Gene Simmons Defends Controversial Rap 'Ghetto' Comments

The Kiss co-founder doubles down on his criticism of hip-hop artists being inducted into the Rock Hall.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Gene Simmons, the co-founder of the iconic rock band Kiss, has once again stirred up controversy with his comments about rap and hip-hop artists being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Simmons has repeatedly expressed his dislike for the Rock Hall's decision to honor hip-hop legends, claiming that the genre "does not belong" in the institution. Despite facing backlash for his remarks, Simmons is standing by his words, arguing that the term "ghetto" has its origins in the Jewish community and that rock music owes its roots to Black music.

Why it matters

Simmons' comments have reignited the ongoing debate about the inclusivity and representation of different musical genres within the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As one of the most influential figures in rock music, his views carry significant weight and have the potential to further polarize the discussion around the Hall's induction criteria.

The details

In a recent appearance on the LegendsNLeaders podcast, Simmons criticized the Rock Hall's decision to induct hip-hop artists like Grandmaster Flash over rock bands like Iron Maiden. He also had a back-and-forth with rapper Ice Cube, stating that hip-hop "does not belong" in the Rock Hall and that it "doesn't speak my language." Simmons' use of the term "ghetto" in his comments has been particularly controversial, with many interpreting it as insensitive and potentially racist. However, Simmons has defended his use of the word, claiming that it originated with the Jewish community and that rock music is inherently rooted in Black music.

  • On February 7, 2026, Simmons made the controversial comments on the LegendsNLeaders podcast.
  • Simmons' remarks have prompted a wave of criticism since they were made public.

The players

Gene Simmons

The co-founder and bassist of the iconic rock band Kiss, known for his outspoken and controversial opinions on various music-related topics.

Ice Cube

A renowned rapper and actor who had a back-and-forth with Simmons over the latter's comments about hip-hop artists being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The institution that honors and celebrates the most influential artists in rock and roll music, which has faced criticism for its induction decisions, particularly regarding hip-hop and other non-traditional rock genres.

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What they’re saying

“Ice Cube and I had a back and forth [about this], He's a bright guy and I respect what he's done. It's not my music. I don't come from the ghetto. It doesn't speak my language, and I said in print many times hip-hop does not belong in the rock and roll hall of fame nor does opera symphony orchestras.”

— Gene Simmons, Co-founder of Kiss (LegendsNLeaders podcast)

“I stand by my words. Let's cut to the chase. The word 'ghetto,' it originated with Jews. It was borrowed by African-Americans in particular and respectfully, not in a bad way.”

— Gene Simmons, Co-founder of Kiss (People magazine)

What’s next

It remains to be seen if Simmons' comments will further escalate the ongoing debate about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's induction criteria and the representation of different musical genres within the institution.

The takeaway

Simmons' unapologetic defense of his controversial remarks about rap and hip-hop artists being inducted into the Rock Hall highlights the persistent tensions and differing perspectives within the music industry regarding the definition and boundaries of rock and roll.