Kid Rock

American musician (born 1971)

For the 2003 self-titled album, see Kid Rock (album).

Kid Rock

Kid Rock performing in 2013

Background information
Birth name| Robert James Ritchie
Also known as| Bobby Shazam
Born|  (1971-01-17) January 17, 1971 (age 54)
Romeo, Michigan, U.S.
Genres|

* Rock
* hip-hop
* country
* heavy metal

Occupations|

* Musician
* singer
* rapper
* songwriter

Instruments|

* Vocals
* guitar

Years active| 1988–present
Labels|

* Top Dog
* Broken Bow
* Warner Bros.
* Lava
* Atlantic
* Jive

Spouse|

Pamela Anderson

(m. 2006; div. 2007)​

Children| 1
Relatives| Jill Ritchie (sister)
Website| kidrock.com

Musical artist

Robert James Ritchie (born January 17, 1971), known professionally as Kid Rock, is an American musician, singer, rapper, and songwriter. After establishing himself in the Detroit hip-hop scene, he broke through into mainstream success with a rap rock sound before shifting his performance style to country rock. A self-taught musician, he has said he can play every instrument in his backing band and has overseen production on all but two of his albums.

Kid Rock started his music career as a rapper, releasing his debut album Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast (1990), on Jive Records. His subsequent independent releases The Polyfuze Method (1993) and Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp (1996) saw him developing a more distinctive style, which was fully realized on his breakthrough album Devil Without a Cause (1998), which sold 14 million copies. This album and its follow-up, Cocky (2001), were noted for blending elements of hip-hop, country, and rock.

His most successful single from that time period, "Cowboy" (1999), is considered a pioneering song in the country rap genre. His best-selling singles overall are "Picture" (2002) and "All Summer Long" (2008). Starting with his 2007 album Rock n Roll Jesus, his musical output has tended to be in the country rock style. Politically, Ritchie is a vocal supporter of the U.S. Republican Party and holds conservative views.

## Early life

[edit]

Robert James Ritchie was born in Romeo, Michigan, on January 17, 1971, the son of Susan and William "Bill" Ritchie (1941–2024),[1] who owned multiple car dealerships.[2][3][4] He was raised in his father's large home on extensive property,[2][5] which included an apple orchard and barnyard for their horses.[6] He attended Romeo High School.[7] His younger sister, Jill Ritchie, is an actress.[8] In the 1980s, Ritchie became interested in hip-hop, began to breakdance, and taught himself how to rap and DJ while performing in talent shows in and around Detroit.[2][3]

## Career

[edit]

### Early career, signing with Jive Records, and Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast (1988–1991)

[edit]

Kid Rock began his professional music career as a member of a hip-hop group called the Beast Crew in the late 1980s.[2] During this time, he met D-Nice. That relationship would eventually lead to him becoming the opening act at local shows for Boogie Down Productions.[2]

During this time, Kid Rock began a professional association with producer Mike E. Clark, who, after some initial skepticism with the idea of a white rapper, found himself impressed with Kid Rock's energetic and well-received performance where the artist, using his own turntables and equipment, actually prepared his own beats to demonstrate his skills for Clark.[9]

In 1988, Clark produced a series of demos with Kid Rock. These demos eventually led to offers from six major record labels, including Atlantic and CBS Records.[3][9]

In 1989, Kid Rock became a shareholder in an independent record label that was formed by Alvin Williams and Earl Blunt of EB-Bran Productions, called "Top Dog" Records. Later, that investment would become a 25% ownership stake.[10]

With the help of D-Nice, Kid Rock signed with Jive Records at the age of 17, releasing his debut studio album, Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast in 1990.[2][4][9] According to Kid Rock, the contract with Jive resulted in animosity from fellow rapper Vanilla Ice, who felt that he should have been signed with Jive instead of Kid Rock.[9]

The album made Kid Rock one of the two biggest rap stars in Detroit in 1990, along with local independent rapper Esham.[11][12] To promote the album, Kid Rock toured nationally with Ice Cube, D-Nice, Yo-Yo and Too Short; Detroit artist James "Blackman" Harris served as Kid Rock's DJ on this tour.[9][13] During instore promotions for the album, Kid Rock met and developed a friendship with local rapper Eminem, who frequently challenged Kid Rock to rap battles.[9]

Ultimately, unfavorable comparisons to Vanilla Ice led to Jive dropping Kid Rock, according to Mike E. Clark.[9]

### Signing with Continuum Records and The Polyfuze Method (1992–1995)

[edit]

In 1992, Kid Rock signed with local independent record label Continuum.[9] Around this time, Kid Rock met local hip-hop duo Insane Clown Posse through Mike E. Clark, who was producing the duo.[12] While ICP member Violent J disliked Kid Rock's music, he wanted the rapper to appear on ICP's debut album, Carnival of Carnage, believing the appearance would gain ICP notice, since Kid Rock was a nationally successful artist.[12] Noting that local rapper Esham was paid $500 to appear on ICP's album, Violent J claims that Kid Rock demanded $600 (equivalent to $1,303 in 2023) to record his guest appearance, alleging that Esham and Kid Rock had a feud over who was the bigger rapper.[12] Kid Rock showed up to record the song "Is That You?" intoxicated, but re-recorded his vocals and record scratching the following day.[12]

In 1993, Kid Rock recorded his second studio album, The Polyfuze Method, with producer Mike E. Clark, who worked with Kid Rock to help give the album more of a rock-oriented sound than his debut.[3]

Kid Rock also began releasing his "Bootleg" cassette series to keep local interest in his music.[9]

Later in the year, Kid Rock recorded the EP Fire It Up at White Room Studios in downtown Detroit, run by brothers Michael and Andrew Nehra, who were forming the rock-soul band Robert Bradley's Blackwater Surprise.[9] The EP featured the heavy rock song "I Am the Bullgod" and a cover of Hank Williams Jr.'s country song "A Country Boy Can Survive".[9]

By 1994, Kid Rock's live performances had mostly been backed by DJs Blackman and Uncle Kracker, but Kid Rock soon began to utilize more and more live instrumentation into his performances, and formed the rock band Twisted Brown Trucker.[3][9]

After breaking up with his girlfriend, Kid Rock moved engineer Bob Ebeling into his apartment.[9] During a recording session with Mike E. Clark, the producer discovered that Kid Rock could sing when he recorded a reworked cover of Billy Joel's "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me", entitled "It's Still East Detroit to Me", which Clark claims led him to encourage Kid Rock to sing more.[9]

During this time, Kid Rock developed animosity towards other Detroit artists, including Insane Clown Posse.[citation needed]

Through extensive promoting, including distributing tapes on consignment to local stores and giving away free samplers of his music, Kid Rock developed a following among an audience which DJ Uncle Kracker described as "white kids who dropped acid and liked listening to gangsta rap"; this following included local rapper Joe C., who had been attending Kid Rock concerts as a fan, but upon meeting Kid Rock, was invited to perform on stage as Kid Rock's hype man.[9]

### Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp and local breakthrough (1996)

[edit]

A display of pyrotechnics during one of Kid Rock's performances. His stage presence helped increase his local following in Detroit in the mid-1990s.

Kid Rock's stage presence became honed with the addition of a light show, pyrotechnics, dancers and a light-up backdrop bearing the name "Kid Rock", and 1996 saw the release of his most rock-oriented album to date, Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp; the album's title came from Bob Eberling, who told a sleepless, alcoholic, drug-using Kid Rock, "Dude, you are the early-morning, stoned pimp."[9] According to Kid Rock, who distributed the album himself, Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp sold 14,000 copies.[4]

Kid Rock developed his stage persona, performing dressed in 1970s pimp clothing with a real, possibly loaded, gun down the front of his pants.[9]

Though Kid Rock became known for frequent partying, as well as his drug and alcohol use, he was primarily focused on increasing his success and fame, placing himself as a businessman first; the result of this drive led to increased success locally.[9]

### Signing with Atlantic Records, Devil Without a Cause, and national success (1997–2000)

[edit]

Kid Rock's attorney, Tommy Valentino, increased his stature by helping him get articles written about Kid Rock and Twisted Brown Trucker in major publications, including Beastie Boys' Grand Royal magazine. However, though his management tried to interest local record labels in his music, they told his management team that they were not interested in signing a white rapper, to which Valentino told them, "He's not a white rapper. He's a rock star and everything in between."[9]

In 1997, Jason Flom, head of Lava Records, attended one of Kid Rock's performances, and met with Kid Rock, who later gave him a demo containing the songs "Somebody's Gotta Feel This" and "I Got One for Ya", which led to Kid Rock signing with Atlantic Records.[9][14] As part of his recording deal, Kid Rock received $150,000 from the label.[4]

By this time Kid Rock had fully developed his stage persona, and musical style and wanted to make a "redneck, shit-kicking rock 'n' roll rap" album, resulting in his fourth studio album, Devil Without a Cause, recorded at the White Room in Detroit and mixed at the Mix Room in Los Angeles.[9]

The album was a commercial smash hit as it would be certified Gold and Platinum several months after its release. In promotion of the record, Kid Rock would join Limp Bizkit on a national tour spanning 27 dates.[15][16] He made an appearance on the 1999 MTV VMA (including a performance alongside Aerosmith and Run-DMC) and also memorably performed Bawitdaba at Woodstock 1999. Devil Without a Cause sold over 14 million copies, the album's success initiated by Kid Rock's breakthrough hit single Bawitdaba.[2][4][9] In 1999, Kid Rock made his voice acting debut in an episode of The Simpsons in the episode "Kill the Alligator and Run" playing himself, alongside Joe C.

