Ted Nugent has never been a quiet voice in rock music. For decades, he has spoken loudly, bluntly, and with absolute conviction about what he believes rock should be. So when Nugent recently praised YUNGBLUD, it caught people’s attention. Not because Nugent gives compliments often — but because he doesn’t.
According to Nugent, YUNGBLUD represents something rare in today’s music world: raw, fearless rock energy. The kind of energy that doesn’t worry about being neat, polished, or perfectly produced. The kind that feels dangerous, emotional, and alive. Nugent described him as “the real McCoy,” making it clear that he doesn’t see YUNGBLUD as a trend or a passing phase, but as a true rock artist.
YUNGBLUD, whose real name is Dominic Harrison, is a British musician known for blending punk, rock, and emotional honesty. His music often feels loud, messy, and intense — on purpose. He screams, he moves wildly on stage, and he wears his emotions openly. For Nugent, that’s exactly the point. Rock music was never meant to be calm or comfortable. It was meant to challenge people.
What made Nugent’s comments even more powerful was his mention of Steven Tyler and Joe Perry from Aerosmith. Nugent revealed that YUNGBLUD has been working closely with the legendary rock duo and that both Tyler and Perry immediately recognized something familiar in him. Not just talent, but attitude. That instinctive fire that can’t be taught.
Nugent used old-school words to describe YUNGBLUD — calling him a “screamer” and a “squaller.” These aren’t insults. In early rock and blues, screaming wasn’t a trick. Artists screamed because they felt the music in their bones. Legends like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and James Brown didn’t perform politely — they attacked the stage. Nugent believes YUNGBLUD carries that same spirit.
One of the most meaningful moments Nugent shared was when he quoted Steven Tyler saying, “This guy’s just like us.” Coming from a band like Aerosmith, that’s huge. Aerosmith came from a time when rock music was rebellious by nature. Being accepted by Tyler and Perry suggests that YUNGBLUD’s intensity isn’t fake or manufactured — it’s real.