June is on the horizon, signaling the start of summer. In the United Kingdom, this means festival season. However, as this tradition evolves, prices continue to rise alongside the costs of transportation, accommodation, and food/beverages. Amidst this, Yungblud is about to launch his own affordable music festival, “Bludfest.” This festival aims to provide not only affordable ticket prices but also accessible equipment. Let’s explore why Yungblud is a contemporary British working-class hero, despite claims from some critics that he is a private school kid adopting a working-class punk persona.
Background
Yungblud’s working-class roots are undeniable. He hails from Doncaster, South Yorkshire, an area traditionally linked with industries such as coal mining, steel, and railways. This background gives him a genuine connection to the working-class experience. Music is in his blood; his father owned a guitar shop, and his grandfather, Rick Harrison, played with the 1970s rock band T. Rex.
Yungblud grew up with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition that is often misunderstood and overlooked. This led to frequent trouble in school, as his teachers misinterpreted his need for attention and his difficulties with concentration. As a result, he often found himself isolated. Despite these challenges, Yungblud managed to channel his energy into a passion for music and songwriting from an early age. Yungblud started playing the guitar at around 8 and also learned how to play the piano and drums. His parents have always been supportive, allowing him to express himself freely. By the age of 13, he began writing and performing music.
Lyrics
His music frequently addresses issues relevant to working-class youth, such as mental health struggles, societal pressures, inequality, injustice, and political disillusionment. These themes are deeply personal to many of his listeners, who often face these challenges in their daily lives. Yungblud's ability to vocalize these struggles in his music helps to validate and give voice to the experiences of working-class youth, creating a powerful connection between artist and audience.
Songs like "Polygraph Eyes" tackle themes of consent and sexual harassment, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing these issues within society. This track resonates with many young people who have either experienced or are aware of these issues in their communities, fostering a sense of solidarity and awareness. Growing up in Doncaster, he would go out aged 14 and see young girls and teens stumbling out of clubs drunk and being taken advantage of by opportunist men. The lyrics and video for his song "Polygraph Eyes" reflect how he feels about it.
In "Machine Gun (F**k the NRA)," Yungblud critiques gun violence and advocates for social change. This song not only addresses a critical issue but also serves as a call to action, urging listeners to engage in political activism and fight for a safer, more just society. His direct approach to such controversial topics underscores his commitment to addressing societal issues head-on, a trait that resonates with working-class audiences who often feel the brunt of such violence and systemic failures.
Beyond these specific songs, Yungblud's broader body of work addresses class disparity, political corruption, gender identity, and social alienation. By highlighting class disparity and political corruption, he brings attention to the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality, echoing the frustrations of many working-class individuals who feel powerless against these larger forces. His exploration of gender identity and social alienation speaks to those who feel marginalized not just economically, but also socially and culturally.
Additionally, his themes of resistance, self-discovery, inclusivity, and empowerment offer crucial support to his listeners. Yungblud encourages his audience to embrace their true selves and challenge societal expectations, providing a message of hope and resilience. For many working-class youth, who often face rigid societal norms and limited opportunities, this message is particularly empowering. It inspires them to assert their identities and fight for their rights, fostering a sense of agency and self-worth.
Yungblud's music not only entertains but also serves as a lifeline for those struggling with these pervasive issues. His authenticity and willingness to address difficult topics make him a relatable and inspiring figure, especially for those who feel overlooked or marginalized by society. Through his music, Yungblud creates a space where listeners can find solidarity, understanding, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
Advocacy
Yungblud openly discusses his battles with mental health, sexuality, and the pressures of modern society, positioning himself as a voice for those who feel disenfranchised without sugar-coating. These issues resonate deeply with working-class communities, where mental health struggles and societal pressures are often more pronounced due to economic and social challenges. His energetic performances and distinctive style further enhance his appeal as a relatable figure to many young fans, particularly those from working-class backgrounds who see their own struggles reflected in his music and persona.
Beyond his music, Yungblud is active in advocating for social justice causes. He has participated in various campaigns and spoken out on issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and political activism. These causes are often closely linked with the working-class experience, where marginalized groups frequently face additional layers of discrimination and hardship. By championing these issues, Yungblud solidifies his image as someone fighting for the underrepresented, aligning himself with the values of solidarity and resistance that are central to the working-class ethos.
Influences
Yungblud's eclectic musical style is shaped by a diverse range of influences from rock, pop, and hip-hop. He cites major influences such as Arctic Monkeys and Alex Turner, The Beatles, The Cure and Robert Smith, Nirvana, Avril Lavigne, The Clash, Soundgarden, My Chemical Romance, Marilyn Manson, Lady Gaga, Lorde, Post Malone, Kanye West, Eminem, and Katy Perry. Additionally, he draws inspiration from iconic singers like Freddie Mercury, Mick Jagger, and Elton John, as well as pioneering punk artists like the Sex Pistols, Chrissie Hynde, and Siouxsie Sioux of Siouxsie and the Banshees.
By drawing from such a diverse range of artists who have either come from working-class backgrounds or addressed working-class themes in their music, Yungblud connects with his audience on a deeper level. He embodies the resilience, creativity, and rebellious spirit that many of these influences represent, reinforcing his image as a contemporary working-class hero.
A reference that should not be forgotten is on "Weird" album cover, that pays homage to a classic from British cinema which portrays the British working class youth "This is England." (Shane Meadows, 2006)
Words Match Actions
Yungblud collaborates with a diverse range of artists, often highlighting emerging talents and those from marginalized backgrounds. This inclusivity and support for new voices within the industry reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for others, a key aspect of the working-class hero ethos. Despite his growing international fame, Yungblud remains grounded in his local roots.
Known for his extravagant outfits and bold sense of style, he’s no stranger to wearing dresses on stage. He’s admitted that wearing a little black dress makes him “feel sexy,” and he told Attitude magazine: “We’ve been brought up with such boundaries: woman wears dress, man sees woman’s curves, you can make a baby. Western civilization put women in dresses and men in trousers. Before that, in medieval times, everyone wore a dress.”
He often speaks about his hometown and the impact it has had on his music and worldview. His music videos frequently pay homage to these roots. Yungblud often incorporates cultural references and symbols significant to the working-class experience. His fashion choices, including punk-inspired clothing and DIY aesthetics, draw from subcultures historically associated with working-class rebellion. These visual elements reinforce his connection to a tradition of working-class artistry and resistance.
Hero for His Younger Self
Yungblud grew up with a positive mindset, embracing and accepting everyone as they are, including the LGBTQ+ community, of which he is a part. He has lived with depression and anxiety from an early age, experiencing some dark periods, including a suicide attempt. However, he stands as proof that things can and will get better, aiming to serve as a support and inspiration for others who suffer.
From a young age, Yungblud expressed himself through music, words, and his image, quickly realizing he was a non-conformist. Inspired by the 1950s Teddy Boy look as a child, he developed a distinctive style. He is known for his outlandish outfits on stage, including wearing an LBD paired with his infamous pink socks.
Future
Yungblud’s career has a long horizon yet to explore, but in six years, he has achieved a lot in terms of numbers and people behind it, streaming, selling, tours and critical acclaim. He not only resonates with British working-class youth, but he also has a diverse fanbase. His status as a contemporary British working-class hero extends beyond the reasons mentioned. He embodies the spirit of this title due to his rebellious, outspoken, and politically engaged persona. His grassroots engagement and encouragement for his listeners to challenge societal norms and fight for their rights further cement his role as a modern working-class hero. He paves the way for a whole new generation of artists yet to be discovered.
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