Stretched ears and body modifications have transcended the boundaries of alternative subcultures and found their place in the spotlight of the celebrity world. Gone are the days when such modifications were solely associated with rock bands like Linkin Park and their iconic lead singer Chester Bennington.
In this article, we’ll explore how stretched ears, plugs, and tunnels have become mainstream, and we’ll introduce you to the celebrities who proudly sport these unique adornments.
1. T-PAIN
First up is the multi-talented American rapper, R&B singer, songwriter, and streamer, T-Pain. Known for his chart-toppers like “Buy U a Drank” and “Best Love Song,” T-Pain can often be seen rocking tunnels in his stretched earlobes. While his tunnels started on the smaller side, recent pictures suggest that he may have increased their size. Yet, he retains the flexibility to revert to his original size if he decides to ditch them.
2. ADAM LAMBERT
Adam Lambert rose to fame after competing in “American Idol” in 2009 and has since sold millions of albums while touring with the legendary band Queen. He proudly displays his ear gauges on stage and across his social media platforms, effortlessly blending masculine and feminine styles and normalizing body modifications.
3. LIL’ WAYNE
Lil’ Wayne, the influential American rapper and songwriter, is still making music, with his latest album released in 2020. Despite limitations in one ear due to damage, he sports a small gauge in his other ear, proving that even a small accessory can make a big statement.
4. DEONTAY WILDER
Deontay Wilder, the world-famous professional boxer from America, held the WBC heavyweight title for an impressive five years until early 2020. Despite the risks posed to his stretched earlobes in the ring, Wilder confidently sports ear tunnels. As they say, “no risk, no glory.”
5. GOK WAN
Moving across the pond to the UK, we encounter British fashion consultant, author, and television presenter Gok Wan. He often dons fake ear gauges, setting a trend that anyone can follow. If someone as influential as Gok Wan embraces this style, it’s a clear sign that you can too!
6. TRAVIS BARKER (BLINK-182)
We can’t forget the classics! Travis Barker, the drummer of Blink-182 and a songwriter, used to wear gauges for an extended period. Although he has since removed them in an attempt to let his ears heal, his past stretched earlobes remain a testament to his unique style.
7. STEFANIE HEINZMANN
Swiss TV personality and pop singer Stefanie Heinzmann has achieved top 10 rankings in both Austria and Germany. As a coach on “The Voice of Switzerland,” she’s known for her hits like “Diggin’ in the Dirt” and “My Man is a Mean Man.” Stefanie confidently showcases her style with all-black ear plugs, defying the stereotype that body modifications are exclusive to heavy metal culture.
8. TAI WOFFINDEN
Switching gears to the world of sports, Tai Woffinden, a four-time British speedway rider and the 2013 World Speedway Champion, defies expectations by flaunting large ear gauges, even while racing at high speeds. His dedication to his unique style is admirable.
9. KEHLANI
The American singer and songwriter Kehlani, famous for her songs “Gangsta” from the movie “Suicide Squad” and “Good Thing,” has recently been spotted wearing heavy hoops in her stretched ears. She’s also a fan of ear tunnels and weights, often choosing larger pieces that complement her style.
10. MELANIE MARTINEZ
Melanie Martinez, the American singer, actor, and director, gained fame through her participation on “The Voice.” She’s best known for her “Crybaby” album and the song “Play Date.” Melanie is a fan of alternative fashion, piercings, and bold jewelry, including heart-shaped ear weights and colorful plugs, tapers, and tunnels
11. PHIL BOZEMAN
Phil Bozeman, the vocalist of the American deathcore band Whitechapel, once had massive stretched ears and huge gauges in 2015. He later downsized and eventually stopped wearing them. Unfortunately, his stretched earlobes didn’t heal naturally, leading him to undergo restorative surgery to seal them.
12. TRAVIE MCCOY
Rounding off our list is Travie McCoy from Gym Class Heroes, who gained fame in the noughties. He refuses to be limited by genre, creating music in alternative, hip-hop, reggae, and pop-rap. Currently signed to T-Pain’s label, Travie shares not only a love for music but also a passion for stretched ears with his fellow artist.
13. Zhavia Ward
From her time on “The Four” to her skyrocketing solo career, Zhavia isn’t just using her voice to gain fans. Her ears speak volumes too, both about her music and her fierce individuality.
14. Danielle Bregoli aka Bhad Bhabie
This teen rapper became an internet sensation almost overnight. While her catchphrase might have caught the world’s attention, her style, especially those ear stretches, ensures that all eyes remain on her.
15. Ariel Bloomer
The lead vocalist for the band Icon for Hire, Ariel is not just rocking out with her tunes. Those stretched ears? They’re as iconic as her vocals.
16. Samantha Maria
This fashion-forward Youtuber is here to tell you that being yourself is the coolest thing you can be. And if that includes stretched ears, then so be it!
17. Debra Wilson
From “MADtv” to the movies, this versatile actress has donned many hats. And in her list of ever-evolving styles? Stretched ears that scream that age is just a number.
18. Yasmine Yousaf
If you’ve been jamming to Krewella’s beats, then you’re familiar with Yasmine’s electronic magic. But her creativity isn’t limited to music. Her ear tunnels are just as mesmerizing!
19. Carah Faye Charnow
Known for her vocals in Shiny Toy Guns and her solo endeavors, Carah knows how to leave an impression. Whether it’s her voice, her style, or those gorgeous ear stretches, she ensures the spotlight remains on her.
20. DEV
The American singer, known for her hit “In the Dark,” has ears that hint at past stretching endeavors. Though not often showcasing plugs or tunnels, her lobes tell a story of past modifications.
21. Sierra Kusterbeck
As the former lead vocalist for the band VersaEmerge, Sierra’s style has always been a blend of edgy and elegant. Her stretched ear lobes, which are believed to be around 00 gauge size, stand out alongside other piercings, proving she’s no stranger to body mods.
22. Lynn Gunn
Lead vocalist and guitarist for the band PVRIS, Lynn has visibly stretched earlobes. While she often opts for a more subtle look by not wearing plugs, her modifications can’t be missed when you spot them.
23. Melissa Marie Green
One-half of the electronic and rap duo Millionaires, Melissa has been dedicated to her ear-stretching journey since 2007. Reaching up to a notable 7/8 inch gauge, she’s often seen flaunting teardrop-shaped jewel plugs, adding a touch of elegance to her edgy look.
In conclusion, these celebrities have shown us that stretched ears and body modifications can be a powerful form of self-expression and style. However, it’s essential to remember that safe stretching practices are crucial to avoid complications. If you’re considering ear stretching, consult a professional and follow proper guidelines to ensure a safe and fashionable journey into the world of body modification.
