Rocksmith NYC’s Knarly DB
After much communication and a little persistence, I had the very pleasure of being able to chop it up with a very special Ohio native. He not only plays a key role in what has been influencing Hip-Hop culture for almost a decade, but he pretty much owns all the kicks everyone tries to get for the low-low (if even possible). When I first got to know this guy, I was just thinking to myself “does this guy know how lucky he is?” and in fact he actually does.Toledo,Ohio’s Daryl Brown aka “Knarly DB” is the Style Director for the very successful Rocksmith NYC as well as for SlamXHype AND the personal stylist for MGK (Machine Gun Kelly) but of course there was levels to this. Knarly DB filled me in on his journey to Rocksmith, what kicks he’s looking forward to, what Rocksmith NYC is cooking up, and even sheds light on his own life perspective .
-So it’s pretty safe to say that you’re in a really great place right now. Where were you before you came to Rocksmith?
DB: Before Rocksmith I was a conductor for Norfolk Southern railroad and helping my friend Zach Beebe run a streetwear boutique, N.E.X clothing co.
-From Toledo, Ohio to the city that doesn’t sleep, how did you end up at one of the dopest and most influential brands?
DB: I’m a stylist also in my personal life .While working with MGK I established a relationship with Rocksmith .I would put MGK and other artist and athletes in Rocksmith which lead to me moving to NYC from Ohio and getting hired by Rocksmith.
-That’s wassup ! It seems like throughout the years Rocksmith has definitely made an impact on the industry. Who’s responsible for that?
DB: Rocksmith was started in 2004 by two designers Erik Marino & Kenchin Ichikawa.
-What kind of threads would you say they’re responsible for ?
DB: Rocksmith is a Hip-Hop influenced streetwear lifestyle brand.
-Are there any pressures being apart of such of a big brand?
DB:The pressure is constantly staying relevant and out doing your last move
-What would you say has been the best part about being apart of Rocksmith?
DB:Being able to create and learn and grow with your peers. We are a tight family here at Rocksmith that continues to get smaller.
-Do you think the brand has influenced any of the industry’s style ?
DB:I would say we have influenced the industry as well as given back.
-How important is it for you to stay creative and original within your own style?
DB: I think its important to stay motivated most importantly. Its so easy to become discouraged or overwhelmed.I always look back to how I got here to help keep my creative juices flowing.
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