International Greaser Equivalents: Rocker

Since we went overseas (figuratively) to visit raggare culture in Sweden, we should extend our European trip for this week! Our next stop is Great Britain. The crown jewel of the United Kingdom houses a similar subculture to greasers, which is called rockers. Rockers are similar to Greasers from societal perceptions, to origins, and characteristics.

Rocker subculture originated in the 1950s. They have assumed numerous nicknames, such as Ton-Up boys and Café Racers. After World War II, young people of the working class received more financial stability. More roads were built in 1950’s UK that resembled “race track-like arterial roads around British cities”. (1) Motorcycles were cast away in favor of motorcars. Rockers attached themselves to motorcycles because of the convenience. Stigma of motorcycles worsened after they were used by rockers because of frequent speeding. The media exaggerated the common rocker and demonized them. This caused a moral panic among citizens.

The rockers were usually found at transport cafes, which are the British equivalent to an American truck stop. Rockers used their bike for sport and image. Their bikes were used to intimidate others; paired with the heavily decorated leather jackets that flashed studs, rivets and skull and cross bones symbols. Rockers didn’t wear helmets, which furthered their death defying image. Rockers also wore t-shirts, jeans, motorcycle boots, and pompadour hairstyles. The style was still like greasers on account of practicality.

Rockers had somewhat of a real-life rivalry that resonates with a story like The Outsiders. Rockers developed conflict with a 60’s subculture, mod. Mods were also located in the UK at the time. Mods were known for their fashion and taste of what was popular at the time. Mod is short for modern. A mod was mostly interested in their tailor-made suits, soulful music, and a drug filled night life. Their vehicles of choice were their customized scooters. This conflict with rockers also worsened the moral panic by English residents.

In terms of influence, rocker subculture has gone on to inspire the Beatles and the rockabilly music genre. There was a short revival of rockers in the 1980s and reunions that occurred in the 90s.

What fascinates me the most about rockers is their rivalry with mods. A little drama is entertaining but to have it emulate a work of American greaser fiction is surprising. It makes me think of the question; “Could the conflict between rockers and mods could have had an influence on the Outsiders?” Let me know what you believe in the comments. Is it coincidence, or influence?

And away we go, Rockabeau ;)

Sources

"Rocker (subculture)", Wikipedia, 17 March, 2017. 30 March, 2017. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocker_(subculture)

International Greaser Equivalents: Raggare

Since greaser subculture has had a notable impact on American culture, to the point that it is still referenced in media today, it made me think of the question; “Has greaser impact had an impact upon global trends”? I was thoroughly surprised to see that there are several international variations and interpretations of greaser subculture. In this new section of Rockabeau, we are exploring international equivalents to the American greaser subculture. Today we are peeking into the Swedish version, Raggare.

The creation of raggare culture formed during World War II. Sweden stayed neutral and received aid form the Marshall Plan. Their export economy boomed, allowing the country to buy cars. While the culture emerged in the 1950’s it caused moral panic over elements such as speeding, and back seat intercourse. The subculture was able to reach parts of “Norway, Finland, Denmark, Germany, Austria and Russia” (Wikipeida). The subculture also found influence form American films such as Rebel Without a Cause, and American Graffiti.

Raggare were noted for their love of American cars, such as hot rods. Cars brands include Pontiacs and Cadillacs. Raggare fashion was more influenced by rockabilly style. Blue jeans, white t-shirts and leathers, but with cowboy boots instead of motorcycle boots. Raggare also used the confederate flag in their subculture. While albeit a controversial gesture, they used the flag because of its symbolism of rebellion.

Raggare also tended to instigate fights with punks and hippies. Raggare notably caused fights during concerts of artists such as the Sex Pistols, Rude Kids, Reklamation and the Stranglers. Rude Kids referenced Raggare negatively in their song, “Raggare Is a Bunch of Motherfuckers”. Raggare became so notable in Sweden that the national post office issued a stamp featuring the culture.

All of that is left of Raggare culture consists of “middle aged men who enjoy meeting and showing off their retro American cars”. (Wikipedia) The subculture is mostly survived by the Power Big Meet, which is the world’s largest classic car show for American cars. The festival began in 1978 and is still around today.

There are the similarities to greasers and raggares, and that is their affinity for hot rods. In Sweden, there is a low regard for people associated with the subculture. Just like back in 1950’s American when greasers where referred to as hoodlums. Their characteristics include having little to no education or wealth. This aspect is also quite like greaser subculture.

It seems bizarre to me that I could reach international readers, but just in case I have there is a question for you. Have you ever noticed a culture or subculture that emulates certain aspects of greasers?

