Corey Taylor, the iconic frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour, has recently made headlines for his latest acquisition: the rights to the legendary Famous Monsters brand. Known for his love of horror and his passion for the arts, Taylor’s purchase of the Famous Monsters brand is a significant move in both the horror and entertainment industries. The brand, which once served as the premier destination for horror enthusiasts through its Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine, will now be under Taylor’s creative direction.
Famous Monsters has had a profound impact on pop culture, inspiring well-known figures such as Stephen King and Misfits. By acquiring the rights to this iconic brand, Taylor is not just reviving the magazine but also planning to expand its scope. Taylor has expressed a vision that includes publishing the magazine, creating toys, producing films, and organizing festivals under the Famous Monsters name, aiming to bring the brand into the modern era while paying homage to its rich legacy.
How Does Corey Taylor Plan to Modernize Famous Monsters?
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Corey Taylor explained his approach to reintroducing Famous Monsters to today’s audience. One of his primary goals is to make the publication more accessible by posting every issue of the magazine online. This digital-first approach aligns with Taylor’s vision of making Famous Monsters a central hub for horror fans across the globe. Taylor recognizes that the internet has made it easier for horror enthusiasts to connect, and he wants Famous Monsters to be a “safe and connected” space for horror geeks, much like it was during its early days.
Beyond the magazine, Taylor plans to expand the brand into other ventures. This includes organizing conventions that will honor the founders and history of Famous Monsters. Taylor envisions these conventions as immersive experiences, likening them to a “moving museum” where fans can interact with the brand’s rich history. He also mentioned a plan to recreate the famed ‘Ackermansion,’ a nod to the legendary collection of science fiction and horror memorabilia curated by Forrest J. Ackerman, the original publisher of Famous Monsters.
What Are Corey Taylor’s Future Plans for Famous Monsters?
Corey Taylor’s ambitions for Famous Monsters don’t stop at the revival of the magazine or the organization of fan conventions. His plans also include launching merchandise, specifically toys that carry the Famous Monsters name. This move expands the brand into the lucrative world of collectibles, which has a large following within horror and pop culture communities.
However, perhaps the most exciting aspect of Taylor’s plans is his interest in film production under the Famous Monsters label. As an artist who has spent years writing his own scripts, Taylor sees the brand as a perfect opportunity to launch some of his original projects. He revealed in the Rolling Stone interview that he has been writing scripts for over five years, and a handful of these projects are close to entering production. Taylor has expressed that anything he produces in the future will proudly display the Famous Monsters logo to build the brand’s recognition.
Why Is Corey Taylor Critical of Streaming Platforms?
As someone deeply invested in the music industry, Corey Taylor has been vocal about his frustrations with streaming platforms and their impact on musicians’ earnings. In an interview with The Irish Times, Taylor highlighted just how little artists earn from streaming services like YouTube. He explained that for one million views, an artist earns approximately $400, a figure that is shockingly low considering the reach of these platforms. Taylor emphasized that this small payout is often split with record labels, leaving artists with very little income despite significant viewership.
Taylor’s criticism goes beyond just financials. He expressed concern over the corporate greed of streaming platforms, noting how these companies are amassing billions while refusing to fairly compensate the creators who fuel their business. In a pointed critique, Taylor remarked on how the owners of these platforms are buying entire blocks of buildings while artists struggle to make a living. He stressed the need for change but admitted that he is unsure what will happen to correct this imbalance in the industry.
How Has Social Media and Politics Affected Corey Taylor?
In recent interviews, Corey Taylor has also spoken about the personal impact of social media on his mental health. He revealed that during his most recent separation, social media played a significant role in worsening his depression. Taylor’s openness about mental health is in line with his history of addressing personal struggles, and his transparency has resonated with fans who have similarly experienced the dark side of social media.
In addition to discussing his mental health, Taylor has been vocal about his political views, particularly regarding the 2024 U.S. presidential election. He has called on American Democrats to unite and prevent four more years of Donald Trump as president. Taylor’s political outspokenness is nothing new, as he has previously used his platform to address social and political issues. His call for unity reflects his broader concerns about the direction of the country and the importance of civic engagement.
What Does Corey Taylor’s Acquisition Mean for the Horror Community?
Corey Taylor’s acquisition of the Famous Monsters brand is a pivotal moment for both the horror community and the entertainment industry. By reviving the brand and expanding its reach into digital publishing, toys, conventions, and film, Taylor is helping to preserve an important piece of horror history while simultaneously ensuring that it remains relevant for future generations.
Taylor’s passion for horror and his understanding of the fanbase make him the ideal person to lead the Famous Monsters revival. His plans to make the brand a hub for horror enthusiasts, whether through online content or live conventions, shows his dedication to creating a community where fans can connect and share their love for the genre. As Taylor moves forward with his plans, it’s clear that Famous Monsters is set to enter a new era under his guidance.
Conclusion: How Will Corey Taylor’s Influence Shape the Future of Famous Monsters?
Corey Taylor’s vision for Famous Monsters is ambitious, spanning multiple media formats and genres. His desire to honor the brand’s legacy while bringing it into the modern era speaks to his deep respect for the horror genre and its fans. As Taylor continues to roll out his plans, including online publishing, conventions, toy production, and film, Famous Monsters is poised to become more than just a nostalgic magazine—it will be a multifaceted brand that appeals to both longtime fans and new audiences.
Taylor’s acquisition of Famous Monsters also highlights his continued influence in both the music and entertainment industries. Whether addressing issues in the music world, critiquing streaming platforms, or sharing his thoughts on politics, Corey Taylor remains a powerful voice. His next chapter with Famous Monsters promises to be just as bold and impactful as his previous work.
