Machine Gun Kelly, known for his music and style, has recently faced criticism over his new signature guitar design. The Schecter Guitars’ release of the Machine Gun Kelly Razor Blade has caused an uproar, with many expressing concerns that the design may potentially promote self-harm, particularly among impressionable young people.
Key Takeaway
Machine Gun Kelly’s new signature guitar, the Razor Blade, has sparked controversy due to its design, with critics expressing concerns that it may promote self-harm. The response from both Machine Gun Kelly and Schecter Guitars reflects the ongoing debate surrounding the interpretation of art and its potential impact on the audience.
Controversial Design
The guitar’s razor blade design has sparked widespread backlash, as critics argue that it glorifies and advocates cutting, a behavior often associated with self-harm. Given the stereotype about fans of pop-punk/emo rock engaging in self-harm, the association with Machine Gun Kelly’s music has further fueled the controversy surrounding the guitar’s design.
Following the release of the guitar, Schecter Guitars’ Instagram post introducing the new MGK signature instrument has been inundated with negative comments, with many labeling it as the company’s most poorly received offering to date.
Response and Interpretation
Machine Gun Kelly addressed the criticism during a recent performance, explaining that the guitar is “kind of an ode to Tickets To My Downfall, the line on title track and also an ode to my 20s and all the crazy times that I had.” Despite his explanation, the design continues to be interpreted as promoting cutting, even if indirectly.
In response to the backlash, Machine Gun Kelly expressed his stance on the interpretation of his art, stating, “I’ll never explain my art because art is conversational and always up for interpretation, but I will say, most of you constantly interpret it wrong.”
Impact on Sales
The negative feedback appears to have impacted the sale price of the Razor Blade guitar. Initially listed at $2,169, the price has already been reduced to $1,499, marking a significant $700 reduction. This reduction may reflect the company’s attempt to address the concerns raised by potential customers and the public.
Notably, the Razor Blade is Machine Gun Kelly’s second signature guitar from Schecter, with his first, the Machine Gun Kelly Signature Pink PT Electric Guitar, receiving significantly less controversy.
