The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Juggalo Subculture

Introduction

A juggalo is a fan of the hip hop group Insane Clown Posse (ICP) or other artists signed to Psychopathic Records. This subculture is known for its unique characteristics and passionate community.

If you are wondering what a juggalo is, here’s a quick answer:

  • Fan of ICP or Psychopathic Records artists
  • Participates in The Gathering of the Juggalos festival
  • Often wears clown face paint and Hatchet Gear clothing
  • Part of a diverse, inclusive community

Insane Clown Posse, founded by Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, has amassed a loyal fanbase since the 1990s. Their record label, Psychopathic Records, extends the juggalo culture beyond just ICP, embracing other like-minded artists.

Juggalos have built a community known for its tight bonds and distinctive culture. The annual festival, The Gathering of the Juggalos, further solidifies this unity. Here, thousands gather to celebrate their shared love for the music and lifestyle.

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History of the Juggalo Subculture

The juggalo subculture has a unique and fascinating history. It all began in 1994 during a live performance by the hip hop group Insane Clown Posse (ICP). During the song “The Juggla,” band member Violent J addressed the audience as Juggalos. The crowd’s enthusiastic response led Violent J and his bandmate Shaggy 2 Dope to adopt the term to refer to their fans, as well as themselves and their close-knit community.

The Rise of the Juggalo Movement

The release of ICP’s third album, Riddle Box, in 1995 marked a significant milestone in the growth of the juggalo fanbase. The album’s success helped the group gain a larger following, and the term “juggalo” became more widely recognized.

To further connect with their fans, ICP released the songs “What Is a Juggalo?” and “Down With the Clown” on their 1997 album The Great Milenko. These tracks explored the identity and culture of juggalos, helping to solidify the subculture’s unique characteristics and values.

The Great Milenko Controversy

The release of The Great Milenko was not without controversy. The album, which featured dark and violent themes, was initially pulled from shelves by Disney-owned Hollywood Records just hours after its release. This move generated significant media attention and ultimately helped to boost the album’s popularity, as fans rallied around ICP and their music.

The Gathering of the Juggalos

In 2000, ICP and their record label, Psychopathic Records, organized the first Gathering of the Juggalos. This annual festival has since become a cornerstone of the juggalo community, drawing thousands of fans from around the world to celebrate their shared love for the music and lifestyle.

The Gathering features musical performances, wrestling events, games, contests, seminars, and more. It has been described as a “Juggalo Woodstock” by ICP’s Joseph Bruce. Over its first eleven events, the festival drew a total attendance of about 107,500 fans, averaging nearly 9,800 per year, with a peak of 20,000 in 2010.

Gathering of the Juggalos - juggalo

American Juggalo Documentary

In 2012, the media organization Vice released a twenty-minute film titled American Juggalo, directed by Sean Dunne. The documentary offers an in-depth look at the juggalo subculture and the annual Gathering of the Juggalos festival. Dunne’s approach is more anthropological than judgmental, providing a straightforward portrayal of the often misunderstood community.

Next, we’ll explore the unique Characteristics of Juggalos and what sets them apart from other subcultures.

Characteristics of Juggalos

Juggalos are a unique subculture with distinct characteristics that set them apart. Here are some key elements that define them:

Face Paint

Juggalos often wear face paint resembling evil clowns or similar to corpse paint. This look is inspired by the stage personas of Insane Clown Posse members, Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope. The face paint is not just for show; it symbolizes unity and identity within the community.

Faygo

A staple among Juggalos is Faygo, an inexpensive soft drink. It’s common to see Juggalos drinking and spraying Faygo at events, especially during concerts. The soft drink has become a symbol of their culture and is often used to celebrate and bond.

Horrorcore and Underground Rap

Juggalos are fans of horrorcore, a subgenre of hip hop known for its dark and violent lyrics. Insane Clown Posse and other artists under Psychopathic Records are prominent in this genre. Besides horrorcore, Juggalos also enjoy other types of underground rap music that share a similar raw and unfiltered style.

