Buddy Discusses Styling the adidas Forum, Working with Pharrell and Nipsey, and More

The return of the adidas Forum could not have arrived at a better time. The desire for a classic, timeless model is at a high with vintage aesthetics dominating trends and algorithms. The adidas Forum, originally released in 1984, has resurfaced and reclaimed its spot in the heart of footwear and fashion fanatics alike.

Aside from the silhouette’s return, adidas has perfected the cultural energy on the retro with collaborations and respected tastemakers across niches.

We had the chance to chop it up with Compton’s finest, Buddy. Not only is the rapper changing the game, but his style and radiant personality make their way onto the adidas Forum as a part of the Forum Fridays presented by Foot Locker.

Read what Buddy had to say below, and be sure to get your hands on the adidas Forum at Foot Locker. Learn more about the most genuine sneaker community out there with a SoleSavy membership for more sneaker news, exclusive content, and member-specific perks.

SoleSavy: How did your experiences shape your style? How did your childhood, your music, and your life shape your clothing and artistic approach?

Buddy: Growing up in Compton and moving all around Los Angeles, getting signed to Pharrell and getting to know the industry through him and hanging out with Nipsey in the studio all of the time, studio hopping, traveling, experiencing different cultures were all part of it. 

Sundayâ€s best vs. ghetto baggy shit. Supporting the friendâ€s brands and adding my couture. I just started getting into my scent, so Iâ€m about to start killing ‘em with the fragrances.

SS: You mentioned your relationships with Pharrell and the late Nipsey, two people who always give back and tie their work to the community. Although the pandemic was trying for everyone, the sense of community and the importance of giving back were vital in the last year and a half.  How has your mindset and the way you move geared to those around you?

Buddy: I feel so blessed to be in a position to change the narrative and overall perspective of where I come from — stereotypes that arenâ€t actualities and bringing more authentic vibes to the world. Being able to be a consumer and a person who drops music, I appreciate everything everybody has to offer because everyoneâ€s job is equally important. 

Bringing good, happy, positive vibes and putting smiles on faces, and having a good time at the moment is important.

SS: Thereâ€s a narrative and stereotype when you say “Black male artist from Compton.” For you and the journey to where you are now, what was it like having to be yourself and changing the narrative in doing so? 

Buddy: I grew up in Compton with both parents. I never got involved in gang banging; I smoked weed but didnâ€t sell it; I wasnâ€t a trapper. Growing up in entertainment and being a part of the church choir since my dad was the church choir director, I acted, sang, danced, did live theatre, and more until I got into music. I stayed out of the street aspect of where I come from because I was in the booth making music. 

People come here to get their dreams off. I have a realistic perspective of this dreamland, and people resonate with that when theyâ€re with me. 

SS: How have those experienced the way you view your music, collabs, and your recent moves? 

Buddy: Iâ€m working on an album right now, so Iâ€m working on the visuals in preparation for presenting myself to the world authentically since I havenâ€t dropped in three years. Iâ€m preparing to show the world who I am entirely since itâ€s been a while. 

SS: A lot has changed in three years. Styles, trends, and music arenâ€t what they used to be. Tying it back to the Forum, the shoe has already made a strong return after initially releasing in 1984. With your comeback, how is the Forum going to take your presentation to the next level? 

Buddy: Iâ€ve always had family ties with adidas through Pharell. I have some much respect for the company since Run DMC and shell toes. A timeless classic is a timeless classic. 

I feel like thatâ€s my whole brand. My first album aged like fine wine for the people. With this next go-around, Iâ€m trying to present my music and myself properly on a larger scale and have it last forever. Not just a moment. 

SS: What are your style tips on the adidas Forum? 

Buddy: It depends on the day and how cozy Iâ€m trying to be or if Iâ€m going to an event. I first decide if Iâ€m going to go baggy or slender. Iâ€m sample size, and I have range in the fashion world. I try to dress it up or dress it down and move accordingly. If Iâ€m going to the store or about to skate around, I throw some shorts on. If Iâ€m about to go on a date or something, I might put some jeans on and have it hang over real nice. 

SS: Whatâ€s the legacy you want to leave, and how will the adidas Forum help you get there?

Buddy: Individuality, authenticity, and vibrating as high as you can. Creativity. Positivity. Taking care of you and yours. 

SS: You mentioned your family ties with Pharrell and adidas. Is there a collaboration or something in the works that we can expect soon?

Buddy: Weâ€re going to do something around the album in September. Thatâ€s all I can give you right now. The rest is classified.