The Fifties of America Are Disappearing from America

What I felt strongly during the creation of 『My Freedamn! Vol.6』 this time was that the landscape of America's Fifties is rapidly disappearing from America.
Scenes that could easily be seen in the countryside just a few years ago are truly gone. Fortunately, we can still see America from that era in its clothing, but even that will soon become inaccessible.
Guitars have long had the concept of 'vintage,' but clothing will surely become cultural artifacts like guitars. In 50 years, they will undoubtedly only be viewable in museums. Therefore, I believe it's best to experience them now, while it's still the last chance to see and touch them.
After all, this was the best, the most delicious part of America.

From 『My Freedamn! Vol.6』, p. 15

The Fifties: The Foundation of Modern American Identity

— For Americans too, were the Fifties a special era?

TanakaWell, considering America's history, the Fifties were undoubtedly the best. In terms of cars, it was the world of Cadillac. We couldn't create anything like that today. The same applies to clothing; every time I handle them, I wonder what kind of mindset they had? They're that amazing (laughs). And the mentality of today's Americans is based on that era. It was the time Americans loved most, and a time they always wanted to return to.

— The hippie movement also seems very American; was that also part of the Fifties?

From 『My Freedamn! Vol.6』, p. 13

TanakaI think the hippie movement was a phenomenon with many elements of a fad. Furthermore, it carried the burden of inherent contradictions. In contrast, the Fifties were more quintessentially American, more mainstream. There were no contradictions; they created things with pure intent. It's remarkable to think that what they did was considered 'normal' back then. You can't feel that in New York today.

— And the scenery and clothing from that remarkable era are now beginning to disappear?

TanakaYes. The youth of today are becoming a generation that doesn't know the 20th century. For them, the Fifties will feel like pre-war Paris does to us. So, the era when we talk about the Fifties might be coming to an end. And 『My Freedamn! 』 is a book that appeals to that very edge.