The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 gave us the right to freely participate in the cultural life of the community; to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits. It states that “everyone has the right to the protection of the moral and material interests resulting from any scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author.”

Thus, the artist known as FFERB mysteriously arrived at Sennheiser’s SoHo space last week along with his crew, making their way through the crowd slow and martian-like, all clad in indistinguishable hazmat suits. Guests admired wolf-inspired original artwork by Corie Mattie as well as lifesize installations by Jordan Hammlett Sanders featuring male faces (reworks of original artwork by Ben Sydewitz).

One of the artists, Marc Enongene said, “The hazmat suits are about people taking the culture. FFERB wanted to leave no traces so people can’t steal what we’re doing--what he’s doing. That’s what this is all about. No culture vultures, we won’t allow it.”

It was a strong statement piece that set the stage for a downstairs live recording of FFERB and Che in conversation with Yo Gotti, distinguishing paths to success from the perspective of an emerging young creative and a 20-year-career artist with millions in sales.

In a 30-minute discussion, the artists talked about how they both got into the music business (FFERB started out as a college radio show host, and Che earned his chops making beats while attending Hampton University), and touched on work ethic, how the music industry has changed, what it takes to make it big time in 2017, and why ownership is essential for all creatives.

Both Che and FFERB expressed admiration for one another and what each generation brings to the table artistically. Specifically, Che noted that emerging artists like FFERB are fearless and entrpreneurial. “Now you’ve got kids that you know record themselves, produce themselves, shoot their own videos, edit their own videos. These kids are fearless and they don’t wait. They’re creating their opportunities and fan bases.”

Likewise, FFERB said of Che and those “OGs” who have paved the way in music for young artists like himself, “I admire the way they carry themselves. I was told very early on to stop trying to fit in. You gotta do your thing. I feel like a lot of people starting out think they need to be extraordinary. But all you gotta do is be you. That’s why these guys have been in it so long.”

Learn more about Sennheiser’s NYC stores and keep up with events like this one, here: Sennheiser New York City