Interview With Badspade - Spring Concert Sponsor

Hey guys. We are getting very, very close to the Rock For Hunger Spring Show and things are getting exciting. If you have not bought your ticket yet, I strongly urge you to do so before the weekend ends as they are selling faster than any Rock For Hunger show we have had in the past. Grab them at Park Ave CD's, Park Ave Jr or get them right now here.

Ok, on to a really cool partner we are thrilled to be showcasing at the Spring Show. Badspade first hung out with Rock For Hunger at RFH Fest 3 this past November as a vendor and believes in our cause so much that they are coming back for more. I had the privilege of asking him a few questions about the clothing line and what the significance of supporting the community means to them. Check out what Sam had to say:

RFH: Can you tell us about the history of Badspade?

Sam: Badspade as its known today was created many years ago. It all started while I was in the Navy, I met my now life long friend Kevin Harris While Playing Tony Hawks Pro Skater 2. The opening song was The Ace of Spades By Motorhead, We would play that game non stop in the common area singing that song at the top of our lungs. People would come in and challenge us swearing they were the best at the game and would soon walk away with their tails tucked between their legs, ego Scared for life after watching the millions upon millions of points racked up in one trick.

So needless to say Kevin was the GoodSpade and I was the Badspade. Sort of a Yin Yang twins scenario.

That is were it all started But as the years went on I started down the path of graphic design and he suggested I start my own Shirt company. And Badspade Was born.

RFH: You attend a lot of local events as a vendor. How important is building up a local following to you and your business?

Sam: Local following is one of the most important values you can have, Its all about branding. When someone on the street and see's your Logo on a sticker or a sign and they think BADSPADE, then you know you are doing it right. When people know who you are and that the quality of your product is awesome there is no greater feeling.

RFH: The Spring Show is going to be your second appearance at a Rock For Hunger event, what draws you to the cause, the shows and makes you want to be a part of it?

Sam: Well first off, All of the money goes to a good cause. It hurts to know that there are people out there suffering. Often when things get tough in life I look at what I have and Know that it really isn't that bad because people are out there right now that have nothing.
I think deep down everyone wants to help others, but they don't know how. This event is working to stamp out hunger. Even if they have no place to go, they can get a good meal. So that makes me feel really good. It is important to be there so that people know BADSPADE wants to help.

Secondly Meeting new and interesting people is the best, I love the many interesting people i meet on these events.

RFH: Anything cool you can share with us about Badspade - new shirts, designs, upgrades, etc?

Sam: Rock For Hunger will be on my birthday(28 years) But I will be giving out the presents instead of getting them. I will have some Give away Shirts at this show, they were actually from my first design of shirts that did not work out the way i had planned. They printed them on the wrong shirt blanks so I have been cutting the sleeves off and giving away the "Pirate Edition Shirt" LOL. But as with any give away I only have a few so get em while their hot.

I have a lot of great new designs ready to hit the market, I am actually working on a girls clothing line up for the spring.

I also have some other great idea's for some designer jackets and hoodies. I am also going to be doing some Limited Edition shirts. So a lot of things are coming down the pipeline but i can't give out too many details just yet, so stay tuned.

RFH: How do you see your growth in the coming months? Are you looking to sponsor bands, athletes, etc? Take the show on the road?

Sam: I am Always excited about the growth of the company, In the next couple of months I plan on releasing some exclusive Limited Edition Shirts, only 50-100 shirts will be printed in a particular style. I am always looking to sponsor bands and athletes to help push the brand and promote the line. Only I don't know any bands or athletes lol. So if you know any, Send them my way.

I'd like to thank Sam for his time and also his support of Rock For Hunger. Please grab a shirt and rock it around the city. You will feel good knowing that you supported a local company with great products and outstanding morals. See you all on Thursday!

For more information on Badspade, please visit their website.

-Greg Rollett