The Tradition of Musical Alter Egos: From Rock Stars to TikTok Controversies
By
Rob Sheffield
Slow-proofed and worth the wait. Worth its weight in flour.
Summary
This article explores the long tradition of musicians creating alter egos, from rock stars to hip-hop artists. It highlights a recent controversy involving TikTok singer Mr. Fantasy and Riverdale actor KJ Apa, who may be using Mr. Fantasy as his musical alter ego. The piece examines various weird and notable alter egos throughout music history, covering how artists use pseudonyms and alternate personas for creative expression, marketing, or personal reasons.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledThis week there's been escalating controversy over TikTok singer Mr. Fantasy and the Riverdale actor KJ Apa, who may or may not be using Mr. Fantasy as his musical alter ego.
"Enough is enough," Apa declared this week
There's a long tradition of artists going incognito -- from huge rock stars to hip-hop wildcards
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