JOIN USRockstars have always been known to make bold fashion statements – from Elvis Presley’s popular white jumpsuit to David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona and red patent boots. As a means of celebrating 50 years of rock and pop fashion, an exhibition titled ‘Treasures of Rock’ featuring iconic memorabilia is on display at Hard Rock Café.
The global tour of this one-of-a-kind mobile museum has been curated by legendary Hard Rock historian Jeff Nolan. Most of the items are still in excellent condition, showing that great care has been put into making such a showcase possible.
Iconic costumes accompanied each display – Johnny Cash’s ‘Man of Black’ outfit, Britney Spear’s waitress costume from her ‘Crazy’ video, a dress inspired by ‘The Addams Family’ and designed by Belgian designer Toon Geboers worn by Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake’s black tuxedo from the 2001 hit video ‘Gone’ by ‘NSync’ and even an Elvis Presley ensemble which he had gifted his personal valet Richard Davis among others.
Visitors can also find a letter written by Mick Jagger to a fan, handwritten lyrics of ‘Route 1, Box 144’ from Johnny Cash’s 1970 album ‘Hello, I’m Johnny Cash’ and a surreal note from Prince that says ‘Perhaps u’d like 2 join us in a mission of fishing 4 logic in a think tank’. Merchandise of ‘The Rolling Stones’ like backstage passes, tour notepads and coasters are also a part of the exhibition, which is a historical walkthrough for music lovers.
The Bangalore chapter was recently inaugurated by designer Manoviraj Khosla, DJ Rohit Barker, singer Behram Siganporia and Barkha Mahtani among others. From a fashion perspective, designer Manoviraj Khosla was in awe of the outfits. “It was really cool to see the clothes of these legendary people. Hard Rock always puts up memorabilia but these were truly iconic outfits that I never imagined I’d view from such close proximity to notice the finer details. For me, Elvis’ outfit was the best. I liked Prince’s clothes too since I’ve always admired his flamboyant style of dressing. Another brilliant piece was Ron Wood’s leather jacket!” said Manoviraj.
Behram Siganporia, frontman of local pop-rock band ‘One Nite Stand’, added, “I thought that the ‘Treasures of Rock’ exhibition was pretty cool. I really liked the display for ‘The Rolling Stones’ guitarist Ron Wood as it had their stage access passes and stuff. It was good to see the treasures of icons ranging from Elvis Presley to Lady Gaga.”The exhibition is on at Hard Rock Café till January 19.