On December 22nd, Reebok held a fan meet-and-greet event with singers AI, Miliyah Kato, and m-flo's VERBAL. The event took place at Reebok Fit Hub Roppongi Hills, Reebok's first directly operated concept store in Japan, which opened in October of this year. The three, who first collaborated on the song "RUN FREE," dedicated to the Reebok Classic Freestyle shoe, served as "one-day managers" at Reebok Fit Hub on the 21st and 22nd, handing out shoes and autographed CDs to the first 20 fans who purchased Freestyle shoes. Many female fans attended the event, imitating AI and Kato's style, demonstrating their influential influence not only as artists but also as fashion leaders. All three appeared wearing Freestyle shoes. Kato chose white, while VERBAL and AI chose black. They wore matching monochrome outfits, showcasing their unique coordination. VERBAL said, "We were able to interact with each of our fans. Seeing them interact with Miliyah and AI's fans and talk about fashion and music once again made me realize how influential they are." Kato said, "This is our first time as a 'One Day Store Manager,' but I'm happy that we were able to do it together as a trio." AI also said, "I'm really happy that so many fans who support us came. Next time, I'd like to try selling our products in-store." "Run Free" is a song written by VERBAL, Creative Director of Reebok Classic Asia Pacific, along with AI and Kato, as a tribute to the "Freestyle" shoe line. The Latin-inspired, up-tempo number features lyrics that use the words "Freestyle" and "Reebok." VERBAL said, "When I imagined a cool woman, AI and Miliyah came to mind. I approached them about writing a song together." Although they had written songs together and appeared at each other's live shows, this was the first time they had collaborated as a trio.
"Freestyle" was released in 1982 as aerobics shoes for women, and caused a huge boom. It is a classic Reebok model that has continued to be loved as a fashion item ever since.
