Tom DeLonge, widely known as the guitarist for Blink-182 and the creative force behind Angels & Airwaves, has extended his influence far beyond the music industry. His entrepreneurial journey reflects a unique blend of innovation and passion, with investments spanning fashion, technology, media, and even scientific exploration.
Early Business Ventures
In 1998, DeLonge initiated his entrepreneurial journey by establishing Really Likable People (RLP), a holding group formed with a $20,000 investment. This venture laid the groundwork for his subsequent business activities. Following this, he co-founded Loserkids.com, an online platform specializing in youth-branded apparel, catering to the skate and punk communities.
In 2001, DeLonge, alongside Blink-182 bandmate Mark Hoppus and childhood friend Dylan Anderson, launched Atticus Clothing. The brand quickly gained traction within the alternative music scene, known for its distinctive designs and association with various artists. The following year, DeLonge founded Macbeth Footwear, a company inspired by rock and roll aesthetics, offering vegan and musician-friendly footwear.
Technological Innovations
In 2007, amid Blink-182’s hiatus, DeLonge founded Modlife, a technology and design firm. Modlife aimed to empower artists by providing a platform to monetize their creative portfolios, including merchandise, VIP tickets, and limited-edition releases. The platform managed official websites and fan clubs for notable artists such as the White Stripes, Pearl Jam, and Kanye West.
Exploring the Unexplained
DeLonge’s fascination with the paranormal led him to launch Strange Times in 2011, a website dedicated to extraterrestrial life, paranormal activity, cryptozoology, and conspiracy theories. This venture showcased his interest in exploring unconventional topics and engaging a community intrigued by the unexplained.
To The Stars Inc.
In 2015, DeLonge expanded his creative pursuits by establishing To The Stars Inc., a media company focused on producing music, books, and films. The company aimed to create original content informed by DeLonge’s experiences and interests. In 2017, this entity evolved into To The Stars Academy of Arts & Sciences, co-founded with engineer Harold E. Puthoff and former CIA senior intelligence officer Jim Semivan. The academy combined entertainment, science, and aerospace divisions, with a notable focus on promoting UFO research and fringe science.
The company initiated a Regulation A+ equity crowdfunding campaign, offering $50 million worth of public stock. However, by October 2018, only $1 million of those shares had been sold, and the company reported a $37.4 million deficit, largely attributed to a stock incentive plan for its employees. This financial challenge raised questions about the organization’s sustainability.
In 2022, the company rebranded as To The Stars, simplifying its name and continuing its mission to blend entertainment with scientific exploration. The entertainment division, To The Stars Media, has produced music recordings, books, television shows, and films, including the History Channel series “Unidentified: Inside America’s UFO Investigation” and DeLonge’s directorial debut, “Monsters of California” (2023).
Recent Developments
To The Stars has announced upcoming projects, such as the animated series “Breaking Bear” for Tubi and a television adaptation of the “Sekret Machines” franchise in collaboration with Legendary. These ventures reflect DeLonge’s ongoing commitment to creating content that blurs the lines between science fiction and fact.
Tom DeLonge’s investment portfolio showcases his versatility as both an artist and entrepreneur. From fashion and technology to media and scientific exploration, his ventures reflect a unique fusion of creativity and business acumen. Despite facing financial challenges, DeLonge continues to pursue innovative projects that align with his passions, contributing to his multifaceted career beyond the music stage.