Set Free Richardson, renowned for his work as a creative director and founder of The Compound, has crafted a captivating 15-minute documentary on New Era’s iconic 5950 cap. This film, narrated by former Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia, features insights and personal stories from influential figures like Spike Lee, Carmelo Anthony, Jayson Tatum, and DJ Clark Kent, highlighting the cap’s profound impact on both sports and popular culture.
The documentary explores the 5950 cap’s journey from its inception in 1954, detailing its evolution and the cultural significance it has amassed over the decades. Initially designed as a baseball cap, the 5950 has transcended its sports origins to become a fashion staple, prominently worn by rappers, actors, and various other personalities, thus embedding itself into the fabric of Hip-Hop culture.
Key historical moments are also covered, such as New Era’s founding in 1920 and its pivotal MLB deal in 1993. The film recounts how a single colorway request from Spike Lee revolutionized the cap’s design and its role in baseball and beyond. Richardson’s narrative vividly illustrates how the 5950 has come to symbolize much more than just team allegiance.
Richardson, who gained recognition through his work with AND1 street ball mixtapes, drew on his extensive background in art, music, sports, and fashion to create a unique visual representation of the 5950’s legacy. He reflects on how the cap represents personal and cultural identity, particularly noting its significance in East Coast hip-hop scenes and its widespread adoption across various cities and musical genres.
In the interview with VIBE, Richardson shared his creative process and the influences of directors like Spike Lee and Chris Robinson on his work. He also revealed the documentary’s personal significance to him, especially the revelation that Spike Lee was instrumental in introducing colored versions of the iconic Yankees hat. This detail underscores the documentary’s mission to shed light on untold aspects of the cap’s history and its ongoing influence.
