Is John Mellencamp particularly popular in Indiana?

9 comments

1. Yes he is – both popular and iconic. I doubt that he rises to the status Springsteen has in NJ, however. My sense is that even conservatives tend to identify with Springsteen in NJ because of his roots in the state and despite his progressive views. In Indiana, which is a more conservative state anyway, I think a lot of conservatives are wary of Mellencamp because of his views. But overall, I think most Hoosiers take pride in his success.

2. He’s popular and his shows sell out here. He doesn’t have a great reputation in the areas where he lives though. People say he’s kind of a jerk and his son’s have gotten into trouble with the law

   Similar to Springsteen, a lot of politicians don’t actually listen to the words of his songs

3. He was after all, born in a small town

4. Bob Seger is Michigan’s version of this, absolute legend here.

5. Yeah, he’s kinda required listening for Indiana natives.

6. Haha yeah especially the older generation.

7. Legends say if you are lucky you too can find him sucking on chili dogs outside of your local Tasty Freeze.

8. In high school I actually met him and his wife down in Seymour. They kind of stand out. My buddy lived down there and we said a polite “hi love your music” and he said “thanks” and we chatted briefly. He seemed nice enough and we didn’t want to bother him.

   I have heard he is kind of got a reputation for being a jerk and not a great neighbor. That’s all second hand gossip so take it with a grain of salt.

   He is still quite popular in Indiana generally. Amongst the older crowd he’s pretty legendary. I suspect most young people have never heard of him or it is “mom and dad’s music.” Or honestly, “grandma and grandpas music” at this point.

9. He lit a dorm on fire at Vincennes University. My husband told me that’s what the tour guide told them.

   I would assume he’s definitely more popular in Southern Indiana since his hometown is down there 🙂