Adidas Originals Collaborates with Kicking It for “Live Music” Gazelle Sneaker Launch in Austin
Adidas Originals has partnered with Austin-based sneaker boutique Kicking It to unveil the “Live Music” Gazelle, a sneaker designed to honor Austin’s vibrant musical heritage, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” This collaboration not only celebrates the local culture but also aims to support aspiring musicians through educational initiatives.
Design Elements Reflecting Austin’s Musical Culture
The classic Gazelle silhouette is highlighted by a unique design that pays homage to the city’s historic blues scene. The sneaker features a suede upper in five distinct shades of blue, which is emblematic of the city’s musical roots. This blue palette is accentuated by a red tongue and yellow Three Stripes, evoking the iconic entrance of Antone’s nightclub, a venue well-known for hosting legendary artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Ray Charles. Additionally, a “512” lace charm is included—a direct nod to Austin’s area code, reinforcing the local identity embedded in the shoe’s design.
A Commitment to the Next Generation of Artists
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the “Live Music” Gazelle serves a greater purpose. A portion of the sneaker’s sales will be dedicated to funding scholarships for students at East Texas University, specifically benefiting its jazz band and future music programming. This initiative highlights Adidas Originals and Kicking It’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of musical talent.
Naja Dorsey, Creative Director of Kicking It, expressed the ethos behind the project: “This project brings our love for sneakers, music, and community full circle.” This statement underscores the meaningful intersection of fashion, music, and social responsibility that the collaboration aims to achieve.
Launch Celebration with Community Engagement
The launch of the “Live Music” Gazelle will be celebrated with a dual event on its release day, October 11. The day will start with an in-store gathering at Kicking It’s Austin location, allowing fans to see customizations and preview the sneaker. The festivities will culminate in a free community concert at Antone’s, featuring performances from hip-hop artist J. Soulja and local blues band The Keezy Experience. This celebration not only promotes the sneaker but fosters community engagement and local musical talent.
The sneaker will be available for a retail price of $120, released in limited quantities exclusively at Kicking It’s Austin store and online at kickingit.com.
Significance and Potential Impact
The collaboration between Adidas Originals and Kicking It not only highlights Austin’s unique music scene but also reinforces the importance of community support through educational programs. By blending fashion with philanthropy, the “Live Music” Gazelle aims to inspire both sneaker enthusiasts and music lovers while contributing to the development of future artists.
As the sneaker culture continues to intertwine with various social causes, projects like this one underscore the evolving role of brands in championing community initiatives. By supporting music education, Adidas and Kicking It are making a significant statement about the impact that they can have beyond commercial success.
