In 2002, KAWS lent his visual style to DJ Hasebe’s Tail of Old Nick—designing the cover art for both the 12-inch vinyl and a Japan-exclusive CD. It stands as an early, niche example of KAWS crossing into music culture with tangible art pieces.

The Cover Art

KAWS created the album design for DJ Hasebe’s Tail of Old Nick, released in a limited-run 12-inch vinyl in 2002. The piece was visually striking and quickly became sought-after among fans of both street art and underground music. (1)

Japan-Only CD Release

In the same year, a Japan-exclusive CD titled Old Nick Radio Show featured KAWS’s artwork on the cover and the disc itself. The design mimics a miniature turntable and comes with an obi strip—a classic touch for collectors. (2)

Why It Matters

This collaboration represents KAWS’s early engagement with music culture, blending his street art sensibilities into vinyl and CD packaging. It foreshadows his later influence in collecting, design, and pop-visual culture.