Gregory Porter, the Grammy Award-winning jazz singer-songwriter, is not just celebrated for his soulful baritone voice but for his unmistakable fashion choice: his iconic hat and balaclava-style chin straps. Since rising to fame, Porter has committed to this distinct look, one which he refers to affectionately as his "security blanket" and "jazz hat." It’s not just about style to him, as there's a deeply personal reason behind the headgear.
Born 53 years ago, Porter emerged onto the music scene with his debut album Liquid Spirit released in 2013, but his fashion choices have made him immediately recognizable. The hat he dons is the Kangol Summer Spitfire, modified to include additional straps across the cheeks and chin, giving it the unique balaclava-like appearance. This distinctive headwear came to exist due to his early life experiences.
Porter has openly shared his struggles with facial scars from skin surgery he underwent when he was about seven or eight years old. He recalls, “I’ve had some surgery on my skin, so this has been my look for a little bit and will continue to be for quite some time. People recognize me by it now. It is what it is.” His words reflect not only the necessity of the hat but its seamless integration with his public persona.
Even as the hat started as a practical choice to cover scars, it quickly transitioned to become part of his performance identity. “It started off covering some scars from surgery but it’s become my style,” he explained during one of his interviews. The emotional connection to the hat is evident; it brings him comfort on stage and reinforces who he is as both a performer and person.
A common sight at his performances, when Porter removes his hat, he experiences quite the conundrum—he often goes unnoticed. He humorously recounted how during one vacation, “The only time I didn’t get recognized I took off my hat to swim in the ocean in Ibiza and no one recognized me. I went back to my hotel, put my hat on…and there was Gregory Porter.” This amusing anecdote sheds light on how significant the hat has become, nearly synonymous with his identity.
Porter has also reflected on his experiences at airports, where his hat not only attracts attention but sometimes leads to unexpected interactions with fans and security. “I get recognized for the hat. They know me quite well but they don’t give me a free pass; I get fully checked and secured. There have been moments when I’ve had to sing to prove it’s really me,” he revealed, with some humor about the unusual demands of fame.
His contributions to the jazz genre have won him accolades, including two Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Album—one for Liquid Spirit and another for Take Me to the Alley. He has performed for audiences far and wide, garnering respect within the industry. Recently, he sang at the Christmas Carol service choreographed by Kate, Princess of Wales, showcasing his remarkable talent on such grand occasions.
Porter’s commitment to his style continues to resonate with fans. People appreciate his authenticity, and they connect with him through his music and appearance. He carries gratitude for the joy his performances bring to others, stating, “I’m really okay with it, and I always honor people who come to connect, take a picture, or say thanks for some joy they had.”
Reflecting on the years, Gregory Porter has shown how embracing one’s unique identity can shape public perception and enrich personal experience. The hat and balaclava are more than just parts of his look; they are emblematic of his story and resilience. Porter has beautifully intertwined his music with his personal narrative, leaving fans and followers not only enjoying his songs but also admiring his distinctive aesthetic.
