A Photo Series Captures the Kabangu -- Elderly Icons of 1980s Hip Hop
Riley von Niessen — July 7, 2016 — Fashion
References: instagram & highsnobiety
Kenyan photographer Osborne Macharia collaborated with stylist Kevin Abraham in order to capture the Kabangu people of Nairobi -- a term that's said to be used to describe the influential mentors of 1980s hip hop from the area.
The photo series showcases the elderly men with elaborate hairstyles and clothing, who are shown against a bold scarlet background. Each exudes an unparalleled attitude that makes clear their self-confidence, a theme that Osborne Macharia seems to focus on.
The style of the men shows the influence that 1980s hip hop has had on them, reflecting their dedication to it during the time. One man is shown in a glistening red jacket with a massive cigar hanging from his mouth. Another wears a mesh shirt that's colored in the same tones as the flag of Kenya, holding a skateboard behind his neck.
The photo series showcases the elderly men with elaborate hairstyles and clothing, who are shown against a bold scarlet background. Each exudes an unparalleled attitude that makes clear their self-confidence, a theme that Osborne Macharia seems to focus on.
The style of the men shows the influence that 1980s hip hop has had on them, reflecting their dedication to it during the time. One man is shown in a glistening red jacket with a massive cigar hanging from his mouth. Another wears a mesh shirt that's colored in the same tones as the flag of Kenya, holding a skateboard behind his neck.
Trend Themes
1. Aging Hip Hop Icons - The trend of honoring aging hip hop icons and their influence on fashion and culture presents opportunities for fashion and photography industries to create content and products that resonate with nostalgic and new audiences alike.
2. Afrofuturism - The trend of Afrofuturism in fashion and photography presents opportunities to explore the cultural and technological possibilities of the future through a lens that is rooted in the history and traditions of African and African-American communities.
3. Multigenerational Marketing - The trend of targeting multiple generations in marketing efforts presents opportunities for businesses to tap into the buying power and cultural influence of these diverse groups, while also showcasing the intergenerational connections and legacies that shape their identities and consumer choices.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can capitalize on the trend of aging hip hop icons by incorporating vintage and retro elements into modern designs, and by celebrating the diversity and individuality of different generations of style icons.
2. Photography - The photography industry can capitalize on the trend of Afrofuturism by using innovative techniques and equipment to capture the futuristic and fantastical visions of African and African-American artists and activists.
3. Marketing - The marketing industry can capitalize on the trend of multigenerational marketing by creating campaigns and products that cater to the unique needs and values of diverse generations, while also emphasizing the interconnectedness and shared experiences that transcend age and background.
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