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Jae Tips never saw himself as making a “transition” from rapper to sneaker designer. For him, music and fashion have always been intertwined — parallel worlds where influence is currency. “I feel like if you’re big in music, you’ll be big in fashion just because of how influential the voices are,” he explains. “Musicians, from the beginning of time, have always had a way of dictating trends.”
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The Bronx native started pouring more energy into fashion when he realized his brand was gaining traction — perhaps even more than his music at the time. “What if I stop putting all my finances into just music for a moment?” he recalls thinking. “Let me see what happens if, for six months, I invest in clothes, fashion, and style — see where it takes me.” That decision led him to this moment: sitting with Billboard, reflecting on the journey that brought him to a major sneaker collaboration with Saucony.
Still, music remains part of his DNA. “I think you never really retire from music — it’s always a part of you,” he says. Every move he makes, from sneaker drops to brand-building, is part of a broader plan. “It’s all just a big rollout for new music eventually. So, I think it’s always a possibility that you’ll see some new Jae Tips pop up on your timeline, on your little streaming services.”
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For his upcoming Saucony Jazz sneaker, Jae Tips introduces the theme: “I Love You But I’m Busy.” The phrase, he says, speaks to the delicate balance between ambition and personal relationships. “To me, it represents the entrepreneurial and creative lifestyle — constantly trying to figure out a work-life balance,” he explains. “Sometimes, intentions don’t always align with actions. You want to acknowledge the shoe’s place as another notch in your resume and design history, but it also marks a real turning point— one that involves making difficult decisions about the people you love and the things you love.”
Jae Tips x Saucony
Jordan Keyser
The inspiration behind the sneaker taps into this idea of emotional distance in the pursuit of success. “The soundtrack for this shoe, to me, is ‘Welcome to Heartbreak’ by Kanye West,” he says. “It reflects how you can become out of touch with reality while everyone else remains in the same place you left them.”
Jae Tips’ approach to sneaker design is deeply rooted in his past work in headwear. “The design process began a few years ago when I made a hat inspired by a Mickey Mouse, Disney and Ralph Lauren collaboration with the NFL,” he recalls. “I remade a Yankee hat using those same colorways. Many people who have followed my journey know I’ve done so much in the headwear space, but you can’t always tell the full story with hats because of licensing restrictions. With shoes, there are so many different panels, hidden features, and details — it’s been like a wonderland for expanding on stories I initially started with hats.”
This new sneaker embraces those past influences, featuring thoughtful color placement, rich materials, and subtle details that elevate the design. “We have an orange hit in the toe box, but in the mid, there’s an orange that almost looks like a faded yellow. It’s one of those things you appreciate more the closer you get to the shoe — you can really see the contrast,” he notes.
The sneaker also includes hidden gems, such as a “Savior S” logo on the tongue for Savior Sport, the phrase “Made by Jae Tips” — a staple in all his collaborations — and an insole that reads “Coming Soon.” Retail pairs will come with a flower keychain, and the box includes an extra set of white laces. Jae wanted to create a trendy runner shoe that people would wear in a sporty way. “I thought, ‘If you make it a sports shoe, maybe people will pair it with track suits, sweatpants, and really get busy with it.’”
Jae Tips x Saucony
Jordan Keyser
For Jae Tips, the connection between music and sneaker culture has always been undeniable. “Rappers always want to be designers, and designers often want to be in the limelight like rappers,” he says. “For as long as I can remember, a rapper wearing a certain designer’s piece or outfit could make or break a brand. Now, as trends shift, we’re seeing more musicians launch their own clothing brands because they realize the power they have to change an entire trajectory.” He points to examples like Dapper Dan’s influence on Gucci, Rihanna’s success with Fenty, Kanye West’s Yeezy empire, and Travis Scott’s massive impact on sneaker culture. “His brand is so big that when you say his name, you might not even know if you’re talking about a shoe or a song. That’s pretty dope.”
While Jae Tips’ designs carry echoes of his musical background, he sees his creative identity as something people are still discovering. “I would say yes, and I’d say no,” he reflects when asked if his music shaped how people view his aesthetic. “I apply a lot of the principles I learned navigating the underground music scene to my work ethic — the way I put things together, prepare emails and documents, and communicate all stem from that experience. And the way I promote myself is similar to how an artist drops a single.”
