The importance of Malcolm McLaren and his partner Vivienne Westwood cannot be overstated. These two people shaped the DIY ethos of Punk, an ethos that took the reins of creative power away from “professionals” and handed them over to the creative masses. The effects of that theft are inherent in our modern world-view, so much so that it has become all but transparent, as we now expect creativity to come from any corner. Witness the effects of YouTube, TikTok, Soundcloud, blogs and the musicians and influencers that pop out of those mediums. Modern culture is now Warhol’s fifteen minutes of fame made real, and not only real, but normal, expected.

I spent all evening looking for the right song to go along with this video. It’s important to catch the Creole-African vibe of New Orleans Carnival, especially at the beginning, now. I had chosen one, but it didn’t work with the minimalist vibe of the Dixies Cup’s “Iko Iko”, Then I thought of Bow Wow Wow.

It’s Carnival time, y’all! Throw me something, Mister!

NB: The words of “Iko Iko” are important and the quality of the recording is better than the video. Here are the Spotify and Apple links. I hope tomorrow will make the order of this digital parade more clear.

Rome : Centro. December 2022