Maynard James Keenan Explains The Meaning Behind His Stage Costumes

During a recent appearance on Kyle Meredith With…, Maynard James Keenan explained his choice to wear stage costumes.

He mentioned that it’s partly about expressing oneself and addressing insecurities. “It’s a different voice but it’s also as Les [Claypool] said, it stems initially from an insecurity of just being able to express yourself and having some kind of a something to hide behind a little bit while you’re trying to figure out who the f*ck you are on that stage,” he said when asked if the costumes serve for entertainment or for stepping outside of oneself.

He added, “Then it just kind of becomes a thing you do because you end up finding that. We’re trying to work some sh*t out as musicians or artists but we’re also up there to entertain. So I think it helps to put the costume on to remind myself I’m there to entertain and not just work through some weird daddy issues.”

Keenan enjoys wearing various costumes and makeup during live performances. Last year, at the Welcome to Rockville Festival, he donned a blonde wig, lipstick, and a tight top that showcased his prosthetic breasts.

While many believed his outfit was a reaction to recent laws by Governor Ron DeSantis banning minors from drag shows, Keenan clarified that his choice was personal rather than political. He told The Messenger, “I’ve been cross-dressing since long before these clickbait-junkie dupes were out of diapers.” Known for his striking makeup and costumes since the late 1990s, he mentioned shopping online for new stage breasts.

Keenan expressed excitement about the advancements in prosthetic technology, saying, “It’s pretty crazy the technology and the prosthetics nowadays, how they’ve come along, and I just was considering bringing the look back. And that’s really all there is to it. I’m not a political fella — had nothing to do with Florida.”

Keenan will return to perform with Tool in March 2025 at Melia Caribe Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

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