“But New York cares me…” a lyric snippet from the rock band Interpol’s song titled “NYC” evokes a depiction of this city. Beyond its magnificence, there are inevitable dark sides. Interpol, a beloved band originating from Manhattan, New York, accurately captured this reality in their music.
The MRT that smells musty reflects the anxiety of young people living in big cities about poorly maintained urban facilities. Interpol was born in the midst of a rapidly growing city surrounded by ‘concrete jungles’. Dirty bridges and many neglected homeless people. This unrest colors Interpol’s music in the song “NYC”. This song is very apt to represent their dirty city.
The atmosphere in New York City truly feels distinctive the moment you set foot here. Unlike trips in Europe or elsewhere, New York is full of hustle and bustle. This renowned metropolis, known by its 911, feels vibrant especially with the constant presence of the NYPD (New York City Police Department) navigating through the city noise. Anyone would turn their head; could this be one of the forms of entertainment offered here?
New York is a dream city that profoundly embodies freedom and the opportunity to dream of becoming anything we desire. Success is tangible and achievable for its residents. Some dream of becoming musicians, while others aspire to be bankers. This is what is referred to as the American Dream, a narrative that can transform anyone’s life given passion, hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck.
Some come to New York to seek their fortune through work, while others come to enjoy the city as tourists. However, this journey is planned with a slower pace. Without expectations, leisurely exploring places that are part of young American culture.
EXPLORING NYC’S YOUTH CULTURAL HUBS: FROM ICONIC TO HYPEBEAST
Musicians Jay Z and Alicia Keys, famous for their song “Empire State of Mind,” once performed live in Times Square, NYC, one of the bustling hubs of youth culture. The atmosphere was captivating, imagining oneself as if actually being there witnessing their performance. It’s no wonder this iconic place has become a tourist destination for people from all over the world, with its glittering lights and the grandeur of its buildings.
And then, there’s the moment to visit the Rough Trade record label, renowned for producing many great bands such as The Smiths, Morrissey, and Warpaint. Delving deeper into this record label’s history would be insightful. While strolling, memories of the film “Wall Street” come to mind, prompting a visit to the Charging Bull, inspired by the movie. Enjoying these experiences and immersing oneself in the surrounding culture would be truly enriching.
Jumping to Supreme New York, which has come to represent and be a significant part of global youth hypebeast culture. The concept captivates attention, from the architectural design of its locations to the embodiment of its fashion style. American youth do not exhibit an exaggerated reaction to this hypebeast brand; it’s not impulsive or driven solely by FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
Supreme New York, NOAH, Dover Street Market are places that serve as hubs for hypebeast culture. Many famous brands are present there, and these brands are highly admired by young people in Indonesia as well. This world of cultural scenes prompts me to reflect more deeply on the lives of young people. Here, young people are not influenced by FOMO; their purchases are based on genuine needs.
WHERE IS AMERICAN GEN Z?
While exploring various youth-centric places in America known for their strong culture, it’s been difficult to find significant participation from Generation Z in these spaces. Despite the availability of activities like live gigs, venues, and bands, they don’t seem as appealing to Generation Z Americans. Based on interactions and observations, the majority of attendees are more often millennials.
Similarly, when visiting Katz’s Delicatessen, a famous restaurant that has been iconic across generations and has inspired many dining places in Indonesia, it’s also rare to see Generation Z in attendance. Despite its fame and historical significance, culinary centers like this don’t seem to attract Generation Z Americans as a regular hangout spot.
Is Gen Z creating specific public spaces for their own generation by choosing to separate themselves from older generations and preferring to engage in activities they define themselves? Or is there also a generational gap in this city like in Indonesia, where the post-pandemic generation (Indonesian Youth) spends a lot of time on social media, especially TikTok, which they see as a comfortable public space for Gen Z?
Certainly, it will be fascinating to see how they will contribute to the city, and their own lives, and participate in American youth culture.