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The Cultural Impact of Tyler, The Creator and Odd Future

Jul 27, 2024

The Cultural Impact of Tyler, The Creator and Odd Future

Introduction

  • Speaker Introduction: The video is sponsored by Squarespace.
  • Discussion Focus: Explores the rise of Tyler, The Creator and Odd Future, their cultural impact, and the societal dynamics they navigated.

Early Days of Odd Future

  • Rejection by Media: Early music, videos, and art were ignored by major blogs and media outlets.
  • Recognition: Tyler wins the Best New Artist award.
  • Shift in Culture: By summer 2011-2012, the influence of Odd Future on youth fashion was apparent.
  • The Impact of 'Yonkers': Released February 10, 2011, the video quickly gained a million views and shifted cultural norms.
  • Music and Production:
    • Tyler created music rapidly, often jokingly.
    • Early success despite being under an independent label.

Viral Success and Fan Base

  • Online Presence: Cult-like fan base arose from Tyler's unique style and engaging content.
  • Interactivity: Direct interaction with fans via social media, breaking conventional artist-fan boundaries.
  • Personal Struggles: Tyler’s challenging upbringing and his bond with his grandmother.

Artistic Journey and Struggles

  • Creative Control: Directed his own videos and maintained artistic integrity.
  • Social Marginalization: Experiences of being an outcast in both black and white communities.
  • 2006 Ice Cream Team Influence: Pharrell Williams' influence and the cultural significance of the Ice Cream skate team for black kids.

Career Milestones

  • Odd Future Formation: Initially envisioned as a magazine, it evolved into a collective.
  • Success of Yonkers: Cult-like following and legendary status from 2010.
  • Mainstream Resistance: Criticism from mainstream media and performance ban controversies (UK, Australia).
  • Invisible Barriers: Mountain Dew controversy and subsequent distancing by the brand.

Evolution of Tyler's Music

  • Early Controversies: Violent and non-politically correct lyrics faced criticism but didn't deter his career.
  • Shift in Style: Transitioned from aggressive rap to melodic and calm sounds post-2016.
  • New Fan Base: Gain new, wider audience with the release of Flower Boy in 2017, distancing from old “wolf” era.

Cultural and Commercial Impact

  • Fashion and Influence: Major influence on streetwear and the fusion of hip-hop with skate culture.
  • Expanding Empire: Established own record label, fashion brand, and TV show (Loiter Squad).
  • Relatable Persona: Fans felt a personal connection due to Tyler's genuine and humorous public interactions.

Reflecting on Legacy

  • Enduring Influence: Despite changes in style and controversies, Tyler maintained a loyal fan base and continued to innovate.
  • Inspiration: Tyler’s story is a testament to creative freedom and resilience against societal and industry expectations.
  • Personal Sentiments: Speaker acknowledges Tyler, The Creator as a major influence in their own life and creative pursuits.

Conclusion

  • Continued Relevance: Tyler's continued success demonstrates his adaptability and lasting cultural influence.
  • Message: Inspirational story of not letting societal barriers stop one from pursuing creative passions.

Note

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