Steve P And Rasputin -

Steve P And Rasputin -

If you look past the visual joke, the pairing of Steve P and Rasputin reveals some genuinely eerie thematic parallels.

The story of Steve P and Rasputin is not a history lesson. It is a story about the internet’s ability to find patterns where none exist, to create beauty out of absurdity, and to make two strangers from different centuries share a dinner table.

Steve P will continue to play piano. The ghosts of Rasputin will continue to haunt textbooks. And as long as there is a Wi-Fi signal, someone will create a video of a mystic healer dancing to disco while a Liberace impersonator winks at the camera.

In a chaotic, broken world, the bizarre pairing of a Siberian mystic and a Las Vegas piano man reminds us of one simple truth: Laughter requires no logic. Only a good face.

So the next time you see the image—the fur coat, the heavy eyes, the candleabra—remember: You aren’t looking at Rasputin. But you aren’t not looking at him, either.


Do you have a favorite Steve P and Rasputin meme? Search the hashtag #RasputinPiano on social media to join the cult of the sequined starets.

(also known as Hypnotica) are prominent figures in the "pickup artist" (PUA) community, most famously chronicled in Neil Strauss's 2005 bestselling book The Game.

While other community members like Mystery focused on social structures and "peacocking," Steve P. and Rasputin specialized in hypnosis and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to influence social interactions. Key Figures and Background

Steve P. (Steve Piccus): Known for his "Tao of Steve" philosophy, he emphasized a relaxed frame of mind and a "state-based" approach to seduction. He viewed himself as a mentor who taught students how to bypass a person's conscious filters.

Rasputin (Eric Von Sydow / Hypnotica): Often referred to as "the Rasputin of the community," he is a hypnotist and motivational speaker. He focused on "inner game"—building an unshakable sense of self-confidence and presence that supposedly naturally attracted others. Core Techniques and Philosophies

According to accounts in The Game, their approach was distinct from the rigid "routines" of other PUA schools:

Hypnotic Seduction: They utilized NLP techniques, such as "anchoring" and "pattern interrupts," to create deep emotional connections quickly.

Frame Control: This involved maintaining a dominant reality or "frame" during a conversation so that others would subconsciously adopt your perspective.

The "State" Approach: Rather than memorizing lines, they taught students to enter a specific mental state of confidence and charisma, which they believed would make any words spoken effective. Influence and Legacy

Steve P. and Rasputin were influential in shifting the PUA community's focus from external "tricks" to internal psychological development, often called "Inner Game." While their methods were controversial and criticized for being manipulative, they were instrumental in the early 2000s boom of the seduction industry. The Tao of Steve: Seduction Techniques | PDF - Scribd

Steve Perry, the iconic voice of Journey, and Grigori Rasputin, the mystic who captivated the Russian royal family, may seem like vastly different individuals on the surface. One was a rockstar, known for his soaring vocals and hit songs like "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Any Way You Want It." The other was a mystic and faith healer, infamous for his alleged supernatural abilities and his influence over the Romanov family.

However, despite their vastly different backgrounds and professions, both Steve Perry and Rasputin possess an otherworldly quality that has captivated the imagination of the public. Steve Perry's voice has been described as having a transcendent quality, capable of evoking powerful emotions and transporting listeners to another time and place. Similarly, Rasputin was said to possess a hypnotic presence, able to mesmerize those around him with his piercing eyes and charismatic personality.

Both Perry and Rasputin have also been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation. Perry has been notoriously reclusive in recent years, fueling rumors about his personal life and health. Rasputin, on the other hand, was the subject of numerous rumors and allegations during his lifetime, including claims of womanizing, drunkenness, and even demonic possession.

Despite these similarities, there are also some striking differences between the two men. While Rasputin's influence over the Romanov family ultimately led to his downfall and tragic demise, Steve Perry's music has endured for decades, continuing to inspire and uplift new generations of fans. Additionally, while Rasputin's legacy is complex and multifaceted, Perry's legacy is more straightforward, defined by his incredible vocal talent and the iconic songs he helped to create.

In conclusion, the comparison between Steve Perry and Rasputin may seem like an unusual one at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that these two men share a certain je ne sais quoi, a quality that has captivated the imagination of the public and cemented their places in history. Whether it's Perry's soaring vocals or Rasputin's mystical presence, both men have left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.

