What’s a celebrity spat without a bit of musical drama, right? Recently, Kid Rock—a man who seems to have built his brand on barroom brawls and rock anthems—took a swing at former First Lady Michelle Obama over her decision not to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration. Talk about digging up the past! With his trademark bravado, he reminded Michelle of his own appearance at Barack Obama’s inaugural festivities back in 2009, despite not voting for him. “I went out of respect for the presidency,” he declared, implying that perhaps Ms. Obama should take a page out of his rock star playbook. Does a musical performance mean a stamp of approval for every administration, or is it just another day in the feisty world of celebrity politics? Get ready for some thought-provoking reflections on the mingling of music and politics. LEARN MORE.
Speaking with Fox News’ Jesse Watters on Thursday, the rock musician tore into the former first lady and implied her absence was disrespectful of Trump.
“I would kindly remind her that years back when [President Barack] Obama was first elected, I did not vote for him, but they asked me to play the inauguration,” he said. “And I played it and I went, had a good time. I went out of respect for the presidency, so I would kindly remind Ms. Michelle about that.”
Kid Rock, who has been outspoken about his conservative views, was referring to his performance at the 2009 Youth Inaugural Ball, held after Barack Obama’s first swearing-in. Kanye West and Fall Out Boy were among the other music acts at that event.