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Vans Announces Anderson .Paak As Global Music Ambassador

Vans, the original action sports brand and advocate for creative expression, is proud to announce three-time Grammy award-winning artist, musician and producer Anderson .Paak as the brand’s first Global Music Ambassador.

Vans and AP share a mutual passion to promote creative expression through their active support of art and music. AP is longtime fan of the brand and always aspires to uplift the community around him, making him a natural addition to the Vans family. Having once worked at a Vans retail store in Topanga Canyon, California, AP has since gone on to perform live on the House of Vans stage and is featured as part of Vans’ global music content series, Sidestripe Sessions. This year, AP will serve as one of the global judges for the brand’s Vans Musicians Wanted competition, which aims to provide a platform for aspiring artists all around the world.

“I’m honored to be the newest member of the Vans Family and look forward to making history with one of the most respected global brands,” said Anderson .Paak. “I’m thankful for Vans’ partnership with .Paak House and can’t wait to broaden our reach to help even more people tap into their greatest potential.”

“We are inspired by AP’s multifaceted creative talent and are excited to continue to partner with him throughout the next year for curated music and art initiatives, product design and enabling creativity within the local community and around the world,” said Tierney Stout, global music marketing lead at Vans. “Anderson epitomizes creative expression and we are thrilled to officially welcome him into the Vans Family.”

Aligning with the launch, AP has released his latest single, “JEWELZ” today via APE SHIT exclusively distributed by 12Tone, LLC with an animated music video featuring caricatures of AP and his son, Soul “Khlex” Rasheed in a satirical take on their real life relationship. Decked out in exclusive Vans x Anderson .Paak footwear, the father-son duo battle it out in the feel good dance video directed by Anderson .Paak and Ali Graham.

The post Vans Announces Anderson .Paak As Global Music Ambassador appeared first on The Source.

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Tiffany Haddish’s African Grocery Store Visit Sparks Debate, Is She a Trailblazer or Out of Touch?

Tiffany Haddish is at the center of controversy after a video of her visit to a grocery store in Zimbabwe went viral. In the clip, Haddish marvels at the store’s size and the availability of items like sugar cane and organic strawberries, which she seemed to find surprising.

The reaction from viewers has been mixed. Some applauded her for challenging stereotypes about Africa, while others mocked her for acting as if the continent lacked modern amenities. One user on X quipped, “Tiffany Haddish, the first woman to discover a grocery store in Africa,” while another expressed confusion over her reaction, questioning why she seemed surprised by the store’s offerings.

In response to the backlash, Haddish took to X to clarify her intentions. She emphasized that her goal was to “demystify” Africa and encourage more Black Americans to visit.

This incident follows another controversial trip earlier this year, when Haddish visited Israel amid ongoing conflicts, a move that drew criticism for its insensitivity. Despite the recent backlash, Haddish remains active, with her latest project being the memoir I Curse You With Joy, which has garnered positive reviews for its candidness.

In an era where public figures must tread carefully, it seems Haddish’s words continue to spark debate, whether she’s on a global adventure or sharing her personal experiences.

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Robert Downey Jr. Unveils Doctor Doom, and Jonathan Majors’ Fallout Sparks Viral Frenzy!

At San Diego Comic-Con on July 27, Robert Downey Jr. stunned fans with his unexpected return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, revealing himself as Doctor Doom in the highly anticipated “Avengers: Doomsday.” The excitement didn’t stop there, as Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige also teased a follow-up film, “Avengers: Secret Wars.”

The reveal set social media ablaze, with MCU fans ecstatic to see RDJ back in action. However, the celebration was tinged with controversy as Jonathan Majors—who was slated to play Kang in the now-controversial “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty”—has been trending on X. Majors’ recent conviction for assault and subsequent departure from Marvel has led fans to reflect on his past statements about wanting to share the screen with Downey.

In a 2023 interview with Lifehacker Australia, Majors expressed his admiration for RDJ, saying, “I would love to be across from him on screen… His portrayal of Iron Man is so fascinating.” As the dust settles on Downey’s big reveal, fans can’t help but wonder about Majors’ reaction and what could have been.

What are your thoughts on the viral reactions surrounding Jonathan Majors as RDJ makes his big Marvel return? Drop your comments below and stay tuned to Honk Magazine for more updates!