In the early 2000s, the "seduction community" was an underground subculture of men obsessed with "game." Two of its most eccentric and controversial figures were (Steve Piccus) and

, a duo known for blending pick-up artistry with psychological manipulation and hypnosis.

Their story gained mainstream attention through Neil Strauss’s bestseller, " The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of Pickup Artists ". 🧠 The Hypnotic Duo

Unlike other "gurus" who focused on clothes or scripted conversation starters, Steve P. and Rasputin specialized in hypnotic seduction and "Inner Game". They claimed to use Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to bypass a woman's conscious mind.

Steve P.: Claimed he could train women to have orgasms from a single vocal command or use hypnosis to increase breast size.

Rasputin: Practiced "hypnotic sexual engineering," often framing intimacy as a rare privilege he granted to women in strictly controlled increments. ⚡ Meeting "Style" (Neil Strauss)

When Neil Strauss (known as "Style") first met them at a David DeAngelo seminar, he was a nervous journalist. The duo immediately targeted his anxiety:

Steve P. had Style recite his phone number backward to disrupt his thought patterns.

He snapped his fingers, ordered a forceful exhale, and swept his fingers up Style's torso, shouting "Be gone!" to "clear" his negative energy.

Though skeptical, Style admitted to feeling a strange shift in his confidence afterward. 🏛️ The "Inner Circle"

The duo operated with an air of extreme secrecy, often inviting recruits into an "inner circle" while making them vow never to share their techniques. Their core philosophy was that a man must "live in his own reality"—an psychological state so absolute that rejection became impossible because the woman’s opinion didn't exist in his world. ⚖️ Controversy and Legacy

Critics and later members of the community often viewed their methods as:

Pseudoscience: Many "hypnotic" claims, like physical breast growth, lacked any scientific basis.

Manipulative: Their tactics focused on dominance and psychological "framing" rather than genuine connection.

Eccentric: Even within the PUA world, their intense focus on "energy" and "vocal commands" was seen as fringe.

Today, while the era of "The Game" has largely faded into the "Manosphere" or more direct coaching, Steve P. and Rasputin remain legendary for representing the most bizarre, "dark" corner of the early seduction movement. steve p and rasputin

If you'd like to explore more about this era, I can look into: The breakdown of Project Hollywood Other major figures like Mystery or Ross Jeffries

How the seduction community evolved into today's "dating apps" culture

In the context of Neil Strauss’s book (the pseudonym of Eric Von Sydow) are prominent figures within the pickup artist (PUA) community known for their expertise in hypnosis and "Inner Game"

. Unlike other gurus who focused on routines, this duo specialized in psychological techniques to alter both their own states of mind and those of the women they met. Core Philosophies The Power of State

: Their primary teaching was to become an expert in "how to feel good". They believed that nerves and anxiety were the greatest hindrances to success, and that a man should live in his own "reality" where he is immune to rejection or humiliation. Hypnotic Sexual Engineering

: Rasputin specifically framed physical intimacy as a "privilege" for the woman, often using psychological framing to heighten attraction and sexual tension. Inner Circle Techniques

: The duo claimed to possess advanced methods, such as using hypnosis to induce physical sensations or command-based responses, which they only shared with trusted students who vowed secrecy. Notable Techniques and Rituals Dual Induction

: To overwhelm a student’s conscious mind, they would speak into both ears simultaneously—Rasputin telling a complex story to occupy the conscious mind while Steve P. spoke directly to the subconscious. Open Loops

: They often told stories or metaphors without providing the conclusion until days or weeks later, creating a psychological "loop" that kept the student focused on them. The "Be Gone" Anxiety Flush

: When Strauss (pseudonym "Style") first met them, Steve P. performed a "quick hypnosis" ritual to clear his anxiety. This involved having Style recite his phone number backward followed by forceful breathing and a physical "clearing" gesture. Legacy and Identity : "Rasputin" is the PUA persona of Eric Von Sydow , who remains active in the lifestyle coaching space.

