Should a Musician's Personality/Views Affect Your Opinion on Their Music?

Separate Judgments About Music and Character

The host argues that a musician’s character and opinions can be judged separately from their music. Someone can be a decent person who makes music you dislike, or a jerk whose music you still enjoy.

He criticizes Gene Simmons for dismissive comments about depression and addiction, but says that hasn’t stopped him from liking Kiss. He also still enjoys Iron Maiden despite disliking Bruce Dickinson’s remarks about punk rock and his accusation that Rob Halford used a teleprompter. The host calls Ted Nugent’s politics and Dave Mustaine’s claim that Barack Obama was responsible for the Aurora shooting absurd, while maintaining that those views don’t erase his appreciation for their music.

He jokes that rejecting a band because its singer is gay would be just as misplaced.

Artists He Likes or Respects Despite Disliking Their Music

The argument works in reverse, too. The host doesn’t enjoy Lady Gaga’s music but considers her down-to-earth and appreciates her positive message. He also respects PewDiePie despite not caring for his content.

Justin Bieber and Kanye West are examples of artists the host sees as both unpleasant and musically unappealing. He briefly lists Bieber’s behavior, including spitting on fans and drag racing. Kanye’s boasts and outbursts prompt a joke comparing his ego to the Amazing Atheist’s body. The host also plays a deliberately crude, insulting clip from Blood on the Dance Floor.

Dave Grohl

The video’s warmest stretch is a tangent about Dave Grohl. Though the host isn’t a Nirvana fan, he praises Grohl’s musicianship and generosity, citing stories about him helping fans, joining a concert mosh pit, and leaving a large tip for restaurant staff.

Grohl’s comments about music-sharing, learning instruments by figuring them out, and making music with friends rather than chasing TV talent-show success inspire the host’s emphatic admiration.

Closing Point

A person’s character and their music can affect someone differently, and neither judgment has to dictate the other.

Personalities and Artists Discussed

Ranter in Shades (the host), Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, Peter Criss, Tommy Thayer, Eric Singer, Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, Ted Nugent, Dave Mustaine, Barack Obama, Lady Gaga, PewDiePie, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Dave Grohl, and the members of Blood on the Dance Floor.

The bands mentioned include Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Kiss, Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, and Queen.