It’s the collab you never knew you needed, and the one we have all been waiting for. Legendary professional barber tool brand, BaBylissPRO have joined forces with the revolutionary and innovative education and product brand, Tomb45, to create a tool range like no other, including a Clipper, Trimmer, wireless charging pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. Everything you need to know, here in BarberEVO.  

For both BaBylissPRO and Tomb45, the words ‘by barbers, for barbers’ are not taken lightly. Both bodies are constantly devoted to innovating for the barbers at the center of this industry. This shared passion behind each brand has led to a tool collaboration unlike any other. We introduce to you: The BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Clipper, Trimmer, Wireless Charging Pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. 

With features such as the trimmer’s new reversed blade orientation making lineups easier than ever, the clippers DS1 Dual Speed Motor that runs at 7,500RPM at high speed, and 6,800 RPM at low speed, and a LED Battery-Level Indicator Screen on both, these tools are the pinnacle of innovation.  

Not to mention, the clipper and trimmer in addition to being USB-C Compatible and FXCORD Compatible for Cord/Cordless Use, both tools are wireless charging compatible… to pair perfectly with the oh-so slick BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Wireless-Charging Pad.  

And to top the tool range off with a cherry on top, they have also created the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. The Nano Titanium and Ionic technology offer maximum smoothness and shine, the cold shot button locks in styles, and with nine LED heat and speed settings and engineered airflow offers more efficient and effective styling.  

Joining Forces 

By BaBylissPRO and Tomb45 collaborating on this tool range, not only has increased the power and functionality of the tools, but it also strengthens the reach and education available within the industry.  

44 Global Educators: There is a combined total of 44 BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45® global educators  

25+ Million: Between BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45®’s digital presence, they have a combined 25+ million followers.  

158+ Million:  158+ million interactions on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube in 2024. 

Who are Tomb45? 

We spoke to Chris Bossio, one of the founders of Tomb45 about the collaboration, and why he believed it was a perfect fit. But first, Chris told us a little more about Tomb45 and what the brand stands for.  

“I have been teaching barbers how to cut hair and get better at their craft, and just been pouring into elevating the industry as much as I can for the past 10 years. One of the things that I noticed in the barbering industry as I was coming in was there wasn’t a lot of innovation. If it’s not innovative, if it’s not going to elevate the industry, then it’s not a project that Tomb45 want to take on. 

“BaBylissPRO® was a brand that wanted to do something new, something different. They were willing to listen to us. It wasn’t just about the money. They wanted to do something different, something that would elevate the industry and bring the standards higher.” And so, Chris travelled to BaBylissPRO®’s HQ, to meet with the team.  

“I spent the weekend with the leadership team, and it was all so synergistic. Big barber brands, they usually don’t want to do something expensive, they don’t want to reengineer something and build from scratch. But BaBylissPRO® will willing to take that risk. It felt like going to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I drew on a piece of paper what I thought would be the most ergonomic, cool, best feeling clipper in a barber’s hand, and they came back with some renderings and mock ups. They came back with technology that they were never willing to introduce in the past… until now.”  

Two Innovators, One Mission: Redefining the Industry.  

“So,” Chris continued, “This is what it looks like when Tomb45 and BaBylissPRO® come together and create a vision. You can see the ergonomics, the way it hugs your hand, the size of it, the shape, the balance, the weight, all of these details were thought about. I just feel like we are paying attention to the real behavior that happens in a barbershop.”  

An example of this is the location of the lever on the trimmer. “How long have trimmers been around? Why hasn’t anyone thought about putting the lever on the side where your hand naturally lies, to be more ergonomically efficient? So, that’s what we did! I want it to be fun to move the lever around. It’s little details like this that barbers will notice and appreciate.  

“I remember one of the team members at BaBylissPRO handing me a piece of clay and saying, ‘form the lever that you think would feel best in your hand.’ I did it, then we drew it out, and that’s the tool we created. The second you feel this in your hand, you know it was built for a barber, by a barber.”  

