The album titled “Hitler Wears Hermes” has caused quite a stir since its release. The title alone is enough to raise eyebrows and prompt questions.
So, why is the album called “Hitler Wears Hermes”? Let’s dive into the backstory behind this intriguing title.
Background of the Album
“Hitler Wears Hermes” is a hip-hop album by rapper Westside Gunn. The album was released in 2015 and has since been followed by three sequels, with the fourth installment set to release soon. The album features guest appearances from various artists like Conway the Machine, Roc Marciano, and Action Bronson.
The Origin of the Title
Now, let’s get to the central question: why did Westside Gunn choose this particular title for his album? The answer lies in his fascination with fashion and its history.
Hermès is a luxury brand known for its high-end clothing and accessories. Adolf Hitler was famously photographed wearing a trench coat made by Hermès during World War II.
Westside Gunn found this connection between fashion and history intriguing and used it as inspiration for his album’s title. In an interview with Complex magazine, he explained that he wanted to make a statement about how fashion can be used to glorify terrible people and ideologies.
The Controversy Surrounding the Title
It’s no surprise that using Hitler’s name in any context can create controversy, and Westside Gunn’s album title was no exception. Some people found the use of Hitler’s name in the title disrespectful to those who suffered during World War II.
However, Westside Gunn defended his choice of title, stating that it was not meant to glorify Hitler but rather shed light on how fashion can be used as propaganda. He also pointed out that other artists such as Jay-Z had referenced Hitler in their lyrics without receiving similar backlash.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the album “Hitler Wears Hermes” by Westside Gunn was named after the infamous photograph of Adolf Hitler wearing a trench coat made by the luxury brand Hermès. The title was intended to draw attention to how fashion can be used as propaganda and not to glorify Hitler or his ideologies. While it may have stirred up controversy, the album’s title successfully sparked a conversation about the power of fashion and its impact on society.