The magazine’s theme is inspired by Ralph Ellison’s 1952 novel Invisible Man, whose protagonist is quoted as saying, “What and how much had I lost by trying to do only what was expected of me instead of what I myself had wished to do?”

The debut issue of Cypher Mag portrays the creators of our generation, those who take risks to create their own realities and inspire others to do the same. It’s stunning how many talented youths are out there striving to do more than what society dictates, and contributing to collective enlightenment, whether it be through words, sounds, paint, or entrepreneurship–Cypher Mag is about just a few of these people.

The post Cypher League Releases “Cypher Mag”; Interviews Mick Jenkins, Gabriel Garzón-Montano, Etc. appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

A few months ago the legendary Brooklyn Museum announced one of the most exciting exhibits for all sneaker connoisseurs alike: “The Rise Of Sneaker Culture” exhibition. Well it’s almost here, starting next weekend on July 10th up until October 4th, don’t miss the visual storyboard of the eminent rise of sneakers and how they’ve woven themselves into every crevice of our lives on a daily basis, especially the hip-hop culture. The extensive exhibition showcases 150 sneakers ranging from the very first running sneaker created by Dutton and Thorowgood in 1860 to the most popular Air Jordan, adidas, and rare Nike collaborations to date.

Along with just showing some rare vintage sneakers, the informational aspect of the exhibit goes in-depth as to how the sneaker culture rose over the years. One of the sneakers on display are the pair of kicks adidas gave Run DMC after their popular hit “My Adidas” took off and rose awareness to the German company. Check out some more of the sneakers that will be part of “The Rise Of Sneaker Culture” exhibition down below. Organized into six time periods with collections from Nike, Puma, Converse, Air Jordan, Reebok, etc. while including personal sneakers from Bobbito Garcia and Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, you can’t miss this. You will, without a doubt, leave the exhibition learning a lot more about some of the most prominent sneaker brands out and get an in-depth learning experience on some of the most rare creations from the companies. Beware hypebeasts: you might get the urge to steal a pair of 1988 Air Jordan III’s or 1997 Nike Foamposites, but don’t.

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There’s going to come a time when “mainstream” Hip-Hop will stop ignoring New York’s increasing talent all emerging from the big apple to take over the scene. I.O.D.’s newest visual for “ArmMe” further cements him as one of NYC’s most prominent MC’s, close to the level of mass appeal. Produced by Charlie Vox and jointed-directed by Folklord + Cypher League, “ArmMe” is a lyrical rampage where I.O.D. gives two middle fingers to the beat and spits sharp, braggadocio lyrics. From modeling for the New York Yankees and Mishka, to performing with some of your favorite NY artists in the city, stop sleeping on the Brooklyn renaissance. Watch the eerie visual for his latest drop since “Ebola” right here.

The post New Video: I.O.D – “ArmMe” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.