Making the Cut  

We also wanted to get the tools in the hands of a barber to hear their feedback on the brand new tools and collaboration. And who better to speak to than educator for BaBylissPRO® as well as Tomb45®, Sean Ralston!?  

First Impressions of the Tool 

“When I first saw the clipper, I thought it was super cool. It’s tough to be unique these days, especially since many clippers look alike. But this one, from the design to the features, is completely new. It’s not just an update or an iteration; it’s an entirely new concept. Seeing it come to life from a sketch was a really cool moment, especially from two of my favorite companies.” 

The Power of Collaboration 

“Tomb45 has been making innovative charging products for a while, and BaBylissPRO® has always been a brand that values the opinions of barbers. The two brands understood that working together could be beneficial to everybody, and the two brands have teamed up really nicely and naturally. So, it just made sense for us to connect, combine ideas, and create something unique.” 

Favorite Features 

“There are a few cool new features. One is the built-in wireless charging. Unlike previous tools where you needed attachments to make it work, this one charges wirelessly straight out of the box. Another is the ergonomic lever; it fits perfectly in your thumb. But the feature I’m most excited about is the trimmer. The power button is on the back, so you can use it for lineups without flipping it over. It’s a completely new approach that I think will make barbers’ jobs easier.” 

The Backwards Trimmer 

“It’s funny because, when you first see it, it looks ‘backwards,’ but it makes so much sense. The power button is on the back, and the blade faces away from you, making it perfect for lineups without having to flip the tool over. It’s definitely different, but we think it’s going to be a game-changer for the industry.” 

Describing the Tool in Three Words 

“Innovation, ergonomics, and power.” 

Get your hands on the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Tools NOW!

College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition opens TODAY!

College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition launched last year and attracted an amazing response of over 500 entries from hairdressing students up and down the UK.

The simple online only competition asks students to upload their details and four images of their very best blow-dry for the chance to win £1000 cash.

Last year the winner was Yasmin Ainsley of East Durham College who took home the big prize. Denman CEO Kevin McNamee said: “We were absolutely overwhelmed with the response last year and so grateful to all the amazing college tutors who encouraged their students to get involved. Brilliant blow-dry skills are essential for young professionals and we wanted to create a competition that inspired and celebrated students as they master those skills. Last year’s entries set the bar high, so we are really looking forward to seeing 2025’s entries. Good luck everyone!”

Here’s what every College and student needs to know:
Competition opens: February 17th
Competition closes: March 21st
Winner announced: April 11th

How to win: Just upload images of the front, sides and back of one blow-dry look. For full entry requirements and T&C’s please follow the link College Star | Denman Brush – Denman UK.

Prize: £1000 for the student and a hamper of tools valued at £200 for the
student’s College department. PLUS, there’s a little something for the tutor too – the tutor whose students enter the most number of entries wins £250 AND the tutor of the winning student also wins £250! T&C’s apply

Vagaro is redefining the way barbering businesses operate, and in the latest episode of EVO X Vagaro Live, industry legend John Mosely AKA The Popular Nobody sat down with our editor and host for this IG LIVE collaboration, Jennifer Paxton, to talk tech, cash and more. 

Launching straight into it, Jennifer asked the all-important question – why do barbers need to go digital?

“You’ve gotta get on the tech train now!” John said. “Digital tools can streamline operations, boost client satisfaction, and increase profitability.

“Vagaro is the app that will allow you to customize your whole business model. We don’t want you to pay for things that you’re not using,” John added.

In this industry, cash has historically been king, but John delves into the importance of evolving beyond that mindset – especially post-COVID. 

“One of the things we talk about is payment processing. In the barber community, cash is king, but we talk a lot about how you should be charging credit cards, saving cards on file, and charging those no-show fees,” said John. 

“But if you want to buy your first business, they’re going to do a credit check on you. They want to know you know what you’re doing. If you want to buy a house, you need to have a credit history. By incorporating digital payment methods, barbers can build financial credibility and secure long-term business stability.

“It’s the small things like that that have a huge long-term impact. And Vagaro is the way to go for the support on this journey.”

