Politics & Government

Kid Rock Joins Mitt Romney on Stage at Royal Oak Music Theatre

Romney supporters are treated to a musical performance by a guy who 'epitomizes Detroit and is an icon.'

When Michigan Atty. Gen. Bill Schuette asked, “Royal Oak do you want to rock?” and “Michigan do you want to roll?” on Monday night, he was serious.

Moments later, after addressing more than 1,000 supporters at the , Mitt Romney described driving to the home of “a fellow that lives in this area.”

“I asked him whether he might come here tonight. I think you know him pretty well,” Romney teased the crowd. “He’s a native son of Detroit. He loves Michigan and he loves Detroit.”

Find out what's happening in Royal Oakwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Republican presidential candidate’s campaign promised to deliver Gov. Rick Snyder and a "special musical guest from Detroit" on his “Earn It” bus tour to Royal Oak.

When the burgundy stage curtains where finally drawn, local music hero Kid Rock belted out his anthem “Born Free” in front of an oversized American flag.

Find out what's happening in Royal Oakwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Romney told the crowd Kid Rock asked him, “If you’re elected president will you help me help the city of Detroit?” Romney said he assured him he would.

“And then I said, ‘Given the fact I am willing to do that would you come here and perform a concert tonight for my friends?” Romney said.

After playing one song, Kid Rock shook hands with the Romneys and quickly exited the stage. He offered no comments during his performance or after.

“I thought it was a great touch to have Kid Rock,” said Russ Johnson of Milford. “He epitomizes Detroit and is an icon.”

Jim Perry of Grosse Pointe agreed. “It’s the first time I have saw him,” said the World War II Vet. “He was fantastic.”


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here