Rock legend Glenn Danzig recently kicked off a short tour across the U.S., supported by Down, Abbath, and Cro-Mags. While fans were excited to see the Misfits and Danzig frontman live, a piece of tour merchandise has sparked controversy — and it has everything to do with a symbol many connect to Nazi ideology.
The Symbol in Question: What Fans Spotted
On March 29 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, fans noticed a poster and t-shirt design that featured a “Black Sun” symbol — also known as the sunwheel or sonnenrad. This symbol, while ancient and used in different cultures, has also been used by Nazis and modern white supremacists, according to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
The image shows a cartoon-like version of Danzig standing with flaming fists and an upside-down cross, in front of the Black Sun symbol. Both the poster and shirt reportedly glow in the dark.
Why the Symbol Is Problematic
Although the Black Sun has roots in Celtic and Norse traditions, the ADL explains that the Nazis adopted the symbol during World War II as part of their effort to create a so-called “Aryan” identity. It has since been used by hate groups, including neo-Nazis and white supremacists.
The ADL also stresses that the symbol’s meaning depends heavily on how and where it is used. Not every version of the Black Sun represents hate, but context is key — and in this case, the symbol’s use on concert merch has upset many.
Fans React on Social Media
Several Reddit threads quickly appeared, including one titled “Nazi merch at the Danzig show last night”. Some fans were shocked and angry, questioning why such a symbol was used at all. One commenter wrote: “You cannot display Nazi stuff when actual Nazis are in power and just call it ‘occult’.”
Another post titled “FFS, Really Glenn? This is over the line” sparked heated debate. While some defended Danzig, saying he has always used controversial imagery and loves to provoke, others felt this crossed a serious line.
Still, a few fans pointed out Danzig’s long history of using dark and rebellious themes in his music and visuals. They mentioned songs like “Bullet”, pentagrams, and iron crosses being part of his brand since the beginning.
No Official Statement Yet
As of now, Glenn Danzig has not responded publicly to the backlash or explained why the Black Sun symbol was used. The image continues to circulate online, with both critics and defenders sharing their views.
Not the First Controversy for Danzig
Danzig has often spoken out against “woke culture” and cancel culture. In a 2021 interview, he claimed that punk bands like Misfits would not survive in today’s environment, calling it “PC and uptight.”
Back in 1994, he also defended his interest in a book titled “The Occult Roots of Nazism”, saying people should have the freedom to read and learn from all types of material — even if it’s controversial.