Cheap Trick Responds to Criticism Over Kennedy Center Honors Performance

On December 7, 2023, Cheap Trick took the stage at the Kennedy Center Honors to pay tribute to their longtime friends and fellow rock icons, Kiss. Their performance of “Rock and Roll All Nite” aimed to celebrate the achievements of Kiss, who were being honored alongside other notable figures like George Strait, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and Sylvester Stallone. However, the band’s appearance at an event hosted by President Donald Trump sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.

Cheap Trick’s Official Statement

Clarifying Their Intentions

In response to the backlash, Cheap Trick released a statement on their social media platforms. They emphasized that their participation was not politically motivated but rather a gesture of solidarity with their musical peers. The band stated:

“We were asked to perform at this year’s Kennedy Center Honors ceremony to pay tribute to our lifelong brothers in Kiss, and to support artists and the arts. We agreed to do it for those reasons, and no others.”

Reactions to the Performance

Mixed Feedback from Fans

Following the performance, reactions from fans were divided. Many expressed disappointment, particularly due to the perceived association with the political climate surrounding President Trump. Some comments on social media included:

“So disappointed in you guys,”

“And another supporting white nationalism…..,”

Conversely, others defended the band’s decision, arguing that the honors were focused on Kiss’s musical contributions rather than the political context of the event. One supporter remarked:

“Kiss received an award for their achievements as an incredible band. Has nothing to do with the president.”

Cheap Trick’s Relationship with Kiss

A Musical Brotherhood

Cheap Trick’s deep-rooted connection with Kiss spans decades. They first toured together in 1977 as the opening act for Kiss during their Love Gun tour. This relationship has been celebrated in Cheap Trick’s music, particularly in their hit song “Surrender,” which includes the line: “Rollin’ numbers, rock and rollin’, got my Kiss records out.”

Upcoming Broadcast of the Event

The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors will be televised on December 23, 2023, from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM ET/PT on CBS, offering fans a chance to relive the memorable tributes and performances from the evening.

Conclusion

Cheap Trick’s performance at the Kennedy Center Honors has reignited discussions about the intersection of music and politics. While some fans expressed their discontent, the band remains focused on honoring their friends in Kiss and supporting the arts. As the broadcast approaches, it will be interesting to see how the public’s perception evolves.

FAQs

Why did Cheap Trick perform at the Kennedy Center Honors?

Cheap Trick performed to pay tribute to their longtime friends in Kiss and to support artists and the arts, as stated in their official statement.

What was the public reaction to their performance?

The reaction was mixed, with some fans expressing disappointment due to the event’s political context, while others defended the band’s decision to honor Kiss’s achievements.

When will the Kennedy Center Honors be broadcast?

The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors will be broadcast on December 23, 2023, from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM ET/PT on CBS.