Despite having been active in the music industry for over 10 years by then, Kid Rock was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist of 2000.[2] Kid Rock's career was sometimes marked by tragedy, as in the death of friend and collaborator Joe C.[2][9]

In May 2000, Kid Rock released the compilation album The History of Rock behind the single "American Bad Ass". The song sampled Metallica's 1991 song "Sad but True", peaking at No. 20 on the mainstream rock chart. Kid Rock would join Metallica on their 2000 Summer Sanitarium Tour along with Korn and System of a Down. Kid Rock and Jonathan Davis filled in on vocals for an injured James Hetfield in Atlanta on July 7, 2000. Kid Rock performed "American Bad Ass" along with the Metallica classics "Sad but True", "Nothing Else Matters", "Fuel" and "Enter Sandman" in addition to covers of "Turn the Page" and "Fortunate Son". The History of Rock was certified double platinum.

### Continued success and shift away from hip-hop (2001–2008)

[edit]

In 2001, "American Bad Ass" was nominated for the Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance, losing out to Rage Against the Machine's "Guerrilla Radio". Kid Rock appeared in the comedy film Joe Dirt, starring David Spade.[17] Kid Rock was in the live-action/animated film Osmosis Jones, voicing a bacterial cell version of himself named "Kidney Rock"; Kid Rock and Joe C. had also recorded the song "Cool Daddy Cool" for the film's soundtrack album before Joe C.'s death.[17][18]

In November 2001, Kid Rock released his fifth studio album, Cocky, which was dedicated to Joe C. The album became a hit, spurred by the crossover success of the single "Picture", a country ballad featuring Sheryl Crow which introduced Kid Rock to a wider audience and was ultimately the most successful single on the album.[2][19]

In support of the album, Kid Rock performed on the Cocky Tour in 2002 and opened for Aerosmith with Run-DMC on the Girls of Summer Tour. During this period, Uncle Kracker began his solo career full-time.[3] He was replaced by underground Detroit rapper Paradime.

In 2002, Kid Rock covered ZZ Top's "Legs" to serve as WWE Diva Stacy Keibler's theme song; it also appeared on the album WWF Forceable Entry.[20]

Kid Rock filed a lawsuit to gain full control over the Top Dog record label, resulting in his receiving full ownership of the label in 2003.[21][22]

Kid Rock's self-titled sixth album was also released in 2003, which shifted his music further away from hip-hop;[2] the lead single was a cover of Bad Company's "Feel Like Makin' Love".[3] The same year, Kid Rock contributed to the tribute album I've Always Been Crazy: A Tribute to Waylon Jennings, honoring the late country singer by covering the song "Luckenbach, Texas" in collaboration with country singer Kenny Chesney.[23]

Kid Rock appeared on the track 'My Name is Robert Too' on American blues artist R. L. Burnside's final studio album, A Bothered Mind.[24]

Kid Rock performing in Denver, Colorado in 2006

The following year, Kid Rock released his seventh studio album, Rock n Roll Jesus, which was his first release to chart at #1 on the Billboard 200, selling 172,000 copies in its first week[25] and going on to sell over 5 million copies.[2] In July 2007, Kid Rock was featured in the cover of Rolling Stone magazine for the second time.[26] The album's third single, "All Summer Long", became a global hit, utilizing a mash up of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London".[27]

Kid Rock performing for the USO with Kellie Pickler and Zac Brown in 2008

In 2008, Kid Rock recorded and made a music video for the song "Warrior" for a National Guard advertising campaign.[28][29]

### Shift to country rock (2009–present)

[edit]

In 2010, Kid Rock released his country-oriented eighth studio album, Born Free, produced by Rick Rubin, and featuring guest appearances by Sheryl Crow and Bob Seger.[2]

In 2011, Kid Rock was honored by the NAACP, which sparked protests stemming from his past display of the Confederate flag in his concerts.[30] During the ceremony, Kid Rock elaborated on his display of the flag, stating, "[I] never flew the flag with hate in my heart [...] I love America, I love Detroit, and I love black people."[30] Kid Rock's publicist announced that 2011 was the year he officially distanced himself from the flag.[30]

The following year, Kid Rock performed alongside Travie McCoy and the Roots in honor of Beastie Boys, during the band's induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.[31][32][33] 2012 also saw the release of Kid Rock's ninth studio album, Rebel Soul; he said that he wanted the album to feel like a greatest hits album, but with new songs.[34] One of the songs on the album, "Cucci Galore", introduced Kid Rock's alter ego, Bobby Shazam.[35]

In 2013, Kid Rock performed on the "Best Night Ever" tour, where he motioned to charge no more than $20 for his tickets (equivalent to $26 in 2023).[3] The following year, he moved to Warner Bros. Records, releasing his only album on the label, First Kiss, which he self-produced.[3] The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and sold more than 354,000 copies in the United States.[36][37] Subsequently, after leaving Warner Bros., Kid Rock signed with the country label Broken Bow Records.[3]

On July 12, 2017, Kid Rock shared a photo of a "Kid Rock for US Senate" yard sign on Twitter.[38] However, he denied that he was running, citing his upcoming album release and tour.[39] He later clarified that the campaign was a hoax.[40] He donated $122,000, raised by selling "Kid Rock for U.S. Senate" merchandise, to a voter registration group.[41]

Also in July, he released two singles from his next album, "Po-Dunk" and "Greatest Show on Earth", both released on the same day.[3] In November of that year, he released his eleventh studio album, Sweet Southern Sugar. The same year also saw Kid Rock publicly advocate measures against ticket scalpers at his shows by making tickets more affordable for fans.[42] Instead of getting paid for the show, he gets a percentage of concession and ticket sales.[43]

In November 2017, Kid Rock fired his publicist, Kirt Webster, after Webster was accused of sexual misconduct.[44]

In January 2018, the National Hockey League announced Kid Rock as the headlining entertainer for their January 28 All-Star Game, sparking negative online responses from some hockey fans.[45][46] Former hockey player and commentator Jeremy Roenick praised the choice and condemned Kid Rock's critics.[46]

In March 2018, Kid Rock said he would perform on Lynyrd Skynyrd's final tour before the Southern rock band retired, alongside Hank Williams Jr., Bad Company, the Marshall Tucker Band and 38 Special.[47]

Kid Rock released his first greatest hits album titled Greatest Hits: You Never Saw Coming on September 21, 2018.

