“Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.” — The Sandlot

Meet two of my heroes, who are also legends in their own right. Bobby Tribal:

and Alyasha Owerka-Moore:

Bobby owns San Diego-based subcultural juggernaut, Tribal. Aly has paid his dues over decades of design for some of the most influential brands in youth culture. Together they have walked the expanse of Streetwear, from the underground movement of the ’80s to the mainstream urban blowout in the late ’90s. They’ve watched brands and designers rise bright like stars, explode and fade into the night. And still, Bobby and Aly are here. Strong and steady. Maintaining and contributing.

What does it mean to be successful? In 2012, especially by the youth’s standards, success is measured by stacks. Racks on racks on racks. Fat wallets over fat portfolios: Financial prosperity is sought over cultural resonance or creative and social impact. Yet, more often than not, the clothing brands and companies that grow into colossal empires and eventually sell for millions (or billions) take greedily from their dedicated customers and wave goodbye from their yachts and penthouse suites. Consider the hottest brands of yesteryear – the ones that all the rappers vouched for, the apparel that you emptied your earnings for – and where are they now, besides at the tail end of a punchline? What was the point, besides making a few people rich?

I hope to be as wealthy, financially. But even moreso, I seek to live a life rich with relationships, respect, andhaving harvested a legacy: something that outlives me. Bobby and Aly will. Almost 25 years after he started, Bobby is still at the helm of his ship, full-speed ahead, navigating stormy seas or cruising uncharted territory. Tribal has evolved into a global lifestyle brand in every sense of the word. His product pollinates the Southern California basin to the Philippines, supporting graffiti artists, lowrider culture, b-boys, rock stars. Tribal is still out there, living, educating, and enriching culture whilemost of his peers who chased $ucce$$ have fizzled or popped after big-money payouts. Again, what was the point?

Money is important. Size is valuable. To have both may keep you remembered.

But legacy. Legacy will keep you alive forever.

by bobbyhundreds