Though hip hop and skateboarding have always come hand in hand, the recent release of the Pretty Toney Deck, designed by Mike Del Mundo, solidifies the relationship for a new generation. For the uninitiated, Pretty Toney is rapper Ghostface Killah's alias inspired by his love of Ironman. His fascination with everyone's favorite superhero is reflected in the deck design.
Mike Del Mundo is a Toronto-based Marvel Comics cover artist and self-professed hip-hop head. His passion for the two is obvious in the intricate illustration for Wu-Tang Clan member Ghostface Killah's new line of merchandise, the GFK brand.
For those like me who are torn between an inability to skateboard and a love of all things Ghostface, the design also comes on a t-shirt and tank.
Rapper-Rendered Skate Decks
The Pretty Toney Deck Bears Ghostface Killah's Likeness
Trend Themes
1. Hip Hop Skateboard Culture - The intersection of hip hop and skateboarding culture presents opportunities for collaborations between rappers and skateboard brands, as well as the creation of unique merchandise and experiences for fans of both cultures.
2. Artist-designed Merchandise - Partnering with artists to create unique merchandise designs can create buzz around a brand and attract a wider audience, as seen with the release of the Pretty Toney Deck by Mike Del Mundo for the GFK brand.
3. Superhero-inspired Fashion - Using comic book and superhero aesthetics as design inspiration can lead to innovative and popular fashion items, as seen with Ghostface Killah's Pretty Toney Deck inspired by Ironman.
Industry Implications
1. Skateboarding - Skateboard companies can take advantage of the intersection between hip hop and skateboarding culture by collaborating with rappers and artists to release unique products and experiences for customers.
2. Hip Hop Music - Hip hop artists can expand their brand and reach by partnering with skateboard companies and designers to release merchandise and create experiences that connect with skateboard culture and fans.
3. Fashion - Fashion designers can draw inspiration from superheroes and comic book culture to create fashion items that appeal to a wider audience, as seen with Ghostface Killah's Pretty Toney Deck, and partner with musicians and skateboard brands to reach new customers.