On March 29, 2020, Kid Rock released his first single under the name "DJ Bobby Shazam", entitled "Quarantine", which featured an old-school hip-hop sound. The artist stated all proceeds from the single's sales will go to fight COVID-19.[48]

During Kid Rock's 50th birthday livestream, he announced that he would be releasing a triple album consisting of a hip-hop disc, a country music disc and a rock disc which would contain 30 new songs and 20 previously unreleased songs; the first single from the album, "Don't Tell Me How To Live", featuring the band Monster Truck, was released on November 18, 2021, and featured a rap rock sound reminiscent of his Devil Without a Cause album.[49] On December 17, 2021, he released a cover of "Ala-Freaking-Bama" by Trace Adkins titled "Ala-Fuckin-Bama".[50][51]

On January 25, 2022, Kid Rock released a single, "We the People", in which he criticizes the media, Anthony Fauci, face masks, COVID-19 restrictions, and Big Tech to the chorus of "Let's Go Brandon".[52] That same day, he also released "Rockin'" and "The Last Dance". On January 28, 2022, he announced on his upcoming Bad Reputation Tour that he would not perform at venues that require masks and proof of vaccination and would cancel shows at such places.[53]

On March 10, 2022, Kid Rock announced his upcoming twelfth studio album Bad Reputation, which would include his five previously released singles. It digitally released on March 21, while a physical release of the album occurred on April 6.[54]

In January 2023, Kid Rock collaborated with Fueled by 808, Austin Mahone, and Jimmie Allen on the single "No Limits".[55]

## Musical style, artistry and lyrics

[edit]

Kid Rock at Camp Phoenix in 2007

In the book Is Hip Hop Dead? The Past, Present, and Future of America's Most Wanted Music, author Mickey Hess identified Kid Rock as connecting hip-hop to rap rock, due to having started out as a hip-hop artist, before shifting his style from sample-based hip-hop to guitar-driven alternative rock that fused hip-hop beats, boasting and fashion with hard rock guitar and Southern rock attitude, influenced by classic rock and country music.[56] He is a self-taught musician and has said that he can play every instrument used in his band.[57] According to The Village Voice, "[Kid Rock's] own love and incorporation of his musical references isn't rooted in a nostalgia or a 'tribute,' but rather in his actively engaging the elements he finds compelling into a wholly new hodgepodge of his own invention."[58] Because of this unique musical approach, Kid Rock has been described as a postmodern artist.[59][60] American Songwriter says that Kid Rock's style ranges from hard rap to hard rock.[61] CBS says that Kid Rock's style is a mix of "urban rap, rock and roll [and] country and western."[57] The musician jokingly described his own style as being "creatively confused".[62] Reviewing his compilation album The History of Rock, David Browne wrote that "Unlike most of his rap-metal peers, Kid Rock doesn't merely have personality to burn (and a surprisingly likable one) but a sense of history as well. He may be the first rock star who views Americana as not simply blues, country, and boogie rock but classic hard rock and rap as well."[63] A 2015 piece by the Detroit Free Press said that Kid Rock reinvented "his persona from scrappy hip hop street kid to swaggering rock-rap showman."[9] Covering him in a 1998 piece, MTV described his sound as having "heavy-metal licks and rap riffs".[64] AllMusic described him as a "country rap-rocker" and his music as "rap-meets-rock-meets-country".[65] MTV said that Kid Rock's album Devil Without a Cause helped to "ignite the rap-rock genre" and that the musician broke through into mainstream success "during the peak of rap-rock and nü-metal".[66] In a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Kid Rock disavowed nu metal, saying that the genre was "not melodic and doesn't stand the test of time."[67] In a review of his album Sweet Southern Sugar, Cryptic Rock said that after Devil Without a Cause established him as a rap rock artist, "albums that were saturated in old school hip hop slowly but surely began to transform into the Southern country rock landscape that has built Kid Rock's persona."[68] In a review of his album Born Free, Stephen Thomas Erlewine wrote that the musician "has slowly abandoned rap for country as he crept closer to middle age",[69] and while reviewing the subsequent album Rebel Soul, Erlewine said that Kid Rock "[planted] his flag on that old-time rock & roll".[70] Billboard said that Kid Rock "fits comfortably into a modern country-rock landscape that seems practically tailor-made for him: a God-fearing good old boy with a hard-rock heart and an outlaw-country spirit."[71] Kid Rock's influences include Bob Seger[9] and Beastie Boys.[2] Regarding his influences, Kid Rock said, "I don't think there isn't anything that hasn't influenced me musically."[62]

Summarizing his lyrical themes in a review of his album Cocky, Entertainment Weekly wrote of Kid Rock, "Anyone willing to chug Buds, smoke pot, and salute the flag can find a place in Rock's unexpectedly optimistic dreamworld, where the sleaze nation commingles in a warped fantasy of pan-trash peace and harmony." The magazine categorized his lyrics as describing the "ideal of a world where rappers can sip whiskey with rednecks".[72] According to Kid Rock, a fundamental theme in the lyrics of his songs is that "there's still a lot of good left in people, no matter what they do", reflected in his lyrics for "Bawitdaba", which he dedicated to, among others, "topless dancers" and drug users. He explained in a 2000 Rolling Stone interview, "I've got a lot of faith in people. Whether it's some kid with a trust fund that people tease because he's got a trust fund, you know. I think there's some good ones out there, just like I think there's some good crackheads out there. It works both ways."[73] Kid Rock developed a "redneck pimp" alter ego to complement his humorous lyrics.[73] According to Kid Rock, "I use straightforward words, you know. I'm not politically correct."[73]

His song "Cowboy" is considered a pioneering song in the country rap genre.[74] Cowboys & Indians claims that "Cowboy" had a major impact on the country music scene; the magazine wrote that artists Jason Aldean and Big & Rich, among others, were influenced by the song's country rap style.[4] Kid Rock also had an impact on hip-hop, serving as an influence on rappers like Yelawolf.[75]

## Personal life

[edit]

Kid Rock and former spouse Pamela Anderson in 2003

In eighth grade, Ritchie began an on-and-off relationship with classmate Kelley South Russell that lasted for the next decade.[2][8][9] In summer 1993, Russell gave birth to their son, Robert James Ritchie Jr.[2][9] They raised a total of three children together, two of whom Ritchie believed to be his. They split up in late 1993 when Ritchie discovered that only one of the two was his.[9] He subsequently raised his son as a single father.[76]

In 2000, Rolling Stone reported that Ritchie was dating model Jaime King.[77] He began dating actress Pamela Anderson in 2001 and they became engaged in April 2002, but ended their relationship in 2003.[2] They later reconciled and were married in July 2006.[78] Three months later, on November 10, it was announced that Anderson, who had been pregnant with Ritchie's child, had miscarried.[79] On November 27, she filed for divorce from Ritchie in Los Angeles County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences.[80][81] Ritchie later claimed that the divorce was due to Anderson openly criticizing his mother and sister in front of his son.[82]

In 2014, Ritchie became a grandfather when his son's girlfriend gave birth to a daughter.[2] In November 2017, he became engaged to longtime girlfriend Audrey Berry.[83] The couple met in suburban Detroit, not long after he and Anderson finalized their divorce in 2007. He spotted her at a restaurant and asked her out immediately, leading to their first date in Chicago the next day.[84]

Ritchie is an ordained minister and has a firearm collection.[85] He has called Nashville a part-time home since 2005, and also splits time between his native Detroit and Alabama.[86]

## Public image and controversies

[edit]

Kid Rock performs at the USO Holiday Tour stop at Logistics Support Area Anaconda, Balad, Iraq, Dec. 20, 2007.

Ritchie oversees The Kid Rock Foundation, a charity which raises funds for multiple causes, including campaigns which sent "Kid Rock care packages" to U.S. military personnel stationed overseas.[4] Ritchie is an advocate for affordable concert tickets. He sells tickets for as low as possible to increase concert attendance for lower income consumers, and to discourage scalping.[42][87] Instead of getting paid for the show, he gets a percentage of concession and ticket sales.[43]

In 1989, Ritchie became a shareholder of the independent record label Top Dog Records, formed by Alvin Williams and Earl Blunt of EB-Bran Productions, in 1988; Ritchie's investment in the company gave him 25% ownership.[10] In 2001, he filed a lawsuit to gain full control over the Top Dog record label, resulting in his receiving full ownership of the label in 2003.[22][88] Ritchie also founded Kid Rock's Made in Detroit restaurant and bar, which specializes in Southern-style cuisine.[89]

In March 1991 and again in September 1997, Ritchie faced misdemeanor charges stemming from alcohol-related arrests in Michigan.[90]

Also in 1997, Kid Rock wrote the song "Cool, Daddy Cool" which was later used in the 2001 children's movie Osmosis Jones. In the song, Kid Rock said the controversial lyrics "Young ladies, young ladies, I like 'em underage see, Some say that's statutory (But I say it's mandatory)", with Joe C. saying the mandatory line.[91][92]

In 2002, Kid Rock performed alongside Chuck D and Grandmaster Flash in tribute to slain DJ Jam Master Jay.[93] In September 2005, Kid Rock filled in for Johnny Van Zant, the lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, on the band's hit "Sweet Home Alabama" at the Hurricane Katrina benefit concert.[94]

Kid Rock's performance at Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004 drew criticism from Veterans of Foreign Wars and Senator Zell Miller for cutting a hole in an American flag and wearing it as a poncho; Ritchie was accused of "desecrating" the flag.[2][95][96][97]

