John Lennon was an ableist, racist, homophobic pile of garbage who I’m genuinely glad is dead. He was also one of the most prominent musical influences of his generation, and captivated the entire human population with his music either positively or negatively. Unlike artists of today, however, he was exempt from having his more problematic side immediately plastered all over the internet, instantly available to all would-be and current fans.
DJ Khaled has been touting the fact that he’s the best human being to ever happen to this planet for a very, very long time. However, his rise to prominence in the past year hasn’t been as a result of his music (at least, I hope not) but instead due to how unbelievable of a person he appears to be through social media. I’m baffled by his existence. The man can not pronounce “accurate” or “jewelry” correctly. He loves egg whites. He’s a misogynistic creep who thinks pointing at someone and yelling “you smart” is a compliment, or that a vaguely rapey song with Chris Brown fronting the list of featured artists is a great idea. It’s a hell of a facade- In fact, I’m not too sure it is one. The man is serious. He’s a monster. Yet, somehow, I love him.
But why do I love him? Why do we relish in seeing someone flail in their success? Is it calming to some because we believe that we’re better people than Khaled and if he can make it, so can we? Is it because he’s just funny to watch do his thing? I mean, we can ask this question about nearly any viral star of the past fifteen years: Chris Crocker, Star Wars Kid, Antoine Dodgson. Do we actually like them? I would say it’s all of those reasons. Watching someone screwing up or behaving differently than we perceive as “normal” elicits a reaction, whether it be pity, humor, or just a simple “oh my god I can’t believe it.” For Khaled, I feel all three.
Personally, I think Khaled’s stayed relevant because he’s embraced how much of a joke he’s perceived as, and continues to fulfill that image. He’s ditched the facade in favor of becoming the facade, and while that’s dangerous in the long term, it’s what’s keeping the man relevant in a world that shouldn’t really be a fan of him.
His snapchat is djkhaled305. You’re welcome. I don’t know Lennon’s.
And to the man himself, if he’s reading this: congratulations, DJ Khaled, on your number one hit urban record Hold You Down. You the best. Stay blessed.