To celebrate the release of the Saucony Jazz “I Love You But I’m Busy,” dropping on March 28th for $165, Jae Tips has curated an exclusive playlist for Billboard — tracks that embody the spirit of his latest creation. Mark your calendars for the drop, and in the meantime, press play on the soundtrack to his latest masterpiece.
Jae Tips’ “I Love You, But I’m Busy” Playlist
1. Kanye West, “Welcome to Heartbreak”
2. Nipsey Hussle, “Forever on Some Fly S–t”
3. Jae Tips, “ Remember Who Fronted”
4. Leon Thomas, “YES IT IS”
5. Nipsey Hussle, “ That’s How I Knew”
6. Bonus: Frank Ocean, “Lens”
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. If you’re looking for new ink, Jelly Roll‘s latest HEYDUDE collab is all tatted up. Teaming up for their second limited-edition […]
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Now that YM Bape is off the streets and serving time for murder, Supreme enthusiasts can breathe easy once again rock their favorite street brand without fear of being harassed and humiliated by the infamous Supreme hater.
Source: Supreme / Supreme
That being said, Supreme is gearing up to release a brand new collaboration with Nike which will feature their take on the classic Air Max 1 silhouette which they’ve remixed for the first time in their long history of partnering with the Swoosh brand. Per Supreme, the new collabo is set to release this Thursday (March 20) and will feature four distinct colorways–white, black, yellow and purple—that are sure to catch eyes and snap necks out in the wild.
With the way that sneakerheads and hype beasts have been literally fighting out on the streets trying to get their hands on the latest sneaker drop we wouldn’t be surprised if these sellout instantly when they drop later this week. These Supreme x Air Max 1 feature all leather uppers, a Swoosh with debossed snakeskin detailing and Supreme branding on the tongue and heel.
That being said, the Air Max 1 hasn’t exactly been the most popular silhouette over the past few years amongst sneaker enthusiasts, but can that change simply by adding that Supreme logo to the tongue with a bright and vibrant colorway? Guess we’ll find out come March 20th.
Check out the Supreme x Air Max 1 kicks and let us know if you’ll be putting down $170 for a pair in the comments section below.
Source: Supreme / Supreme
Source: Supreme / Supreme
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. In 1993, Michael Jordan retired from the NBA for the first time. He traded in the basketball court for the baseball […]
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Ben Affleck is an award-winning actor and filmmaker and starred in motion pictures that have made millions in theaters. Ben Affleck is also a dad of children who love fancy gifts, and the Massachusetts native let it be known that his kids won’t be running his packets for expensive sneakers.
As spotted on Buzzfeed, Ben Affleck and his 13-year-old son went viral after attending a Got Sole sneaker convention in Los Angeles at the top of the month. Affleck’s son pointed out some Jordan 1 Dior lowtop sneakers and tried to get his father to get him the sneakers. When Affleck heard the $6,000 price tag, he ribbed his son by saying he’s going to have to mow a lot of lawns to get a pair. Of course, the kid took it in stride, and we’re pretty certain Dad didn’t leave the convention without something.
Affleck was at the annual SXSW conference to premiere his new film, The Accountant 2, and was approached by Access Hollywood to chat about his latest work, where Affleck deferred and praised his cast, the stunt workers, and director Gavin O’Connor. Toward the end of the chat, the outlet asked Affleck about the sneaker convention moment, and all of Affleck’s Massachusetts accent came out.
“That’s what happens when you tell a motherf*cker you have to mow a lawn, all of a sudden, they don’t want those shoes anymore,” Affleck says with a smile in his eyes. What makes the moment so great is that Ben Affleck is in total media training mode during the first part of the segment, but it all goes away once the sneaker conversation comes up.
Check out both aforementioned moments below.
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Photo: Getty
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Pharrell Williams‘ ability to merge music, fashion, and cultural storytelling has made him one of the most influential creatives of our time. Whether it’s through his groundbreaking production in hip-hop and R&B or his game-changing collaborations in fashion, Pharrell has consistently pushed boundaries. His latest project with adidas continues this legacy, as he reimagines the classic Superstar silhouette with the bold and innovative Superstar 92 collection.
