American Football Hosts Epic Party with Pro Skaters and Hayley Williams
American Football recently hosted a remarkable barbecue and skate jam at their newly acquired house in Urbana, Illinois. The event celebrated the band’s collaboration with Vans, introducing a special shoe featuring artwork from their debut album.
Event Highlights
The celebration took place on a Saturday afternoon and was sponsored by OTW by Vans. Attendees included the band members, professional skaters, and friends from the music industry. Notable guests were Yvette Young from Covet and Novo Amor, both contributors to American Football’s upcoming covers album.
Journey to Urbana
The festivities began with a bus ride from downtown Chicago to Urbana. The journey lasted two hours and created an atmosphere filled with excitement among the attendees.
Connecting with the Past
The band’s frontman, Mike Kinsella, shared his enthusiasm about the event and the Vans collaboration. He has two Vans tattoos, symbolizing his long-standing connection to the brand. Guitarist Steve Holmes and drummer Steve Lamos noted the significance of skating in their lives, emphasizing the communal bond formed through this culture.
Food and Fun
The barbecue featured a variety of foods, including:
- Smash burgers
- Chicken sandwiches
- Tofu sandwiches
- Mac ‘n’ cheese
- Pimento cheese
- Brussels sprouts
Attendees enjoyed custom drinks and celebrated Steve Lamos’ birthday with themed cakes. The backyard transformed into a makeshift skate park, drawing both aspiring and professional skaters.
An Unexpected Guest
The party took a delightful twist when Hayley Williams surprised attendees by joining the festivities. Her presence added to the excitement, with guests capturing selfies and enjoying her participation in the drumming sessions.
Music and Connections
The Kinsella brothers and Lamos showcased their drumming skills throughout the event, performing a series of popular songs. Karaoke also featured prominently, with guests contributing to the lively atmosphere.
For those who couldn’t attend the celebration, the American Football Vans will be available for purchase on their website starting October 28.
Future Endeavors
American Football plans to utilize their Urbana house as a creative space for artists. The band aims to foster a collaborative environment where musicians, authors, and artists can create and showcase their work.
This memorable event not only celebrated a significant collaboration but also strengthened community ties among friends and fellow creatives.
