Empire Strikes Back - Brooklyn

04/29/2026

02/10/2026

Speak French? 🛼 An arts and culture report on Empire Roller Disco, aired June 23, 1978, on Le Journal de 20 heures—France’s nightly television news.

03/12/2025

Brooklyn’s Empire Rollerdrome Brooklyn, New York, 1977 - 📷 Allen Tannenbaum

02/28/2025

Reflecting on the warm and beautiful energy of 2021 when I first met Curtis Harris, I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Rest well, Curtis. 🛼 🕊️

12/23/2024

Roller skating culture—whether embraced early by trendsetting brands or adopted late—continues to spark conversation about how brands engage (or fail to engage) with its vibrant, layered community. Too often, these efforts skim the surface—charming but fleeting—missing the chance to honor skating’s rich cultural roots and deeper resonance. While some initiatives authentically celebrate the scene's legacy, others fall into kitschy redundancy, missing opportunities to create a lasting impact on a culture evolving beyond nostalgia.�The potential is clear: by fostering meaningful engagement, we can turn this fleeting moment into a movement that rolls on.

Photo PEPSI x Law Roach Capsule Collection (2024)

11/08/2024

From courts to streets—and soon, to roller rinks! The adidas Superstar, the iconic shoe celebrated by athletes, hip-hop pioneers, and streetwear enthusiasts, is rolling into 2025 with a high-top roller skate edition. While the official release date remains under wraps, this cultural classic is set to hit the rink in style, bringing the spirit of roller skate culture and the adidas legacy to a new generation.

09/30/2024

Roller Skating Rolls into the Spotlight...

Introducing Roller Jam (premieres October 10) —the first-ever nationwide roller dancing competition, streaming on HBO Max and Magnolia Network. Hosted by Jordin Sparks, with Johnny Weir and Joanna Gaines as judges, this series is set to take roller skating to new heights. 🛼✨

07/12/2024

Big love and blessing to the one and only DJ Robert BigBob Clayton! Happy 70th.❤️