Famous Performers Who Rock In Kilt
Wearing kilts is not just a fashion choice but also signifies wearing a sacred national costume, serving as a declaration of Scottish legacy. Hard rock stars have embraced kilts as part of their personal style, reflecting a fusion of tradition and modernity. The act of these rock stars wearing kilts may serve as a phase outfit or a proclamation of their Scottish heritage, emphasizing the dual nature of kilts as a style statement and a cultural symbol. Let’s explore how hard rock stars are shaking the stage while wearing their legacy.
Jonathan Howsmon Davis
Jonathan Howson Davis, also known as JD or JDevil, is an American singer, songwriter & musician born on January 18, 1971, in California, boasts a diverse heritage of English, German, Scottish, and Welsh roots. He attended high school in Highland, where he faced criticism and bullying for his personal style choices, including wearing baggy clothes, eyeliner, and listening to new wave music. Davis is the lead vocalist and front man of nu metal band Korn, which is considered a pioneering act of the nu metal genre. He is also an iconic Scottish bagpipe player and wears the kilt skirt not just as a costume but as a representation of his legacy. Davis has revealed emotional ties to the music he plays, emphasizing its personal significance.
Corey Taylor
Corey Taylor, born on December 8, 1973, is an American musician, songwriter, author & actor. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band Slipknot and the sole continuous member of Stone Sour. Taylor co-founded Stone Sour in 1992 and joined Slipknot in 1997, replacing the original lead singer. His musical journey includes releasing seven studio albums with Slipknot, reviving Stone Sour in 2002, and debuting his solo studio album, “CMFT,” in 2020, followed by “CMF2” in 2023. As for his modern kilts, it seems that he wears it for specific shows, possibly as part of his stage persona, and it may not be a custom Slipknot tartan.
Zakk Wylde
Zakk Wylde, born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, is a renowned lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and the lead singer of a heavy metal band. In 2006, he was honored with imprints on the Hollywood Rock Walk of Fame. Known for his signature kilt, symbolizing a warrior spirit, Wylde adopted this style after observing people in Seattle and seeing men’s kilts in stores. In an interview, he mentioned that the inspiration for wearing a kilt came from observing Seattle’s fashion scene. Despite having no direct association with the Highlands, Wylde’s kilt has become a distinctive part of his fashion identity.
Madonna
Madonna Louise Ciccone, born on August 16, 1958, is the iconic American “Queen of Pop.” Renowned for her constant reinvention and versatility in music, she controls every aspect of her career. Madonna’s works, exploring social, political, sexual, and religious themes, generate both controversy and critical acclaim, making her the best-selling female recording artist globally, with over 300 million records sold. Beyond music, she founded Maverick Records, engaged in fashion, health clubs, and filmmaking, advocating for gender equality and LGBT rights. Madonna’s journey began in rock bands, achieving solo stardom in 1983. Chart-topping singles include “Like a Virgin,” “Vogue,” and “4 Minutes.” She also excelled in films like “Desperately Seeking Susan” and “Evita,” winning a Golden Globe. Madonna has worn a kilt on several occasions, including in her “Like a Virgin” music video and during her “Blond Ambition” tour.
Axl Rose
Axl Rose, born on Feb 6, 1962, is an American performer, vocalist, musician, and record producer, known for his powerful voice and global recognition as the lead singer of Guns N’ Roses. He has Scots-Irish heritage on his father’s side and is acclaimed for his innovative stage presence. Axl Rose wears a kilt as a tribute to his Scottish heritage and to challenge gender norms, representing his pride in his roots and unique style. He started wearing kilts in the early 1990s, borrowing the look from Mike Patton. His fascination with Scottish culture and fashion is evident in his wardrobe choices, showcasing his appreciation for his ancestral lineage.
Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber, born on March 1, 1994, in London, Ontario, Canada, was discovered by Scooter Braun in 2007 and signed with RBMG Records in 2008. He achieved early success with his debut EP “My World” (2009) and studio album “My World 2.0” (2010), notably with the international hit “Baby.” Despite facing controversies from 2013–14, he explored various genres, from pop and dance-pop to EDM and R&B, releasing successful albums like “Purpose,” “Changes,” and “Justice.” In 2016, during a concert in Glasgow, Bieber wore a kilt, designed by Scottish designer Siobhan MacKenzie, as a nod to Scottish tradition, delighting his fans.
