Bassist Nikki Sixx has recently taken a stance on the growing concern of ageism prevalent in today’s mainstream media. In a post on X, he implied that this issue could potentially impact Mötley Crüe’s ongoing career in the contemporary rock scene.
Expressing his discomfort with the topic, the musician engaged his followers by asking for their thoughts:
“As a kid, I always thought my grandma Nona had the most beautiful face. Deep lines and bright eyes. I always looked forward to age as a kid. But the media seems to tear down age. You’re weak. You’re over. You are not cool or have anything to offer even with all the life experience. Thoughts?”
Responses to his post overwhelmingly supported Sixx’s views on ageism. One user concurred with Sixx, stating:
“With age comes wisdom and understanding, two things that the media completely lacks…”
Another comment highlighted the longstanding presence of ageism in our culture, dating back to the 1950s:
“The celebration of youthfulness has been a part of our culture since the early 1950s. Unfortunately, it often undervalues the significance of age, wisdom, and experience – as well as the character lines that come with them. In the past, these attributes were highly respected. It’s a regrettable shift.”
Ageism is a topic frequently discussed in the rock music scene. In 1998, Grace Slick made a controversial statement about the issue, leading to accusations of ageism against her. She remarked:
“All rock-and-rollers over the age of 50 look stupid and should retire.”
In 2007, Slick clarified her earlier statement by suggesting that individuals could continue excelling in genres like jazz, classical, blues, opera, or country music well into old age. However, she believed that rock and rap were better suited for younger artists who could convey intense emotions effectively. Consequently, she felt that these genres were best performed by younger talents.