VERBAL

VERBAL: A Cultural Innovator Bridging Music, Fashion, and Digital Creativity Worldwide

VERBAL is a globally recognized Japanese artist, producer, and creative entrepreneur

VERBAL is a globally recognized Japanese artist, producer, and creative entrepreneur known not only for his groundbreaking work with m-flo but also as a key member of the superstar rap collective TERIYAKI BOYZ®. His extensive collaborations—supported by his unparalleled global network—have connected him with countless artists across genres, including world-renowned figures such as Pharrell Williams. Through these partnerships, VERBAL has forged a unique international presence that bridges Japanese pop culture with global hip-hop, fashion, and creative communities. His influence extends far beyond music, reaching deeply into the fashion world, where his personal style and artistic vision have become iconic. In 2008, alongside designer and partner YOON, he founded the fashion brand AMBUSH®, where he serves as CEO and drives the brand’s global strategy and creative direction.

AMBUSH® has emerged as a major force in global contemporary fashion

AMBUSH® has grown into one of the most innovative and influential contemporary fashion brands, celebrated for its experimental approach and its ability to merge art, street culture, and luxury aesthetics. Under VERBAL’s leadership, the brand has collaborated with major global companies including Nike, Levi’s, Louis Vuitton (under Kim Jones), MOËT ET CHANDON, BVLGARI, Rimowa, GENTLE MONSTER, and General Mills. These collaborations highlight AMBUSH®’s unique ability to blend creativity with commercial impact, positioning it as a cultural force within the international fashion scene. In 2016, AMBUSH® opened its first flagship store in Tokyo, providing a physical space where the brand’s artistic identity could be fully expressed. Continuing its expansion, the brand launched new stores in Shanghai and Hong Kong in 2022, transforming these locations into cultural hubs that transcend traditional retail concepts and actively contribute to the creative landscapes of their respective cities.

VERBAL and YOON have received global recognition for shaping modern fashion culture

VERBAL’s and YOON’s contributions to global fashion have earned consistent recognition from major industry authorities. Business of Fashion (BoF) selected the duo for its prestigious “BoF 500” list—honoring the world’s most influential figures shaping the fashion industry—for five consecutive years. In 2022, they were further recognized on the “Hypebeast100,” a testament to their impact on both luxury fashion and contemporary street culture. Beyond fashion and music, VERBAL has also immersed himself in digital culture and emerging technologies. In February 2022, AMBUSH® released its first NFT collection, which sold out within two minutes, underscoring the brand’s strong cultural relevance and its ability to translate its identity into digital formats. That same year, the brand launched its own metaverse experience, “AMBUSH® SILVER FCTRY,” demonstrating VERBAL’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries and exploring new digital territories.

Through his multidisciplinary work, VERBAL has become one of Japan’s most innovative cultural leaders

Through his wide-ranging activities, VERBAL has established himself as one of Japan’s most innovative cultural figures—an artist who seamlessly connects music, fashion, technology, and digital art. His creativity continues to influence audiences around the world, while his leadership at AMBUSH® showcases his talent for shaping cultural trends and pioneering new forms of expression. As VERBAL continues to expand his creative universe across physical and digital realms, he remains a driving force in global pop culture, consistently producing new ideas, forging international collaborations, and redefining the future of creative expression.

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