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Experience The Ultimate Intersection Of Art, Music, And Fashion At 2023 ComplexCon
ComplexCon, the annual event that brings together the hottest artists, designers, and tastemakers, is back this year with an all-star lineup and a strong focus on environmental sustainability. This highly anticipated event is not only a celebration of culture but also a platform to promote sustainable practices that are crucial for the long-term growth and development of our economy. The brand also makes a note to include conversations surrounding art, music, fashion, and other facets of the entertainment industry that help push the culture forward. Not to mention huge brand collaborations between art, designers, and celebrities.
One of the key highlights of ComplexCon was “The Marathon Clothing” store activation. Ermias Joseph Asghedom, commonly known as Nipsey Hussle, was a pillar to his community in Los Angeles. The rapper, activist, and entrepreneur created “The Marathon Clothing” store located in South Central LA on Crenshaw Boulevard and Slauson Avenue, and it has been around since 2017. Subsequently, he was fatally shot in front of his store two years later. His girlfriend at the time, Lauren London, was seen at the ComplexCon activation. The actress has been vocal about how hard the passing of her beloved partner Nipsey was and how it has shifted her life. “My loyalty and devotion is to you”, she said, reciting a text message she sent him while he was asleep. She shared this message at Nipsey's funeral, holding back tears. It was an absolute pleasure seeing her smile and continue to support the “love of her life” and commemorate his memory.
We got a chance to speak to some influencers and stars about their ComplexCon experience and what “culture” meant to them. Those among many who joined the conversation included the cast of Netflix’s hit show Love is Blind.Newlywed Brent Brown, a prominent figure in the fashion industry, emphasizes the importance of embracing differences and bringing people from diverse backgrounds together. He states, "It's like a constant thing that can bring people from all over different backgrounds together. This feels like the epicenter of Culture."
Marshall Glaze, a strong advocate for street culture, believes that there is no better culture than street culture. This mindset reflects the power of authenticity and staying true to oneself. Kwame Appiah, another influential figure, sees culture as a reflection of one's internal state. He finds it beautiful to witness the self-expression and creativity at ComplexCon, stating, "It's like bringing Ghana with me."
Photo courtesy of Complex
Luka Sabbat, a renowned fashion influencer, actor, and model, believes that culture is whatever people make it. He lives in his own world and does not conform to societal norms. This individualistic approach showcases the diversity and uniqueness of the cultural landscape at ComplexCon. He was there exhibiting a recreation of the living room from his hotel room in the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles.
Sustainable brands like Murd333r.FM, owned by Tate M. and Bloody Osiris, are actively participating in ComplexCon once again. They prioritize sustainability by reusing old pieces and working with a women-owned operation in Turkey. Tate explains, "We source these hoodies from Turkey, it's 100% organic Turkish cotton. We don't source our stuff from China, it's all coming from Turkey and other places that have sustainable systems in place and pay a living wage." This commitment to sustainability is evident even in their pricing strategy, as they cap their prices at $333 to ensure affordability for consumers and to provide brand consistency.
ComplexCon is not just about fashion and sneakers (though anybody who knows anything about sneakers and fashion was in the building) but also a hub for art and food culture. The event showcases an array of creative and innovative artwork and installations, including cover artist Nicky Chulo, and exhibits that cater to the diverse interests of attendees. From eye-catching paintings and sculptures to interactive digital installations, ComplexCon aims to provide a platform for art that pushes boundaries and sparks conversations.
When it comes to food, ComplexCon offers a unique culinary experience by inviting some of the most sought-after eateries and food vendors. From trendy food trucks to famous restaurants, attendees can indulge in a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from gourmet burgers and tacos to exotic fusion dishes. One food highlight was Hot One's collaboration with Hot Pocket, debuting four new incredible spicy flavors. Hot Ones is a talk show hosted by Sean Evans, produced by First We Feast, and Complex Media, created by Chris Schonberger. Hot Pockets is a cultural classic.
