This year marks a monumental moment in UK music history as Lethal Bizzle celebrates 20 years since the release of his iconic grime anthem, Pow! (Forward Riddim). Released in 2004, Pow! wasn’t just a track, it was a cultural moment that propelled grime from underground pirate radio stations to mainstream charts, helping define an entire era. To commemorate this milestone, Bizzle asked Hyphnt, the innovative streetwear brand founded by grime pioneer and entrepreneur J2K, to create the “Black Out” Road Runner, a triple black sneaker that channels the raw essence of grime and the sophistication of modern fashion.
The Rise of Pow! and Lethal Bizzle’s Legacy
When Pow! dropped, grime didn’t even have a formal name. But it had energy, and Pow! was its anthem. With an electrifying lineup of eight MCs trading bars over an adrenaline-pumping riddim, the track shot to No. 11 on the UK Top 40 and scooped a MOBO Award for Best Single. It wasn’t just popular, it was unstoppable. Banned from clubs for inciting mosh pits, Pow! became the soundtrack of a movement, blasting from phones, car stereos, and pirate stations, and cementing Lethal Bizzle as a grime heavyweight.
Over the years, Bizzle’s career has evolved with the same innovation that drove Pow! to success. From his early days with More Fire Crew to solo hits like Rari WorkOut and Fester Skank, both UK Top 10 singles, Bizzle has remained at the forefront of grime. Now, two decades later, his influence remains as powerful as ever. To honour this legacy, Bizzle’s partnership with Hyphnt is not just timely, it’s iconic.
Introducing the Black Out Road Runner: Hyphnt x Exhibit 69
To celebrate two decades of “Pow!” and grime culture, Lethal Bizzle, Hyphnt, and Exhibit 69 came together to create the Hyphnt Black Out Road Runner, a sneaker designed not just for style but for performance. Lethal Bizzle himself demonstrated just how much this sneaker lives up to its name, shelling it out on stage in front of an electrified crowd of dedicated fans. His dynamic energy and iconic presence mirrored the spirit of the Black Out Road Runner, proving that this collaboration is as much about story as it is about style.
Hyphnt, known for its forward-thinking designs, has always been at the intersection of music, fashion, and art, and the Black Out Road Runner embodies this philosophy perfectly. The sneaker is a fusion of raw, gritty grime culture and the high-end, meticulously crafted aesthetics of luxury streetwear. The design channels the rebellious spirit that defines grime music while embracing the precision and sophistication of high-end sneaker culture. Whether you’re on stage or hitting the streets, this collaboration celebrates the impact of grime on music and fashion, making the Black Out Road Runner an essential piece for those who live and breathe the culture.
Design Features
The Hyphnt Black Out Road Runner reflects meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge design, with features that embody the ethos of grime and streetwear. Made from premium Italian leather, the sneaker showcases smooth, perforated, and textured finishes that create a layered, dynamic look. Suede accents add depth and sophistication, enhancing the all-black aesthetic. The hand-painted midsole detailing, custom designed by Exhibit 69, ensures that each pair is a unique, collectible piece of art. Subtle Hyphnt branding on the eyestay and midsole pays homage to the brand’s deep roots in grime culture. Crafted in Portugal using top-tier materials, the Black Out Road Runner merges luxury with durability. Each pair is made-to-order and includes a signed authentication card from Exhibit 69, certifying its status as a one-of-a-kind collector’s item. Hyphnt’s reputation for blending streetwear aesthetics with premium craftsmanship is fully realised in this exclusive design.
A Limited Release with Maximum Impact
Debuting on Black Friday, the Black Out Road Runner was released for a limited amount of time and this version is now sold out. As each sneaker is custom-made, every order requires a one-week production and delivery period, ensuring that each pair is crafted with the utmost care and precision. This bespoke nature of the Black Out Road Runner makes it a truly unique product, perfectly reflecting the moment and adding to its exclusivity.
Celebrating Grime’s Legacy
Lethal Bizzle’s collaboration with Hyphnt and Exhibit 69 isn’t just a celebration of Pow!, it’s a celebration of grime itself. Hyphnt, a brand deeply rooted in grime’s heritage, continues to demonstrate its authenticity and bold vision throughout this project, while Exhibit 69’s dedication to detail elevates the design into the perfect collaboration.
The Black Out Road Runner wasn’t made to fit a niche but was designed with a story, becoming a tangible piece of UK music history. It represents the energy, creativity, and cultural impact that grime has brought to the world over the past 20 years. For Lethal Bizzle, this collaboration is a testament to his enduring influence and the lasting legacy of Pow!, a track that didn’t just define a genre but inspired a movement. Fans and collectors now have the chance to own a slice of this legacy. Combining the raw energy of grime with the finesse of luxury streetwear, the Black Out Road Runner once again proves that Hyphnt is at the forefront of this space.
