In 2020, I had an epiphany about the collective ego:

All noble causes, when amplified, inevitably develop an ego that threatens the sanctity of the original cause.

So, it follows that when a band like twenty one pilots becomes popular, their message coalesces into a fanbase and a collective ego is born. 

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I'm fascinated by fanbases. Some are extremely welcoming. Others can be isolating and assert their social status according to longevity and access. Sometimes, that access is taken, not offered.

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This past August (2025), a few twenty one pilots (TØP) fans reportedly snuck into Tyler Joseph's (lead singer, songwriter) gated community. Coincidentally, TØP recently announced the release of their latest album, Breach, and that after their brief North American tour, the band will be taking a break. 

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As the duo prepares to go into hibernation, I contemplated about the pressures musicians face from critics, the industry and fans. I've watched videos on social media of Tyler being mobbed by people at the luggage carousel in his hometown's airport. The duo loves their fans but I imagine they want the madness to stop.  

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Just because the Cause develops an ego doesn't mean that the Cause isn't worth fighting for.

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As a fan, I hope twenty one pilots enjoys their well-earned break. When they come back, I know their fans will be ready and hopefully, our egos will have shrunk a little too.