Post Malone
Post Malone, whose real name is Austin Richard Post, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter born on July 4, 1995, in Syracuse, New York. He was raised in Grapevine, Texas, where his father, a former DJ, exposed him to various music genres. Malone’s interest in guitar started with the video game Guitar Hero. He adopted the stage name “Post Malone” using a rap name generator around the age of 14 or 15. He released his first mixtape, “Young and After Them Riches,” at 16 and signed a recording contract with Republic Records in August 2015 after the success of “White Iverson.” Malone’s music spans hip-hop, pop-rap, pop, R&B, trap, rap rock, and cloud rap. He is known for his versatile style that defies specific genres. In terms of his fashion, he has been seen wearing a kilt on occasion, but the reason for this is unclear.
Ban Scott of AC/DC
AC/DC, formed in 1973 by Scottish brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, gained international fame with lead singer Bon Scott, known for his working-class style and blues-rock sound. The band’s name, inspired by the AC adapter symbol on a sewing machine, symbolized raw energy. Scott, a charismatic frontman, often wore a kilt during performances. The band’s success peaked with albums like “High Voltage” and “Back in Black.” Scott’s untimely death in 1980 occurred during the making of “Back in Black,” one of their most successful albums. The kilt was part of Scott’s iconic stage persona, reflecting his Scottish heritage and adding to the band’s unique image.
Jack White
Jack White, born John Anthony White on July 9, 1975, in Detroit, is an American multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, singer, and producer. He is renowned as the lead vocalist and guitarist of The White Stripes, credited for reviving “garage rock” in the 2000s. His mother’s family is Polish, and his father’s is Scottish-Canadian, leading to questions about whether his style is a cultural legacy or an alternative fashion statement. Jack White’s Scottish heritage is evident in his occasional wearing of a kilt, as he is half Scottish and a MacPherson descendant. This connection to his Scottish roots likely influences his choice to wear a kilt.
Skiltron
Skiltron is an Argentine folk metal band founded in Buenos Aires in 2004 by Emilio Souto. The band is known for its unique fusion of heavy metal and Celtic music, a style more common in Europe, and for incorporating bagpipes into their music, adding a distinctive touch to their sound. The band’s name, “Skiltron,” is derived from a variation of the word “children,” used by the Scottish during the Wars of Independence. Skiltron’s impactful presence in the metal scene sets them apart, contributing to the global diversity of metal music with regional influences. They incorporate the kilt into their stage attire, adding a unique visual element to their performances. The band’s choice to wear kilts may be seen as a declaration of Scottish legacy, adding to the visual and cultural appeal of their performances.
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden is a prominent English heavy metal band formed in 1975 in Layton, East London, by bassist Steve Harris. The band is known for its historical themes, creating songs based on historical events and characters, and its enduring presence in the music industry. Iron Maiden’s work extends beyond music, influencing cultural narratives through their themed compositions. The song “The Clansman” depicts Highlanders defending their property against the English, contributing to the portrayal of Scottish culture and their fight for freedom. The band’s mascot, Eddie, is depicted wearing a kilt in the artwork for the song “The Clansman”. The kilt represents the band’s interest in Scottish culture and historical themes.
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FAQs
What is the history of kilts in Scottish culture?
Kilts have been a part of Scottish culture for centuries, with the earliest known reference dating back to the 16th century. They were originally worn as full-length garments but evolved into the modern kilt in the 18th century. Kilts were traditionally worn by men as a symbol of Scottish pride and identity and were often made from tartan fabric that represented a particular clan or region.
Do kilts hold any symbolic meaning for rock stars who wear them?
Kilts can symbolize various things for rock stars, such as a rejection of conventional norms, a celebration of individuality, or a connection to Celtic heritage. Each artist may attribute their own unique meaning to wearing a kilt, contributing to the rich tapestry of symbols and expressions in the world of rock music.
What is the significance of wearing a kilt for rock stars?
Wearing a kilt for rock stars is a way to challenge gender norms and embrace nonconformity. It represents a rebellion against conformity and encourages self-expression without limitations. It also carries symbolic meaning that resonates with both the artist and their fans.
Why do some rock bands incorporate kilts into their stage attire?
Some rock bands incorporate kilts into their stage attire as a declaration of Scottish legacy, adding to the visual and cultural appeal of their performances. It also adds a unique visual element to their performances, contributing to the global diversity of metal music with regional influences.
How can I incorporate a kilt into my wardrobe?
If you’re interested in incorporating a kilt into your wardrobe, there are many options available. Consider Fashion Kilt for a curated kilt sale to discover high-quality options that align with your fashion preferences. You can choose from traditional tartan kilts, leather kilts, denim kilts, and more. Kilts can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and can be paired with a variety of tops and accessories. It’s important to choose a kilt that fits well and is made from high-quality materials to ensure comfort and durability.