: They are portrayed as the "heavyweights" of the inner-game genre, often using their speaking slots at seminars (like those hosted by David DeAngelo) to teach self-hypnosis and sexual technique. Pop Culture : In the animated series Adventure Time

, the "Flying Lettuce Brothers" are widely believed to be a reference to Steve P. and Rasputin due to their synchronized speaking and hypnotic presence. they used or see how their methods differed from other gurus like Mystery? Flying Lettuce Brothers | Adventure Time Wiki | Fandom

Steve P. and Rasputin " dynamic is best known for its portrayal in Neil Strauss’s 2005 memoir,

. In the book, they are introduced as eccentric, high-level gurus in the underground "Pick-Up Artist" (PUA) community who specialized in (Neuro-Linguistic Programming). Review: The Hypnotic Duo of 🌀 The Methodology

Steve P. and Rasputin were distinct from other PUAs who focused on "lines" or "routines." Their approach was built on: Inner Game Hypnosis:

Using mental exercises to erase anxiety and build an "impervious" reality. Sexual Engineering:

Framing intimacy as a series of rewards or privileges to build intense desire. NLP Techniques:

Using subconscious triggers, deep breathing, and rapid-fire commands to influence others' emotions. ⚖️ Critical Reception

Reading about them today evokes a mix of fascination and discomfort: The Surreal Factor: Their segments provide the most "otherworldly" moments in

. They come across as modern-day wizards, often performing bizarre rituals like having students recite phone numbers backward to "break" their mental patterns. Ethical Grey Areas: Critics and readers often point out the manipulative nature

of their "hypnotic" approach. While Neil Strauss describes feeling a genuine shift in his confidence, the techniques are frequently viewed as predatory or psychologically coercive. Legend vs. Reality:

Since the book's release, the duo has maintained a cult-like status. Steve P. has occasionally surfaced on

or niche forums to answer questions, though much of their "secret circle" material remains elusive and expensive. 🎭 The Characters The Mentor / Technician The "Dark" Mystic Analytical, business-like, intense Esoteric, hypnotic, sexualized NLP, anxiety removal, "un-brainwashing" Hypnotic seduction, tantric practices 📖 Summary If you are looking for a historical or literary review

, Steve P. and Rasputin serve as the "darker" mentors in the PUA narrative. They represent the extreme end of self-improvement, where the goal isn't just to "talk to girls," but to fundamentally rewire the human mind. of their specific hypnosis techniques? in the modern "self-help" or NLP world? How they compare to other figures in Steve P. and Rasputin: Two PUA Gurus Recruit "Style"

Steve P and Rasputin: A Bizarre yet Fascinating Collaboration

In the realm of music, unexpected collaborations can often lead to intriguing and innovative results. The pairing of Steve P, a respected figure in the electronic and trance music scene, with Rasputin, the infamous mystic and faith healer from 19th-century Russia, is certainly an unusual one. Their project, which we'll refer to as "Steve P and Rasputin," blends modern electronic music production with the dark, mystical aura of Rasputin's legacy.

The Concept and Sound

The concept of bringing Rasputin's eerie and mystical reputation into a modern electronic music context is bold and ambitious. Steve P, known for his work in creating immersive and emotive soundscapes, seems like an ideal partner to bring this vision to life. The result is a series of tracks that aim to capture the essence of Rasputin's enigmatic and controversial character.

Musically, the project is a fascinating blend of deep, pulsing basslines, haunting melodies, and atmospheric sound design. Each track is meticulously crafted, with a clear attention to detail and a deep understanding of the sonic textures that can evoke a sense of mystery and otherworldliness. The production quality is high, with a clear and powerful sound that showcases Steve P's skill as a producer.

Rasputin's Influence

What makes this project truly unique is the incorporation of elements that reflect Rasputin's life and mystique. From the use of traditional Russian instrumentation and choral elements to the thematic exploration of spirituality, power, and mysticism, Rasputin's influence is woven throughout the music. This is not merely a superficial nod to the historical figure but a deep dive into the symbolism and mythology surrounding him.

Track Highlights

Conclusion

"Steve P and Rasputin" is a captivating and sometimes unsettling listen. It's a project that challenges the listener to consider the intersections between ancient mysticism and modern electronic music. While it may not appeal to every taste, for those interested in experimental and thematic music, this collaboration offers a rich and rewarding experience.

Rating: 4.5/5

The project's originality, production quality, and thematic coherence make it a compelling listen. However, the unconventional nature of the collaboration might make it challenging for some listeners to fully engage. For fans of electronic music, experimental projects, and those intrigued by the enigmatic figure of Grigori Rasputin, this project is definitely worth exploring.

