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For New Orleans native Kenneth Dabney, the words “Below Average” represent far more than a name on a clothing line. They represent every assumption made about him—and his decision to refuse those assumptions.
As the Founder and Creative Director of Below Average Clothing, Dabney has built a brand around a simple but powerful idea: being underestimated does not determine your potential.
Growing up in New Orleans, Dabney experienced moments when people questioned what he could accomplish based on his size, appearance, and the color of his skin. Instead of allowing those perceptions to define him, he turned them into motivation.
That mindset eventually became the foundation of Below Average Clothing.
Dabney’s path toward entrepreneurship also required him to take a hard look at where he was investing his time, money, and energy. After spending years supporting other people’s ideas, he realized he needed to place that same belief in himself.
He decided to bet on his own vision.
Below Average became the result.
The brand’s philosophy is closely tied to another phrase that has become central to Dabney’s identity: BIG GOD little me. The message represents faith, humility, and perspective while reinforcing the belief that the mission should always be bigger than the individual.
That philosophy has allowed Below Average to grow beyond traditional apparel.
Dabney is building a platform that brings together fashion, entrepreneurship, music, community, and storytelling while maintaining its connection to the people who understand what it means to be overlooked.
The brand recently expanded that vision through its seven-track Below Average EP, featuring New Orleans artists Willhebe, 3dNatee, GreatWhite, MaxxP, Jay Jones, and Kidd Kidd.
But Dabney’s vision isn't limited to business or music. In 2026, Below Average hosted a back-to-school car show and giveaway outside its store, distributing approximately 250 backpacks to children while bringing families, businesses, organizations, car enthusiasts, and supporters together.
That combination of business and community reflects the larger purpose behind the brand.
Below Average is for the athlete who was told they were too small, the entrepreneur whose idea was dismissed, the artist who was overlooked, and anyone who has ever been judged before being given an opportunity.
For Dabney, the phrase is ultimately a challenge.
Below Average isn't about where you rank. It's about what you do after somebody counts you out.
Today, Kenneth Dabney is turning that philosophy into a growing New Orleans-born platform—one that wears its message, speaks through music, serves its community, and continues to bet on the vision.
Website: baverageclothing.com
Instagram: @dab17 & @belowaveragethebrand
Music: https://music.apple.