Learn more about how John uses Vagaro to take his business into the future – and how you can, too.

Stay ahead of the curve by following @barberevo, @popular_nobody, and @vagaropro for more insights, pro tips, and updates on how to make your business more efficient. Work smarter, not harder!

Check out the IG LIVE here.

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

The latest issue of BarberEVO NA is OUT NOW! As the first official issue of 2025, it’s set to make waves in the industry… bringing you exclusive content from the best barbers out there right now. BarberEVO has brought together a collection of content from our esteemed columnists and industry leaders, whilst also highlighting those rising stars of the industry – and we have the exclusive launch of the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 clipper in the spotlight on our front cover. In this issue, we feature everything from events and business to hair care, interiors and all the info you need to start 2025 off right. With all of this…and even more – this issue is one to remember!

On the cover BabylissPRO X Tomb45

It’s the collab you never knew you needed, and the one we have all been waiting for. Legendary professional barber tool brand, BaBylissPRO have joined forces with the revolutionary education and product brand, Tomb45, to create a tool range like no other, including a Clipper, Trimmer, wireless charging pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. And this edition… it’s our cover story. Flick through to find everything you need to know, here in BarberEVO.

IN THE CHAIR & ONE TO WATCH

This edition, we’re in the chair with… Bonez Da Goat AKA Corey Jamel Sturkey. From humble beginnings to becoming an LV3 educator, Bones’ journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of a craft. We also speak to Eric Hernandez to discuss his stratospheric rise in the barbering industry. From pushing boundaries, to his A-list clientele – this is why Eric is the one to watch. We also speak to Cal Newsome from across the pond in the UK – so you can learn more about this barber abroad.

NEW YEAR

You know we had to do it! Delving into 2025 trends… it’s a must if you want to continue to grow your business throughout the year. In this feature, we chat to some of the biggest and best barbers in the game, including Liz Avalos, Matty Conrad and Marcus Harvey, to get their insight on what’s to come. We also get into the colors that you need to be using in the barbershop with L3VEL 3’s Chrystofer and Hannah Benson – who have come along and joined the BarberEVO crew as columnists.

EVENTS

Kicking off our events section, we look back at EVO events of 2024 – our year in pictures. Next, we’re joined by the man behind some of the largest barbering events in the US, Jay Majors. Talking through the process behind it all, he’s planning for success. We also sat down with photographer Richard Monsieurs to get his top tips. Featuring words from our columnist, Byrd Mena, as well as a look into our EVO On The Road event in Glasgow, UK, and more.

BUSINESS

Introducing… not one, not two, but THREE brand new columnists – our business section is set to have you shook. With Barber Doza creator, Matthew Mendoza; BaBylissPRO educator, Dayna Gamba; and the Popular Nobody himself, John Mosley – we’re getting into it all. Business growth, pricing in the barbershop, and managing your business – it’s everything you need to hit the ground running.

INTERIORS

Kicking off our interiors section, we have Buffalo Co – where an elevated space isn’t just about aesthetics: it’s about crafting an environment that feels welcoming, where every detail matters. At the heart of their carefully curated interiors are Keller chairs, known for their unmatched comfort, durability, and sleek design. Heading across the pond to London, we visited R.W Wolf Barbershop – who talk us through why they believe that taking time to curate an experience is what will take you to the next level. Find all this and more in our interiors section…

HAIRCARE

In haircare, we hit the ground running with Brittany Caldaza. Talking hair health, client education, product regimens and more… Brittany gets into the nitty gritty. We also chat with a trichologist and show you some of the top hair loss solutions on the market, before delving into the world of styling – where Las Vegas-based barber and stylist, Jaqueline, shares her tips on creating a styling and haircare routine with clients for our readers.

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Happy New Year! Welcome to the first issue of BarberEVO in 2025 – here we have a magazine fill to the brim with the latest tips, techniques, and advice to help you get the ball rolling and nail the new year. Whether you’re looking to refresh your barbershop, you’ll find inspiration in our Interiors feature, or in need of some goal setting or pricing advice, you’ll find some guidance in our Business feature. Let’s kick January off with a bang and start the new year on the right track!

