New Era's Collaborative Origins and Cultural Influence With Jonathan Mannion
MLB’s Opening Day is here, so get your #CapsOn and rep your favorite team and city.
Before it was a staple in both hip-hop and streetwear culture, New Era was the official headwear provider for all of Major League Baseball.
There it tapped into the hearts of people around the country, representing not only their favorite baseball teams but their cities, neighborhoods, and the people and places within. This then became the framework for New Era’s ability to permeate hip-hop. As the culture began to spread throughout the States, people wanted to wear a flag that could symbolize the unique sound and spirit of their city, be it Los Angeles, New York or Atlanta, and the best way proved to be with a cap of their local sports team. Dr. Dre repped the Dodgers, Jay Z grabbed the brim of his Yankees fitted, OutKast rode Cadillacs wearing Braves caps, and so on.
In the video above, New Era and world renowned music photographer Jonathan Mannion talk about the history of both New Era and the MLB, as well as their ability to weave through so many cultures. We also discover the first time New Era changed the color of one of its caps came after a request from Spike Lee, when he asked for a Yankees hat to match a pair of Jordans.
Join Major League Baseball, New Era, and the 30 Clubs in celebrating Opening Day. Show your team pride by getting your #CapsOn on this Monday, April 4.
