Free Soul Members

FOUNDER

Back in 2007, I had an iPod Nano. Limewire was the best way to get new music, and I wanted in. However, not having a Mac and with a mom who didn’t agree with Limewire, it seemed like my iPod was going to stay empty. So, I handed my iPod to a friend to work his magic, and in return, I was given Graduation by Kanye West. At the time, I didn’t know the impact this album would have on me, but deep down, that album is the reason I fell in love with Hip-Hop.

When I reached high school, I learned how to use producing programs such as Garageband, Logic Pro X, and Mixcraft. I always kept my music to myself and never told anyone I made beats for my brother, his friends, and our YouTube videos—I was simply too embarrassed. Everyone in high school was always trying to find an image, and I was just known as “Soba, the photographer” and “that guy who runs track.” I was never the kid rapping at the lunch table, and I never asked anyone to listen to my mixtape. I always thought you had to be gifted to rap, but it’s really just about talent—like playing a sport.

When I got to college, I said, “fuck it” and created Free Soul in my bedroom. Once I saw that success was possible by watching artists like Logic, Russ, and The Weeknd—people who came from nothing to something—I knew it was a sign to finally step out and show I had something to prove.

Like Nas said in “Nas Album Done”:
“Start a label, run it, sign yourself; That’s a major key.”

DESIGNER

I am a graphic designer, fashion designer, music producer, and a graduate student from Parsons The New School for Design. I am also the creator and designer of my own clothing line, Krizpyy Design. The brand is all about maintaining a clean and crisp identity while also embracing the urban and street feel that defines the lifestyle behind it.

I first began taking art seriously in middle school, though I was always a creative kid. I was never not working with my hands, constantly moving around. My father was an artist, and after his passing at a young age, I’ve felt inspired by his work. This drive and dedication have motivated me to keep his legacy alive.

Having a clothing brand was always something that I kept in the back of my mind since I was younger. Towards the end of high school and into college, I found a way to merge my love for clothing and graphic design, and Krizpyy was established. This word and concept have become central to me and those around me. Krizpyy has since evolved into a lifestyle and movement, and I truly enjoy dedicating a large amount of time and effort to it.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

I’m Christian Stanfield—an aspiring photographer, designer, curator, DJ, and creative director, born and raised in Queens, New York.

From a young age, I’ve been passionate about capturing moments and preserving memories—each one shaping the way I see the world. Whether flipping through family photo albums, watching old VHS tapes, or creating visuals through design, my life has always been at the core of my creativity.

Beyond photography, music plays a huge role in my life. From curating sounds to exploring DJing, I find inspiration in the rhythm and energy that music brings. Design, fashion, and visual art are also key outlets for me, allowing me to bring ideas to life in ways that feel authentic and meaningful.

This love for creativity led me to create Recognize New York, Recognize Records, and Fujifilmatic—a visual and audible journey through the eyes of just a kid from Queens. Whether through the lens, music, or clothes, my goal is to create, inspire, and share my vision with the world.

I hope you enjoy seeing life through my lens and hearing it through my sound.