Gene Simmons, the legendary rock star and frontman of KISS, recently made waves with some unexpected advice on modern politeness: it’s time for folks to mind their own business when it comes to politics. Simmons has always been known for his flamboyant stage persona and larger-than-life presence, but it seems the years have bestowed upon him a sense of wisdom that many could benefit from. In this age of social media oversharing and endless political spats, Simmons argues that it’s high time people focus more on who someone is as a person, rather than the political figures they support.
Reflecting on the good old days, some remember when asking someone about their political leanings was considered as rude as inquiring about their age or weight. Back then, the mere idea of grilling someone over their voting preferences would’ve been seen as intrusive and unnecessary. Yet here we are, in a time when everyone seems to broadcast their political affiliations with bumper stickers, social media posts, and even face masks — yes, face masks. It’s hard to avoid political assumptions when people are practically shouting them from rooftops. Simmons, however, invites us all to take a chill pill and remember a more civil time.
The vicious cycle of online shaming and political polarization might lead one to believe that America has turned into a big, messy high school where the cool kids are determined simply by who they vote for. When did knowing about everyone’s political leanings become as important as breathing? The late-night talk show hosts may make their living poking fun at political divides, but for regular folks, it would be nice to dial down the drama and maybe not unfollow a friend just because they’re cheering for the other team. One could argue that sometimes what someone eats for breakfast is more fascinating than their political opinions.
Simmons has an interesting insight given his background. His mother survived the Holocaust, and he has clearly learned that in the grand scheme of things, slight political differences are trivial. While others might be quick to demonize those across the aisle, he’s advocating for a bit of grace. Certainly, Simmons isn’t suggesting people shirk their civic duties or ignore pressing issues. Rather, he’s encouraging people not to let political preferences overshadow basic human decency. It’s refreshing advice from someone who has seen the world through the lens of a rock icon and perhaps understands better than most how frivolously humans can create divisions.
When it comes to unity, perhaps it will take an external threat to remind Americans what truly matters. While political debates feel like the Super Bowl of ideological clashes, something bigger like a crisis might be the only thing to awaken a sense of common purpose. This isn’t about candidates or slogans; rather, it’s about looking past superficial disagreements and recognizing shared humanity. So, whether you’re a big fan of rock ‘n’ roll or not, maybe it’s worth heeding a rock legend’s advice to mind our own political beeswax now and then. After all, if Gene Simmons, the face-painted bassist of KISS and once a poster child for rebellious youth, is the voice of reason, maybe it’s time to seriously contemplate our priorities.