In the context of Neil Strauss’s best-selling book The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of Pickup Artists

are two enigmatic figures who became legendary within the seduction community for their unique, often controversial methods involving hypnosis and "sexual engineering." Overview of Steve P. and Rasputin

Steve P. and Rasputin (also known as Hypnotica or Eric Von Sydow) were known for moving away from traditional "routines" and "tricks" in favor of deep psychological shifting. Hypnosis as a Tool : They primarily used hypnosis and NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)

to supposedly bypass a woman's conscious defenses and influence her subconscious directly. The "Inner Circle" Mentality

: They presented themselves as gurus who had mastered "inner-game" techniques so powerful they could only be shared with a select few. Sexual Engineering

: Rasputin was particularly infamous for framing sexual encounters as a "privilege" for the woman, using techniques to purportedly "program" physical and emotional responses through specific voice commands. Key Philosophies & Techniques According to their teachings in

, a successful seducer must live in their own reality, making them immune to rejection or humiliation. Their approach was characterized by: State Management

: They claimed to be able to instantly remove anxiety through rapid hypnosis, such as snapping fingers or having a person recite their phone number backward to disrupt negative thought patterns. Physical Influence

: Among their more controversial claims was the ability to use hypnosis to influence physical sensations and even physical growth, such as breast enlargement. Referent Power

: Like their historical namesake (the Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin), they relied heavily on sheer magnetism and referent power

rather than titles or traditional status to win over their subjects. Deeper explorations of seduction community history The Game (Book) Historical Rasputin Neil Strauss Book Summary & Analysis

provides a full overview of the subculture described in the book, including the rise and fall of various 'gurus' like Steve P.

For a breakdown of the specific tactics used by the duo, see Shortform's guide which details their recruitment of Neil Strauss. The Original Grigori Rasputin The Generalist

explores how the historical Rasputin's charisma served as the archetype for modern 'magnetism' gurus.

Museum claims regarding the Russian mystic can be found at sites like Suzie Edge's history analysis Author Neil Strauss The official Neil Strauss Wikipedia page

covers his transformation from a journalist to a pickup artist under the mentorship of figures like Steve P. specific hypnosis routines they performed, or are you interested in how Neil Strauss's perspective on these men changed by the end of the book? Steve P. and Rasputin: Two PUA Gurus Recruit "Style"

Steve P. and Rasputin are a prominent duo of "pickup gurus" famously chronicled in Neil Strauss's bestselling book, The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of Pickup Artists . Known for their unorthodox and controversial methods, they specialized in using hypnosis and "speed seduction" to influence social interactions . Key Characteristics and Philosophies

Hypnotic Techniques: The duo claimed they could use hypnotic suggestions to achieve extraordinary results, such as helping women reach orgasm through voice commands or even increasing physical attributes through the power of suggestion .

Living in "Your Own Reality": They taught that successful social interaction requires being impervious to rejection. By living in a self-constructed reality, a person becomes immune to the humiliation or anxiety that typically hinders "average frustrated chumps" .

Emotional Detachment: Steve P. and Rasputin believed that nerves and emotions were obstacles to success. Their training often involved rapid-fire hypnosis "clearing" sessions to strip away a student's anxiety . Notable Interactions in "The Game"

In the book, Neil Strauss (known as "Style") describes meeting the duo at a seminar. They reportedly used a series of snaps, breathing exercises, and physical movements to "cure" his anxiety on the spot .

Recruitment: They often operated with a sense of exclusivity, offering "inner-circle" techniques to students under the condition of strict secrecy .

Rasputin’s "Sexual Engineering": Rasputin specifically framed sexual encounters as a privilege he granted, using a system of rewards to maintain control over the interaction . Pop Culture Legacy

The duo has remained a cult topic within seduction communities and pop culture analysis. They have even been theorized to be the inspiration for characters like the Flying Lettuce Brothers in the show Adventure Time, which contains various references to Neil Strauss's work .

