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Echoes of Excellence: Pyer Moss Collection 3 Strikes a Bold Note in Tribute to Rock ‘N’ Roll Heritage
Read time 5 minutes
Pyer Moss Collection 3, "Sister," Delves Deep into the Untold Black History of Rock 'N' Roll, Offering Reverence and Recognition to Its Pioneers.
In the electrifying conclusion to the “American, Also” series, titled “Sister,” the spotlight turns to the incomparable Sister Rosetta Tharpe, whose groundbreaking contributions to music paved the way for generations to come. Revered as the black woman who invented Rock ‘N’ Roll, Tharpe’s legacy is honored through a collection of artwork by recently exonerated artist Richard Philips. This final runway event takes place at the iconic Kings Theatre, a legendary concert hall nestled in the heart of Flatbush, Brooklyn, paying homage to the roots of designer Kerby Jean-Raymond.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s influence on the music industry transcends time and genre. From her soul-stirring vocals to her unparalleled guitar skills, Tharpe challenged conventions and defied expectations, carving out a space for herself in a predominantly male-dominated industry. Through her pioneering spirit and fearless creativity, Tharpe blazed a trail for countless artists, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
For “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister,” designer Kerby Jean-Raymond draws inspiration from Tharpe’s boldness and authenticity, infusing each piece with elements of her dynamic persona. The collection pays homage to Tharpe’s fearless style and unapologetic attitude, celebrating her resilience and unwavering commitment to her craft.
Richard Philips, a recently exonerated artist, lends his artistic vision to the collection, capturing the essence of Tharpe’s spirit through his evocative artwork. His pieces serve as a visual tribute to Tharpe’s enduring legacy, offering viewers a glimpse into the soul of a true trailblazer.
The choice of Kings Theatre as the venue for this momentous event holds special significance for Kerby Jean-Raymond, whose roots in Flatbush run deep. As a native son of Brooklyn, Jean-Raymond pays homage to his hometown and its rich cultural heritage, while also honoring Tharpe’s connection to the vibrant music scene of the city.
In bringing together the artistry of Richard Philips, the bold designs of Kerby Jean-Raymond, and the legendary legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister” becomes more than just a fashion show—it becomes a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of music to unite and inspire. As the lights dim and the music fills the air, audiences are transported on a journey through time, guided by the spirit of a true pioneer.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s remarkable journey began in the heart of the Jim Crow era, where she faced countless obstacles and discrimination as a black woman in the music industry. Despite the challenges, Tharpe remained steadfast in her pursuit of greatness, using her voice and her guitar to break down barriers and defy stereotypes. Her innovative blend of gospel, blues, and rock paved the way for future generations of artists, earning her a rightful place in the pantheon of music legends.
“In Pyer Moss Collection 3, ‘Sister,’ we pay homage to the unsung heroes of Rock ‘N’ Roll, shining a light on their invaluable contributions and ensuring their legacy is remembered and celebrated.”
As the “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister” collection comes to life on the runway, viewers are treated to a visual and auditory feast that transcends the boundaries of fashion and art. Each garment becomes a canvas for Richard Philips’ evocative artwork, seamlessly integrated into Kerby Jean-Raymond’s bold designs. The fusion of art and music creates a multi-sensory experience that pays homage to Tharpe’s eclectic style and larger-than-life persona.
At its core, “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister” is a celebration of diversity and inclusion, reflecting Tharpe’s belief in the power of music to bring people together across racial and cultural divides. Through his designs, Jean-Raymond amplifies Tharpe’s message of unity and acceptance, challenging industry norms and championing diversity on the runway. The collection serves as a reminder that music and fashion have the power to inspire change and foster connections that transcend borders and barriers.
Kings Theatre, with its storied history and grandeur, serves as the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion. As the lights illuminate the stage and the first notes of Tharpe’s iconic songs fill the air, the audience is transported back in time to an era of raw emotion and unbridled passion. The theater’s rich legacy as a hub for live music and performance adds an extra layer of authenticity to the event, reinforcing Brooklyn’s status as a cultural epicenter.
As “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister” unfolds before their eyes, young aspiring artists and musicians in the audience are inspired by Tharpe’s fearless spirit and unwavering determination. Through her music and her legacy, Tharpe continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations, reminding them to dream big and never give up on their passions.
As the final curtain falls on “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister,” the audience is left with a sense of awe and reverence for the incredible legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe. But the show is more than just a tribute—it’s a call to action to continue Tharpe’s fight for equality, justice, and artistic freedom. As they exit the theater, viewers are encouraged to carry Tharpe’s message forward and use their own talents and voices to create positive change in the world.
As the echoes of Tharpe’s music fade into the night, her legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to witness “American, Also; Lesson 3: Sister.” Through the power of art, music, and fashion, Tharpe’s indomitable spirit continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the transformative power of creativity and the enduring impact of one woman’s extraordinary journey.
Text by
Kyrie Carlo
Photography by
Balint Alovits
Posted
June 4, 2022
Text by
Kyrie Carlo
Photography by
Balint Alovits
August 9, 2018
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Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
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