Source: #AMAs The Ultimate History of Hip Hop [SOJONES INFOGRAPHIC]

Since the time that hip-hop was introduced, it has influenced both the people and culture that surround it. For many, hip-hop is a form of art while it’s being looked up as a music genre that brings every beat a unique representation.

The American Music Awards recently announced and crowned Taylor Swift to be this year’s winner beating up contenders Adele, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry. In this connection, SoJones brought up a timely reminder about hip-hop and how far it has gone, it’s roots, and the progress it went through will all those years of ever-changing music hits.

Here are some trivia about hip-hop that you must learn:

- Did you know that the first breakdancing moves started in 1925 when Earl “Snake Hips” Tucker rumbled the stage with his groundbreaking slides, waves, and other moves that became the foundation of breakdance?

- The first hip-hop single to hit the Billboard charts was released in 1979 entitled, “Rapper’s Delight” by the legendary Sugarhill Gang.

- Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby” was the first rap single to go #1 on the chart in 1990.

- It was in 1985 that the first hip-hop video appeared on MTV.

- In 1996 Jay-Z exploded his debut album entitled, “Reasonable Doubt” that reached number 23 on the Billboard 200, and was well-received by critics.

Purchase your own pair of AMA’s The Ultimate History of Hip-Hop right now!

AKOO (A King Of Oneself) is one of the dopest clothing lines to match with ANY kind of sneakers out there.  Founded by rapper T.I., AKOO has proven its staying power and now it’s holding its first-ever fashion show.  In the festivities of the New York Fashion Week, AKOO throws a super-exclusive, invitation-only fashion show event in an undisclosed venue.  A-List celebrities will be in attendance and there will also be a surprise celebrity guest.

Watch Hosea Sanchez host the show, accompanied by music by DJ Brooklyn Dawn.  But most importantly, take a good look on what AKOO has to offer for the next season, because hey, you’ll need a good reference on what to pair those new sneakers with.  Right?

Here’s the live streaming of the show.  Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Purchase your own pair of AKOO Fashion Show: Tonight LIVE on SoleRedemption.com! right now!

Reebok Classics and Swizz Beatz hosted a launch party at Espace on Tuesday, July 19th, a day before the global launch of the new Reebok Classics “Reethym of Lite” campaign and TV commercial. Friends of Swizz including Jay-Z, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, Gayle King, Pharrell Williams, Clive Davis, DJ Khaled, Busta Rhymes, Lloyd Banks and more came out to celebrate and were treated to personal performances by Swizz Beatz and Lloyd Banks on stage with a live band.

“The Reethym of Lite campaign connects people to something they hear on the radio, see on the TV, enjoy at a party – and also see as a commercial during their favorite show,” said Swizz Beatz. “For me, the Reethym of Lite is an “International Party” – it connects the sneakers being light, the rhythm of dance, music, art and style and the rhythm of the people, the fact that everyone should have light in their life. Reebok and Swizz are taking Reebok Lite and the Reethym of Lite global.”

The campaign is the latest step in a partnership that is redefining the traditional definition of an artist-brand collaboration. Reebok enlisted the platinum producer, artist, designer and philanthropist as the creative director for this campaign, which marks the return of Reebok Classics to TV.

Swizz’s musical vision of the Reethym of Lite came to life with an “International Party”. Swizz adds, “When I finished the record I knew it was a perfect fit for the campaign – it just felt right”. With the lyrics and the beat in place, Swizz felt he was ready to visually bring the Reethym of Lite to life, and he knew the perfect man for the job – globally-renowned music video director Chris Robinson.

For Swizz’s interpretation of Reethym of Lite to become a reality, Swizz and Chris worked with some of the top creative minds in the industry, including choreographer Hi-Hat and laser light artist Eliav Kadosh. Hi-Hat selected a core team of 25 dancers from around the world to bring the vision of the Reebok Lite sneakers and dance to life. The nine principle dancers, who feature prominently in the music video and the Reethym of Lite campaign, include up-and-coming stars of the street dance world including Lil Buck, Haspop, Destini Rogers, B-Boy L.L. Flex, Kelli Divincen, Daniel Graham, Duncan Tran and B-Boy Lil’ Bob. In addition to these dancers, more than 150 extras participated in a climactic scene – a true “International Party.”

