What do you get when you mix a legacy of hip-hop and stunning eyewear? Shade, of course… but shade in the form of a new sunglasses collection designed by LeA Robinson, affectionately known as the ‘granddaughter of hip-hop.’
Robinson hails from New Jersey and is a member of the famous Robinson family that founded Sugar Hill Records. Her grandparents, Joe and Sylvia Robinson, discovered legendary acts such as The Sugarhill Gang, and Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five.
After starring alongside her family on Bravo TV’s reality series, “First Family of Hip Hop,” Robinson made the move to enter into recording her own music, as well as playing up her personal style by creating a new line of sunglasses called People Blockers.
We recently caught up with Robinson to get the scoop on her fab, new sunnies. Read below for what she had to say.
ESSENCE: What does the phrase ‘People Blockers’ mean and how did you develop the eyewear line?
LEA ROBINSON: People Blockers literally came from [me] wanting to people watch and not have anyone know [laughs]. When I wear my shades, I feel like I can see everything and just sit back and observe. Developing the brand came from one simple conversation with my mom. I called her and said, ‘I [want] to create my own sunglasses brand’ and she said, ‘I believe in you, go for it!’
How long have you been doing business with the company?
I started this company in March 2018, and it really just started to take off. I was a little nervous in the beginning, just because it involved me stepping into a brand new field, but I believe in me so much that I had to put all of my fears to the side and take a leap of faith.
Is juggling between being an entrepreneur and a musician difficult?
Honestly, no. I’ve learned and seen that everything I do, helps everything that I do. A lot of opportunities for music came from people wanting to know more about my other endeavors.
For those who may not know, what’s your family connection to Sugar Hill Records?
My grandparents founded the hip-hop genre, as well as Sugar Hill Records, and by the grace of God, I’ve been blessed to be around such great talents and really appreciate the timeless music that they were able to create and develop.
Is there any new music coming soon from your camp?
There’s definitely more music in my vault that’ll soon be available for the world’s ears. I can’t wait until they hear the new vibe that I’ve been on. There’s been so much growth since my album Broken Girl, and I can’t wait to share that with my supporters.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is a reflection of however I’m feeling. There are days when I want to be extremely simple and wear an oversized hoodie, my shades, and some biker shorts… and other days where I want to be extra.
What’s your favorite pair of People Blockers?
Asking me what my favorite pair of People Blockers are is like asking a parent who their favorite child is [laughs]. I just can’t choose!
More information on LeA and her line of eyewear can be found at PeopleBlockers.com.