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Pharrell’s fashion collaborations have always mirrored his musical innovation, bridging the gap between artistic expression and everyday wear. His long-standing partnership with Adidas has already delivered some of the most unique designs in sneaker culture, and with the Superstar 92, also known as the Double Wide, he brings a fresh, oversized twist to one of Adidas’ most celebrated silhouettes.
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This new silhouette is all about proportions and nostalgia. Inspired by the exaggerated aesthetics of the ‘90s and the functional build of snowboard boots, the Superstar 92 blends heritage with modern design. The sneaker features thick padding around the ankle for comfort, a chunky sole for a bold stance, and premium materials that elevate its look and feel. With “Virginia” emblazoned on the tongue, Pharrell once again nods to his hometown roots — a theme that remains a central part of his storytelling.
Clipse modeling the Adidas Superstar 92
Adidas
Staying true to his origins, Pharrell tapped fellow Virginia hip-hop icons Clipse to lead the Superstar 92 campaign. The duo, made up of Pusha T and No Malice, played a pivotal role in shaping early 2000s rap, and their inclusion in this campaign highlights the deep cultural connections between music, sneakers, and personal identity. Shot in Virginia, the campaign reinforces the idea that the Superstar 92 is more than just a sneaker — it’s a symbol of legacy, authenticity, and evolution.
As someone who already owns six pairs of Superstars, this latest iteration feels like an instant classic, so it’s a flex for me! The chunky build, premium materials, and Virginia tribute make it more than just another sneaker drop — it’s a true reflection of Pharrell’s vision and legacy. With the Superstar 92, he’s continuing a conversation between music, fashion, and culture, one step at a time. So, where do you stand? Is this collection a Flex, a Trade, or a Fade?
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Tobe Nwigwe is no stranger to making statements. Whether through his music, his visuals, or his unmistakable aesthetic, the Houston-based artist has built a movement rooted in authenticity, culture and empowerment. Known for his socially conscious lyrics, intricate wordplay and powerful storytelling, Nwigwe has created a lane that seamlessly fuses hip-hop, African rhythms and spoken-word poetry. Now, he’s taking that same approach to fashion with his first-ever sneaker and apparel collaboration: “Reebok x Chukwu.”Since breaking onto the scene in the mid-2010s, Nwigwe has captivated audiences with his unique sound and bold visuals. His 2020 breakout moment, fueled by viral hits and a distinct creative vision, solidified his place as an artist who refuses to conform. Everything he does carries deeper meaning—from the messages in his songs to the mint green color that has become synonymous with his brand. His music isn’t just about beats and rhymes; it’s a movement that celebrates identity, heritage, and purpose.
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That same energy translates directly into “Reebok x Chukwu.” The collection dropped February 21st and is a tribute to his Nigerian roots, blending archival sportswear aesthetics with modern design. At the center of it all is the Chukwu OTU, a reimagined version of the classic Reebok Preseason Turf Trainer. The name “OTU” means “One” in Igbo, symbolizing unity and greatness—core themes in Nwigwe’s music and personal journey. With a mix of hairy suede, nubuck leather, and textile overlays, the sneaker merges past and present, honoring tradition while pushing the boundaries of style.
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Chukwu Mint Sneaker
Reebok
But this isn’t just about footwear. The Chukwu collection also includes a lineup of apparel inspired by sport and culture. The standout piece? A football jersey featuring the number 88 — a tribute to his wife, Fat, and their five children, who are his biggest inspirations. There’s also a heavyweight graphic hoodie, a mock-neck tee and a pair of zip-off pants designed for versatility and so much more products. All executed in Nwigwe’s signature mint green and black. Every detail is intentional, every stitch tells a story.
For me, this collection is an absolute Flex. I need just about everything in it, from the jersey to the OTU sneakers. The design, the storytelling, and the deeper cultural meaning make it more than just another sneaker collab — it’s a true reflection of Tobe’s artistry. If you’re like me, you’ll be online trying to grab every piece before they continue to sell out. The question is: Where do you stand? Is this collection a Flex, a Trade or a Fade?