In January 2005, Ritchie performed at the inaugural address of reelected president George W. Bush, sparking criticism from conservative groups, due to singing about "how he sexually exploits every girl and then asks them if he can do it with their moms".[98]

Also in 2005, Ritchie was charged with assaulting a DJ in a strip club.[2][99]

In 2006, California pornographic film company Red Light District attempted to distribute a 1999 sex tape in which Kid Rock and Scott Stapp, lead singer of the band Creed, are seen partying and receiving oral sex from groupies; both Rock and Stapp filed with the California courts to sue the pornographers to stop the tape's distribution.[100][101]

At the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards, Ritchie got into a fistfight with Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee, another ex of Pamela Anderson's, and was charged with assault.[2][102] A month later, he was arrested and charged with battery after fighting with a Waffle House customer.[2][103] He pleaded no contest to one count and was fined $1,000, as well as being required to perform 80 hours of community service and complete a six-hour anger management course.[104]

In 2007 and 2008, Ritchie toured for the United Service Organizations.[105] Also in 2008, Ritchie recorded and made a music video for the song "Warrior" for a National Guard advertising campaign.[29][106]

Kid Rock performs for service members during a USO tour at Al Asad Airbase's Jordan-Hare Stadium in Iraq, 2008

In 2011, Ritchie was honored by the NAACP, which sparked protests stemming from his past display of the Confederate flag in his concerts.[30] During the ceremony, Kid Rock elaborated on his display of the flag, stating, "[I] never flew the flag with hate in my heart [...] I love America, I love Detroit, and I love black people."[30] Ritchie's publicist announced that 2011 was the year he officially distanced himself from the flag.[30] Kid Rock stopped displaying the Confederate flag at his concerts since 2007.[30]

In 2012, Kid Rock performed alongside Travie McCoy and the Roots in honor of Beastie Boys, during the band's induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.[31][32][33]

In 2013, Ritchie criticized Republican lawmakers in New York for passing laws which made it difficult for him to keep concert ticket prices low.[87]

In 2015, following the Charleston church shooting, the Michigan chapter of the National Action Network protested outside of the Detroit Historical Museum which honored Ritchie; activists urged Ritchie to renounce the Confederate flag, which he had displayed in concerts from 2001 to 2006.[107][108] Ritchie wrote an email to Fox News Channel host Megyn Kelly, stating, "Please tell the people who are protesting to kiss my ass".[109] The same day, the National Action Network protested Chevrolet for sponsoring Ritchie's tour.[110]

In September 2016, Ritchie was criticized for allegedly saying "man, fuck Colin Kaepernick" during a live performance of his song "Born Free".[107]

On April 6, 2018, Ritchie was inducted into the Celebrity Wing of the WWE Hall of Fame during the weekend of WrestleMania 34.[111]

On November 30, 2019, Ritchie drew controversy after he was recorded making a series of inappropriate and inflammatory statements while intoxicated at his restaurant in Nashville, including about Oprah Winfrey and Joy Behar.[112] After receiving major pushback for his comments, Ritchie decided to close the Detroit branch of his restaurant in December 2019, located at the Little Caesar's Arena. When asked for comment about the closure, he stated that "it's wise to go where you're celebrated, not tolerated".[113] In a June 2022 interview with Tucker Carlson on Tucker Carlson Originals: Life of a Rockstar, Ritchie said he had nothing to apologize for regarding the incident.[114][115][116]

In June 2021, Kid Rock attracted further controversy for using the word "faggot" onstage during a tirade against fans who were filming his performance.[117] He later defended his remarks while "reaffirming his love for his homosexual friends".[118][119] In July 2022 he faced additional accusations of homophobia after, on June 30, 2022, he posted a meme on Truth Social and on Twitter stating, "If you're anti-gun, you don't get to celebrate the 4th of July, You would have never fought back. Enjoy your pride month. Pussy."[120]

On April 3, 2023, Kid Rock posted a video on Twitter in which he is shown shooting cases of Bud Light beer cans with a submachine gun, which was seen as being in response to an advertising campaign by Anheuser-Busch that features transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.[121][122][123] After the shooting, he exclaims, "Fuck Bud Light. Fuck Anheuser-Busch."[121] He was one of key conservative influencers, alongside Sebastian Gorka, Candace Owens and Vince Dao whose push eventually led to the 2023 Bud Light boycott and which caused a large drop in sales of Bud Light.[124][125] He later promoted the Happy Dad brand; which has partnered with Caitlyn Jenner, who is a transgender woman.[126] In August, he was pictured drinking a can of Bud Light at a Colt Ford concert in Nashville.[127][128]

## Politics and views

[edit]

Ritchie at the White House in 2017

Ritchie is a supporter of the Republican Party,[129] although he has routinely proclaimed himself as libertarian philosophically,[87][130][131] stating he has socially liberal views on topics like abortion and gay marriage but conservative views on economics.[131] Ritchie has advocated legalizing and taxing marijuana, cocaine, and heroin.[85] He has also stated, "I don't think crazy people should have guns."[85] He was a vocal supporter of American military involvement in the Iraq War.[132] Ritchie has met with presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump while they were in office.[77][133][134] Regarding his political views, Ritchie said, "I have friends everywhere. Democrat, Republican, this that and the other. ... We're all human beings first, Americans second. Let's find some common ground and get along." During his speech at the 2018 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, he stated that he wanted to "body slam some Democrats".[135]

Ritchie supported Bill Clinton and George W. Bush during their presidencies.[77][136] In 2008, Ritchie supported newly elected President Barack Obama, saying that Obama's election was "a great thing for black people."[136] In 2012, Ritchie campaigned for Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney; the candidate used Ritchie's song "Born Free" as his campaign theme.[130][137][138][139][140][141] In 2015, Ritchie publicly endorsed Ben Carson for the Republican nomination for President of the United States in the 2016 election.[142] In February 2016, he voiced approval for Donald Trump's campaign for the same office.[130] In December, Kid Rock sparked controversy for selling T-shirts supporting Trump at concerts, including one showing a map of the United States which labelled the states which had voted against Trump as "Dumbfuckistan".[107][143]

On July 12, 2017, Ritchie shared a photo of a "Kid Rock for US Senate" yard sign on Twitter. He also launched a website at kidrockforsenate.com, which sold merchandise bearing that inscription.[38] Several weeks later, he wrote a post on his blog stating that he was still "exploring my candidacy", and that, whether or not he ran, he wanted to register people to vote, because "although people are unhappy with the government, too few are even registered to vote or do anything about it." He added that he wanted "to help working class people in Michigan and America all while still calling out these jackass lawyers who call themselves politicians."[144] His statements sparked media speculation that he would try to run on the Republican ticket against sitting Michigan senator Debbie Stabenow, as well as enthusiasm from some prominent Republicans, including former New York Governor George Pataki, who wrote on Twitter, "Kid Rock is exactly the kind of candidate the GOP needs right now."[145] In an October 2017 interview with Howard Stern, Ritchie put an end to the speculation, saying that he had never intended to run for Senate, adding rhetorically, "Who couldn't figure that out?".[146] He later clarified that the campaign was a joke that he had started after a Michigan state legislator encouraged him to run for Senate. He expressed surprise at the interest his potential candidacy had received, but also disappointment that some opposed to his candidacy had brought up his previous use of the Confederate flag to label him a racist.[40] He donated the $122,000 he had raised by selling "Kid Rock for U.S. Senate" merchandise to CRNC Action, a College Republican group.[41]

On July 18, 2024, Ritchie performed his song "American Bad Ass" for the 2024 Republican National Convention with modified lyrics to show his support for Trump.[147]

## Discography

[edit]

Main article: Kid Rock discography

* Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast (1990)
* The Polyfuze Method (1993)
* Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp (1996)
* Devil Without a Cause (1998)
* Cocky (2001)
* Kid Rock (2003)
* Rock n Roll Jesus (2007)
* Born Free (2010)
* Rebel Soul (2012)
* First Kiss (2015)
* Sweet Southern Sugar (2017)
* Bad Reputation (2022)[54]

## Awards and nominations

[edit]

