Today we’d like to introduce you to Von Phoenix.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
PUNK BLACK started on May 22nd of 2015. The members of HOWLING STAR at the time were throwing a show to help raise awareness for our Afropunk BOTB submission. To help promote and uplift POC featured bands, we had all POC bands for the show, and seeing the show play out hit us pretty hard of how much this was needed for the community. After that, we’ve included cosplay, and have been doing shows every month including festivals, pop-ups, house parties, and community outreach. We have had shows in New York, California, and Florida, and plan to expand to more states next year.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting any startup is going to be difficult, and starting one that represents a fan base that hasn’t been represented well in the media can potentially be even harder. Like most startups funding can be a big issue, as that can control your marketing, merchandise, expansion, and work in general. Luckily, we have a team of pretty groovy and creative individuals, which makes it easier to find alternatives while working with what we have at the time.
Please tell us about PUNK BLACK.
PUNK BLACK is a media network that features People of Color in the Rock, Art, and Cosplay communities. We have a show every month, as well as an annual festival in Atlanta and New York. I specialize in Graphic Design and Booking.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Nothing. The wrong answers are just as important as the right. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: punkblack.com
- Email: wearepunkblack@gmail.com
- Instagram: @punk.black
- Facebook: facebook.com/wearepunkblack
- Twitter: @punkblackdotcom
- Other: younggodsrebel@gmail.com
Image Credit:
All pictures with PUNK BLACK logo are by Aki Ikejiri, the other photo is by Sam Teague
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
