Multi-talented Don Benjamin transitions from modeling to music
→ Los Angeles, California June 2020 – After a successful modeling career and placing in the top three of hit modeling competition show, America’s Next Top Model (ANTM), Don Benjamin takes aim at the music industry.
Benjamin’s music isn’t the traditional mainstream rap we’re used to hearing. He hopes his music influences our society in a positive way. “I’m a fan of Drake and J Cole. Lately, I’ve been listening to more gospel rap, artists like Bizzle, Eshon Burgundy, and Lecrae [noted Christian rappers]. Music lately feels so negative. It’s all about doing drugs and degrading women. I need something that is gonna feed my spirit and motivate me to be a better person,”
Don Benjamin on distinguishing himself from the direction of current mainstream rap artists: “I don’t feel like much rap nowadays spreads positivity. Most songs that take off aren’t really saying much of anything. I want to spread a good message.”
During this time of unrest, Benjamin has taken a stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and joined the music industries Blackout Tuesday. Other celebrities, including Beyoncé have used their social media platforms to demand justice for George Floyd and encourage their followers to take action.
→ PUMA × The Hundreds – California streetwear brand The Hundreds joins PUMA to debut a new line of footwear, apparel and accessories inspired by the last three decades, called “The ‘90s Cliques”.
→ Shaggy – Grammy award winning artist Shaggy, known for top hits “It Wasn’t Me” and “Boombastic,” discusses the variety of his music and how he remains grounded.
→ YaVe Tequila by Joe Cruz – Motivated by his passion for family and community, Joe Cruz creates YaVe Tequila. After many attempts to get the right formulation and an incredible shift to a team of female chemists, the world’s first naturally flavored tequila was born. Although this tequila was introduced shortly before a world-wide pandemic hit and YaVe’s original plan of having a large presence in bars is impossible, they’ve managed to grow their online presence with partnerships and influencers. YaVe has angled themselves as an essential for a stay at home happy hour.
→ Michael B. Jordan × BODYARMOR – BODYARMOR’s largest campaign to date, voiced-over by award winning actor Michael B. Jordan, is rooted in the belief that no matter who you are, only you can make you better.
To delve into this provocative award-winning magazine issue, go HERE.
Special Thanks to the following individuals:
Photo: Sham Abdo
Style: Winnie Stackz
Mask: Marianna Harutunian
Jewelry: Aporro Brand
Story: Abigail Baldwin
Art: Alejandra Villagra
EIC: Vaughn Lowery