Hatchet Gear and Chapter 17

Juggalos often wear Hatchet Gear or Chapter 17 branded clothes. These brands are linked to Psychopathic Records and signify allegiance to the Juggalo family. Clothing items include T-shirts, hoodies, and accessories featuring the iconic Hatchetman logo.

Spider Legs Hairstyle

Some Juggalos style their hair in “spider legs,” a look popularized by the band Twiztid. This involves sectioning the hair into multiple ponytails that stick out, resembling spider legs. It’s another way Juggalos express their identity.

Wicked Clown Gesture

A common hand sign among Juggalos is the “wicked clown” gesture. This involves making the “westside” sign with the left hand and the “C” sign in American Sign Language with the right hand, crossing the arms over the chest. It’s a visual representation of their connection to the Juggalo culture.

Whoop Whoop Calls

Juggalos greet each other with the call “whoop whoop.” This phrase is an expression of excitement and solidarity. It’s a simple yet powerful way for Juggalos to recognize and connect with each other.

Obsession with Murder

While Juggalos often have a tongue-in-cheek obsession with murder, it’s mostly for shock value and entertainment. The lyrics in their favorite songs often depict violent scenes, which many Juggalos see as a cathartic release for their aggression.

Catharsis for Aggression

The violent lyrics and themes in Juggalo music serve as a catharsis for aggression. Juggalos view these songs as a way to vent their frustrations in a safe and controlled manner, rather than acting out in real life.

Understanding these characteristics helps in comprehending the unique and multifaceted nature of the Juggalo subculture. Next, we’ll delve into the Gathering of the Juggalos, an annual festival that brings this community together.

The Gathering of the Juggalos

The Gathering of the Juggalos is the ultimate annual festival for Juggalos, organized by Psychopathic Records. This event is a multi-day extravaganza filled with music, wrestling, games, contests, and more.

A Festival Like No Other

Held at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio, the Gathering transforms this 230-acre site into a carnival of madness. From August 14th at 8 am till August 18th, 2024 at Noon, Juggalos from all over the world will come together to celebrate their unique culture.

Musical Performances

The festival features a wide range of musical performances. Past lineups have included legendary rappers like Slick Rick, KRS-One, and Sir Mix-A-Lot. Detroit locals like E-Sham and Babytron also make regular appearances. Of course, the Insane Clown Posse themselves, Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, headline the event.

Wrestling and More

Wrestling is a big part of the Gathering. Psychopathic Records even launched their own wrestling company, Juggalo Championship Wrestling, in 1999. Expect thrilling matches and over-the-top entertainment.

Games and Contests

From costume contests to karaoke, the Gathering offers a variety of activities. There are also unique events like an ICP-led Sasquatch hunt, a 5K run, and even helicopter rides.

Seminars and Carnival Rides

Educational seminars and artist workshops provide Juggalos with an opportunity to learn and engage. Carnival rides add to the festive atmosphere, making it a fun experience for all ages.

Camping

Camping is a big part of the Gathering experience. Options range from Big Balla Campsites with power hookups to more affordable Little Balla Campsites. Whether you’re in an RV or a tent, there’s a spot for everyone.

American Juggalo Documentary

The Gathering has been documented in films like the 2012 documentary American Juggalo by Sean Dunne. This film offers a glimpse into the lives of Juggalos and the unique culture they celebrate at the Gathering.

The Gathering of the Juggalos is more than just a festival; it’s a family reunion for Juggalos worldwide. Next, we’ll explore the Juggalo lifestyle and beliefs that bind this community together.

Juggalo Lifestyle and Beliefs

Juggalos are known for their inclusive community. This group welcomes people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or status. As Shaggy 2 Dope from Insane Clown Posse puts it, Juggalos come “from poverty, from rich, from all religions, all colors.” This inclusivity helps Juggalos form a strong bond, seeing each other as family.

