Walk the Line – The multi-talented Levi Stocke talks about his many interests, his unique career path and his adventures
Being one of the most distinguishable male models of this generation, Levi Stocke has worked with a wide range of brands. So far, he has collaborated with H&M, Tod’s, Nordstrom, Fossil and Levi’s. That last one, by the way, was his first modelling gig ever, something that he found so ironically hilarious since he has a similar name and initials with the legendary jeans maker.
And we can understand why. His rockstar persona sure has its own charm that has captivated brands and admirers alike. All the while, he is not afraid to try new things and take new opportunities outside of modelling when they are put before him. Put simply, he really presents himself as a well-rounded and impressively passionate human being.
Yes, other than being a model, he’s also a musician who makes his own music. He’s a blogger who consistently fills his website (rebelritual.com) with stories from and behind the scenes of his interesting life. He’s a businessman who has his own collaborative line of fashion and grooming items. He’s an adventurer who, on his slower days, would ride thousands of miles on his motorcycle across the country. And most importantly, he’s an influencer who has inspired countless followers through his multiple works and platforms.
We can’t seem to pinpoint just one word to describe Levi Stocke. He’s doing many things all at once, and does not show any signs of slowing down anytime soon.
DA MAN: Hi, Levi. Thank you for having us. How are you and how was the shoot?
Levi Stocke: Thanks! The pleasure was all mine and I had a great time hanging out with you guys.
DA MAN: In the shortest possible way, how can you best describe yourself to us and your fans?
Levi Stocke: I think fundamentally, I live in the moment. And I absolutely love motorcycles, fast things and things that are built to last.
DA MAN: We heard you actually came to L.A. in the first place to become a musician—not to be a model. Can you tell us about that?
Levi Stocke: Yeah, I did move here to pursue a musical career. L.A, was a melting pot of so many things, especially arts. Music has always been my calling, and at the time moving to L.A. seemed like a reasonable decision. And it’s not like I quit completely once I got into modelling. I still play and create when I can.
DA MAN: What kind of music are you playing at the moment? Where can our readers find your tracks?
Levi Stocke: Like most young kids who strive to perform onstage, I actually started out playing punk rock and even metal! But the more I grow, I eventually returned to my roots. Now it’s just folk and the blues for me. If you go to my website or any of my social media platforms, I post some videos or lyrics every now and then.
DA MAN: We just have to ask, how did you get into modeling in the first place? Were you discovered or did you discover modeling on your own?
Levi Stocke: It was just my luck that I was actually discovered at a grocery store in Glendale. I guess something just clicked with the scout talents when someone getting groceries looked like a potential model [Laughs]. I worked on my first campaign ever not long after that. It was for Levi’s Jeans. All in all, I think sometimes one door can open another. But I learned that you have to be open to opportunities. Thus, my career in modelling begins.
DA MAN: And how difficult or challenging was the transition from music into modeling?
Levi Stocke: Even though they are both completely different, I think there are a lot of similarities between them when it comes to being in front of the camera and audience. So, it was something that came naturally for me—at least in the beginning.
DA MAN: How do you like life as a world renowned model now?
Levi Stocke: I feel very grateful to get to do what I do for work. I truly did not expect it to be this overwhelmingly fun and drew this much attention. It’s amazing having people love what you do—especially in an occupation which I started because I got scouted. I am very thankful for that, and the abundance of interest and appreciation are what makes it all worthwhile.
DA MAN: We’ve also noticed that you enjoy outdoor activities. What are your favorites?
Levi Stocke: I surely do. My favorite thing at the moment is just cruising out on my Harley. I also enjoy the occasional hiking and camping. It’s the best thing ever.
DA MAN: Speaking about your riding hobby, what’s the farthest distance you’ve driven on your motorcycle?
Levi Stocke: I think it was when I rode to Sturgis, South Dakota, from Los Angeles and then back. Sturgis is one of the capitals for bike riders in the United States, so it was a trip of passion as well for me. In total, I think I rode for 3,500 miles roundtrip, done in eight days. Good times.
DA MAN: On that note, do you also like to build or modify your own motorcycles?
Levi Stocke: As for now, no. But I do a lot of work on both my bikes myself. When I can do it with my own hands in my own home, there’s no point on taking them to the garage. I would love to build one though someday. That would be the dream ride.
DA MAN: Back to your career. Now that modeling has become your main thing, what would you do if there’s a big break in music again, but the catch is you have to leave modeling?
Levi Stocke: This is a no brainer, honestly. Music will always be my passion, so I will definitely take the chance in a heartbeat.
DA MAN: Or, do you think both your modeling and your music career can still go hand to hand in the future? How do you think will you do it?
Levi Stocke: When you put it this way, it’s more ideal for me. With the way things have changed in technology and business, this is very much possible. Social media now makes it so much easier to create your own brand. Take, for example, what I’m doing right now. You see me as this model who also plays music. But in truth, that brand I talked about earlier is something I’ve established from the beginning. You can find my music, my blogs, my acting cuts, my fashion and modeling works in one place. It’s the best time to be alive for someone who has multiple interests.
DA MAN: What’s the best advice for anyone trying to work things out between two different career paths?
Levi Stocke: Find what you are most passionate about then focus on that and don’t settle. Work hard and be prepared to face obstacles but don’t let that set you back. In my case, I did not take my opportunity in modelling as a setback for my music. Eventually I find a way to work them both. If I can, anybody can.
DA MAN: Lastly, do you have any advice for any beginner models who want to make it in the industry?
Levi Stocke: Confidence is key and don’t let rejection set you back. It should motivate you.
OUTTAKES
Photography Mitchell Nguyen McCormack
Styling Lisette Mora
Grooming Robert Bryan
Model Levi Stocke / LA Models
Production Duo Vision
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