Breaking out into the industry roughly a year ago, the Bixel Boys have been winning at everything from remixes, to festival sets and even good causes. Yesterday was the official launch of their #FREELIFE jerseys to the public, after teaming up with Camp Kesem Charity (a non-profit organization) in a campaign to help those affected by cancer. Incredibly, the duo and their team were able to unite supporters from all over the world in the ongoing fight. (They even crashed their PayPal account!)
In an earlier interview with WhiteRaverRafting, Rob May and Ian MacPherson explained the meaning of #FREELIFE – a statement that goes far beyond the hashtag. It’s an embodiment of their life mantra, an expression of freedom to be yourself and do what you love.
Rob: #FREELIFE works itself into all facets of life – it’s not just a musical thing. It’s sort of our musical mantra, but it’s also our style mantra, it’s the way we carry ourselves, and life, and it’s just about being comfortable and being you. I know that’s kind of cliche to say, but I think it’s also important to remind people of that because I think it’s easy to forget, especially with the pressures of every day, social media, and stuff…you feel like you have to be something by a standard of what other people have set. And our thing is don’t worry about standards and just do you, you know?
Everything started when Rob and Ian showed up to every gig rocking the infamous black jersey. The movement caught on quickly, adorning the likes of Skrillex, Dillon Francis, Martin Garrix and Lil’ Jon in no time. Soon, #FREELIFE exploded and people began to see the iconic tees everywhere. During this time of momentous energy, the creators of the mantra were dominating the electronic underground with their unique sound: a smooth fusion of deep house, R&B, nu disco, electro and big room. Countless underground parties, showcases, clubs, and even a closing set at EDC were no longer safe from the impending Bixel domination.
However, the Los Angeles-based duo never wanted to stack profit from the jerseys. It was more of a way for others who felt the same to connect and get inspired. For this purpose, they asked their fans to express in 150 words why they deserved a tee, and the top 10 answers would win.
This isn’t about your grades, your income, or your job; it’s about YOU, your drive, and your definition of LIVING FREE. If you think you have what it takes to be a member of Team #FREELIFE we’re ready to hear your story.
Thinking only a handful of people would participate, the Bixel Boys were stunned when thousands of e-mails flooded their inbox. They now realized they had a mission, a purpose that went far beyond their musicianship. Embarking on a difficult journey to choose the 2014 #FREELIFE Draft Class, they eventually released their roster and some of the amazing stories from people all over the world. We’d like to share a few of them below.
“I got up from the play, crawled out from under the pile, tossed the football to the ref and then suddenly felt my feet leave me as I collapsed on the field. I didn’t know that I had shattered my spine at the waist, the L4 vertebrate. I was 15 years old playing high school football in Oshkosh, WI.
Three doctor opinions later, I rehabbed over a year of yoga and strength training, and somehow my spine healed entirely.”
#FREELIFEFRIDAY We wanted to profile some of the amazing people we’d selected for the #FREELIFE Draft. Wanted to start with some one that really embodied everything we stand for, Ponts Dahlberg of Sweden. Pontus is currently undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma cancer right now and he’s documented the entire thing on his instagram. He asked that we share his story with you so that he might bring strength and positivity to those going through similar trials. We’re with you homie. Sending every good vibe we can from LA. Pontus is what #FREELIFE is all about, it’s an honor for us to have him wear the jersey. We ask that you all hit him with a follow, share this story and send some love his way. We’re stronger together than we are divided. Follow on Pontus instagram: @pdahla
We’re happy to draft firefighter Jay Marietta to team #FREELIFE. Jay dropped out of grad-school to pursue his current career as a firefighter:
“It’s not the easiest career change to make–the hiring process alone is about 4 years and is physically grueling–but I pulled through and am now so, so stoked to be helping communities all over this amazing city of ours. …Plus the uniform is bitchin.”
Become part of the movement, live free, and inspire others with your own #FREELIFE jersey. Grab one (or two, or three) here. “100% of the proceeds will be donated to Camp Kesem, a non-profit organization that provides a free summer camp for children who’s parents have been affected by cancer.”
Connect with the Bixel Boys
https://www.facebook.com/BixelBoys
https://twitter.com/bixelboys
https://soundcloud.com/bixelxboys
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