On the set in California at Downey Studios – the birthplace of the Apollo space program – Light Rave International created laser installations and light effects. Pushing the limits of laser light art, the team created a cutting-edge effect using lasers, smoke and an acrylic box. The end effect is that of a multi-dimensional Classic R enclosed within a box.

Meanwhile, check our Reebok favorites, all available at Zappos.com!

Reebok Trail Mudslinger II, $64.99

Reebok Run Tone Motive, $100

Many thanks to Mark Tanno for the press release and images.

Purchase your own pair of Reebok Classics x Swizz Beatz – Reethym of Lite Campaign right now!

Think about the days when you were a kid and you love to wear your favorite pair of shoes. Can you remember the most comfortable shoes that you have ever worn? Below is a random list of designer shoes for kids that have been rated by parents and are truly recommended. You will find these to come mostly in sneakers, which are in fact the most worn types due to comfort and stylish features they provide.

Nike Kids LunarGlide
Kids deserve footwear that is lightweight and breathable so give them the best sneakers such as the Nike Kids LunarGlide. This shoe has a promising set of features that help promote breathability and comfort. For improved support, it has mesh upper with Flywire technology and bonded seams, plus lace-up closure for secure fit. Because it comes in dark tone, it possesses reflective elements for enhanced visibility. The Lunarlon midsole helps provide extra cushioning and comfort, at the same time the flex grooves on the outsole help the foot bend naturally.

New Balance Kids KV993
Active children need shoes that support their lifestyle, and of course their feet. New Balance offers one of the best kid sneakers that have been proven when it comes to being comfortable. The KV993 is a New Balance line for the smaller division of runners that has gained several excellent ratings. It owns a split suede and mesh upper that offers a fusion of updated design and support. Smooth textile lining gives fantastic feel from within whereas the large hook-and-loop closure provides easy access. The technologies used on the KV993 are the C-CAP molded EVA midsole designed for better cushioning and flexibility, and ABSORB technology that features top of the line foam material with excellent cushioning and compression set properties.

Nike Zoom Lebron 7 Kids
LeBron James is not the only one worthy of a high-performance shoe but even the upcoming players. Not so long ago, Nike launched the Zoom LeBron 7, and in its quest to please both adult and kid groups, the Kids version dropped in a pink/black color combination. No doubt that this signature sneaker, even it comes in smaller sizes is still complete with the standard features such as the lightweight feel-provider which is known as the Flywire technology. The upper is done up in synthetic and mesh materials, with a full-length Air Max 360 unit for maximum cushioning.

Stride Rite Slingshot H&L
Like most sneakers, the Stride Rite uses the latest breakthrough in a full impact manner. This kid’s shoe has a durable upper that sports mesh panels for breathability, a Slingshot technology that’s visible in the heel for extra bounce, plus the rubber outsole for traction. If your son has wide feet, you can always count on the Stride Rite Slingshot because of the extra space it offers which most kicks often miss.

Vans Kids Classic Slip-On
They call it classic for a reason and this Vans Slip-On works best for both adult and kid. It is undoubtedly one of the simplest designs in the sneaker industry but with an easy access feature that enables hassle-free especially for the on-the-go wearer. Basically, this Vans Kids Classic Slip-On is made of durable canvas upper that comes in a variety of color combos, most printed with specific pattern. It has elastic gore side strips with durable vulcanized rubber sole that lasts long. For better board feel, this shoe is equipped with supreme traction that aims ultimate comfort for the foot. It can be worn with or without socks and still your kids’ feet will still feel comfortable.

Jordan 1 Flight – Little Kids
Michael Jordan has set the best basketball sneakers during his reign in the court, and these are his signature shoes in different models. When Nike created the Jordan Brand as its sub-brand, it was ready to make its own name. The brand was then known for its Air Jordan series that ran through more than two dozens of designs. As this line proved to be a high-quality standard, additional models were developed which include the Jordan 1 Flight. This was inspired by the heritage of basketball and created for superior comfort and style that comes in leather and synthetic upper, with perforated toe area and performance lining and foam package. The midsole contains an airbag in the heel for enhanced cushioning and the outsole is solid rubber with strategically placed flex grooves for flexibility and grip.

DC Shoes Kids’ Court
The DC Shoes Kids’ Court is among the most recommended sneakers due to its unique composition. Aside from the comfort being delivered by the shoe, it has an upper that stands for fashion, which usually made of either suede or leather in a performance skate shoe style with round toe. The lace-up front with padded tongue and collar provide secure and comfortable fit. It has textile lining, cushioning insole, shock-absorbing midsole, and a DC “PILL” pattern rubber traction outsole.

