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Designer Spotlight: @_ThePlanes tells us what ‘The Ave’ is all about

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Nigel Jemott is a Virginia-based graphic artist and streetwear designer behind The Ave, a clothing brand that captures his creative spirit. Here’s his sitdown with 4ShoMag that covers the history of the brand, where it’s going, and more. 

When did you get into streetwear? 

I’ve always been into streetwear. I believe it’s a huge part of our culture. I had created designs for a couple of things back in 2013 while I was on active duty in Korea. I designed my units’ softball jerseys as well as the color scheme and style for the basketball jerseys. I stopped drawing and designing for a few years and got back into it when I moved back to Virginia in 2016.

What’s your history as a creative like? 

I’ve been creating and into art since I was a kid. My dad’s side of the family are all creatives in some fashion. My cousin is an art historian, my dad has been drawing and creating pinatas for as long as I can remember, my brother is an artist as well.  

Describe The Ave to me.

The best way I can put it…The Ave is my art brand, it’s not limited to clothing. It’s my work as a whole, drawings, designs, clothes, anything I can create.

What’s the history behind it? Where did the idea come from? 

I’ve had one name before I ended up with The Ave and that was “AndrettiArt”. I saw other artists have names for themselves and names for their art brand and I wanted something like that. The original name in my opinion was terrible, the representation was as well. I expected that because it was a one man show, it still is honestly but I do have some unofficial folks that I bounce ideas off of today. 

So I mentioned I picked back up in 2016, that’s when I started doing shirts and apparel. The idea for that came to mind one day while I was looking through my closet for something to wear just to run to the store. I pulled out the Jordan Taxi 12 shirt that was released in 2013 in conjunction with the sneakers. The shirt said “Hailed from the streets” and I thought “man this is CORNY I can create something better than this!”. From there I started thinking of things I could put on a shirt that’s simple and still looks good. The name “The Ave” comes from the street I grew up on, which actually isn’t an avenue at all. My childhood friends, many of whom I’m still close with today, coined the nickname and I decided to make it the name of my art brand.

What does The Ave represent to you?

The Ave represents family, the backstory behind the name has family written all over it. It’s a part of me and everyone else that hung with us out on the block or even outside of it. 

What brands inspire what you create for The Ave?

Jordan and Nike mainly. I wasn’t a fan of how some of their shirts became lazily designed. You’re just buying the name on the shirt and it doesn’t really look that great. I have a lot of inspiration outside of clothing brands. Janice Sung is a huge inspiration for me, her work is amazing and it keeps me motivated because creating anything takes a lot out of you especially when you have other obligations.

What’s your approach to creating for The Ave?

I go through Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration and whenever I find a concept I like I start putting stuff together, take notes, sketch etc. Music plays a huge role as well, that’s honestly the first thing I do. I have an entire playlist that basically helps me get into a creative space.

How do you see the brand evolving? 

I want to have a studio, like Ave Studios. Art, clothes, anything creative that I can get my hands on, I want to do. I’d love to see my brand in local stores, I’d love to possibly collab with some of my favorite artists to get an Ave shirt on them and expand.

What’s coming next for The Ave?

I have a big drop in the Spring/Summer: shirts, canvas, prints, and hoodies. I’m also open to collaboration as long as it makes sense. Please follow me on my socials (Twitter: @_ThePlanes, IG: JayAndretti24) to see all the updates that I post on them.

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Artist To Watch

J.R.Clark’s new album ‘All Business, No Luv’ is out now

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rap artist JR Clark

Virginia’s J.R.Clark’s got a new album for the streets. Check out All Business, No Luv — a collection of hard-hitting tracks that capture the spirit of the state’s rap dominance.

Inspired by artists like Rick Ross and J. Cole, J.R.Clark’s style is smooth and easy to listen to. The album is something you’ll want to throw when you’re in the car headed to your daily commute — or the soundtrack to your drive to, and from, a weekend function. You’ll vibe to the lyrics and nod to the beat. It’s worth the listen.

J.R.Clark started off as a studio engineer in Virginia. He transitioned to become an in-demand artist and his growing fanbase reflects that he made the right decision. Tune in to his new album and become a fan.

