The internet loves a good tattoo story, especially when it pushes boundaries and sparks debate. And few tattoos have ignited more online frenzy than the infamous “DRAKE” Forehead Tattoo. When images of a young woman sporting the name of the Canadian rapper emblazoned across her forehead surfaced, the reactions were immediate and intense – ranging from disbelief to outrage. But behind the viral sensation lies a fascinating story of impulsive decisions, artistic ethics, and the unexpected consequences of internet fame.
To understand the story behind this extreme piece of body art, we need to delve into the details of how it came to be. The tattoo was inked at Will Rise Studio in Los Angeles by artist Kevin Campbell. In an exclusive interview, Campbell recounts the day a woman walked into his shop with a very specific and unusual request.
The Tattoo Artist’s Perspective: Kevin Campbell on Inking “DRAKE”
Kevin Campbell, the artist behind the viral “DRAKE” forehead tattoo, found himself at the center of an internet storm. Initially unaware of Drake’s celebrity status, Campbell treated this as any other tattoo request. It was his boss, Norm, who captured the now-iconic photo that sent the internet into a spin. Campbell clarifies that the photo, while viral, wasn’t the most flattering representation of his work. He explains that the angle and the client’s slightly tensed eyebrow made the tattoo appear crooked, while in reality, he insists it was “pretty well-applied and straight as an arrow.” He even mentions that other photos taken by his coworker present a more accurate picture of the tattoo’s quality. Interestingly, Campbell noted that the client arrived at the shop already with shaved eyebrows and head, a detail that initially led him to believe the tattoo might be gang-related, a common sight in his previous studio located in a Harbor City Crip neighborhood.
“I Didn’t Know Who Drake Was”: Misunderstanding and Client’s Demeanor
One of the most surprising revelations from Campbell is his initial ignorance about Drake. He admitted, “I didn’t know who Drake was. I figured it was her hood or some shit, not some goofnugget R&B dude.” This initial misunderstanding highlights the disconnect between the artist’s world and the pop culture phenomenon the client was referencing. According to Campbell, the client was “really psyched” about the idea, having already chosen a “shitty font” on her iPhone. She was resolute about the placement on her forehead, pushing the design higher towards her hairline when Campbell initially positioned it over her shaved eyebrow area. Despite inquiries from Campbell and his colleagues, the client offered no explanation for her extreme decision, simply giggling when asked about the tattoo’s meaning. This lack of clear motivation further fueled the online speculation about her state of mind and intentions.
Artist’s Responsibility: Ethics and Extreme Tattoo Requests
Campbell addresses the ethical considerations of tattooing such a visible and potentially life-altering design on someone’s forehead. He outlines his personal policy when faced with “outrageous and potentially life-ruining tattoos”: he asks the client three times if they are sure, and informs them about the potential consequences of a face tattoo. After these warnings, he believes “the bad decision is on them.” This stance reflects a common debate within the tattoo community – where does the artist’s responsibility lie when a client requests a controversial or poorly considered tattoo? Campbell’s perspective leans towards client autonomy, arguing that if someone is determined to get a forehead tattoo, they will find an artist willing to do it. He compares tattooing “DRAKE” on a fan’s forehead to tattooing gang symbols on a gang member, questioning who is to judge the validity of either choice.
Navigating Client Choices: Guidance vs. Compliance
While Campbell ultimately fulfilled the client’s request, he acknowledges the possibility of guiding clients towards better tattoo choices. He explains that in situations where clients have conceptually flawed ideas, he tries to steer them towards designs that would translate better as tattoos. However, in cases like the “DRAKE” forehead tattoo, where the request was for simple lettering and placement, his options were limited. He mentions he could have suggested a different font or location but the client was set on her vision. This highlights the delicate balance tattoo artists often navigate between providing their expertise and respecting client desires, even when those desires are questionable.
Viral Aftermath and Artist’s Regret?
Despite his initial nonchalance, Campbell admits to some initial unease after the tattoo went viral. He confessed to losing sleep, wondering if he would be known as “the asshole who tattooed ‘DRAKE’ on some crackhead’s forehead.” He was surprised by the immense attention the tattoo received, especially considering he had done other “crazier facial tattoos” without any publicity. This sudden internet infamy led him to question whether he wanted his name so closely associated with this particular piece, especially early in his career. He even debated withholding further photos, concerned about reflecting negatively on his studio. Ultimately, he acknowledges the transactional nature of the interaction – “she paid me to do this to her, which really means she did this to herself.”
The Mystery of the Client and Forehead Tattoo Motivations
The biggest unanswered question remains the client’s motivation. Campbell himself wonders “what was going through her mind when she decided to do it.” He describes her as being “on a pretty good one” when she arrived, suggesting she might have been under the influence. He also noted a shift in her demeanor after the tattoo was finished, implying a possible dawning realization of her impulsive decision. Unfortunately, the client didn’t leave contact information beyond her name, leaving her story largely untold. She was supposed to return to finish the tattoo (as she only paid for the outline), presenting a potential opportunity to learn more about her motivations. This element of mystery only amplified the internet’s fascination and speculation surrounding the “DRAKE” forehead tattoo.
Forehead Tattoos: A Bold Statement in Tattoo Culture
The “DRAKE” forehead tattoo, while extreme, taps into a broader conversation about forehead tattoos and their significance. Forehead tattoos have a long and varied history across different cultures, often signifying important social, religious, or tribal affiliations. In contemporary Western culture, forehead tattoos are still considered highly unconventional and often carry connotations of rebellion or nonconformity. Getting a name tattooed on the forehead, especially a celebrity’s name, takes this boldness to another level, inviting intense scrutiny and judgment.
Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of a Viral Forehead Tattoo
The story of the “DRAKE” forehead tattoo is more than just a bizarre internet meme. It’s a case study in impulsive decisions, artistic responsibility, and the unpredictable nature of viral fame. It raises questions about client autonomy, the ethics of extreme tattooing, and the meaning we ascribe to body art in the age of social media. Whether the client regrets her decision or remains a devoted Drake fan, her forehead tattoo has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on internet culture and the world of tattooing. It serves as a reminder of the power of tattoos to provoke, question, and capture the world’s attention, even when – or perhaps especially when – they are as unconventional as a tribute to a rapper across one’s forehead.