Subverting Class Hierarchies

Juggalos often subvert class hierarchies. This means they challenge the traditional social structures that divide people based on wealth, education, or social status. Many Juggalos come from rural North America and have faced economic hardships. Instead of being ashamed, they embrace their backgrounds and find pride in their “scrubbiness.”

The term “Floobs” originated from Violent J’s childhood. It described kids who wore second-hand clothes and didn’t fit in with the mainstream. Juggalos adopted this term and made it a badge of honor. They take pride in their humble beginnings and turn it into something positive.

Familial Community

Juggalos often refer to themselves as a familial community. This means they see each other as family, offering support and friendship. This sense of family is crucial to the Juggalo lifestyle. They use terms like “Juggalo Family” to describe their bond.

This sense of family is evident in their gatherings and events. For example, the Juggalo March on Washington in 2017 showed their unity. Juggalos protested against the FBI’s classification of them as a gang. They wanted to show the world that they are a family united by music and fellowship.

Diverse Backgrounds

Juggalos come from diverse backgrounds. They include people from various races, religions, and economic statuses. This diversity is a strength, as it brings different perspectives and experiences into the community. Juggalos celebrate this diversity, making their community vibrant and inclusive.

Pride in Scrubbiness

Many Juggalos take pride in their scrubbiness. This means they are proud of their humble beginnings and don’t feel the need to conform to societal norms. They embrace their identity, even if it means wearing second-hand clothes or living in less-than-ideal conditions. This pride in scrubbiness helps Juggalos bond over shared experiences and challenges.

In the next section, we’ll look at the charitable activities and community outreach efforts by Juggalos, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact.

Charities and Community Activities

Juggalos are often misunderstood, but their involvement in charities and community activities tells a different story. Let’s dive into some of the notable initiatives led by Juggalos.

Dead Stephanie Memorial Cleanup

Since 2008, Florida Juggalos have organized the Dead Stephanie Memorial Cleanup in honor of Stephanie Harris, a high school student who passed away from diabetes. The Juggalo Cleanup Crew comes together to pick up trash and clean public spaces, showing their commitment to the community. This annual event not only honors Stephanie’s memory but also promotes environmental responsibility among Juggalos.

Hatchet House and Community Outreach

In Buffalo, New York, Juggalos have taken community service to another level with Hatchet House. This center operates a 24/7 helpline, offering support and referrals to community members in crisis. It’s also a hub for various volunteer work and community service programs. The Juggalos Outreach Program in Buffalo has been instrumental in cleaning up Buffalo’s East Side, proving that Juggalos can be a force for good.

Juggalos Making A Difference (J.M.A.D.)

In Denver, Colorado, Juggalos have formed a charitable organization called Juggalos Making A Difference (J.M.A.D.). This group focuses on various charitable activities, aiming to improve the lives of those in their community. The efforts of J.M.A.D. highlight the positive impact Juggalos can have when they come together for a common cause.

Community Outreach

Beyond these specific initiatives, Juggalos are involved in various forms of community outreach. From organizing local meetups to participating in larger events like the Juggalo March on Washington, they show a strong sense of unity and a desire to fight for their rights and those of their community. Online platforms also play a significant role, with websites like Faygoluvers.net and social media groups facilitating virtual meetups and engagement.

These charitable activities and community outreach efforts demonstrate that Juggalos are more than just fans of Insane Clown Posse. They are a community committed to making a positive impact, both locally and beyond.

Next, we’ll explore the darker side of the Juggalo subculture, looking into gang-related activities and the ongoing legal battles surrounding their classification.

Juggalo Gangs and Criminal Activity

The Juggalo subculture has faced a lot of scrutiny, especially since the FBI classified them as a gang in 2011. This classification came from a report by the National Gang Intelligence Center, which labeled Juggalos as a “loosely-organized hybrid gang.” The report noted that most crimes committed by Juggalos were minor, like simple assaults and petty theft. However, it also warned that some Juggalos were forming more organized groups and engaging in serious criminal activities like felony assaults and drug sales.

