The frontman of masked band President has addressed criticism labeling the group as an “industry plant.” He defended their DIY approach in a recent interview with Kerrang.
The singer’s response came as the band faces scrutiny over their rapid rise and sold-out tour success.
“I see this word ‘industry plant’ chucked around a lot, and I find that a really bewildering phrase,” the frontman said. “It’s ironic in a way that we’re called President because I see a lot of misinformation put out about this band.”
The musician emphasized the band’s independent origins and creative process.
“People can’t get their head around the fact that a band can be selling out a tour because it doesn’t make any sense,” they continued. “I can’t answer those questions, but what I can absolutely, categorically answer is that it’s nothing to do with this big machine pushing it. I self-produced this record, I played every instrument, and I put it out without a label. We got some friends to help us make a video and put it up online. It couldn’t be more DIY if it tried.”
The frontman made clear their position on maintaining anonymity regarding the ongoing speculation about the band’s identity.
“It doesn’t bother me at all, man. That was obviously going to happen,” they said. “But I’m hoping that over time, who is in the band will become far less relevant and it’s more about the artform. If anyone thinks that one day there’ll be an unmasking, there won’t. People can talk about it as much as they want but it’s not going to change anything.”
The frontman’s defense comes amid the band’s meteoric rise in the metal scene. This has sparked both fascination and skepticism among fans and industry observers.
Wikipedia reported that President formed in 2025 and quickly gained attention for their heavy metal sound fused with electronic elements. The band explores themes like religion, mortality, and existential fear through their music. This creates a distinctive artistic identity that sets them apart from conventional metal acts.
Their debut EP, King of Terrors, takes its name from a biblical figure associated with death. This underlines mortality as a central motif in their work. Kerrang noted that their music is often described as unsettling yet beautiful. It aims to provoke discomfort similar to the feeling evoked by The Shining film, reflecting the frontman’s personal struggles with religion and loss.
President’s live performances carry a unique conceptual framework that further distinguishes them from typical metal bands. Rock News revealed that their shows are presented as political-style “rallies.” Promotional material is framed as “endorsements” and music videos are called “broadcasts.”
The band’s innovative approach extends to fan engagement. Supporters are invited to “join the campaign” rather than simply attend concerts. This creative framing underscores the frontman’s intention to make the artform central rather than individual identities. It supports his argument against the industry plant accusations.