For a deeper look into the historical figure who inspired Rasputin's moniker and his legendary influence: Meet The Most Mysterious Man Who Ever Lived YouTube• Nov 22, 2022 PUA Gurus: 7 Top Pickup Artists From The Game - Shortform

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the "seduction community" emerged as an underground subculture dedicated to the systematic study of social dynamics and attraction. While the movement produced many colorful figures, few were as enigmatic as the duo of Steve P. (Steve Piccus) and Rasputin, two "gurus" whose methods leaned heavily into hypnosis, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), and psychological manipulation. The Enigmatic Duo

Steve P. and Rasputin were famously chronicled in Neil Strauss’s 2005 bestseller, The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of Pickup Artists. Strauss, writing under the pen name "Style," encountered them early in his journey, describing them as unconventional figures who stood apart from the more logic-driven "mystery" school of seduction.

Steve P. (Steve Piccus): Often described as a "renegade hypnotist," Steve P. was characterized by his gruff demeanor and distinctive style—frequently seen in a leather vest and an Indiana Jones-style hat. He marketed himself as a "Vagina Mechanic" and a master of "White Tiger Tantra," claiming he could train women to achieve intense orgasms through specific vocal commands.

Rasputin: Taking his moniker from the infamous "Mad Monk" of Imperial Russia, this modern Rasputin utilized a persona built on mysticism and "hypnotic sexual engineering". His approach focused on framing sexual intimacy as a privilege or a reward for the woman, often imposing arbitrary limits (such as a specific number of seconds for an act) to build anticipation and compliance. Methods: Hypnosis and NLP

Unlike other pickup artists (PUAs) who focused on "scripts" or "routines," Steve P. and Rasputin prioritized the subconscious mind. Their strategies involved:

Inner Game Mastery: They believed that external tactics were useless without total internal confidence. They taught that nerves and emotions were merely hindrances to be bypassed through mental conditioning.

Sexual Hypnosis: The duo claimed they could influence physical reactions—such as breast growth or pain management—using hypnotic suggestion.

NLP Anchoring: Using techniques to "anchor" specific emotional states to touch or sound, they aimed to create immediate, powerful attractions that felt "natural" to the subject. Influence and Legacy

While their claims were often met with skepticism—even within the PUA community—they exerted a significant influence on many prominent figures in the movement. Their focus on "Inner Game" helped shift the community away from mere memorization toward a broader interest in self-actualization and psychological mastery. If you look past the visual joke, the

Today, Steve Piccus remains active in the coaching space, focusing on tantric practices and sexual wellness. The modern "Rasputin" largely faded from the public eye after the mid-2000s, but the legend of the "hypno-duo" remains a staple of the history of modern social engineering.

Successful Masculinity In Search of the Alpha Within - Trepo

The Unlikely Duo: Steve P and Rasputin

In the world of true crime and infamous figures, few names are as synonymous with mystique and intrigue as Grigori Rasputin, the Russian mystic and faith healer who gained a significant amount of influence over the Romanov royal family during the early 20th century. However, in recent years, another name has become increasingly associated with Rasputin: Steve P. But who is Steve P, and what connection does he have to the enigmatic figure of Rasputin?

Steve P: The Voice of Rasputin

Steve P, whose full name is Stephen Parsons, is a British singer, songwriter, and musician. Born in 1959 in Essex, England, P began his music career in the late 1970s, performing in various bands and as a solo artist. However, it wasn't until the 1990s that P gained widespread recognition for his music, particularly with his portrayal of Grigori Rasputin in the hit musical "Rasputin."

The musical, which premiered in 1998, tells the story of Rasputin's rise to power and influence over the Romanov family, as well as his eventual downfall. P's performance as Rasputin was met with critical acclaim, with many praising his uncanny resemblance to the historical figure, as well as his captivating stage presence.

The Musical: A Global Phenomenon

The musical "Rasputin" was a global phenomenon, playing in over 20 countries and being translated into multiple languages. The show's success can be attributed in large part to P's portrayal of Rasputin, which was both haunting and mesmerizing. P's performance brought the enigmatic figure to life, capturing the essence of Rasputin's mystique and charisma.

The musical's storyline, which explores Rasputin's complex and often tumultuous relationship with the Romanov family, was both fascinating and thought-provoking. The show's themes of power, corruption, and the blurring of lines between faith and superstition resonated with audiences worldwide.

The Song: A Chart-Topping Hit

One of the most enduring legacies of the musical "Rasputin" is the song of the same name, which was performed by P and became a chart-topping hit in several countries, including the UK, Australia, and Europe. The song, which was written by P and his collaborator, David Baranowski, is a haunting and atmospheric ballad that captures the essence of Rasputin's enigmatic personality.