Award  | Year  | Category  | Nominee(s)  | Results  | References

|
|
|
|
|

MTV Video Music Awards | 1999 | Best Rock Video  | Bawitaba  | Nominated  |
Best New Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
2000 | Best Rock Video  | Cowboy  | Nominated
Best Male Video  | Nominated
Grammy Awards | 2000 | Best Hard Rock Performance  | Bawitaba  | Nominated
Best New Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
American Music Awards | 2000 | Favorite Alternative Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
Favorite Pop/Rock New Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
Grammy Awards  | 2001 | Best Hard Rock Performance  | American Bad Ass  | Nominated
Blockbuster Entertainment Awards | 2001 | Favorite Artist – Rock  | Himself  | Nominated
Favorite Male Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
Country Music Association Awards | 2003 | Music Event of the Year  | Picture  | Nominated
American Music Awards  | 2003 | Favorite Pop/Rock Album  | Cocky  | Nominated
Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist  | Himself  | Won
MTV Europe Music Awards | 2008 | Most Addictive Track  | All Summer Long  | Nominated
World Music Awards | 2008 | World's Best Selling Pop/Rock Male Artist  | Himself  | Won
World's Best Selling Pop Male Artist  | Himself  | Won
People's Choice Awards | 2009 | Favorite Rock Song  | All Summer Long  | Won
Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards | 2009 | Favorite Male Singer  | Himself  | Nominated
MTV Europe Music Awards  | 2009 | Best World Stage Live Performance  | Himself  | Nominated
Grammy Awards  | 2009 | Best Rock Album  | Rock n Roll Jesus  | Nominated
Best Male Pop Vocal Performance  | All Summer Long  | Nominated
ECHO Awards | 2009  | Best International Male Artist  | Himself  | Nominated
Single of the Year  | All Summer Long  | Won
CMT Music Awards | 2009  | Video of the Year  | All Summer Long  | Nominated
Wide Open Country Video of the Year  | Won
Country Music Association Awards  | 2010 | Musical Event of the Year  | Can't You See  | Nominated
CMT Music Awards  | 2010  | Collaborative Video of the Year  | Collide  | Nominated
Billboard Music Awards | 2011 | Top Rock Album  | Born Free  | Nominated
Academy of Country Music Awards | 2011 | Vocal Event of the Year  | Good to Be Me  | Nominated
WWE Hall of Fame | 2018  | Celebrity Wing  |  | Won

## Filmography

[edit]

### Film

[edit]

Year  | Title  | Role  | Notes

|
|
|

2001  | Joe Dirt | Robbie  | Live-action acting debut
Osmosis Jones | Kidney Rock  | Voice
2003  | Biker Boyz | Dogg  |
2006  | Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector | Kid Rock  |
2012  | Americans | Troglodyte  | Short film with Sean Penn, also story
A Band Called Death | Himself  | Documentary
$ellebrity | Himself  | Documentary
2014  | Who Is Vermin Supreme? An Outsider Odyssey | Himself  | Documentary

### Television

[edit]

Year  | Title  | Role  | Notes

|
|
|

2000  | The Simpsons | Kid Rock  | Voice, episode: "Kill the Alligator and Run"
2002  | King of the Hill | Kid Rock  | Voice, episode: "The Fat and the Furious"
2003  | Stripperella | Kid Rock/Stiffy Woods  | Voice, episode: "You Only Lick Twice"; also performed the series theme song "Erotica"
2005  | Fat Actress | Kid Rock  | Episode: "Charlie's Angels"
Stacked | Delivery man  | Episode: "Nobody Says I Love You"
2006  | CSI: NY | Kid Rock  | Episode: "All Access"
2014  | 30 for 30 | Narrator  | Documentary series; episode: "Bad Boys"
Silicon Valley | Kid Rock  | Episode: "Minimum Viable Product"

## Tours

[edit]

* Straight from the Underground Tour (1990) (opened for Ice Cube, Too $hort, D Nice and Yo-Yo)
* Pimp of the Nation Tour (1996–1997)
* Warped Tour (1998)
* Devil Without a Cause (1998–1999)
* M2K (2000)
* Summer Sanitarium Tour (2000)
* History of Rock Tour (2000)
* The American Badass Tour (2001)
* Cocky Tour (2002)
* Girls of Summer (2002)
* Rock N' Roll Pain Train Tour (2004)
* Live Trucker (2006)
* Ballroom Blitz Tour (2007)
* Rock N' Roll Revival Tour (2008)
* Rock N' Rebels Tour (2008–2009)
* The Circle Tour (2010)
* Born Free Tour (2011)
* Care Tour (2011)
* Rebel Soul Tour (2013)
* $20 Best Night Ever Tour (2013)
* Because We Can Tour (2013)
* Rock N' Rollin Tour (2014)
* First Kiss (2015)
* Kid Rock 2016 Tour (2016)
* American Rock N' Roll Tour (2018)
* Red Blooded Rock 'n' Roll Redneck Extravaganza (2018)
* Hot September Nights (2019)
* Bad Reputation Tour (2022)[148]
* Rock the Country Tour (2024)

## References

[edit]

