire time.Nonetheless It was an awesome experience.
K.R.T. Press | Jaden Smith wearing K.R.T.
”The Young King Jaden Smith”
Young 13 year old superstar Jaden Smith (Son of Philadelphia native Will Smith) recently took a picture wearing the Limited Edition salmon K.R.T. King hoodie. Looks as though he was impressed and took a picture in his trailer which he is currently shooting a new film with his father called ” After Earth” and decided to share it with his millions of fans by sharing his new hoodie on Instagram. Maybe Jaden could be the spoke person for my K.R.T. Kids line coming soon, stay tune! - K.R.T.
You can purchase this hoodie HERE
Had the pleasure of meeting the Young King Jaden Smith at the mid party for After Earth at the trust building here in Philadelphia the other night. S/O to the Actor Todd Anthony (Far Left). – K.R.T.
A King’s Event: Dukes Inspire Kings Recap
“A key to success is consistent quality branding. Personal & professional.”
Anyone that knows me personally knows I am not a fan of public speaking. Even though you may find me with a mic in my hand occasionally, its usually never by preference. I feel that once you’re in a position to lead, you must step up to the plate and do so. That was my thought process on March 8, 2012, when I was nervously waiting to present at the Apple Store for “Dukes Inspire Kings.”
Once I saw the amount of people that came out to support Seun Olubosum and myself for our collaboration event with HyloBoutiques, the excitement presented was unmatched compared to what I was actually feeling. We ended up having a full house, packed with people from all over to come watch us as we discussed our companies and brands. We focused mainly on the beneficial roles that technology and social media has played with brand-building in today’s market. - K.R.T.
Shop K.R.T. | Pre-order The Limited Edition “Floral” Queen Hoodie
“Own one before its too late”
Highly anticipated and long over due the wait is finally over… well sort of! The Limited Edition Floral “Queen” Hoodie has been in HIGH demand since the release of the Limited Edition Floral “King” hoodie, and is NOW available for Pre-Order! This V-Neck hoodie will be available in two colors; Black and Wildberry and range from a size small to a extra large. – K.R.T.
Pre-order HERE
Special Thanks to the model DJ JoviBaby.
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