S.O.S. Tan Fashion (Emergency!)
Kevin Johansen
The Illusion of Fashion: A Critique of Modern Vanity
Kevin Johansen's song "S.O.S. Tan Fashion (Emergency!)" is a satirical critique of contemporary society's obsession with fashion and superficial trends. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is so engrossed in staying fashionable and trendy that they miss out on the more meaningful aspects of life. The repeated phrase "Sos tan fashion" (You're so fashionable) underscores the superficiality of the subject's existence, highlighting how their constant pursuit of the latest trends has led them to lose touch with genuine human connections and experiences. The line "No te querés perder nada y te perdiste de todo" (You don't want to miss anything and you missed everything) poignantly captures this paradox.
Johansen also delves into the emptiness that accompanies this relentless chase for social validation. The subject is described as being surrounded by people yet profoundly alone, as seen in the lines "Sos tan fashion, siempre en buena compañía / Que ni te diste cuenta, que te perdiste la mía" (You're so fashionable, always in good company / That you didn't even realize you lost mine). This highlights the irony of being 'in' and 'trendy' while simultaneously feeling isolated and disconnected. The song's chorus, with its repetitive "It’s okay, it’s okay. Está bien," adds a layer of resigned acceptance, suggesting that this superficial lifestyle is both a choice and a trap.
The song also touches on the broader societal implications of this obsession with appearance. Johansen points out the uniformity and lack of individuality that comes with following trends, as seen in the lines "Todos, de blanco! Ahora todos, de azul! / Mañana, todo amarillo!" (Everyone, in white! Now everyone, in blue! / Tomorrow, all yellow!). This critique extends to the idea that modernity and progress, often symbolized by fashion, can be regressive and outdated, as indicated by the line "Y tu 'moderno' es tan antiguo!" (And your 'modern' is so old!). The song ultimately serves as a call to recognize the emptiness of a life lived solely for appearances and to seek deeper, more meaningful connections and experiences.