Aspects
The term originated during a live performance by Insane Clown Posse. During the song “The Juggla”, Bruce addressed the audience as Juggalos, and the positive response resulted in Bruce and Utsler using the word thereafter to refer to themselves and their friends, family, and fans, including other Psychopathic Records artists. Juggalos have compared themselves to a family. Common characteristics include drinking the cheap soft drink Faygo, and wearing face paint. They view the lyrics of Psychopathic Records artists, which are often violent in nature, as a catharsis for aggression. Several well known figures have identified as Juggalos. These include actor Kane Hodder, professional wrestlers Kazushige Nosawa and Vampiro, and rappers Chuck D, MURS, and Vanilla Ice. (Jay: “Jason Vorhees, a WCW enhancement talent, and the Iceman. I think it’s Bragging Rights o’clock.”)
Public perception and media coverage
Because of a connection with gang violence, some younger members of the subculture are prohibited from wearing Insane Clown Posse paraphernalia while at school. There have been numerous incidents of fans committing violent acts, though there is no independent evidence linking music with violence or crime.During a recent Utah Gang Conference, law enforcers said they now classified Juggalos as a gang because of a continued pattern of criminal activity. Juggalos have also been classified as a gang in Arizona. Juggalos have denied any connection to gang activity. Arizona police officers have stated that they do not personally believe that Juggalos are a gang. As the public face of the Juggalo subculture, Psychopathic Records and Insane Clown Posse have repeatedly denounced violence within the fandom. Many of the crimes, including murders, have also been noted by Alex Abiss (Former CEO of Psychopathic Records) as being just crazy individuals finding an excuse for their actions.
(Jay: “I.E., crazy individuals who view the lyrics of Psychopathic Records artists, which are often violent in nature, as a catharsis for aggression? Where did I read that…”)
What winners look like.
“I’m a giant fan, can you come down? I want to meet you guys. I’m a Juggalo, man.”
-Chuck D, according to ICP frontman Violent J. (possibly untrue)