Violent and Nonviolent Factions

Not all Juggalos are involved in criminal activities. In fact, many are peaceful fans of Insane Clown Posse who simply enjoy the music and community. However, there are violent factions within the Juggalo subculture. These groups use gang identifiers such as specific colors (black, white, and red), Psychopathic Records clothing, and tattoos featuring the “Hatchet Man” logo.

Law enforcement officers have mixed opinions. Some see the entire subculture as a gang, while others believe only a small portion is criminal. A report from the Rocky Mountain Information Network emphasizes the need for police to distinguish between harmless fans and those involved in criminal activities.

Gang-Related Attacks

There have been instances where Juggalos have been involved in violent crimes. For example, there are reports of Juggalo subsets committing gang-related attacks and engaging in drug sales. This has led to increased police surveillance and sometimes mistaken identity, where peaceful Juggalos are targeted by law enforcement.

Lawsuit Against the FBI

The FBI’s gang classification had significant repercussions. Insane Clown Posse (ICP) and their record label, Psychopathic Records, filed a lawsuit against the FBI in 2012. They argued that the classification unfairly targeted their fans, leading to issues like job losses and police harassment. Shaggy 2 Dope, a member of ICP, initially thought the gang label was “pretty dope” but later realized its negative impact.

In 2014, ICP, along with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Michigan, filed another lawsuit against the FBI. They aimed to remove Juggalos from the gang list and destroy any related criminal intelligence. Although the suit was dismissed, the ACLU appealed the decision. In 2015, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit allowed the case to proceed, but by December 2017, the court ruled that ICP failed to demonstrate harm caused by the FBI’s report.

ACLU Involvement

The ACLU has been a crucial ally for Juggalos fighting the gang classification. They argue that the gang label violates Juggalos’ rights to free association and due process. The ACLU continues to support ICP and Juggalos in their legal battles, aiming to protect their rights and remove the stigma associated with the gang classification.

Next, we’ll dive into the various events that celebrate the Juggalo community, including the annual Juggalo Day and other significant gatherings.

Juggalo Day and Other Events

Annual Celebration

Juggalo Day is an annual event created by Insane Clown Posse (ICP) members Shaggy 2 Dope and Violent J in 2012 to celebrate and thank their loyal fans. This day is all about honoring the Juggalo community with special events and performances.

Riddle Box Show

In 2013, ICP started a tradition of performing complete albums at Juggalo Day events. The first of these was the “Riddle Box Show” in Detroit. ICP played their entire Riddle Box album from start to finish, giving fans a nostalgic trip through one of their classic works.

Great Milenko Show

The following year, in 2014, ICP continued the tradition with the “Great Milenko Show” in Columbus, Ohio. They performed the entire Great Milenko album, another fan favorite, solidifying this album-show format as a Juggalo Day staple.

Take Me Home Concert

In 2015, Juggalo Day featured the “Take Me Home” concert at the Detroit Masonic Temple. This event was unique because it was a free concert, making it accessible to all Juggalos who wanted to join in the celebration.

Juggalo Championship Wrestling

ICP’s love for wrestling led to the creation of Juggalo Championship Wrestling (JCW) in 1999. JCW events are a big part of Juggalo culture, combining music and wrestling to create an exciting experience for fans. These events often feature both professional wrestlers and music performances, making them a unique attraction at Juggalo gatherings.

Juggalo Day and these other events highlight the deep connection between ICP and their fans, offering multiple opportunities for Juggalos to come together and celebrate their unique culture.

Next, we’ll explore how Juggalos are portrayed in popular media and their impact on mainstream culture.

Juggalos in Popular Media

Juggalos have made their mark in popular media, often depicted in ways that range from humorous to serious. Let’s take a look at some notable examples.

A Family Underground Documentary

In 2009, Psychopathic Records released a documentary titled A Family Underground. This film provides an inside look at the Juggalo subculture and the annual Gathering of the Juggalos festival. It showcases the sense of community and family that Juggalos feel, giving viewers an understanding of why this group is so tightly knit.