1. ^ "Bill Ritchie, former Sterling Heights auto dealer and father of Kid Rock, dies in Florida". www.freep.com.
2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v "Kid Rock". Biography.com. Archived from the original on October 13, 2017. Retrieved October 13, 2017.
3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Huey, Jeff. "Kid Rock – Biography". AllMusic. Retrieved November 30, 2010.
4. ^ a b c d e f g "Kid Rock – C&I Magazine". July 1, 2015. Archived from the original on September 20, 2016. Retrieved September 19, 2016.
5. ^ "Kid Rock's posh childhood home listed in Macomb County for $1.3M". Freep.com. Archived from the original on November 7, 2017. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
6. ^ Philby, Charlotte (July 19, 2008). "My Secret Life: Kid Rock Musician (age 37)". The Independent. London. Archived from the original on March 24, 2012. Retrieved November 30, 2010.
7. ^ "Kid Rock visits Romeo High School, donates money". April 22, 2011.
8. ^ a b "Kid Rock's Cure for Heartbreak". Rollingstone.com. October 18, 2007. Archived from the original on November 21, 2017. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
9. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab "Kid Rock before the fame: The definitive Detroit oral history". Freep.com. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
10. ^ a b "Kid Rock's Ex-Partners Ask Judge To Determine Who's Top Dog". MTV.com. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
11. ^ Bruce, Joseph; Echlin, Hobey (August 2003). "Paying Dues". In Nathan Fostey (ed.). ICP: Behind the Paint (second ed.). Royal Oak, Michigan: Psychopathic Records. pp. 164–167. ISBN 0-9741846-0-8.
12. ^ a b c d e Bruce, Joseph; Echlin, Hobey (August 2003). "The Dark Carnival". In Nathan Fostey (ed.). ICP: Behind the Paint (second ed.). Royal Oak, Michigan: Psychopathic Records. pp. 174–189. ISBN 0-9741846-0-8.
13. ^ "Metro Times - Music: Champ's town". Archived from the original on January 2, 2009. Retrieved January 28, 2018.
14. ^ "Interview Andy Karp Vice President of A&R at Lava/Atlantic in New York". AtlanticRecordsContact.com. Archived from the original on July 5, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
15. ^ "Limp Bizkit & Kid Rock announce joint US Tour Dates". MTV. Archived from the original on May 25, 2023.
16. ^ "Limp Bizkit Taps Kid Rock For Summer Tour". MTV. Archived from the original on May 25, 2023.
17. ^ a b "Kid Rock Digs Role in Joe Dirt". ABC News. January 6, 2006. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
18. ^ "Kid Rock, St. Lunatics, Uncle Kracker Do 'Osmosis Jones'". MTV.com. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
19. ^ Kaufman, Gil (January 30, 2003). "Kid Rock's Dead-In-The-Water Cocky Comes Back To Life". MTV. Archived from the original on December 19, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
20. ^ "Sound Tracks". Billboard. Vol. 114, no. 11\. March 16, 2002. p. 24\. ISSN 0006-2510. Archived from the original on March 10, 2021. Retrieved November 14, 2020.
21. ^ "Kid Rock To Remain Top Dog, Court Says". MTV.com. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
22. ^ a b "KID ROCK Remains Top Dog In Trademark Infringement Decision". Blabbermouth.net. February 4, 2003. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
23. ^ "Kid Rock Salutes Waylon". RollingStone.com. January 3, 2003. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
24. ^ "A Bothered Mind – R.L. Burnside | Songs, Reviews, Credits". AllMusic. Archived from the original on January 17, 2019. Retrieved January 17, 2019.
25. ^ Cohen, Jonathon (October 17, 2007). "Kid Rock Rolls to No. 1 Album Chart Debut". Billboard. Archived from the original on June 9, 2013. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
26. ^ Hoard, Christopher (July 12, 2007). "Kid Rock's Rock and Roll Jesus: Exclusive Sneak Peek". Rock&Roll Daily. Archived from the original on October 11, 2007. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
27. ^ "Kid Rock to ride wave of success into Detroit shows". kidrock.com. Archived from the original on July 19, 2008. Retrieved July 13, 2010.
28. ^ "Kid Rock, National Guard and Dale Earnhardt Jr team up for new commercial". May 30, 2008. Archived from the original on June 2, 2008. Retrieved March 9, 2009.
29. ^ a b Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke. "Kid Rock, Earnhardt featured in Army Guard advertising campaign". Archived from the original on June 11, 2009.
30. ^ a b c d e f g "Kid Rock: Confederate flag was dropped years before protest". Freep.com. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
31. ^ a b "Beastie Boys Honored By Travie McCoy, Kid Rock, Black Thought During Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Ceremony (Video)". Hollywoodreporter.com. May 6, 2012. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
32. ^ a b "Kid Rock Salutes Late Beastie Boy Adam Yauch". Loudwire.com. May 6, 2012. Archived from the original on October 18, 2017. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
33. ^ a b "Black Thought, Kid Rock, ?uestlove Tribute The Beastie Boys At Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony". Hiphopdx.com. April 15, 2012. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
34. ^ "Kid Rock, 'Rebel Soul': Track-By-Track Review". Billboard. November 20, 2012. Archived from the original on May 10, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
35. ^ "KID ROCK PARTIES HARD WITH 'BOBBY SHAZAM' ON REBEL SOUL". MTV. November 19, 2012. Archived from the original on March 30, 2020. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
36. ^ Billboard (March 4, 2015). "Big Sean Scores His First No. 1 Album on Billboard 200". Billboard. Archived from the original on April 22, 2015. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
37. ^ Teitelman, Bram (January 8, 2016). "Metal by Numbers: Metallica, FFDP, AC/DC among 2015's biggest-selling rock, metal records". MetalInsider.net. Archived from the original on September 12, 2016. Retrieved January 8, 2016.
38. ^ a b Feldscher, Kyle (July 12, 2017). "Kid Rock teases run for U.S. Senate in Michigan". The Washington Examiner. Archived from the original on July 12, 2017. Retrieved July 12, 2017. "Kid Rock, otherwise known as Bob Ritchie, tweeted the Kid Rock For Senate website is real and tweeted a photo of a mock lawn sign."
39. ^ "Kid Rock: 'F
 no, I'm not running for Senate'". Politico. Archived from the original on October 24, 2017. Retrieved October 24, 2017.
40. ^ a b "After controversies, Kid Rock is happy to taste some "Sweet Southern Sugar"". Themorningsun.com. November 2, 2017. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
41. ^ a b "Kid Rock sends $122K from fake campaign to voter group". Amp.detroitnews.com. Archived from the original on January 26, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
42. ^ a b "Kid Rock Takes On The Scalpers". Npr.org. Archived from the original on April 24, 2015. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
43. ^ a b Tuttle, Brad (June 26, 2013). "Kid Rock's $20 Concert Ticket Plan: Good for Fans, Bad for Scalpers". Time. Archived from the original on September 29, 2017. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
44. ^ "Kid Rock Fires Nashville Publicist Amid Sexual Misconduct Accusations". Rollingstone.com. November 2, 2017. Archived from the original on February 4, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
45. ^ "NHL announcement of Kid Rock as All-Star Game entertainer gets icy reaction". Washingtonpost.com. Archived from the original on January 17, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
46. ^ a b "Jeremy Roenick rips haters, says Kid Rock is 'the most talented musician' ever". Cbssports.com. January 18, 2018. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
47. ^ "Lynyrd Skynyrd announce farewell tour starting May 4". Amp.detroitnews.com. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
48. ^ "Listen: Kid Rock, as DJ Bobby Shazam, goes old school on new single 'Quarantine'". Detroit News. March 29, 2020. Archived from the original on March 30, 2020. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
49. ^ McCollum, Brian (November 19, 2021). "Kid Rock summons 'Devil Without a Cause' in defiant new song 'Don't Tell Me How to Live'". Detroit Free Press. Archived from the original on November 20, 2021. Retrieved November 20, 2021.
50. ^ "Kid Rock Drops New Song, "Ala-Fuckin-Bama"". January 10, 2022. Archived from the original on January 12, 2022. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
51. ^ "Kid Rock Releases New Song "Ala-F*ckin-Bama" Ahead Of College Football Playoff". December 21, 2021. Archived from the original on January 12, 2022. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
52. ^ Miller, Matthew (January 25, 2022). "LISTEN: Kid Rock". The Gazette (Colorado Springs). Washington Examiner. Archived from the original on January 25, 2022. Retrieved January 25, 2022.
53. ^ "Kid Rock says he'll cancel tour dates at venues with COVID mandates". Texomashomepage.com. January 28, 2022. Archived from the original on January 29, 2022. Retrieved February 1, 2022.
54. ^ a b "Kid Rock's 'Bad Reputation' Album to Arrive This Month; Details Revealed". Blabbermouth.net. March 10, 2022.
55. ^ "No Limits (feat. Jimmie Allen) - Single by Fueled by 808, Kid Rock, Austin Mahone". Apple Music. Retrieved March 11, 2023.
56. ^ Hess, Mickey (2007). "White Rappers". Hip Hop Dead? The Past, Present, and Future of America's Most Wanted Music. Greenwood Publishing Group. pp. 122–123. ISBN 978-0-275-99461-7.
57. ^ a b "Kid Rock: Motor City's bad boy does good". CBSNews.com. November 25, 2012. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
58. ^ "In Defense of Kid Rock: Try Hating These Classics". Villagevoice.com. June 27, 2013. Retrieved July 9, 2018.
59. ^ Fishman, DB (July 1, 2013). "Kid Rock: The Postmodern Paradigm". Pop Verse. Retrieved September 24, 2022.
60. ^ Heisig, Eric (August 6, 2022). "Kid Rock uses Trump, Biden to pander to crowd at Blossom concert". cleveland.com. Retrieved September 24, 2022.
61. ^ Uitti, Jacob (May 2, 2023). "Behind the Stage Name: Kid Rock". American Songwriter. Retrieved March 3, 2023.
62. ^ a b "Kid Rock Details Sweet Southern Sugar". Cmt.com. Archived from the original on February 2, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
63. ^ Browne, David (June 5, 2000). "The History of Rock". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved September 13, 2018.
64. ^ "Kid Rock Raps With The Devil". Mtv.com. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
65. ^ Huey, Steve. "Biography of Kid Rock". AllMusic. Retrieved April 5, 2010.
66. ^ "Nu Metal Meltdown". MTV. Archived from the original on February 1, 2003. Retrieved April 26, 2023.
67. ^ "Kid Rock Says Nu Metal Didn't Stand the Test of Time, Limp Bizkit Were Horrible to Roadies". Theprp.com. March 20, 2015. Archived from the original on June 20, 2018. Retrieved July 1, 2018.
68. ^ "Kid Rock – Sweet Southern Sugar (Album Review) – Cryptic Rock". Crypticrock.com. November 3, 2017. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
69. ^ "Born Free – Kid Rock – Songs, Reviews, Credits – AllMusic". AllMusic. Archived from the original on April 30, 2012. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
70. ^ Erlewine, Stephen Thomas. "Allmusic review". AllMusic. Retrieved May 31, 2013.
71. ^ "Album Review: Kid Rock Grows Up and Gives Thanks on 'First Kiss'". Billboard. February 23, 2015. Retrieved March 1, 2015.
72. ^ Brunner, Rob (November 19, 2001). "EW review". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on July 12, 2014. Retrieved May 31, 2013.
73. ^ a b c Heath, Chris (June 22, 2000). "The Low Times and High Life of Kid Rock". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved August 25, 2022.
74. ^ Sayles, Justin (October 6, 2020). "The White-Rapper Taxonomy". The Ringer. Archived from the original on October 24, 2020. Retrieved October 22, 2020.
