He really didn't need that KFC bucket on his head or that mask to get attention, it only detracts from his talent and genius.
The reason he wears that is because someone threw one at him one time. At least that is what I read. The article I read about it said that he is a very nice, unassuming guy and that when someone threw the bucket at him he just picked it up and started wearing it. Whether that is true or not I have no way of knowing.