Introducing The Marathon Lion NFT: Your Key to The Marathon Vault
A Historic Moment for Music & Ownership
On October 8, 2013, a line of Nipsey Hussle super fans stretched down North Fairfax Avenue, waiting for their chance to get his highly coveted autographed mixtape, Crenshaw. Charging $100 per mixtape, the music world was divided on whether this strategy was ridiculous or genius. The latter succeeded, and the campaign was a huge success. With only three days’ notice, Hussle managed to gather a huge crowd of eager fans with $100 to spend. Nipsey’s mixtapes (all 1,000 of them) sold out in less than 24 hours, even though the mixtape would be available for free download the next morning. He grossed $100,000 off of the CD sales alone. More importantly, the campaign sparked a conversation. Super fans, casual fans, and the general public alike were spreading the word about this game-changing Nipsey Hussle release. It was one of the most significant instances of fan engagement that hip hop has ever seen, one that tightened the bond between artist and fan base forever.
“These people stepped out and made history with us, and that’s something we want them to continue to reap the benefit of.” — Nipsey Hussle
What nobody realized at that moment was that Nipsey’s first-of-its-kind drop of his mixtape, Crenshaw, in 2013 would become the same model that fueled the NFT Boom in 2021: driving demand through scarcity, rarity, and utility; a product drop with additional benefits and experiences; identifying and building a community of the most loyal fans who would reap the continuous benefits of ownership. Fans could have easily downloaded his music for free, just as you can right-click an NFT and save it as a jpeg, but ownership of the Crenshaw mixtape has physical value in addition to the utility that comes with owning it.
While at face value the product was the music, Collectors of the limited edition Crenshaw mixtape additionally received the following benefits:
- Access to a secret concert in LA that was unavailable to the public.
- Appreciation of value due to the rarity of the Crenshaw mixtape.
Nipsey Hussle was truly ahead of his time.
“You know the Proud 2 Pay campaign, it’s not gon stop at Crenshaw, we gon focus on giving people products that you can buy and experience, enhanced version of products that come with an experience, music, clothing, novelty items” — Nipsey Hussle
He was right. It didn’t stop with Crenshaw. In 2014, Nipsey dropped his next mixtape “Mailbox Money”, this time only producing 100 physical CDs at a price point of $1,000.
The legacy of Nipsey Hussle is one of resilience, vision, and community empowerment. As a rapper, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, he used his platform to inspire positive change, encourage financial literacy, and advocate for social justice. He was vocal about the importance of investing in real estate, cryptocurrency, and other innovative avenues that could uplift disadvantaged neighborhoods and his belief in the power of ownership continue to inspire people from all walks of life.
Nipsey Hussle’s legacy lives on, reminding us all to be the change we wish to see in the world. His impact continues to reverberate through the music industry, the business community, and the neighborhoods he cherished.
Introducing The Marathon Vault
Welcome to the next chapter in The Marathon Clothing journey. We’re proud to introduce you to The Marathon Vault (powered by One of None) — a place where our PROUD 2 PAY members will have exclusive access to limited editions that bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds.
The Marathon Vault is the embodiment of our principles, a space where authenticity meets innovation, and where our community’s loyalty is rewarded with unparalleled access.
Introducing The Marathon Lion NFT Collection
In this digital age, we’re delving even deeper into groundbreaking territory by launching the The Marathon Lion NFT Collection. Just as Nipsey’s music and vision transcended culture, our NFT collection embraces the future while paying homage to the past.
The Marathon Lion — a symbol synonymous with strength, courage, and the heart of a champion — introduces new IP to the TMC community as the digital avatar in this exciting venture.
Each NFT within The Marathon Lion NFT Collection is a masterpiece in its own right, with each trait representing an iconic moment in Hussle’s Marathon.
Not only do The Marathon Lion NFTs serve as a visual identity — they are also the key to accessing The Marathon Vault. 🔑
The Marathon Vault and The Marathon Lion NFT Collection go beyond the boundaries of conventional merchandise and digital collectibles. A limited number of NFTs will be minted, ensuring their rarity and value.
A Deeper Connection, a Stronger Community
It’s no secret that our original PROUD 2 PAY members are the strongest supporters of TMC dating back across the last decade. As a reward for their loyalty, they will have the first opportunity to claim a FREE Marathon Lion NFT prior to public sale.
It’s our way of saying thank you and ensuring you’re front and center in TMC’s future. Holders of The Marathon Lion NFTs will have first access to exclusive drops, limited edition merchandise, and special events.
The Marathon Clothing: The Future
Over the next few weeks, we’ll share details regarding early access to The Marathon Vault and an exclusive drop for those closest to TMC… and this is just the beginning. The Marathon Vault and The Marathon Lion NFT Collection set the stage for an era of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your support, dedication, and belief in The Marathon Clothing fuel our drive to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible.
Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting chapter, bridging the gap between the past, the present, and the limitless future.
Life is a Marathon. Run a Lap.
The Marathon Clothing