And away we go, Rockabeau ;)

Sources

“Raggare”. Wikipedia. 16 December 2016, Accessed 28 March 2017,  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raggare

“Power Big Meet”. Wikipedia. 9 December 2016, Accessed 28 March 2017, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_Big_Meet

A Quick Evaluation of Why Grease Was So Popular in the Media

Back in my Rockabeau introduction, I mentioned how I originally tried to reflect John Travolta’s hairstyle when I was young. It was a failed attempt but he was my first glimpse at a Greaser. Ironic because even though I loved his style, I didn’t like the film and couldn’t understand why the media loves both the film and the musical so much. This time around, I’m going to find out why.

The film is based on the 1971 musical of the same name. Touring of the production began in 1971 until 1973. It spanned from Chicago, Broadway, and London. With it’s success, it was able to generate enough buzz for Paramount to create a theatrical release later in 1978.

The film is set in 1958. It follows the love life of Danny Zuko (John Travolta) and Sandy Olsen (Olivia Newton-John) against their clashing cliques. Musicals alone gain a following, but the film was so popular at the time of its release that it outsold the Sound of Music film adaption. It was labeled a fan favorite and a success. I can guess that is brought a sense of nostalgia to the older generation at the time. This means it spoke to the older generation that lived the life of greasers in the 1950’s, in contrast to the younger audience of the 1970’s who were enamored by the chemistry of film leads, John Travolta and Olivia Newton John. With this recipe, we can blend a movie experience that speaks to a wider range audience.

I can respect a story that speaks to numerous people, I suppose that greasers were just an elemental part to contrast the characters. That and, their outsider attitudes contributed the sort of rebel character trait of Danny’s gang.

Fun Fact – Harry Winkler who plays Fonzie on Happy Days was considered for the lead role of Danny.

And away we go, Rockabeau! ;)

Can the Modern-Day Public Recognize a Greaser?

In this segment of Rockabeau, we’re going to the public eye! Since Greasers are a dying breed, I was curious to see if anyone else, outside of my peer group, can recognize a greaser. I went around my University campus to chat up random strangers. I asked my fellow students, staff, and patrons these three questions below. 

1. How old are you, what gender and where from?
2. Can you recognize what I am, based off how I am dressed?
3. Do you know what a greaser is?

For the first question, I asked random selections for their location to see if it held a pattern of popularity in location of greasers. I asked for age to see if that also affected knowledge of greasers. Lastly, I asked for gender to see if that affected more masculine people, since Greasers as typically masculine.

With the second question, I asked my random selects if they could identify if I was a Greaser based off what I was wearing. I dressed as a stereotypical greaser, with a leather jacket, white t shirt, blue jeans, and boots with my hair slicked up.

While I don’t want to base my research off looks, greasers are typically known for the way that they dress.

Lastly, I asked my selects if they knew what a greaser is, to get to the point of this assignment. Below is a graph of my information

Random Select	Age	Gender	Location	Aware of what a Greaser is by historical knowledge or media	A description of who I am based on how I am dressed
1	18	Male	Indonesia	No/Neither	Casual
2	44	Female	Erie, PA	Both	Young college student
3	49	Male	Erie, PA	Historical knowledge	Typical college student
4	18	Male	Bronx, NY	Media	Normal person
5	19	Female	Erie, PA	Media	Normal person, skater?
6	21	Female	Rochester, NY	Media	Cool dude
7	62	Male	Erie, PA	Familial Relationship	Normal
8	55	Female	Erie, PA	Historical Knowledge	Student
9	21	Female	Cleveland, PA	Media	Normal
10	N/A	N/A	N/A	Historical Knowledge	Normal*

I was very surprised by the responses I got. Most of the people above who knew greasers from Media, could recognize greasers from the movie Grease. The young gentleman form the Bronx recognized greasers from The Outsiders.

The 62-year-old man had the most interesting recollection of greasers, because his brother was one. “You know the guys with the white t-shirts with the carton of cigarettes rolled up the sleeves”. He also gave me his card in case I could find a replica of my jacket. I would like to say, you have good taste, brother.

I was flattered by select #6 calling me a “cool dude”. Select #10 said that my style wasn’t too different. “American culture is so relaxed, today”, she said. Along with all the “normal” responses, it got me thinking. Either greaser style has had a positive effect on our culture for being blended in, or maybe our style just isn’t too different from others nowadays.

To my fellow greasers, do you think the public in your area could recognize a greaser? If so, tell ‘em Rockabeau sent ya.

And away we go, Rockabeau ;)

Greaser Memes

Emrhagerd, who doesn’t love a good meme!