COVER STAR: Tomoya Nishimori

This edition, our Cover Star and Barber of the Edition is the globally renowned barber Tomoya Nishimori. He is the mastermind behind the iconic Mr Brother’s Cut Club, and global educator and ambassador for the premium Japanese grooming brand, BROSH. In this feature, we delve into the backstory of Tomoya and find out exactly how he became the barber that we all know and respect today – as well as hearing about his passion for BROSH and showcasing the talent of the Japanese barbering industry.

EVENTS

Kicking off all thing’s events, we hear from Andy Dawson who was recently involved in the opening of the brand-new Footasylum store in Aberdeen’s Union Square shopping centre. Elsewhere, we dive into the roaring success of EVO On The Road: Glasgow edition – the sold-out event was not to be missed! BarberEVO was also lucky enough to attend the MR. Barbers annual award ceremony and see the excitement firsthand. And who could forget about the Fellowship’s Luncheon and Awards at The Londoner Hotel – we have it all covered here!

NEW YEAR

Bringing in the new year, we hear from Luke James Dolan who won the coveted title of Wahl’s British Barber of the Year for 2024. We speak to four of the best and brightest barbers about their goals for the new year ahead, and our columnist Alan Beak shares his tips for goal setting for the year ahead. Columnist Vikki Harrison-Smith showcases one of her brightest stars from the SB Barber Academy, and Rob Wood from Novo Cabelo reflects on the monumental year he had in 2024, while Andy Dawson of SIGMA Male Image shares his accomplishments, and offers advice on how you can achieve your goals.

INTERIORS

Here, we take a deep dive into the chilled oasis that is Folk. and hear from owners Jordan Coubrough and Sean Dick about how they created the relaxed, yet elevated, space. Elsewhere, we hear from Mustafa Ismail, owner of R.W. Wolf Barbers, who took home the impressive accolade of Wahl’s British Barbershop of the Year 2024 to find out about their trend-setting design inspiration. Vikki Harrison-Smith and Graeme Macaskill share the results of Daylight Company in their barbershops, and we spotlight Mari de Monte’s Manhattan based barbershop Low Ear.

BUSINESS

REM UK have been at the forefront of innovation for decades, and the BarberEVO were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory to see where the magic happens. One of BarberEVO’s newest columnists Graeme Macaskill talks us through how to rise prices in the new year, while the NHBF break down the first budget from the Labour Government and how that will affect you.

PRODUCT FOCUS: Haircare

Barbering isn’t all about haircuts, it’s also about helping your clients care for their hair. Starting this feature off strong, we hear from Ryan Lewis, owner of Club13 in Hull and STMNT Grooming Goods ambassador, about his go-to haircare tips and tricks for clients. Columnist Hayden Cassidy shared how you can care for your hair away from the barbershop, while Mark Maciver talked about the need for conversations around hair-loss, and Olivier Mathis went through his beard care routine with The Bluebeards Revenge.

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK is OUT NOW! As the cooler months settle in, it’s time to elevate your barbershop game and keep the buzz alive. Our latest issue of BarberEVO is packed with insights, trends, and expert advice to help you navigate the season ahead. Whether you’re focusing on client satisfaction or levelling up your services, we’ve got you covered.

COVER: American Crew

We went behind the scenes with American Crew for their BarberEVO cover shoot with some of the biggest and brightest in the industry. Gracing the cover, we have Ian Harrold, Bobby Gordon, Tommy Winding, Chris O’Riordan Nicholas Taylor, Rob Wood, Aurelija Norvaišiene. We hear about their inspiration, product choice, how they created and styled their look; plus much more inside!

EVENTS

From the biggest barbering expos to community-driven pop-ups, we dive into the latest industry events that brought professionals together. This edition, we kick things off revisiting the Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards (SHABA), before reminiscing on the epic event that was EVO On The Road. Columnist Hayden Cassidy shares her experience celebrating Barbers Day in Brazil, and we have a look towards the Fellowship Luncheon.

