LRG, Lifted Research Group, started in 1999 with some start-up capital and a dream. Fast forward to the present. The small company founded by Jonas Bevacqua and Robert Wright is now a fixture in the fashion and urban scene. Annual sales in 2006 were projected to be more than $150 million.

Now, the dream has ended too soon and a life has ended too young when earlier this week, 34 year-old Jonas Bevacqua was found dead in his Laguna Beach home. An autopsy could not immediately determine his cause of death. Additional test results will
take weeks. Though the cause of his death is undetermined, his life was an inspiration. As part of a family with eight siblings (seven, including Jonas, adopted), he undoubtedly grew up with struggles. From there, Jonas Bevacqua took LRG to become on one of the most popular and recognized street wear in the hip hop and fashion culture, paving the way for so many today. From clothing, the company branched out as a “creative lifestyle” corporation to include electronics, music, and skateboarding.

And as everyone who makes it should do (but only a select few do), they never lost sight of where they came from, supporting underground artists and staying true to who they were. In the 2009 Register interview, “Bevacqua described a passionate but casual work ethic that he said drives LRG, who headquarters includes a basketball court.”

It’s sad to see such a talent and visionary from the Asian-American community come to such an abrupt end. He will truly be missed and remain an inspiration to many.

Jonas Bevacqua : Founder of LRG interview

Visually Heard with Jonas Bevacqua