75. ^ Lacy, Eric (November 19, 2014). "Yelawolf on Shady XV contribution, Eminem's loyalty: 'It's an honor ... There's nobody like him'". mlive. Retrieved August 28, 2022.
76. ^ "Kid Rock Takes Role of Fatherhood Seriously". The Boot. April 25, 2011. Archived from the original on December 17, 2012. Retrieved February 22, 2012.
77. ^ a b c "The Low Times and High Life of Kid Rock". Rollingstone.com. June 22, 2000. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
78. ^ Rubin, Courtney; Kennedy, Dana; Wilson, Nancy (July 31, 2006). "Pamela Anderson, Kid Rock Tie the Knot". People. Archived from the original on July 25, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
79. ^ "Pamela Anderson Suffers a Miscarriage". People. Time. November 10, 2006. Archived from the original on January 9, 2011. Retrieved August 2, 2010.
80. ^ "Access Hollywood". Archived from the original on July 12, 2007. Retrieved February 26, 2007.
81. ^ "Spin.com". Archived from the original on March 19, 2007. Retrieved February 26, 2007.
82. ^ "Kid Rock | Kid Rock: 'I Divorced Anderson For My Son'". Contactmusic. Archived from the original on February 1, 2022. Retrieved February 22, 2012.
83. ^ "Kid Rock gets engaged to longtime girlfriend Audrey Berry". Freep.com. Archived from the original on October 13, 2017. Retrieved November 3, 2017.
84. ^ "Who Is Kid Rock's Fiancée? All About Audrey Berry". Peoplemag. Retrieved June 12, 2024.
85. ^ a b c Cumming, Ed (January 3, 2015). "Kid Rock: This Much I Know". The Guardian. Archived from the original on March 8, 2018. Retrieved February 21, 2018.
86. ^ Ward, Getahn (April 18, 2015). "Kid Rock buys 102 acres in Whites Creek". The Tennessean. Retrieved February 21, 2018.
87. ^ a b c Makarechi, Kia (April 11, 2013). "Kid Rock On Republicans: 'I'm F-king Embarrassed'". HuffPost. Archived from the original on February 25, 2015. Retrieved February 25, 2015.
88. ^ Rashbaum, Alyssa (January 12, 2005). "Kid Rock To Remain Top Dog, Court Says". MTV.com. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
89. ^ Perkins, Tom (November 29, 2017). "Review: Is Kid Rock's Made in Detroit restaurant worth its salt?". Detroit Metro Times. Archived from the original on April 19, 2018. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
90. ^ "The Smoking Gun : Mugshots". November 18, 2010. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved December 14, 2012.
91. ^ Kid Rock (Ft. Joe-C) – Cool, Daddy Cool, retrieved July 19, 2024
92. ^ Schaffner, Lauryn (April 6, 2023). "That Time Kid Rock Sang 'I Like 'Em Underage' in a Song on a Kids Movie Soundtrack". Loudwire. Retrieved July 19, 2024.
93. ^ Moss, Corey (November 27, 2002). "Jam Master Jay To Be Honored By Kid Rock, Chuck D At VH1 Awards". MTV.com. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
94. ^ Iwasaki, Scott (September 9, 2005). "Many concerts to benefit Hurricane Katrina victims". Deseret News. Salt Lake City. Archived from the original on October 14, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
95. ^ "Artsandentartainment: VFW slams Kid Rock for flag poncho". Sptimes.com. Archived from the original on June 10, 2017. Retrieved February 22, 2012.
96. ^ George, Justin (February 4, 2004). "Artsandentartainment: VFW slams Kid Rock for flag poncho". Sptimes.com. Archived from the original on June 10, 2017. Retrieved February 22, 2012.
97. ^ "Senator Blasts Kid Rock For Wearing Flag". Blabbermouth.net. February 13, 2004. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
98. ^ KID ROCK's Scheduled Appearance At BUSH Inaugural 'Shocking' Archived 2018-04-18 at the Wayback Machine (January 6, 2005). Blabbermouth.net
99. ^ "Kid Rock sued for $575,000 over assault at jons house". BlabberMouth.net. Associated Press. June 16, 2005. Archived from the original on December 21, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
100. ^ Abramovitch, Seth. "Welcome To The Kid Rock-Scott Stapp Sex Tape". Gawker. Archived from the original on July 4, 2011. Retrieved February 16, 2006.
101. ^ "Kid Rock Sues To Block Sale Of Sex Tape". Billboard. February 22, 2006. Archived from the original on August 19, 2020. Retrieved February 22, 2012.
102. ^ "Kid Rock Cited for Misdemeanor Assault". Moono.com. UGO Networks. September 11, 2007. Archived from the original on September 4, 2008. Retrieved July 22, 2008.
103. ^ McDonald, Ray (October 22, 2007). "Musician Kid Rock Arrested Following Restaurant Fight". VOA News. Voice of America. Archived from the original on September 14, 2008. Retrieved January 2, 2009.
104. ^ "Kid Rock to Attend Anger Management Classes". Now Magazine. July 27, 2008. Archived from the original on December 19, 2008. Retrieved July 28, 2008.
105. ^ Montgomery, James. "Kid Rock Doesn't Want Praise For Touring With USO". MTV News. Archived from the original on April 18, 2018. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
106. ^ "Kid Rock, National Guard and Dale Earnhardt Jr team up for new commercial". May 30, 2008. Archived from the original on June 2, 2008. Retrieved March 9, 2009.
107. ^ a b c "Kid Rock and the Confederate flag: a history". Detroit Metro Times. Archived from the original on January 27, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
108. ^ "Activists call on Kid Rock to renounce Confederate flag". Freep.com. Archived from the original on March 8, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
109. ^ "Kid Rock Tells Confederate Flag Protestors to 'Kiss My Ass'". Rollingstone.com. July 10, 2015. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
110. ^ "Civil rights group to GM: Pull support from Kid Rock". Freep.com. Archived from the original on May 16, 2017. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
111. ^ "Kid Rock To Be Inducted Into WWE Hall of Fame During WrestleMania 34 Weekend: Exclusive". Billboard. March 12, 2018. Archived from the original on November 9, 2020. Retrieved March 12, 2018.
112. ^ "Kid Rock Drunk Rant about Oprah in Nashville". TMZ. November 30, 2019. Archived from the original on March 2, 2020. Retrieved April 9, 2020.
113. ^ "Kid Rock Closes Restaurant". USA Today. Archived from the original on February 17, 2020. Retrieved April 9, 2020.
114. ^ Rowley, Glenn (June 7, 2022). "Kid Rock Refuses to Apologize for Oprah Comments Made During Drunken Rant: 'I Own What I Said'". Billboard. Retrieved June 7, 2022.
115. ^ "Kid Rock stands by drunken rant attacking Oprah Winfrey: 'I don't apologize to anybody'". al. June 7, 2022. Retrieved June 7, 2022.
116. ^ Towers, Andrea (June 7, 2022). "Kid Rock doubles down on his drunken rant against Oprah Winfrey and Joy Behar". EW.com. Retrieved June 7, 2022.
117. ^ Atkinson, Katie (June 7, 2021). "Kid Rock Filmed Using a Homophobic Slur Onstage". Billboard. Retrieved August 27, 2022.
118. ^ "Kid Rock Defends Use of Homophobic Slur During Live Show: 'If Kid Rock Using the Word Fa*got Offends You, Good Chance You Are One'". Archived from the original on November 26, 2021. Retrieved September 27, 2021.
119. ^ "Kid Rock Uses Homophobic Slur. Then Uses It Again". June 10, 2021. Archived from the original on September 27, 2021. Retrieved September 27, 2021.
120. ^ "Kid Rock, Who Swears He's Not Homophobic, Posts Homophobic Fourth of July Meme". July 4, 2022.
121. ^ a b Young, Alex (April 4, 2023). "Kid Rock Shoots Up Cases of Bud Light in Dumbest Social Media Video of the Week". Consequence of Sound. Retrieved April 4, 2023.
122. ^ Hays, Gabriel (April 4, 2023). "Kid Rock shoots up Bud Light cans with rifle to protest Dylan Mulvaney partnership: 'F
 Bud Light'". Fox News. Retrieved April 4, 2023.
123. ^ Holpuch, Amanda (April 14, 2023). "Behind the Backlash Against Bud Light's Transgender Influencer". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved April 18, 2023.
124. ^ Jones, C. T. (April 6, 2023). "Dylan Mulvaney Won't Be Silenced by the Right-Wing Freakout Over Her and Bud Light". Rolling Stone. Retrieved July 29, 2023.
125. ^ Kennedy, Dana (April 12, 2023). "Go woke or lose bonuses: CEOs are 'forced' into Dylan Mulvaney deal system". New York Post. Retrieved July 29, 2023.
126. ^ Fung, Katherine (April 10, 2023). "Kid Rock Promotes New Seltzer With Ties to Transgender Partnership". Newsweek. Retrieved April 26, 2023.
127. ^ "Kid Rock Enjoys a Bud Light ... Wait, What?!?". TMZ. August 18, 2023. Retrieved August 24, 2023.
128. ^ Impelli, Matthew (August 18, 2023). "Kid Rock Mocked for Drinking Bud Light After Igniting Boycott". Newsweek. Retrieved August 24, 2023.
129. ^ Kid Rock: This Much I Know Archived March 8, 2018, at the Wayback Machine. The Guardian. 3 January 2015.
130. ^ a b c Hiatt, Brian (February 1, 2016). "Kid Rock: 'I'm Digging Donald Trump'". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on June 20, 2017. Retrieved February 19, 2018.
131. ^ a b "Kid Rock: "Fiscally, I'm Republican. But the social issues kill me — gay marriage and abortion. It's like, Come on, man, get off it."". Reason.com. February 9, 2015. Archived from the original on January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
132. ^ "Kid Rock Talks War With IRAQ, Peace With TOMMY LEE". Blabbermouth.net. February 24, 2003. Archived from the original on December 10, 2019. Retrieved December 10, 2019.
133. ^ "Kid Rock: 'I have no hard feelings towards Barack Obama'". 3 News NZ. December 6, 2012. Archived from the original on July 28, 2013. Retrieved December 5, 2012.
134. ^ "4 Hours at the White House With Ted Nugent, Sarah Palin and Kid Rock". The New York Times. April 20, 2017. Archived from the original on April 22, 2017. Retrieved April 21, 2017.
135. ^ Durr, Matt. Kid Rock at WWE ceremony jokes: 'I just want to bodyslam some Democrats' Archived April 8, 2018, at the Wayback Machine (April 7, 2018).
136. ^ a b Kid Rock: 'Barack Obama is great for black people' Archived August 3, 2020, at the Wayback Machine (November 25, 2008). NME.
137. ^ Johnson, Luke (December 7, 2011). "Mitt Romney Chooses Kid Rock's 'Born Free' As Campaign Theme Song". HuffPost. Archived from the original on February 4, 2012. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
138. ^ Goodale, Gloria (December 7, 2011). "Mitt Romney chooses theme song. Is 'Born Free' a good choice?". The Christian Science Monitor. Archived from the original on January 30, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
139. ^ Spangler, Todd (December 7, 2011). "Romney campaign adopts Kid Rock's 'Born Free'". The Seattle Times. Archived from the original on January 30, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
140. ^ The Reliable Source (December 7, 2011). "Quoted: Kid Rock on Romney's campaign theme song pick". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on February 1, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
141. ^ "Kid Rock performs 'Born Free' for Mitt Romney campaign stop: Watch it here". Ew.com. Archived from the original on January 30, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
142. ^ "Celebrity endorsements for 2016". The Hill. April 25, 2015. Archived from the original on November 19, 2016. Retrieved July 14, 2015.
143. ^ "Kid Rock's RNC Concert: Rocker Sidesteps the Soapbox to Show His Country Pride". Billboard. July 22, 2016. Archived from the original on March 24, 2018. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
144. ^ Brandle, Lars (July 27, 2017). "Kid Rock Updates on His Senate Bid: 'Democrats Are Shattin' in their Pantaloons'". Billboard. Archived from the original on June 13, 2018. Retrieved June 6, 2018.
145. ^ Campanile, Carl (August 15, 2017). "Pataki says Kid Rock is just what the Senate needs". New York Post. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved June 6, 2018.
146. ^ McCollum, Brian (October 24, 2017). "Kid Rock: Of course I'm not running for Senate". Detroit Free Press. Archived from the original on November 25, 2018. Retrieved June 6, 2018.
147. ^ Aniftos, Rania (July 19, 2024). "Kid Rock Performed at the RNC & the Internet Has Thoughts". Billboard. Retrieved July 20, 2024.
148. ^ "Kid Rock Reveals 2022 Bad Reputation Tour Dates With Foreigner & More". Billboard. January 24, 2022.