For those of you that don’t know what a meme is, it is a cultural and internet symbol that is retold in different ways using different cultural symbols based humor or relatability. And you friendly neighborhood Rockabeau isn’t afraid to bring you a good dose of supreme memeage to brighten you day. But these memes are just random, I wanted to share with you a short collection of popular internet memes that I made myself that reference elements from greasers portrayed in the media. In the list below, I’ll give you a brief description of the meme, along with the source material of where the reference came from. So sit back, relax and prepare yourself for much wow, and such fun.

Squad

In 2015, the new meme “Squad Goals” started circulating around the internet. “Squad Goals” is used to reference certain aspects or attributes that people have or wish to have in their friend groups.

The picture above features a promotional image of the cast of “The Outsiders”.

First World Problems

In 2011, one of the first image macro memes, “FirstWorld Problems” gained notoriety on the internet, after 6 years after initial circulation. “First World Problems” features unimportant frustrations of the privileged individuals. The image above features Johnny Depp’s character from Crybaby.

The Most Interesting Man in the World

In 2006, Euro RSCG Worldwide released an advertising campaign for Dos Equis beer. The lead commercial actor, Jonathan Goldsmith, was dubbed the most interesting man in the world to add a sort of important to the beverage, since he was drinking it. His catchphrase includes “I don’t always drink beer, but when I do, I prefer Dos Equis”.

In the image above, it features a promo pic of C. Thomas Howell and Ralph Macchio for the portrayal of their characters, Ponyboy and Johnny, respectively.

Context: After Johnny kills a Soc, Him and Ponyboy go on the run. Their friend Dally supplies them with a gun for protection.

Fails

Fails are popular on the internet. Often in video or picture format, fails document a setting in which someone or something has failed to succeed.

In the image above, it features the greaser’s rival gang, the Socs from the Outsiders.

Context: After Johnny kills a soc named Bob, the Socs instigate a rumble that they fail to win.

Me Vs. You

In 2012, a comparison photo meme gained momentum on the internet. Yet another image marco series, Me Vs. You features comparisons photos or one photo included the success of one person or thing (me) against the lackluster nature or fail of it’s comparison (you). This is used to emphasize a person’s self-image as being better than one another.

In the image above, it features a photo of Elvis Presley, and one of Johnny Depp from Crybaby. Both are in a prison setting. But, since Elvis was the first greaser in media to feature a jail setting, Johnny Depp suffers an epic, FAIL.

Have you encountered any memes that feature greasers or greasers in media? Let me know in the comments!

And away we go, Rockabeau ;)

A Short Look into James Dean's influence on Greaser Subculture

In his very short career, James Dean become an American icon in terms of style, representation, and cinema. His most famous role was Jim Stark in Rebel Without aCause, which shifted perceptions of American suburban teenagers. The movie was widely acclaimed, and has been celebrated as an American classic.

To my observations, I have been very critical towards Dean. His character hasn’t resonated with me, and his look, and style just doesn’t sit with me. Aesthetically, it is understandable why we was appealing to greasers, but as I took a closer look into his character, and the legacy Dean left behind, it was easier to see why he was so influential among greasers.

Delinquents such as Jim may have been portrayed in urban environments, the film showcased delinquency among middle class youth to prove that is can happen in any social class. It was also a statement for loss of moral in American youth.

Besides Stark’s style, it makes sense as to why Dean was so identifiable as not only an American icon, but a greaser icon. His quaffed hair, his fashion sense, and attachment to auto racing hobby attached him to greaser subculture. But Jim’s emotional confusion, and the isolation he feels from his parents resonated with younger viewers. His untimely death only propelled his influence on the youth of America. He brought a coolness to the “moody” teenager that comforted other adolescents. Dean characterized the epitome of classic cool.

I will say, even though I haven’t completely swooned over Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sandwich, he indeed left behind a unique and engaging character.  

Short History of Rockabilly

Greasers are both known and portrayed in media for their love of rockabilly. Although, not ALL greasers are rockabilly fans, which is perfectly acceptable. Greaser icon Fonzie would hit the jukebox with his famous “touch” and ladies would flock to him as they danced to the genre. If you are an inspiring greaser, and have a good affection, or need a lesson on the music genre, here is some info on where Rockabilly came from.

Rockabilly is a subgenre of rock and roll music, founded in the mid-1950s. The sub-genre is a mix of rock music with blends of country music. A few people to have popularized this genre were Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. Notable sounds of rockabilly music include fast past rhythms, and vocal twangs. Rockabilly success died out in the 1980’s, after short revival that occurred in the late 1970’s. But, Rockabilly still keeps itself alive in its own subculture, based off the music genre.

Now it’s one thing to read up on music, but most importantly, you must listen to truly understand. So, below is a complied list of songs to appetize your Rockabilly palate.