Sanuk Kids’ Donny
When kids want to be low key, hand them the Sanuk Donny casual. This rugged lightweight slip-on owns textile upper in a loafer style with a round, moc toe, frayed edges and logo detail. It features elastic side gore and Velcro® closure at instep, textile lining with AEGIS antimicrobial treatment and cushioning EVA insole, and Happy U traction outsole. Like espadrille, the Sanuk Kids’ Donny boasts of being a vegan.

Purchase your own pair of Designer Shoe Lines for Kids: Which Wear Best? right now!

Like the rest of the fashion world, shoe trends are constantly changing to suit the year, the season and whatever fashion trends are currently prevalent. Here is a look at some of the most popular shoe trends of 2011.

1. Fringed Shoes: These work great for the Bohemian fashion style, with a 70s look and feel to them. In fashion weeks throughout spring, summer, autumn and winter, you will have seen fringed footwear because this shoe style is definitely making a comeback.

2. Lace Pumps: In the autumn and winter months, lace is definitely in season, but this trend has continued into the spring and summer of 2010 and 2011, as well. Laces, translucent fabrics and pumps are all in season right now, especially when it comes to Valentino, Christian Louboutin and Nina Ricci.

3. Mary Janes: Mary Janes are the perfect addition to every wardrobe, and they always appear to be in style. Let’s move past the goodie-two-shoes Mary Janes and move into a more punkish and alternative style with rivets, eyelets and studs. Mary Janes have a permanent place in fashion, which you will learn about in any school for fashion design.

4. Stiletto Heels: Some things simply never seem to go out of style, and stilettos are an example of this rule. Stiletto heels never go out of style, and you are always going to see them on the cat walks and runways. Every woman who wants to stay fashionable should own at least one pair of these sexy shoes.

5. Slides and Flats: Comfort and practicality can govern the fashion scene just as much as sex appeal, and flats and slides are an example. Jennifer Aniston, Heidi Clum, Britney Spears and Gwen Stefani all wear these versatile shoes, which are excellent for the beach, summer parties, poolside or even a night out on the town.

6. High Boots: High boots are all the rage, especially in the autumn, winter and summer months. Think about Fendis, Pradas, Chanels, Louis Vuittons and similar collections where high boots are the talk of the collection. High boots in 2011 come in a variety of textures and colors from drap, silk or lace to leather, suede or shearling in a variety of standout looks including olives, browns, blacks, greys and gold.

7. Booties and Ankle Boots: Booties are a seriously popular trend for 2011. Booties and ankle boots are definitely hot during this season because they are stylish and chic but really comfortable, as well. They go with pretty much everything that you could wear from dresses to skirts, jeans, pants and even shorts. Booties come in many forms, including with bows, straps, open toes, platforms, suede, ties, cutouts, velvet and so much more. Popular brands include Nina Ricci, Calvin Klein, Pucci, Marni, Louis Vuitton, Versace and Prada.

This all-inclusive list touches on the biggest and most prevalent shoe trends of 2011- and they’ll hopefully continue into 2012 too.

Purchase your own pair of The (All-Inclusive) List: Shoe Trends 2011 right now!

Finally, the culprit is dead. America’s Public Enemy No.1, Osama Bin Laden who was accountable for the death of thousands of innocent lives in the 9/11 terrorist attack in New York City is gone forever. With the effort of USA’s intelligence unit together with its soldiers, Bin Laden was finally captured dead.

It took time, Americans made sacrifices, but Osama Bin Laden is dead and now we can cross out his plans from our future, just like our proud soldiers crossed his face out.

To celebrate Osama Bin Laden’s death, check out a collection of cool tees and show your American pride by supporting the cause. T-shirt designs include the Osama Dead Tee that is made of high-quality, soft-as-butter cotton, and Osama Bin Laden only dies once but this shirt will last you quite a while. The ‘Obama Killed Osama’ t-shirt is made from 100% cotton and made in three colors. Ladies can check out the ‘Osama 1957-2011′ and the ‘Osama: Wanted Dead or Alive’ t-shirts which are available in pink, light blue, and white. Also check out the ‘Rest in Hell Osama Bin Laden’ t-shirt that shouts Bin Laden’s vanishing moment.

Be a proud American, buy Osama Bin Laden Dead Tee Shirts now!