Photo by @hercshotthat
Additionally, ComplexCon has become known for its brand collaborations, particularly between designers and celebrity guests. This year, renowned artists and musicians like Chris Brown and Jim Jones joined forces with notable fashion brands to create limited-edition collections exclusively available at the event. Chris Brown with The Auracles, and after 20 years, Dipset reunited with B.B. Simon. These collaborations not only demonstrate the intersection of fashion and music but also give fans and attendees the opportunity to own one-of-a-kind pieces that combine the artistic visions of their favorite celebrities and designers.
ComplexCon is not just about celebrating culture and sustainability; it also serves as a platform for influential voices to share their messages. T.I., a highly respected Grammy-nominated rapper, emphasizes the importance of authenticity and sharing one's lifestyle organically. He states, "Being authentic to how you live and sharing that lifestyle, that mindset, that perspective with others organically. Sharing it by being the example of how you live your life." T.I. has made groundbreaking moves in the music and entertainment industry and he's currently promoting his new independent film Da’Partments, which stars himself, Lil Duvall, DC Young Fly, and his son King Harris.
In a lighthearted conversation between Funny Marco and Speedy Morman, the importance of not chasing money is highlighted. Funny Marco shares the valuable lesson he learned from his former manager, Ray, stating, "Do not chase money." He believes that true success lies in waking up every day and doing what you love, rather than focusing on material possessions. He gave himself flowers during the interview but also gave fans a hint that he might be changing his name from Funny Marco to his real name Marco Summers, but he has to earn that right.
Many of your favorite celebrities were simply walking around buying and ingesting the environment, like Luh Tyler, Xzibit, YG, Swaggy P, Russell Westbrook, who was spotted with his son, social media star La’Ron Hines, Kid Cudi, who headline Sunday night, and millennial childhood favorite Barney, made an appearance.
As ComplexCon continues to grow and evolve, it remains a symbol of cultural expression, sustainability, and economic growth. Speedy Morman expresses his excitement about being a part of ComplexCon, stating, "Feels incredible, happy to be here, dream come true." He envisions an even brighter future for the event, saying, "ComplexCon 2023... movie. And if you're not here this year, come next year. It will be even more lit."
Speedy has had some of the most entertaining and informative interviews in the last few years, including his recent sit-down with Rick Ross and Meek Mill. And who can forget his hilarious moment with Ray J and his Raycon glasses? Speedy Morman is one of the voices pushing the culture as it stands and one of Complex’s star players.
In conclusion, ComplexCon 2023 promises to be a cultural phenomenon that merges art, design, sustainability, and star power. This event serves as a testament to the importance of embracing diversity, staying true to oneself, and prioritizing sustainability. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for our economy, environment, and quality of life.
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Feature image by @hercshotthat
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This article is sponsored by Hulu.
UnPrisonedhas returned for its highly anticipated second season, delving deeper into the complex dynamics of the Alexander family.
The series premiere comes a year after its debut season garnered rave reviews from fans and critics and earned record-breaking ratings for Hulu's Onyx Collective brand. UnPrisoned's success can be attributed to its raw, relatable themes and comedic appeal.
Inspired by creator Tracy McMillan's life, the show follows Paige (Kerry Washington), a therapist and single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo) --who was released from prison-- moves in with her and her teenage son, Finn (Faly Rakotohavana).
Throughout UnPrisoned's first season, viewers witnessed how Edwin's incarceration deeply affected Paige's life and relationships. In the series, Paige unpacks her trauma through interactions with her inner child and her online followers. Meanwhile, Edwin is overcoming specific struggles with his own past that led to his life of crime, including a dysfunctional upbringing and his mother's arrest. As the Alexanders attempt to reconcile, new challenges arise.
This new season promises to further explore their unconventional family dynamic. Here are several compelling reasons why season two of UnPrisoned should be on everyone's watchlist.
The Alexander Family Life Is Still In Shambles
UnPrisoned's second season resumes where the series left off, with Paige grappling with the fallout from her troubled therapy practice and Edwin navigating life independently after moving out. Meanwhile, Finn faces his own challenges. The teenager is battling anxiety and seeking information about his father—a topic Paige avoids discussing.
