David Fricke of Rolling Stone referred to the song as "sexually charged," praising Thurston Moore and Steve Shelley's guitar and drum work, respectively.

"[7] Robert Christgau praised Kim Gordon's performance on the song, citing "Kool Thing" as a standout track from Goo.

The video focused on Gordon's fascination with 1960s radicalism (particularly Patty Hearst and the Black Panthers), and featured the band wearing glam style clothing.

Gordon initially wanted to wear a beret and carry an Uzi, as a self-described "poseur-leftist girl lusting after Black Panthers concept".

[11] "Kool Thing" has also been frequently featured in TV shows, films and video games, including Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, Simple Men, Gilmore Girls, True Crime: New York City, Once Upon a Time and Mr.