The recent YSL show at Paris Fashion Week made waves by featuring the song “I Will Carry You,” a collaboration between local rapper Old Man Saxon and Safari Riot. This marked a significant moment coinciding with designer Anthony Vaccarello’s tenth year leading the iconic brand. The show took place on March 3, 2024, setting a dramatic tone as a model walked onto the runway near the Eiffel Tower, embodying a new era of sleek power suits.
The track, selected by French DJ and producer Sebastian, has been a recurring feature in YSL shows since 2019. Old Man Saxon, known for his impactful storytelling and lyrical depth, expressed his surprise upon learning that his music opened a major fashion event. Initially, he thought the model was Zendaya, for whom he had previously written the song for the film Malcolm & Marie.
“I’m not a big fashion guy… and I never thought about making music for fashion shows,” Saxon noted. Yet, upon hearing his song, he felt its fit for the theme of “nocturnal elegance” that Vaccarello aimed to capture. Saxon explained that the song reflects this theme, particularly since it was created for a film shot in black and white, evoking a similarly moody atmosphere.
Old Man Saxon: Influencer and Advocate
Old Man Saxon is not just a musician; he is also an advocate for change in the hip-hop narrative. With millions of streams and over 100,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, he is preparing to release an EP later this spring and will perform at Lion’s Lair on March 28, 2024. He is vocal about an “imagination problem” in hip-hop, criticizing how young rappers often feel pressured to emulate the violent stories of mainstream artists.
Reflecting on his own journey, Saxon admitted to fabricating experiences early in his career. “I used to lie and say I got shot; that’s not a normal thing,” he remarked. He aims to shift the focus of hip-hop towards positivity and personal authenticity. His nonprofit, Three Things, helps young artists draw from their real-life experiences instead of relying on worn-out tropes.
Saxon has also conducted workshops in schools, encouraging students to envision their futures through their music. “Kids that listen to a more positive hip-hop see themselves living to a normal age,” he explained. In contrast, those influenced by artists with tragic stories often perceive a much shorter life expectancy.
Future Aspirations and New Projects
Looking ahead, Saxon has received a grant from Sonic Guild Colorado to support his upcoming tour across Europe. He plans to share his insights on hip-hop’s potential for positive impact at a speaking engagement in the Netherlands this May. He highlighted the contrast between traditional spirituals, which inspire hope, and contemporary hip-hop, which often focuses on mortality and violence.
Saxon emphasizes that young artists should prioritize their unique stories over imitation. “The more you’re yourself in hip-hop, the better it is,” he advised. His biggest hit, “The Perils,” which has garnered nearly 12 million streams on Spotify, exemplifies this approach, as it narrates his personal experiences and resonates with a diverse audience.
In closing, Old Man Saxon’s journey from aspiring rapper to influential advocate illustrates the evolving landscape of hip-hop. His presence at Paris Fashion Week, marked by a powerful track, not only highlights his artistic achievements but also opens the door for broader conversations about authenticity in music.