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Purchase your own pair of Osama Bin Laden Dead Tee Shirts right now!

Jay-Z’s former brand, Rocawear does not only bring high end merchandise but also picks stunning models to carry on the ads. Just recently, Rocawear has picked new faces – Melanie Fiona and Trey Songz. For those of you who are not familiar with Melanie Fiona, here is a brief background.

Melanie Fiona is a Canadian recording artist who was born with mixed blood (black, Indian, and Portuguese). She grew up in a music-inclined family and she always knew music was her passion. Her music is inspired by R&B, pop, smooth jazz, soft rock, reggae, soul, and a bit of hip hop. Aside from having gifted with great talent in music, Melanie Fiona has been blessed with beautiful face and body. This makes her the new Rocawear icon, the most deserving personality to rock the Jay-Z-built brand with her striking poses.

Together with the Prince of Virginia, Melanie Fiona shows up her modeling potential with Rocawear apparel and stuff.

Purchase your own pair of Melanie Fiona: New Rocawear Face right now!

Aside from the wide array of sneakers in different kinds and styles that we have been featuring, let’s pay attention to Entree Lifestyle, a brand that opens up an opportunity for its cool-designed shirts to join the Spring 2011 collection. An assortment of mostly black and white shirts is now up on Black Closet for you to have a pick on. Each tee features unique blueprint that leaves profound moment in just a glance at it.

Here are the available designs for Entree’s Spring ’11 collection:

Teddy Bear Tee – as seen on Chris Brown, Whiz Khalifa, and Bow Wow, this shirt represents Entree as a brand and its lifestyle to the fullest.

Cross Forks Mickey – Mickey inspired ripped gloves with entree signature forks.

E-Wing – Polo-inspired classic hit combining big fan of LO’s and Entree’s original money wing.

SB Tee – a dope, holy-inspired skateboard tee with skateboard graphic print in the center.

Spray Can Tee – great Graffiti fan pick with solid one color hit in front and sleeve.

Already Witnessed – MJ-inspired print with text in front.

The Deadtracks Tee – represents Entree as Graffiti writers and nothing is ever going to change that. This shirt drops to let everyone know Entree is still bombing.

Under Rated #2 – simply features a number 2 numeric in front with “UNDER RATED” text above.

I Am The Beast – weezy-inspired with the infamous line, ” I AM THE BEAST FEED ME RAPPERS OR FEED ME BEATS”.

Unknown Tee – features “Unknown” text plus number “02″.

All tees are made of 100% ring spun cotton in black and white plus red. Within this collection is a Misunderstood Teddy sweatshirt with hood featuring a teddy print in front. Unknown snap back hats are also available.

Purchase your own pair of Entree Lifestyle New Spring 2011 Line via Black Closet right now!

The die-hard sneaker fans, especially of Air Jordan are going to have a happy-go-lucky time as an awesome set of 3 T-shirts is now up for sale. These are the Air Jordan III, VII, and XIII Technicolor T-Shirts designed on three legacy sneaker models of Jordan brand. Okay, these are just T-shirts…no caps, nothing else. But we know that these Tees alone are going to rock high!

Printed on black and white base Tees, prints are ultra bright & are in highly contrasting colorways. This might be the reason that these are called “Technicolor” T-shirts. Most of the rainbow colors can be seen on the sneaker prints with single color jumpman logo on the back. Check out each piece after the jump and do let us know if you wearing one!

Air Jordan III, VII, and XIII Technicolor T-Shirts

Air Jordan III, VII, and XIII Technicolor T-Shirts

Air Jordan III, VII, and XIII Technicolor T-Shirts

Purchase your own pair of Air Jordan III, VII, and XIII Technicolor T-Shirts right now!

Nike always keeps into the concern its die hard fans. For all those who are not able to purchase their favorite SB Dunks, here’s a gift from their much-loved brand. These are the Nike SB Dunk Denim Socks that its fans can wear while rocking the gym.

These low-cut ankle socks are a fabric imitation of Nike Dunk Low Pro SB – Denim – Reese Forbes, released back in December 2002. Expected to be sold at a very low price, these Nike SB Dunk Denim Socks will come in a miniature Nike SB box. So if you don’t have a plan to wear them, you can keep them in your collection. These socks will release as a part of Nike SB’s February 2011 Collection. Stay tuned for more updates!

Nike SB Dunk Denim Socks

Purchase your own pair of Nike SB Dunk Denim Socks right now!