Born X Raised: A Voice for the Unheard Streets of Los Angeles

Přidal ericemanuel123, dne 5. 05. 2025, 0x

Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand — it's a movement deeply rooted in the culture, identity, and complex history of Los Angeles. Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone (Alex Erdmann), Born X Raised emerged as a sharp response to the rapid gentrification and cultural erasure that began reshaping LA's historic neighborhoods. The brand carries a rebellious spirit, serving as both a creative outlet and a protective shield for the communities that built the city long before it became a global hotspot.

At its core, Born X Raised is a love letter to the "real" Los Angeles — the side that tourists don't see, the people whose stories are often overshadowed by Hollywood glitz. The founders grew up in Venice, back when it was still considered a rough, working-class area rather than a trendy enclave. Witnessing their neighborhood's transformation, with long-time residents being displaced, ignited their passion to create a brand that preserves and celebrates their roots.

The name Born X Raised itself is an homage to authenticity. It signifies pride in one's origins and loyalty to the streets that shaped them. Every design, graphic, and slogan that the brand releases reflects this ethos. Their pieces often incorporate local slang, religious iconography, and imagery drawn from gang culture, lowrider art, and Chicano heritage — all presented in a way that honors rather than exploits these elements. It's a visual language that speaks directly to those who have lived the experience, rather than to outsiders looking in.

Born X Raised's designs are known for their boldness. Their iconic "On the Turf" tagline became a symbol of standing one's ground — a declaration of presence in a city where communities are often pushed out. Their graphic tees, hoodies, and caps feature a mix of sharp typography and hand-drawn art, combining old-school aesthetics with modern streetwear flair. The brand does not shy away from controversial or provocative statements, often addressing issues like police brutality, systemic racism, and social inequality.

One of the things that sets Born X Raised apart from other streetwear brands is its refusal to compromise. While many labels chase trends and court mainstream appeal, Born X Raised has remained fiercely independent and selective with its collaborations. Their partnerships, when they happen, are carefully chosen and always rooted in cultural alignment. Notable collaborations include projects with Converse, Levi's, and even the Los Angeles Dodgers — blending sports heritage with street authenticity. Each partnership is less about commercial gain and more about extending their message to new audiences while staying true to their foundation.

Another vital aspect of Born X Raised is its community engagement. The brand has always prioritized giving back to the neighborhoods that inspired it. Whether through charity drives, free pop-up events, or collaborations that raise funds for local causes, Spanto and 2Tone made sure that Born X Raised remained connected to its people. This sense of responsibility and solidarity is part of what made the brand resonate so deeply, not just in Los Angeles, but worldwide among those who share similar stories of displacement and cultural struggle.

Tragically, in 2023, Chris Printup (Spanto) passed away after a battle with cancer. His death was a significant loss to the streetwear community and the city he so fiercely represented. However, his legacy continues to thrive through Born X Raised. The brand has since redoubled its mission, releasing tribute pieces and maintaining the same uncompromising spirit that Spanto embodied. For many, wearing Born X Raised is not just a fashion statement — it's a badge of resistance, pride, and remembrance.

Over the years, Born X Raised has evolved from a local streetwear label into a global symbol of cultural resilience. Its influence can be seen across fashion, music, and even sports. Celebrities like LeBron James, Kendrick Lamar, and A$AP Rocky have been spotted in its gear, amplifying the brand's reach without diluting its message. Despite its growing fame, Born X Raised remains distinctly L.A., with every collection continuing to echo the streets from which it was born.

Visually, the brand’s aesthetic draws heavily from 90s street culture — an era marked by raw expression and community solidarity. Their lookbooks often feature real people from the neighborhood, rather than professional models, reinforcing the idea that Born X Raised is by and for the streets. This commitment to authenticity is also reflected in their storytelling, which often highlights the experiences of marginalized communities, shining a light on stories that mainstream media overlooks.

In a world where many fashion brands treat culture as something to be mined and monetized, Born X Raised stands as a rare example of a brand that defends and uplifts the culture it represents. It is deeply political, even when it doesn't explicitly make political statements. The act of preserving L.A.’s cultural identity, resisting gentrification, and centering community voices is, in itself, a form of activism.

Ultimately, Born X Raised embodies the spirit of those who refuse to be erased. It's a brand for the kids who grew up watching their neighborhoods change around them, for the families who held onto their traditions despite external pressures, and for anyone who understands the pain and pride that comes with being "born and raised" in a place that's constantly under threat. As it continues to grow, Born X Raised remains a beacon for authenticity in streetwear — proof that fashion can be a powerful tool for storytelling, resistance, and community empowerment.