Meet Brian Shaw. The person behind the clothing, the name, and the idea of TWNTYSVNCLUB.
Where the name comes from
The traditional 27 Club you had to physically die to join. TWNTYSVNCLUB is built on a different belief entirely.
"It's based on the belief that there's more than one form of death... the old you can die, and a new you can be reborn."
Getting sober at 27
The coincidence that gives the brand its second meaning.
"Coincidentally enough, I happened to get sober when I was 27, after about five years of trying to get sober. Something just clicked for me at 27."
The Kurt Cobain shirt
Based on a drawing Kurt Cobain reportedly made while in rehab: a foot stepping on a needle, breaking it, captioned "Determined Kurt."
"I can relate to this a lot, just because of the amount of times that I was in rehab and having that determination to get better. It's interesting that even though he passed, and he's one of the original members of the 27 club, at one point he was determined to live a different life."
Who it's for
TWNTYSVNCLUB was never meant only for people in recovery.
"You don't have to be sober to wear it or to be a part of it. Everyone has been affected in one way or another through addiction — whether you know somebody, or if you've been an addict yourself."
If you're struggling right now
"You're not alone, and there's a way out. As hard as it may seem, and you may only think that dying is the only answer — that's not the case. A new you can arise out of this. Kind of like — what's the saying — phoenix from the ashes."
Follow TWNTYSVNCLUB
- @twntysvnclub on Instagram
Interview filmed and edited by Lex Chamizo. 2024.
TWNTYSVNCLUB exists to hold space for both grief and celebration. Remembering the lives lost to addiction and raising awareness with those who found a way out. Meet more artists in 27 Interviews, honor someone you love on our Remembrance Wall, or find free support on our Resources page. Proof that 27 can mark a beginning, not just an end.