Saturday Night Live Sketches

Saturday Night Live has featured recurring sketches that parody Juggalos and their culture. The “Kickspit Underground Rock Festival” sketches, which began in 2009, poke fun at the wild and chaotic nature of the Gathering of the Juggalos. These sketches have brought Juggalos into the mainstream spotlight, albeit in a comedic light.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

In 2010, the TV show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia introduced a Juggalo character in the episode “Dee Reynolds: Shaping America’s Youth”. This portrayal added to the public’s curiosity and understanding of the Juggalo subculture, albeit through a fictional lens.

Workaholics Episode

The TV show Workaholics aired an episode in 2011 titled “Straight Up Juggahos”. This episode revolves around the main characters attending an Insane Clown Posse concert and interacting with Juggalos. It highlights the unique and often misunderstood aspects of Juggalo culture.

Gathering Prey Novel

In the 2015 crime novel Gathering Prey by John Sandford, the villain Pilate and his followers are Juggalos. Much of the book takes place at the Gathering of the Juggalos, adding a darker, more sinister portrayal of the subculture. This novel showcases the versatility of Juggalo representation in various media forms.

Family Film

The 2018 film Family includes characters who identify as Juggalos. A pivotal scene takes place at the Gathering of the Juggalos, offering a more nuanced and humanizing look at the community. This film helps to break down stereotypes and shows the supportive nature of the Juggalo family.

These portrayals in popular media have helped to shape public perception of Juggalos. While some depictions are humorous or exaggerated, others provide a more in-depth and respectful look at this unique subculture.

Next, we’ll discuss some notable Juggalos and their impact on the community.

Notable Juggalos

Several well-known figures from various fields have identified themselves as Juggalos, showing the wide-ranging appeal of this subculture. Let’s look at some of these notable personalities:

Kane Hodder

Kane Hodder, the actor famous for portraying Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th series, is a proud Juggalo. His connection with the horror genre and his tough-guy persona resonate well with the Juggalo community.

Charlie Sheen

Actor Charlie Sheen has also publicly identified as a Juggalo. He even hosted the 2011 Gathering of the Juggalos, adding a touch of Hollywood to the event and showing his support for the Insane Clown Posse (ICP) and their fans.

Kazushige Nosawa

Kazushige Nosawa, a professional wrestler from Japan, is another notable Juggalo. His involvement highlights the international reach of the Juggalo subculture.

Vampiro

Vampiro, a Canadian professional wrestler, is closely tied to the Juggalo community. He has appeared in Juggalo Championship Wrestling (JCW) events and is well-respected among fans for his dedication to the wrestling and Juggalo worlds.

Colt Cabana

Colt Cabana, an American professional wrestler, has also embraced the Juggalo identity. His participation in JCW events has further solidified his connection with the community.

Willie Mack

Willie Mack, another professional wrestler, has shown his Juggalo pride. His involvement in wrestling events tied to the Juggalo community showcases the crossover between these two subcultures.

Chuck D

Chuck D, the legendary rapper from Public Enemy, has expressed his admiration for ICP and their fans. His endorsement adds a significant level of credibility to the Juggalo movement within the hip-hop community.

Coolio

Rapper Coolio has also identified as a Juggalo. He has performed at various Juggalo events, further bridging the gap between mainstream hip-hop and the Juggalo subculture.

Kung Fu Vampire

Underground rapper Kung Fu Vampire is another notable Juggalo. His unique style and dedication to the horrorcore genre align well with Juggalo tastes.

MURS

Rapper MURS is known for his diverse musical influences and has embraced the Juggalo culture. He has performed at Juggalo events, showing his support for the community.

MC Lars

Nerdcore rapper MC Lars has also identified as a Juggalo. His music often includes themes that resonate with the Juggalo audience, such as individuality and counter-culture.

Vanilla Ice

Vanilla Ice, the rapper known for his hit “Ice Ice Baby,” has embraced his Juggalo identity. He has performed at the Gathering of the Juggalos and other related events, showing his continued support for the community.