BARBER OF THE EDITION

Get to know our featured Barber of the Edition, a true trailblazer pushing boundaries in the industry. Marie Rainsford is a soon-to-be superstar in the barbering world, as the Ireland-based barber is the new lead educator for OP45 Barberschool. Education and empowerment are at the forefront of Marie’s journey, so in this issue, we learn about her journey, approach to the craft, and how she stands apart.

BUSINESS

We break down key business strategies to help you thrive during the busy season. From effective marketing techniques to maximising retail opportunities, this feature begins with Barry Stephens sharing his business insights for readers. We hear from Kevin Vorley about how Morgan’s Pomade can boost your retail options, and Snip London share the ethos behind their retail selection and how they encourage sales.

TECHNOLOGY

Technology is transforming the way barbershops operate. Discover the latest innovations, including booking systems as we speak to three different barbershops about how they manage their schedules in the festive season. Kaye Sotomi, founder of Chop Chop London, shares how Fresha revolutionised his genderless salon.

INTERIORS

In this issue, we showcase jaw-dropping barbershop interiors that combine style with functionality. Explore how thoughtful design choices can create a welcoming atmosphere for clients while optimizing your workspace for maximum efficiency. We take a deep dive into Lieanne Buckley’s studio in Chester and share the ethos of DAPR – our barbershop abroad – based in Philadelphia, USA. Goodfellas Barbershop in St Albans share how Takara Belmont was the only choice for them, while The Daylight Company transforms three barbershops.

HYGIENE AND SANITATION

With hygiene standards at the forefront of modern barbering, we take a deep dive into the importance sanitation practices. Columnist Mark Maciver, owner of Slider Cuts in London, shares how he maintains hygiene in the barbershop to ensure client satisfaction. Emma Curd, Co-Owner and Director at Matakki Scissors, shares her recent appointment as a Habia ambassador, while we highlight some of the most important ways barbers can maintain the highest level of cleanliness and professionalism.

With a reputation as an industry powerhouse brand, Wahl Professional has outdone itself with the launch of the Vapor. With an early release taking place at LV Barber Expo and Barbercon Dallas, Ambassador Brittany Calzada tells us all about the brand-new tool.

The Vapor is the latest innovation from Wahl Professional, designed to elevate the grooming experience for both barbers and their clients. This tool merges advanced technology with Wahl’s trusted performance, aiming to provide the ultimate precision and comfort.

Proving to be a big hit before the tool even officially hits shelves, The Vapor completely sold out at the LV Barber Expo; and it’s no surprise as to why. Brittany told us:“With the Vapor, Wahl created an entirely new blade to work alongside the tool. The F32 Fade Out Blade has 32 fine ball-pointed teeth designed to glide over the skin and avoid snagging on pores. When closed, this then becomes a balding clipper which will in turn save you strain on your trimmer. The Vapor comes with a new high-speed brushless motor with adaptive speed control, allowing barbers to maintain complete power through all hair types.”

Brittany was one of the first to get her hands on the tool and test it ahead of the limited-edition release, so what did they think? Brittany told us:

“I immediately loved this clipper. I like how it fits in my hand and how the tool feels when cutting hair. With this clipper, I developed a new fading process that took my haircuts to the next level.

“Achieving a seamless fade is all about perfectly blending out that bald line. Because the Vapor has a balding blade and adjustable lever, it effortlessly smooths out the hard-to-blend lines allowing your fade to pop.”

One of the key components of the Vapor is the fact that its blades are made from high-quality stainless steel, precision-ground to stay sharp longer, delivering clean and precise cuts every time. Additionally, the tool offers adjustable taper control, allowing for versatile styling options from fades to sharp edges. On top of the quality, Brittany noted one of the other unique features:

“Usually, balding clippers don’t come with a lever, but the Vapor does! That will give you more range when blending that tricky bald line.”

“The research and development team works closely with barbers to see how to improve our innovation on tools. That’s what I love about Wahl,” Brittany enthused. “They don’t just give us the same clipper in a different housing. They take the time to create something new and game-changing.”

