The Rose Tattoo is a powerful symbol, rich with meaning and history, making it a popular choice in tattoo culture. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rose carries deep symbolism, often representing love, beauty, and passion. For some, the rose tattoo holds an even more personal significance, intertwined with memories and stories. This is certainly the case for Butch Myers, who not only sports an impressive rose tattoo but also found himself featured in the music video for the Dropkick Murphys’ iconic song, “Rose Tattoo.”
Released in 2012 as the lead single from their album “Signed and Sealed in Blood,” “Rose Tattoo” resonated deeply with fans. A year later, a version featuring Bruce Springsteen was released to support relief efforts after the Boston Marathon bombings, further cementing the song’s impact. The song itself, and the rose tattoo imagery, are deeply personal for the band. Dropkick Murphys’ bassist and singer, Ken Casey, also bears a rose tattoo as a tribute to his grandfather. Casey explained to NPR in 2013 that his grandfather, a significant influence in his life, inspired the tattoo as a constant reminder of strength and inspiration.
The official music video for “Rose Tattoo” visually brought the song to life, incorporating Casey’s personal tattoo and, notably, the striking rose tattoo worn by Butch Myers. We had the opportunity to delve into the story behind Butch’s tattoo and his unexpected appearance in the music video.
What inspired you to get your rose tattoo?
Butch: My tattoo artist, Freddie Wadsworth, from Silver Shamrock Tattoo, is a huge Dropkick Murphys fan. He knew about their new song “Rose Tattoo” and that they were looking for people with Dropkick Murphys rose tattoos to potentially feature in their album artwork. Freddie reached out, asking if I’d be interested in getting a rose tattoo for the opportunity.
Freddie contacted me and presented the idea of getting an awesome Dropkick Murphys tattoo. Of course, I was immediately on board. Time was tight with the submission deadline approaching, so we completed the tattoo in two sessions. The first session focused on the outline and some shading to meet the deadline for submission. We added color during a second session a few weeks later.
I saw the design beforehand, but I didn’t realize it would cover most of my back! It turned out amazing, and I wouldn’t change a thing. The design is a fantastic combination of the “Rose Tattoo” imagery with an eagle and bagpipes. It was my first band-related tattoo.
Do you have any other band tattoos besides the rose tattoo?
Butch: Currently, my only other band tattoo is a Metallica star, which I got in memory of a friend who passed away last year.
When did you become a fan of the Dropkick Murphys?
Butch: I’ve been a Dropkick Murphys fan for a long time. I remember listening to “The Gang’s All Here” back in high school and have collected their albums over the years.
Beyond “Rose Tattoo,” what are some of your other favorite songs by the band?
Butch: “Sing Loud, Sing Proud!” is definitely one of my favorite albums. Many of those songs just feel like classic drinking anthems, and I really appreciate the Dropkick Murphys’ take on traditional Irish songs. “Rocky Road to Dublin” and “Wild Rover” are timeless Irish songs for me, and hearing them through the Dropkick Murphys’ lens is incredible. I also love “Spicy McHaggis Jig”—it’s just a fantastic track.
What’s the coolest part about being featured in the “Rose Tattoo” music video?
Butch: My kids absolutely love my Dropkick Murphys tattoo and are thrilled that it’s in the music video. My son was only five when the song was released, but he loved it so much. He would watch the video constantly and sing along to the lyrics, “I’ve got your name written here, In a rose tattoo.”
The rose tattoo, as seen on Butch Myers and Ken Casey, and celebrated in the Dropkick Murphys’ song, is more than just ink on skin. It’s a symbol of personal stories, connections to music, and enduring meaning, proving the rose tattoo’s timeless appeal.