1.      Elvis Presley – Good Rocking Tonight (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FeWJHUB8aU)

2.      Johnny Cash – Rockabilly Blues (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58Vk9gVxjWo)

3.      BuddyHolly – Midnight Shift (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHTWMPlobE8)

4.      Queen – Crazy Little Thing Called Love (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO6D_BAuYCI)

5.      Gene Vincent – Race with the Devil (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3gxQ1tetAQ&list=PL837D9AB011713CF9)

6.       Stray Cats – Gene and Eddie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5E_RY5g0ws)

7.      JohnnyBurnette – The Train Kept A-rollin (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtcVvWRvrIU&index=4&list=PL837D9AB011713CF9)

8.      RoyOrbison - Ooby Dooby (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-ijEWj2xmg&index=9&list=PL837D9AB011713CF9)

9.      Eddie Cochran – Twenty Flight Rock (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTpxJC4AAJ0&index=24&list=PL837D9AB011713CF9)

10.  Lorrie Collins – Mercy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXmyAxHwdPI&index=63&list=PL837D9AB011713CF9)

Greaser Icon Identities: Fonzie

Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzerelli was a sitcom character for the 1970's-1980's television show Happy Days. He was portrayed by HarryWinkler. Fonzie was an Italian-American with all stylistic attributes of a greaser. He was decked out with pompadour hair, a leather jacket, a white t shirt, jeans and motorcycle boots. And may I add, his preferable vehicle for transportation was a chopper.

Fonzie was originally a minor character in the show, but had gained momentous fan popularity and was moved up the main cast. He is portrayed as a womanizer, mechanic, co-owner of a drive-in theatre, and a high school teacher. But the most important attribute to the Fonz was his role as a citizen. Fonzie was the unapologetic voice of reasonin the show. The go-to guy for advice and humor.

 Fonzie was also an upstanding citizen, who contributes to the community on a variety of issues and activism. He campaigned for Eisenhower’s Presidential election of 1965. He learned sign language to communicate with a co-worker and helped students at a local school who faced exclusion from sports because of their epilepsy. He also fought for integration for African Americans of public schools, going as far as to accompany Freedom Riders on a journey to the south.

Besides his role as a valuable member of his community, Fonzie’s character was provided with more depth when the success of his character became a trope in the show. He was abandoned by his father when he was young, but still managed to give others humility and a father figure sense to others who needed it. Being a high school dropout, Fonzie legitimizes his career as a mechanic by taking night classes, and earning his diploma. He is then offered a job as a mechanic at the same high school.

Fonzie represents aspects of a stereotypical greaser, but a very human and success example. He showcased magical moments of humility, and his own handy “Fonzie touch”.

Greasers in Modern day Media

Since the greaser subculture is basically dead, there is not much media coverage of its existence. Although, elements of greaser style are no stranger to editorial fashion. Some elements as simple as a leather jacket, a heavily gelled hairstyle, or a “cool” pose could be on the next page of your favorite magazine. Since nostalgia is a common troupe for fashion, your idol, whether, actor, artist or model, may be wearing something very similar to a greaser’s classic threads. I’ve complied a short photo gallery of numerous celebrities and models who have modeled familiar greaser looks or have captured the essence of the aesthetic.

David Beckham – Mr. Beckham arguably keeps his look simple, but badass. With his pompadour slicked hair, a plain white t, and tattoos out the wazoo.

Lady Gaga – During one of her many style reinventions back in 2011, Lady Gaga assumed the male alter-ego, Joe Calderone. He a slick talking Brooklyn greaser, and her first experience in full drag. Joe became the voice for Gaga to confess certain elements of her personal life. She spent two weeks in the role, to discover her vice in men.

Jason Dardo – Otherwise known for their drag person, Violet Chachki. This photograph features the gender fluid drag performer before they got their tattoos. I have to note the sick pompadour roll they’ve styled their hair into.

Gilles Marini – the French actor strike a pose in this Elvis Presley inspired photograph.

Rihanna – The Barbados native walked around the streets in a female greaser oriented fashion. One of the photos from this photoshoot was used for the cover of her single, “We Found love”.

Lorde – In her “Yellow Flicker Beat” music video, Lorde featured an androgynous look, with a pompadour hair style.

Lana Del Rey and Jesse Rutherford – In this picture, the new age artists flaunt hot leather jackets with dark hair and a tough attitude.

Dorothy – There is not too much information on this newly emerged California rock artist, but she is serving a “rockbabe” look if I’ve ever seen one in this photo.

Kendal Jenner - For a photoshoot, The Jenner dynamo sported a Sandy Olsson inspired getup in this vintage background.

It's comforting to see the Greaser style in media and to see it influence fashion. I do have a question for my audience this time around, when have you seen Greaser fashion used in media or editorials?

And away we go, Rockabeau ;)