Random House, Inc.
Back in the Days documents the emerging Hip Hop scene from 1980–1989—before it became what is today’s multimillion-dollar, multinational industry. Back in the Days, battles involved rappers, DJs, dancers, and painters, not gangsters and guns. Back in the days, the streets—not corporate planning—set the standards for style. Back in the days, Jamel Shabazz was on the scene, photographing everyday people hangin’ in Harlem, kickin’ it in Queens, and cold chillin’ in Brooklyn.

Street style with an attitude unmatched in fashion in the 30 years since, Shabazz’s subjects strike poses that put supermodels to shame—showing off Kangol caps and Gazelle glasses, shell-top Adidas and suede Pumas with fat laces, shearling coats and leather jackets, gold rope chains, door-knocker earrings, name belts, boom boxes, and other finery. For anyone who wants to know what “keepin’ it real” means, Back in the Days is the book of your dreams.

When it was first released in 2001, Back in the Days was a bomb dropped on the cultural landscape, changing the worlds of fashion, movies, music, and art in ways still felt today. Now, 10 years later, powerHouse is releasing a new edition of this unrivaled classic, with new photos and text. Don’t sleep! Now is the perfect time to reintroduce yourself to the ultimate collection of timeless street fashion and style: Back in the Days.

Baker & Taylor
Features photographs taken between 1980 and 1989, capturing the energy, pride, and attitude that gave birth to hip hop culture.

« Less