Many, if not most, rock stars maintain a false persona. In public they act like bad boy outcasts who are on the same level with their fans, but in private they live a life of luxury and privilege with multiple homes and all the trappings of wealth. The schtick works for them for them so they play it for all its worth.
A few years ago I happened to see a well know rock star’s home. It was nothing short of extreme luxury. Due to longevity in the business, I’m sure he earned it and I respect that. But I don’t think most fans realize how incredibly wealthy their idols really are.
RATM sold 9MM units (albums and videos) in the US (less than Glen Campbell but more than Donna Summer). That means the 4 band members probably grossed $13.5MM, or about $3.375MM per band member. Not bad but most of that was circa 2001. Take out taxes that'd leave about $1.7MM to sustain him for 15 years. Yes, touring and merchandise will help and I'm sure he isn't eating Ramen Noodles and hot dogs (my college favorite!) but no way this guys is worth $30MM.
Yea, he talks about revolution blah blah blah. He's a tool. After a twitter hate-post trashing an establishment that spurred his demands star treatment, the owner put this has-been guitarist in his place:
"Sorry if you had an issue with our staff, but typically our staff is awesome, and when they are not, it's usually a reflection of the customer. Act like a p***k = get treated like a p***k.
"I have to say, your attacking a small business without knowing anything about it, or addressing your problem with them directly before you go on a public rant, pretty much sucks. Just lost a ton of respect for you, and I've been a fan for years, both of your work in RAGE and your work for workers rights since.
"P.S.: Rock stars don't get special treatment at The 5 Point. We couldn't give less of a s***. Sorry.
Even fans of Señor Jackwagon are turned off once they see the real guy.
You want a true iconoclastic, anti-establishment musician? Listen to Zappa.
Like Bruce Springsteen’s “act” (not his other act).