Join Sequoia Holmes, host of the celebrated podcast Black People Love Paramore, as she dives into the nostalgic world of 'the cool S.' The discussion uncovers the symbol's origins in 1970s graffiti culture and its whimsical connections to pop icons like Frank Sinatra. With a humorous take on creativity and identity, they explore why this seemingly simple doodle resonates with those born between 1980 and 2000. The episode is a delightful blend of personal anecdotes, social commentary, and artistic exploration.
The Cool S symbolizes a universal cultural identity that transcends borders and languages, resonating particularly with those from the 1980s and 1990s.
Originating in 1970s graffiti culture, the Cool S exemplifies young people's creative expression and desire to communicate through visual art.
Mark May's trademark of the Cool S raises legal concerns about protecting cultural symbols while potentially restricting public use and creativity.
Deep dives
The Cultural Significance of the Cool S
The Cool S, also known as the Stussy S, is a global symbol recognized and drawn by people around the world. It has evolved from a simple doodle in childhood to a symbol of cultural identity for many, particularly among individuals who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. The podcast highlights that despite its prevalence in American schools, the Cool S is not limited to one culture or region; it has spread across various countries, even where different alphabets are used. This universal appeal underscores its status as a cultural meme that transcends language and geographic barriers.
Origins of the Cool S in Graffiti
The Cool S has roots in 1970s graffiti culture, particularly in the United States, and is associated with the works of street artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat. Evidence suggests that the symbol was used in various forms of graffiti in urban settings as early as 1973. This graffiti trend was documented by John Nahr, a former British spy turned photographer who captured the Cool S in its natural habitat, ultimately contributing to its recognition as an artistic expression. The podcast emphasizes that this symbol represents the creativity of young people seeking to communicate their identity through visual art.
Misconceptions Surrounding the Stussy Brand
Despite its name association, the Stussy brand does not have a direct connection to the Cool S, nor was it created by a Frank Sinatra relative, contrary to popular belief. Stussy was founded by Sean Stussy and his friend, Frank Sinatra Jr., from a surfing background, but their brand's timeline does not coincide directly with the origin of the Cool S. Instead, Stussy's branding and logo focus on Sean's cursive signature rather than the Cool S. This disconnect illustrates how the name's similarity has led to misconceptions about the relationship between street art and commercial branding.
The Trademark Controversy
In a surprising twist, an Australian named Mark May trademarked the Cool S in 2020, asserting his claim to a symbol that has been a public domain for decades. His motivation was to preserve the symbol for communal use rather than exploit it for profit, suggesting a Robin Hood-like intention to fend off potential corporate interests. However, the legal implications of this trademark can lead to confusion, as it technically restricts people's ability to freely draw and share the symbol. The podcast explores this paradox of wanting to protect a cultural artifact while simultaneously imposing restrictions on its use.
Debunking Origins and Theories
Various theories regarding the origin of the Cool S were discussed, including its connections to children’s puzzles and band logos, which ultimately turned out to be unfounded. Notably, the podcast critiques the idea that the Cool S emerges from specific band imagery or commercial branding influences, including brands like Suzuki and various music bands. These theories lack credible backing and highlight the spontaneous nature of how urban art and symbols develop in culture. The Cool S is portrayed primarily as an organic expression of youth creativity rather than a commercial phenomenon, reinforcing its role in street culture.