Gene Simmons has always been a polarizing figure in rock, with his bold opinions often splitting the crowd. While some admire him, others find his straightforwardness less appealing.
In a recent interview on Really Famous With Kara Mayer Robinson, the Kiss frontman addressed his unapologetic approach to work, especially when it comes to his financial motivations (via Blabbermouth).
Simmons openly admitted that making money is the primary reason he does what he does, and he’s tired of the criticism for it.
“I’m okay with being labeled or thought of as an asshole, because I know who I am,” Simmons said confidently.
“And there are other people who think, ‘You only do this for money.’ And my response is — of course.”
Simmons made it clear that making money is a perfectly valid reason to work, pointing out that most people take on jobs they don’t love for the same reason.
“Why am I not salt of the earth when almost all the jobs on the face of the planet are performed by people who don’t like the job they have, and the only reason they’re doing that is to be able to earn money to feed their families and put a roof over their head? Only for money. Nobody wants to dig ditches on a highway.”
He didn’t stop there. Simmons also called out the double standard in how his work is perceived compared to other laborers.
“The building we’re in, somebody had to put up. They do that every day. They go to work, do the same thing every day, nine to five, five days a week.
Join the union or not, and break their backs and never get rich, just to be able… ‘That’s the salt of the earth.’ Why can’t I be salt of the [earth]? The fact that I make more money?”
In his view, financial success shouldn’t discredit the hard work behind it. He also pointed out his philanthropic contributions, which often go unnoticed.
“I also give to philanthropy,” he said, before adding that he doesn’t feel the need to flaunt it. “And by the way, it’s none of your fucking business who or what or where. I’m not trying to impress you or not. I know who I am.”
To wrap it up, Simmons touched on the importance of self-acceptance, suggesting that people should worry less about how others perceive them.
“Maybe that’s the best thing to do in life, is to just be comfortable in your own skin, ’cause not everybody likes Jesus either.”
Simmons’ bold stance on doing what he loves for money—and his unflinching self-assurance—once again proves why he remains one of rock’s most controversial yet fascinating figures.
