Johannesburg, 14 July 2025: Converse is writing a bold new love letter to self-expression, individuality, and cultural impact with its latest global campaign: Love Chuck. Featuring international icons Tyler, the Creator, Vince Staples, and Charli XCX, the campaign is a celebration of the iconic Chuck Taylor, the sneaker that started it all and continues to influence generations through music, fashion, and art.
In Mzansi, Love Chuck finds a powerful local voice in Usimamane, a genre-bending artist, fearless creative, and voice of the youth. Known for defying convention and leading with authenticity, Usimamane embodies everything the campaign stands for.
Thursday the 10th of July the brand welcomed Usimamane into the Converse Love Chuck family with an event held at the YFM studios. Usimamane was joined by industry friends including, Tony Dayimane, Qwellers and Blaq Diamond to celebrate not only his partnership with Converse, but his latest achievements, which include his Metro FM Award for Best Male Artist and a platinum plaque for his album. The night, hosted by YFM DJ Sinaye, was a true celebration of self-expression, and cultural impact with Usimamane performing an exclusive track and YFM DJs delivering the hottest sets.
“Love Chuck is about paying homage to those who have not just walked in our sneakers but the places and movements that have supported us and left an indelible mark in society.,” says Tebogo Motlhamme, Marketing Manager at Converse South Africa. “Usimamane is the perfect local catalyst because he lives this ethos. His energy, creativity and fearless individuality make him a true representation of what Chuck Taylor stands for today.”
More than a shoe, the Chuck Taylor continues to shape and reflect culture, proving its relevance across time and trends. From underground movements to global stages, it influences art, music and fashion, all while remaining a true symbol for those who create, who lead, and who never follow. The Love Chuck campaign is Converse’s tribute to that legacy, and to the individuals who keep writing it.
For Usimamane, the campaign is a deeply personal reflection of his journey; “It feels so surreal to collaborate with such an iconic brand as Converse. It’s been the backdrop for many kids growing up in South Africa – from pantsula dance culture to high fashion aficionado in the townships. Converse, the All Star skew remains a cultural imprint in South Africa & globally. It completely mirrors my musical aspirations. It was a no-brainer for me to partner with a brand that shares the same ethos as me. It’s such an honor and thank you Converse.”
The Love Chuck campaign will come to life through bold visuals, creative collaborations, and a series of local activations that invite fans to wear their hearts on their soles and celebrate the shoe that’s been there through it all.
About Converse
Converse Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company” TM and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including men’s, women’s and children’s lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories and is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries. For more information, please visit media.converse.com and follow @converse.za
About Usimamane
Born in 2003 in the culturally vibrant township of Umlazi, Durban, Omuhle Simamane, professionally known as Usimamane, was surrounded by a rich musical heritage from a young age. Influenced by a family with deep musical roots, Usimamane’s early exposure to a diverse array of music from iconic artists such as Drake, 50 Cent, The Game, Branda Fassie, and Boom Shaka nurtured his burgeoning passion for music beyond mere appreciation. The upbringing, coupled with the dynamic musical culture of his hometown, significantly shaped his artistic journey
Usimamane’s sound is a captivating fusion of Rap and Trap, enhanced with R&B melodies that reflect the struggle and aspirations inherent in his background. He describes his style as “Fate Music” a genre that embodies hope, joy and inspiration, with the inherent to uplift and motivate individuals from all walks of life. Drawing influence from artists such as Young Thug, Meek Mill, Gunna and Nasty C. Usimamane offers a distinctive perspective within the music industry.