Check out the videos that have been released from the project too on J.R.Clark’s official YouTube channel.

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Artist To Watch

JVN Is Here To Impress With Latest EP ‘In Due Time’

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Jvn

Jvn

Jvn, (@aapjvn) rising name in the hip-hop scene, is making waves with the release of his new EP In Due Time, available on all streaming platforms. He’s gotten comparisons to artists such as J. Cole in recent days. Released on September 17, the project is a bold declaration of his commitment to bringing back traditional hip-hop, a genre that Jvn feels deeply connected to. With this EP, he aims to both honor the greats and stake his claim as an artist to watch.

Jvn’s musical influences read like a who’s who of hip-hop icons, with artists such as Jay-Z, Nas, Meek Mill, T.I., and 50 Cent shaping his lyrical style and delivery. This reverence for hip-hop’s roots is evident in every track on the EP, which is characterized by its raw, authentic sound. Jvn highlights B2B as a must-listen track, calling it the perfect gateway for new fans looking to get a sense of his style.

In a recent interview, Jvn spoke about the personal nature of In Due Time. “I feel like the music I was making and the space I’m in right now shaped the theme of this release,” he explained, suggesting that the EP is a reflection of his current mindset and experiences. With his confident delivery and sharp lyricism, Jvn is positioning himself alongside the greats, both past and present.

Beyond the music, Jvn is hitting new career milestones. He recently performed at a sold-out show alongside Lil Uzi Vert and G Herbo, marking a significant achievement for the up-and-coming rapper. As he continues to work on new music, Jvn hopes to join a major tour, further expanding his reach in the music world.

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Artist To Watch

FlyGuy Rufio’s Musical Genius Bridges Coasts With Back-to-Back Bangers

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n a rapidly evolving music landscape, few artists manage to captivate with genuine versatility and authenticity. Enter FlyGuy Rufio, the Tampa trendsetter who effortlessly bridges the East and West coasts with his unique signature sound and style. Since stepping into the limelight, FlyGuy Rufio has touched the hearts and ears of many. 

His musical voyage has been marked by performances across Florida, California, and Georgia, where he has opened for renowned recording artists like Machine Gun Kelly, French Montana, Post Malone, and Omarion. These opportunities have allowed Rufio to hone his skills, build a loyal fanbase, and establish himself as a multifaceted musician with an unmatched presence.

Signature Style And Authenticity

One of the reasons FlyGuy Rufio continues to captivate audiences is his signature style. His music effortlessly blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, and trap, creating a unique sound that’s undeniably his own. This versatility allows him to appeal to a wide range of listeners and keeps his music fresh and exciting. In an industry often criticized for its lack of authenticity, Rufio stands out for his genuine approach to music. He writes from the heart, drawing on personal experiences and emotions to create tracks that resonate deeply with his audience.

Back-to-Back Bangers

Coming off the hype of his hot new hit “LIMERENCE”, FlyGuy Rufio brings us a brand new banger, “Doja Cat”. His sizzling single “LIMERENCE” is passionate, enticing, and seductive, with a catchy cadence that rides on out-of-this-world polished production. “DOJA CAT” showcases Rufio’s versatility as an artist and his ability to captivate listeners with his sound and pushing the boundaries. The tracks’ lyricism and seductive beats draw listeners in, making them feel every emotion Rufio expresses. 

Press Play 

With his recent releases, FlyGuy Rufio shows no signs of slowing down. His unique sound, engaging presence, and dedication to his craft ensure that he will continue to make waves in the music industry. Rufio’s swag and charm are evident in his music, and if this is your first time hearing him, it certainly won’t be your last. With that being said, his signature style and captivating cadence are sure to make him a household name.

For now, you can press play on the premiere of FlyGuy Rufio’s most recent releases, “LIMERENCE,” and “DOJA CAT”. Experience the passion, desire, and longing encapsulated in this sizzling single and immerse yourself in Rufio’s captivating sound.

CONNECT WITH FLY GUY RUFIO ON SOCIAL MEDIA: 

Instagram | Apple Music | Spotify | YouTube | Website 

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