Business in the front, party in the back, is an informal term for a hairstyle known as a mullet, in which short front locks are styled into an aggressive or wild appearance in back waves.
This phrase has become viral thanks to memes and TikTok videos but has also found its way into casual conversations and music videos.
Origins
Business in the Front, Party in the Back first became widely used as an amusing way of describing short and neat hairdos in front, yet longer in back. Over time, its usage expanded to cover any situation or person that exhibits a contrast between two elements that differ substantially, not just a person with two distinct parts, such as two special hairdos. Now, this phrase can often be heard being used in casual conversations, music lyrics, comedy shows, and casual meetings alike.
Its origin is uncertain; however, it appears to have started as a humorous observation about the contrast between men’s professional appearance and their more casual and playful side. As more men began sporting mullets (hairstyles with shorter front parts that get longer at the back), made famous by David Bowie during glam rock’s rise, they quickly spread through blue-collar worker culture as a trend many workers adopted and adopted themselves.
Today, the mullet is commonly associated with youth culture and LGBT communities, as well as celebrities such as Baekhyun of EXO and Blake Shelton. Additionally, this style is perfect for men who want to look professional yet playful at once; when necessary, it can easily be hidden.
Meaning
Business in the front, Party in the back is a slang phrase referring to a hairstyle known as the mullet. A mullet is characterized by short front strands that lengthen into long back ones – men commonly wear it. This expression describes someone who appears professional from their front appearance while possessing an unconventional side when looked upon from behind.
The term gained widespread usage during the mullet trend of the 1980s, coinciding with its widespread adoption among celebrities who donned this hairstyle. Musicians and actors who donned the mullet style became prominent advocates for its usage; eventually, it became part of popular culture, often featured in jokes or memes.
“Business up front, party in the back” has become an iconic phrase used in everyday conversation as well as movies and TV shows. Originating in America and possibly derived from similar British slurs such as mullet head or the name of a fish known as a mullet; although its exact source remains unknown, it has been around for at least 100 years – becoming an integral part of American culture, which most understand.
Styles
“Business in the Front, Party in the Back” first gained popularity during Prohibition as a phrase describing a mullet haircut alternating between professional-looking styles at its front and a wilder, party-esque back. It found renewed relevance during the 1980s as it was popularized by singers such as David Bowie and James Hetfield to represent gay culture; later, it also became fashionable among women as an expression of personality and fun!
