Summer Concert Flyer

This flyer was designed by Buddy Esquire, a self-taught African American graphic designer who contributed to the development of hip hop culture. According to Gene Demby’s article “Remembering Buddy Esquire, The King of Hip-Hop Flyers,” Buddy Esquire initially hand drew many of his flyers before transitioning to transferable lettering and printing. He helped establish a visual identity for Hip Hop by intergrading bold typography, playful lettering, and repetitive graphics.

This music flyer was created to advertise a summer hip hop event. Buddy Esquire scattered the star elements and words to create movement. He uses bold fonts to gain the audiences attention. The green background color was due to the paper choice during the printing process. His design choices formed a visual identity for the event. It gives viewers an understanding of what the atmosphere for the event will be like. His flyers also serve as a documentation for new designers to see how much design has changed as time continues. 

Buddy Esquire is an influential Black designer because he advertised for the Black community. His work demonstrates how typography and stylistic choices can represent different cultures and the music community. Design is an area where we learn and take inspiration from others. Buddy Esquire’s visual style can inspire future generations.