The Alexander Family Are Attending Therapy To Resolve Their Underlying Issues
Amid the chaos in their lives, the Alexander family decides to mend their bond by confronting their past traumas. They seek professional help and attend therapy sessions with a “family radical healing coach,” played by John Stamos, a new cast member. This collective effort aims to unravel the complexities of their shared history and strengthen their relationships.
The process of unraveling each character's internal conflicts and their potential impact on future relationships may clash with Paige's textbook therapy approach. While Paige is used to being in the therapist's seat in both career and family, this forces her into the unfamiliar role of a patient during therapy sessions. This shift would compel her to look in the mirror and try a radically different approach.
The Alexander Family Learned A Big Lesson During A Therapy Session
In therapy, the Alexanders are tasked with addressing their individual traumas to salvage their remaining relationships. One of the family therapist’s eccentric suggestions was an exercise involving a family wrestling match. During this session, Paige faces tough questions about her refusal to share information about Finn's father.
While it's unclear whether this scene is reality or fantasy, the image of the family duking it out in the ring certainly makes for hilarious yet compelling television.
Paige Tries Dating Again Following Failed Relationships
Amid her life's chaos, Paige decides to step back into the dating field. However, her many attempts have left her with mixed results. The dating apps have turned out to be a fail, and an outing with her ex Mal (Marque Richardson), who is also her father's parole officer, doesn’t go quite as expected after he brings an unexpected guest – his new girlfriend.
The situation takes an awkward turn when Mal's new partner learns why the former couple split, partly due to Paige's self-sabotage.
UnPrisoned Is A Perfect Balance Of Comedy And Drama
As a dramedy, UnPrisoned takes a comedic approach to its heavy subjects. The show takes us on a ride with Paige's dating misadventures and navigating a friendship with her ex.
Other lighthearted moments include Edwin's attempts at CPR based on online videos and, of course, the antics of the Alexander family's unconventional new healing coach.
The second season of UnPrisoned is now available on Hulu.
UnPrisoned | Season 2 Trailer | Hulu
Feature image courtesy
‘ACross Generations With Tiffany Cross’ Have A Candid Conversation About Diversity In Media
Being the only Black person at your job can often make you feel isolated. There’s no one to relate to or who even understands your background. This is a conversation that many Black people have among each other and a topic that was covered in the latest episode of ACross Generations with Tiffany Cross.
Host Tiffany sat down with media professionals Michele McGhee and Sidney Madden to discuss everything from diversity in media to their own journeys in the industry. Tiffany, who has worked at many media platforms such as BET, revealed that during her time at CNN, she felt isolated and dismissed by her coworkers.
“Not only isolated in what you looked like but isolated in your lived experience and have people summarily dismiss your humanity on a daily basis,” she said.
Michele agreed; however, she took a different approach toward the dismissiveness she experienced while working at CNN.
“I would sit there, and I’d be like, oh my God, I’m the only one, and really it made me connect to my faith because I said God wants me to be the only one because He wants me to have this voice. He wants me to have this moment, and He wants me to go on this journey because if you’re with someone else, I can’t stretch and grow you the way I need you to be.”
She continued, “So now, as a 58-year-old woman, I never ask God, why am I alone.”
Michele is now the co-founder and CEO of Expectant Media, a company that elevates Black-owned media and creators.
Sidney is a writer and host of NPR’s podcast Louder Than A Riot. When she began working at NPR, she was one of three Black people and the only Black woman in the music department.
She recalled a moment when she pitched a story about Cardi B’s buying power before she became mainstream and how well it did on the site. The story reminded her of the value she brings to the table.
She said, “It was a point of validation for me because I’m like, ‘Oh, actually, I can learn all this stuff you’re talking about, but there’s some things you’re never gonna know. And I’m truly gonna be the expert in that I can assert in this place that you can never take away from me, and that’s the voice.”
Watch the full episode of ACross Generations with Tiffany Cross below.
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Feature image by ACross Generations with Tiffany Cross/ YouTube