The song's lyrics, which explore themes of power, spirituality, and the search for meaning, are both poignant and thought-provoking. The song's soaring chorus, which features P's powerful vocals, has become iconic, with many regarding it as one of the greatest musical themes of all time.

The Legacy of Steve P and Rasputin

The collaboration between Steve P and Rasputin has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The musical "Rasputin" continues to be performed around the world, with P's portrayal of Rasputin remaining one of the most iconic and enduring.

The song "Rasputin" has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. The song's influence can also be heard in the work of many other artists, who have cited P and Rasputin as an inspiration.

The Fascination with Rasputin

So, why does the figure of Rasputin continue to fascinate audiences to this day? The answer lies in the enigmatic nature of the man himself. Rasputin was a mystic, a faith healer, and a charismatic figure who gained an unprecedented amount of influence over the Romanov family.

His rise to power was meteoric, and his subsequent downfall was both tragic and inevitable. Rasputin's story is one of corruption, power, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. It is a story that continues to captivate audiences, inspiring numerous books, films, and musicals.

The Cultural Significance of Steve P and Rasputin

The collaboration between Steve P and Rasputin has significant cultural implications. The musical "Rasputin" and the song of the same name have become a part of popular culture, symbolizing the enduring fascination with the enigmatic figure of Rasputin.

The portrayal of Rasputin by Steve P has also contributed to a renewed interest in the historical figure, with many regarding P's performance as the definitive interpretation of Rasputin.

Conclusion

The unlikely duo of Steve P and Rasputin has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The musical "Rasputin" and the song of the same name continue to captivate audiences worldwide, inspiring a new generation of artists and fans.

The fascination with Rasputin is a testament to the enduring power of his story, which continues to captivate audiences with its themes of power, corruption, and the blurring of lines between faith and superstition.

As for Steve P, his portrayal of Rasputin remains one of the most iconic and enduring, cementing his place in the annals of musical theatre history. The collaboration between Steve P and Rasputin is a shining example of the power of art to inspire, educate, and captivate audiences, ensuring that the legacy of Rasputin will continue to endure for generations to come.

Since I don't have specific details on who Steve P and Rasputin are (whether they are a real-life duo, fictional characters, or an alter-ego dynamic), I have developed a blog post based on the most compelling interpretation: The Fusion of Modern Strategy and Ancient Mystery.

This post frames them as a dynamic partnership—one representing the modern, pragmatic strategist, and the other representing the chaotic, intuitive force of history.

Here is a solid blog post draft.


The virality of this pairing hinges on three key factors:

Steve P (Steve Pappas) Steve Pappas was a radio host and producer, best known for his work on WBCN in Boston and later as a key contributor to The Opie and Anthony Show. He hosted his own eponymous show, The Steve Pappas Show, which served as a cult-favorite spinoff featuring a rotating cast of eccentric characters and callers.

Rasputin On the show, "Rasputin" is a caller/personality who adopts the persona of the infamous Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin. He serves as a chaotic, often unhinged foil to Steve P’s attempts at maintaining order. He is characterized by a distinct, gravelly voice, a heavy (often exaggerated) Russian accent, and a tendency to offer bizarre advice, riddles, or threats.

It is impossible to write about Steve P and Rasputin without addressing the elephant—or rather, the candleabra—in the room: Liberace himself.

Liberace was a master of disguise, reinvention, and camp. He died in 1987, but his DNA is all over this meme. Steve P is a surrogate for Liberace, and Liberace famously looked nothing like Rasputin. So why does Steve P?

One theory suggests that the heavy stage makeup applied to emphasize facial expressions for back-row theater seats accidentally mimics the harsh lighting of 1910s photography. Rasputin’s famous mugshots feature deep shadows and a similar "flat" light. When Steve P applies that much foundation and contour, his face becomes a canvas for any historical projection. Do you have a favorite Steve P and Rasputin meme

Another, more whimsical theory from Reddit suggests that Rasputin, upon surviving poison, gunshots, and drowning in the Neva River, didn't die—he escaped to America, changed his name, learned piano, and became the ghostwriter for Liberace’s career. Steve P is simply the third incarnation of this immortal, sequin-loving mystic.