These celebrities and public figures help to demonstrate the diverse appeal of the Juggalo subculture. From actors and wrestlers to rappers, these notable Juggalos bring unique perspectives and talents to the community, enriching it further.

Next, we’ll explore some frequently asked questions about the Juggalo lifestyle and beliefs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Juggalos

What is the Juggalo lifestyle?

The Juggalo lifestyle is unique and vibrant. Juggalos often paint their faces like clowns, a look inspired by their favorite band, Insane Clown Posse (ICP). This face paint is typically in black and white, creating a distinctive and recognizable appearance.

Juggalos also enjoy subverting traditional class hierarchies. They take pride in their “scrubbiness” and often refer to themselves as “scrubs.” This term is a badge of honor, reflecting their rejection of societal norms and materialism.

Above all, Juggalos value their familial community. They refer to each other as “family,” emphasizing a deep sense of belonging and mutual support. This community is inclusive and welcomes people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re rich or poor, young or old, you can be a Juggalo if you embrace the culture and values.

What does a Juggalo believe in?

Juggalos believe in inclusivity and community. They come from various backgrounds, including different races, genders, and socioeconomic statuses. This diversity is celebrated within the Juggalo family, making it a welcoming environment for all.

Interestingly, not all Juggalos are fans of ICP. While many are drawn to the music and the horrorcore genre, others are attracted to the sense of community and belonging. The core belief is that everyone deserves respect and a place to belong, regardless of their differences.

Are Juggalos on the FBI list?

Yes, Juggalos have been classified as a criminal street gang by the FBI. This classification originated from a 2011 report by the National Gang Intelligence Center, which identified Juggalos as a “loosely organized hybrid gang.” The report noted that while many Juggalos are peaceful, some engage in criminal activities such as drug use, theft, and assault.

This classification has led to significant legal challenges. In 2014, ICP and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit against the FBI, seeking to remove Juggalos from the gang list. Although the suit was dismissed, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals later allowed it to proceed. However, in December 2017, the court ruled that ICP failed to demonstrate harm caused by the FBI’s report, making it difficult to remove the gang classification.

This ongoing legal battle highlights the tension between Juggalos’ self-identity as a peaceful community and law enforcement’s perception of them as a potential threat.

Next, we’ll delve into Juggalo Day and other events that celebrate this unique subculture.

Conclusion

Understanding the Juggalo subculture requires looking beyond the face paint and horrorcore music. This community, centered around the Insane Clown Posse and Psychopathic Records, is rich in its diversity and inclusivity. Juggalos come from all walks of life, united by a sense of family and mutual support.

Diverse and Inclusive Community

At its core, the Juggalo subculture is about creating a welcoming space for everyone. Whether it’s through their annual Gathering of the Juggalos or local meetups, Juggalos pride themselves on being a family. This sense of belonging is especially important for those who feel marginalized or outcast by mainstream society.

Charities and Community Activities

Juggalos are also deeply committed to giving back. From the Dead Stephanie Memorial Cleanup to the Juggalos Making A Difference organization, they actively engage in community service. These efforts show that Juggalos are more than just music fans; they’re dedicated to making a positive impact.

Ongoing Legal Battles

However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The FBI’s classification of Juggalos as a gang has led to significant legal battles. Despite setbacks, the community continues to fight for their right to be recognized as a peaceful group. The involvement of the ACLU and the continued efforts to overturn this classification highlight the resilience and determination of the Juggalo family.

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of Juggalos extends beyond music. They have inspired documentaries like American Juggalo and have been featured in various TV shows and movies. This media presence has helped to both demystify and sometimes further complicate public perceptions of the subculture.

Grill Wizard Oz

At Grill Wizard Oz, we aim to shed light on the many facets of the Juggalo lifestyle. By understanding their diverse and inclusive community, ongoing legal battles, and cultural impact, we can appreciate the unique tapestry that makes up the Juggalo family.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious about this vibrant subculture, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights. Whoop whoop!

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