When I came to New York in summer of 2001 I met an African kid named TuTu and we quickly became good friends while attending Theodore Roosevelt HS in The Bronx. Tutu spoke more English than I did so I listened, observed, learned the slang and most importantly the American culture quickly. TuTu was always a fresh mofo. Always had clean white tees on, du-rag and always cared about his waves and how his line up (haircut) would look lol. He put me on @nike "Uptowns" (Air Force 1s) and @timberland sneakers.
Notorious BIG visuals by AJ Lavilla
One thing that struck not only his, but also my classmates attention was when I wore a Coogi sweater and a matching beanie (fake of course) to school. Ever since that day everyone knew me for being the only fly Filipino cat in my school. It wasn't about wearing "fake" Coogi but it was more like the idea of understanding the American culture and being accepted as Asian and a minority. However because of the way I dress, hiphop/rap/r&b music I would listen to, we connected and got cool. I gained respect from my peers.
Work in progress
New York this next ones for you. #biggie #art #biggiesmalls #brooklyn #newyork #theajlavillastory