Today we’d like to introduce you to Don Landrum.
Hi Don, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Panic 39 Started in 1999, Coming from a background in Graffiti art, a love of all the elements of Hip-Hop and with a strong entrepreneurial drive, the idea was born. We started out vending at underground hip hop events, B-Boy and Popping Battles, Car shows, Drum N Bass events and raves. Here locally in California then Nationally, Then as far away as China, Japan, Mexico and Puerto Rico. We have done trade shows like the Magic Convention in Las Vegas. Our main thing is staying connected with the people and the underground scenes that we support. One of those ways is through product sponsorships, supporting events and organizations like The Gr818ers in Pacoima, Homeland Cultural Center in Long Beach (Which is not going on currently do to issues with the city), The Hazze Dream Center in the San Fernando Valley, No Easy Props which just held B-Boy Summit at Grand Park in DTLA, The Radiotron which just held their annual event at the Levitt Pavillion in Macarthur Park and various other organizations nationally and International. Also, with our website www.panic39.com not only do we offer our merch for sale but we are working on the site to be more of an informational center for the communities we work with. We have added an international event calendar so people know where different events are taking place, Blog posts with stories and info, we also cover some of the events with video footage and photos., We are currently working on a list of practice spots so dancers can find where they can practice and on what days.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
By no means, like any business we’ve had our ups and downs. We took out a loan to do our first trade show right when the recession was starting and barely anybody showed up and they definitely were not going to risk bringing in a new brand into their store. We have flown across the country to set up at events that were canceled at the last minute and the list goes on
As you know, we’re big fans of Panic 39. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Panic 39 is a streetwear brand that comes from the streets not some large corporate conglomerate, With real people behind it that work hard not only to bring you the dopest products but to support the scenes we are involved in and support underserved youth that are trying to build their way up however we can.
What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for?
Original designs, our B-Boys and Poppers along with others that represent for us. We specialize in clothing for B-Boys/B-girls, Poppers, Krumpers, Hip-Hop Heads and the Drum N Bass Scene
What sets you apart from others?
We don’t just sell clothes we actually live this life. We also make gear that is used in these scenes such as Knee Pads, Spin Caps, Compression Wrist Bands, etc.
What are you most proud brand wise?
How far we have came, if you check our social media like Instagram @panic39, you will see people tagging us in posts from every corner of the world. We are a small company but the fact that our reach has extended so far and that people support us in places I have never even scene means so much to me.
What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc?
When you support us, you are supporting a small business with big dreams that actually helps and supports others. We will be coming out with new products soon and we are working on more tactical products to help B-Boys & B-Girls that are trying their hardest to earn their way to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I for sure listen to a lot of Gary Vee. The majority of what I do is self-taught, so a lot of youtube.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://panic39.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panic39/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Panic39Clothing/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/panic39
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/panic39gear
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@panic39clothing
Image Credits
Mamastrosity, April Fresh, Manny Fernandez, Brandon (Sprite) Cruzada, Firme Elina, Ash Sizer, Regal Dee
