Gene Simmons Defends Use of 'Ghetto' in Hip-Hop Debate

KISS co-founder argues hip-hop doesn't belong in Rock Hall of Fame

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Gene Simmons, the co-founder of the rock band KISS, recently made headlines for his comments about hip-hop artists being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Simmons defended his use of the word 'ghetto' and argued that hip-hop music does not belong in the Rock Hall, as it is a different genre from rock and roll.

Why it matters

Simmons' comments have sparked a debate about the inclusivity of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the use of racially charged language. As a prominent figure in the music industry, Simmons' views on the matter carry significant weight and influence.

The details

In an interview with the Legends N Leaders podcast, Simmons stated that hip-hop 'does not belong in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, nor does opera, symphony orchestras.' He defended his use of the word 'ghetto,' arguing that it originated with the Jewish community and was later adopted by the African American community. Simmons also acknowledged that rock and roll owes its roots to Black music, but maintained that hip-hop is a distinct genre that should not be included in the Rock Hall.

  • Simmons made the comments in a recent interview with the Legends N Leaders podcast.

The players

Gene Simmons

The co-founder of the rock band KISS, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2015.

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What they’re saying

“It's not my music. I don't come from the ghetto. It doesn't speak my language.”

— Gene Simmons, KISS co-founder (Legends N Leaders podcast)

“Ghetto is a Jewish term[.] … How could you be, when rock is Black music? It's just a different Black music than hip-hop, which is also Black music.”

— Gene Simmons, KISS co-founder (People)

The takeaway

Simmons' comments have reignited the ongoing debate about the inclusivity and representation of different music genres in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, as well as the use of racially charged language in discussions about music and culture.