Reebok
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In honor of the timeless silhouette, Converse celebrates the legacy of the Chuck Taylor in the new campaign Love, Chuck. A short film captures the deep-rooted connection between the sneaker and its creative community by tapping a star-studded list of artist and athlete collaborators, including Tyler, the Creator, Charli XCX, Lil Yachty and Vince Staples, alongside NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Olympic skateboarder Alexis Sablone, Chinese singer-songwriter-actor Roy Wang and skateboarder Zion Effs to honor the iconic sneaker.
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Since its debut in 1917, the Chuck Taylor has become a culture symbol, weaving its way into the fabric of various subcultures and earning a revered place in the hearts of its devotees. For generations of athletes, artists and musicians, the Chuck Taylor was more than just a shoe — it’s a badge of honor, a symbol of nonconformity and a representation of community. Its simple design, universal appeal and affordable price point allows wearers from all walks of life to easily tap into its story.
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The celebratory short film, narrated by Tyler, the Creator, is described as “an invitation to all creators: to not let the fear of failure stop them, to create what they love, and to ‘Go Do That.’” Converse has a long history of music-based collabs, including Blondie, Kurt Cobain, AC/DC and Metallica Chuck Taylors. With a new generation of stars under its laces, the sneaker brand doesn’t look to be slowing down anytime soon.
Watch the short film below, as well as, shop classic Converse staples, including the Chuck Taylor All-Star and the Chuck 70 sneaker, below.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas Sneakers
Converse Chuck 70 Canvas Sneakers
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas Low Sneaker
Converse Chuck 70 Glow-In-The-Dark Leopard Print
Watch the Converse “Love, Chuck” campaign below.
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Source: @nigelsylvester / Instagram
Once again, sneaker heists have become a topic of discussion in the sneaker community as bandits made off with thousands of pairs of one of this year’s most anticipated upcoming releases.
According to The Los Angeles Times, thieves in Arizona, Texas, pulled off quite the jux last month when they stole 2,000 pairs of sneakers off an BNSF freight train, many of which were pairs of the Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 “Brick By Brick.”
Already regarded by many in the sneaker community as the “Shoe of the Year,” the “Brick By Brick” Air Jordan 4s have the kind of hype behind its release that we haven’t seen in quite some time, so when word of the heist hit the internet, many sneakerheads were furious that there would be less pairs to be had for retail, as it’s already a limited edition sneaker.
Authorities were able to arrest the group of thieves and interestingly enough they were undocumented immigrants.
Per The Los Angeles Times:
New sneaker releases may have touched off at least some of the recent incidents. In Perrin, Ariz., thieves allegedly cut an air brake hose on a BNSF freight train on Jan. 13 and unloaded 1,985 pairs of unreleased Nikes worth more than $440,000, according to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Phoenix. Many were Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4s, which won’t be available to the public until March 14 and are expected to retail at $225 per pair, the complaint states.
Theft crews typically scout high-value merchandise on rail lines that parallel Interstate 40 by boarding slow-moving trains, such as when they are changing tracks and opening containers, said Keith Lewis, vice president of operations at Verisk’s CargoNet and a deputy sheriff in Arizona.
Lewis said the thieves are sometimes tipped off to valuable shipments by confederates working at warehouses or trucking companies. Other times they simply look for containers with high-security locks, which they cut with reciprocating saws or bolt cutters, a Homeland Security Investigations special agent said in affidavits filed in federal court.
Of the 11 people arrested for the Jan. 13 heist, nine were Mexican citizens illegally in the U.S. and were charged with illegal reentry after removal and six were charged with improper entry. Five of those detained pleaded not guilty while the other six have yet to enter their own pleas.
While the people behind the theft have been apprehended, there’s no word on whether the sneakers were retrieved. That’s all us sneakerheads really care about because damnit, man! We want those kicks! Go ambush a truck filled with adidas Sambas or Crocs or something, b.
What do y’all think about this crazy heist? Let us know in the comments section below.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. Crocs is celebrating the timeless magic of The Beatles with an exclusive collection of classic clogs and themed Jibbitz charms. Inspired […]