BARBEREVO UK & IRELAND #46 IS OUT NOW!

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK is OUT NOW! This issue is set to shake things up as we say goodbye to Summer, and get ready for Autumn, while bringing you exclusive content from the best barbers and brands in the business. In this issue, we hear from our expert columnists and esteemed industry leaders on a variety of topics, from textured hair to beard and moustache care, as well as the latest product drops you need to be aware of; all this and more inside.  

IN THIS ISSUE: 

HEINIGER 

Our September-October cover stars are the Heiniger team! Here, we get the insights from Matt Clarke, Artistic Director Robert Braid, and Creative Director, Rex Silver on why Heiniger should be the tool brand every barber has in their kit. We hear from Robert and Matt how they got involved with the Swiss tool brand and became part of the Heiniger family, and why you should too.  

EVENTS 

It’s been an exciting but busy few months for the entire EVO team during event season, and there’s no sign of it slowing down just yet. We kick off the events feature by looking back the debut HairCon, with industry icons like Simon Shaw, Alan Beak, and Josh Lamonaca it’s hard not to think back fondly. We also here from Richie Finney and Xavier Berrell at BarbersRide, Rob Wood from his official Novo Cabelo launch, and look forward to the Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards.  

TEXTURE 

Kicking off the texture feature, we hear from the superstar BaByliss PRO ambassadors Tariq Howes, Ky Wilson, and Lauraine Bailey. BarberEVO gets the inside scoop from the team about their go-to tips and tools for all things texture. We hear from Luke Burgon at SOMEPEOPLE on how he uses Byrd products to embrace his client’s natural texture, while columnist Hayden Cassidy shares her scissor cutting techniques. Columinst, Mark Maciver gives readers a step-by-step for his iconic fade, and STMNT ambassadors Charles Rose and Luke Hartley talk us through their recent collection.  

INTERIORS 

Having beautiful interiors are just some of the ways you can make your barbershop stand out, which is what our Barbershop of the Edition, time., has done. Elsewhere, we look inside Beardy Beardy in Glasgow to showcase their personalised REM chairs and take a deep dive at Kesman Male Grooming as they highlight their custom Takara Belmont chairs. We also take a trip down under and hear from COMMON Barbershop in Brisbane, Australia, to look at their stunning set-up.  

BUSINESS 

Starting the business feature, we hear from columnist Vikki Harrison Smith as she talks us through her days as a top-class educator and academy owner. BarberEVO also hears from three completely different barbershops – UNDERFOUND, Beardy Beardy, and MR. Barbers – about how they operate their businesses, and ask barbershop owners the important questions of tipping, deposits, and selling retail.  

TECHNOLOGY 

Discussing all things artificial intelligence, we have Barry Stephens weighing up the pros and cons about whether AI systems will kill off conversation in the barbershop. With more and more automated systems out there claiming to make your life easier as a barbershop owner, Barry evaluates whether that is right. Meanwhile, celebrity barber and educator Thaddeus highlights the importance using technology to your advantage and having a booking system that works for you.  

MOUSTACHE AND BEARD CARE 

Showing us how we can all elevate our grooming services, we speak to Ben Goakes, owner of Well Groomed London. Sharing how he goes the extra mile to create a lavish experience in his Shoreditch shop, Ben shares how his experience in luxury services translated to his barbershops. Elsewhere, we hear from Anthony Berriola about bringing traditional Italian beard and moustache grooming to the US, and Morgan’s Pomade identify three iconic styles you can create and maintain with their products. 

PRODUCTS 

This issue, our Product of the Edition is The Shorty, just the latest expert grooming tool from the brains of Gamma+. BarberEVO sat down with expert barber and educator Phil Jarman at HairCon to hear everything about their latest powerhouse tool. Elsewhere, hear from Artero founders Alex and Edu Artero, and Eric Way Lovemore to discuss the premium scissor brand, and highlight the different offerings available with Leaf, Yoi and Tondeo; to ensure you find the right tool brand.  

Get your copy here!