## External links

[edit]

Wikiquote has quotations related to Kid Rock.

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Kid Rock.

* Official website
* Kid Rock at AllMusic
* Kid Rock at IMDb
* Appearances on C-SPAN

* v
* t
* e

Kid Rock

Twisted Brown Trucker:

* Kenny Tudrick
* Jason Krause
* Jimmie Bones
* Stefanie Eulinberg
* Aaron Julison
* Paradime

* Uncle Kracker
* Bob Ebeling
* Kenny Olson
* Joe C.
* Mike Bradford
* Lonnie Moxley
* Bobby East
* Chris Labroux

Studio albums|

* Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast
* The Polyfuze Method
* Early Mornin' Stoned Pimp
* Devil Without a Cause
* Cocky
* Kid Rock
* Rock n Roll Jesus
* Born Free
* Rebel Soul
* First Kiss
* Sweet Southern Sugar
* Bad Reputation

Other releases|

* Fire It Up (EP)
* The History of Rock
* Live Trucker

Singles|

* "I Am the Bullgod"
* "Bawitdaba"
* "Cowboy"
* "Only God Knows Why"
* "American Bad Ass"
* "Forever"
* "You Never Met a Motherfucker Quite Like Me"
* "Lonely Road of Faith"
* "Picture"
* "Feel Like Makin' Love"
* "Cold and Empty"
* "Jackson, Mississippi"
* "I Am"
* "So Hott"
* "Amen"
* "All Summer Long"
* "Roll On"
* "Rock N Roll Jesus"
* "Born Free"
* "First Kiss"
* "Don't Tell Me How to Live"

Featured singles|

* "Rock Star"
* "Good to Be Me"

Concert Tours|

* Devil Without a Cause Tour
* Summer Sanitarium Tour
* History of Rock Tour
* Bad Reputation Tour

Related|

* Discography
* Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show

* v
* t
* e

WWE Hall of Fame - Celebrity Wing

* 2004: Pete Rose
* 2006: William Perry
* 2010: Bob Uecker
* 2011: Drew Carey
* 2012: Mike Tyson
* 2013: Donald Trump
* 2014: Mr. T
* 2015: Arnold Schwarzenegger
* 2016: Snoop Dogg
* 2018: Kid Rock
* 2020: William Shatner
* 2021: Ozzy Osbourne
* 2023: Andy Kaufman

* v
* t
* e

American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist

* Jim Croce (1974)
* John Denver (1975)
* John Denver (1976)
* Elton John (1977)
* Barry Manilow (1978)
* Barry Manilow (1979)
* Barry Manilow (1980)
* Kenny Rogers (1981)
* Kenny Rogers (1982)
* John Mellencamp / Rick Springfield (1983)
* Michael Jackson (1984)
* Lionel Richie (1985)
* Bruce Springsteen (1986)
* Lionel Richie (1987)
* Paul Simon (1988)
* George Michael (1989)
* Bobby Brown (1990)
* Phil Collins (1991)
* Michael Bolton (1992)
* Michael Bolton (1993)
* Eric Clapton (1994)
* Michael Bolton (1995)
* Michael Jackson (1996)
* Eric Clapton (1997)
* Babyface (1998)
* Eric Clapton (1999)
* Will Smith (2000)
* Kid Rock (2001)
* Lenny Kravitz (2002)
* Eminem (2003)
* Kid Rock (2003)
* Usher (2004)
* Will Smith (2005)
* Sean Paul (2006)
* Justin Timberlake (2007)
* Chris Brown (2008)
* Michael Jackson (2009)
* Justin Bieber (2010)
* Bruno Mars (2011)
* Justin Bieber (2012)
* Justin Timberlake (2013)
* Sam Smith (2014)
* Ed Sheeran (2015)
* Justin Bieber (2016)
* Bruno Mars (2017)
* Post Malone (2018)
* Khalid (2019)
* Justin Bieber (2020)
* Ed Sheeran (2021)
* Harry Styles (2022)

Authority control databases

International|

* ISNI
* 2
* VIAF
* FAST

National|

* Germany
* United States
* France
* BnF data
* Czech Republic
* Netherlands
* Poland
* Israel

Artists|

* MusicBrainz
* Grammy Awards

People|

* DDB

Other|

* IdRef
* SNAC

*[m.]: married
*[div.]: divorced
*[v]: View this template
*[t]: Discuss this template
*[e]: Edit this template