The URB Holiday Gift Guide
Last-minute gift ideas that support and promote culture
I can’t remember when I put together a holiday shopper’s guide. My wife gave me an odd look when I told her what this week’s post was. But if I’m going to appoint myself Santa’s Helper, then it might as well support the creative community and bring some light into the world.
Here are a few ideas if you’re looking for a last-minute gift or something not sold at Target. These all promote culture, support small businesses, or fuel creativity. All of it is worth your hard-earned dollars.
Happy holidays.
“Creativity is contagious. Pass it on.”
—Albert Einstein
Defend New Orleans Hoodie ($70)
A 20-year staple of New Orleans culture, DNO is a statement as much as a brand. And after the city survived the near-death disaster of Katrina, it holds real meaning for the Big Easy. dno.la
Victrola Record Crate ($60)
Victrola’s turntable heritage, since 1906, makes them worthy of your attention. As for who needs another record crate? I don’t believe there’s a record enthusiast who doesn’t. The Victrola Wooden Record Crate stores over fifty 12-inch vinyls. victrola.com
Rhinestone Water Bottle ($70)
WOC-owned shop LCD opened in 2012 to support emerging and independent designers. Sadly, they’re closing after 11 years in business but are offering 30-40% off through the end of the year (use the code THANKYOU). This reusable stainless steel rhinestone water bottle by Collina Strada (a rising star in sustainable fashion) is normally $100. shoplcd.co
Beatport Subscription ($9.99/month+)
Is there a DJ in your life? As much as we’re fans of digging in the crates, the literal act is exhausting and inefficient. Beatport, the pioneer in digital music for DJs, launched its music streaming service a few years back. For bedroom DJs or budding superstars, constant access to a cloud-based library streaming directly to your mixer is a game changer. stream.beatport.com
Indie/Seen ($40)
LA-based photographer Piper Ferguson recently had her publishing dreams come true. The gorgeous new photo book Indie/Seen captures the essence of indie rock in its most colorful and intimate forms. From Interpol to the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs, this collection of late nineties and 2000s-era photography is a testament to a vibrant scene. simonandschuster.com.
Mark Ronson Music Production Course ($54)
Learn music production from NY-based legend and all-around nice guy Mark Ronson. You can buy the 18-video course or a subscription to BBC Maestro for a full buffet of lessons. The bonus is hearing some unheard Amy Winehouse demos. Catch a 40% off sale at bbcmaestro.com.
Slick Rick ReAction Figure ($20)
For the old school head on your list, it’s Rick the Ruler in all his articulated plastic glory. Continue the Hip-Hop 50 celebration with a figurine featuring a miniature microphone and gold chains. turntablelab.com.
Sm;)e ($35)
Blurring Books is the indie book imprint by DJ and impresario DB Burkeman, co-founder of New York’s famed NASA and the seminal label Sm:)e record label. Stemming from his passion for art, music, and counterculture, Blurring publishes many titles, including a forthcoming rave flyer book you can cop next year. blurringbooks.com.
Substack Subscription (Various)
If you’re still looking for the perfect gift that supports independent creators and storytellers for a few bucks per month, here are some music and culture Substacks I love: The Nelson George Mixtape / Bobby Hundreds’ MONOLOGUE / Sam Valenti’s Herb Sundays / Tovah Feinberg’s Rants and Raves / Flow State / Danyel Smith’s Shine Bright HQ / The Cadence / And of course, get URB Magazine for 30% Off.
Seeds of Peace ($100)
Given all the turmoil surrounding us, it might be hard to feel that material gifts are adequate this year. Launched in 1993, Seeds of Peace’s mission is: “To equip exceptional youth and educators with the skills and relationships to work in solidarity across lines of difference to create more just and inclusive societies.” seedsofpeace.org
Other organizations pursuing a balanced and non-partisan approach to peace are the Parents Circle Families Forum, Alliance for Middle East Peace, and Abraham Initiatives.
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