With entries for the North American Hairstyling Awards (AKA NAHA) open for 2025, it’s time to show the industry what you’re made of. When it comes to the Barber of the Year award, which was added in 2022 – it is all about showing the true artistry and talent of which individuals in this industry are capable.

One individual more than deserving of this award was 2024 Barber of the Year, A-Rod (Yadiel Alberto Rodriguez). The elite barber, Co-Founder and CMO of L3VEL 3 Pro, CEO of AROD LLC, and Global Ambassador for BaBylissPRO and Booksy, created a show stopping collection, photographed by Chrystofer Benson, taking home the coveted trophy.

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A-ROD’s career in barbering began in Puerto Rico over two decades ago after serving in the military. In his acceptance speech, he said: “I took a chance. I started going to shows, driving for 12 hours, begging brands to educate on their stages so I could be seen. And today, I get to be part of a brand that is leading the men’s grooming industry.”

A-ROD gave a shout out to the wonderful CBC Team for organising the shoot, as well as to Jay Nouri, Co-Founder and CEO of L3VEL3.

A-ROD said: “L3VEL 3 is a brand by the artist, for the artist, and we are doing some amazing things. Barbering is growing so fast, partially because we have spent a lot of time focusing on the barbers and elevating the education available for barbers in this industry.

“This award is very special to me, and I want to thank the Pro Beauty Association for allowing barbers to show the industry what we are capable of!”

“Barbering is not just about having a good time, if you implement a system that works, you educate yourself about the opportunities that are out there, I am proof that it pays off. Now, we are running every show, every main stage, and we are up here getting awards. So, don’t give up!”

In an Instagram post following the NAHA ceremony, A-ROD said: “This NAHA Award Win Goes to Puerto Rico. This award means everything to me and the barbering community. From $3 haircuts in Puerto Rico to this stage, it’s been an incredible journey.

“Never give up on your dreams. The sacrifices, the long nights, and the hard work all pay off. Let’s keep pushing boundaries and lifting each other up. Thank you all for the support!”

A-ROD is no stranger to BarberEVO either, being one of the few barbers to have appeared on the cover of both BarberEVO’s North American and UK& Ireland titles. In-fact, he featured on the second-ever edition of BarberEVO North America. We can’t wait to see what A-ROD achieves next!

Learn more about the NAHAs here and ENTER NOW!

Ne-Yo took to the stage in Birmingham for his headline slot at the BS3Live concert, and showcased the talents of award-winning barber, JJ Savani.

The renowned stylist, known for his precision and creativity, was responsible for creating the signature looks for Ne-Yo and other performers, to add an elevated style to the event. Ne-Yo took the stage with his trademark cool, sporting a traditional hot towel head shave and perfectly sculpted goatee.

JJ started by cleansing with the American Crew Foam Cleanser and finished with American Crew Moisturising Face Cream before beginning blade work to remove any excess hair. He then used the American Crew Ultra Glide Shave Oil around Neyo’s goatee to tidy up the shape before finishing with American Crew SPF15 Face Balm all over the face.

Terrence Green, star of Netflix’s popular Step Up series, wowed the crowd with a sleek and modern style. JJ delivered low and natural skin tapers, expertly retaining the C-cup shape-ups while keeping a natural-looking front shape-up.

The top of Green’s head was styled and shaped with freehand clipper work using STMNT Grooming Spray to shape the hair before applying STMNT Curl Cream to bring out and enhance Terrence’s natural curls and then dried using the Diva Pro Styling Tools Dryer with the diffuser attachment to set the product. Maintaining a balanced and dynamic finish that captured his energetic presence on stage. 

Pudge Tribbett, the acclaimed producer and lead musician, also received a fresh look from JJ Savani. Pudge debuted a full head shave paired with a freehand beard fade. Using enhancements to create a fuller, thicker beard, JJ delivered a commanding yet refined look that perfectly matched Tribbett’s powerful performance. 

JJ Savani’s masterful work at BS3Live not only highlighted his talent as an award-winning barber but also reinforced his reputation as a go-to stylist for A-List musicians.