Gene Simmons Stands Firm on “Roadie for a Day” Experience
Did you really think Gene Simmons would back down after being publicly roasted for offering fans a $12,495 “roadie for a day” experience on his upcoming solo tour? Well, think again. The iconic KISS bassist and frontman has doubled down on the idea, explaining the inspiration behind this unique offering in a recent interview.
Inspiration Behind the Experience
Simmons shared that his curiosity as a child attending concerts sparked the idea for the “roadie for a day” experience. “I was always curious, ‘What’s it like when they’re in a hotel? What’s it like when the stage is set up? What’s it like being onstage when they’re performing and seeing the audience from the stage?'” he revealed to the New York Post.
He decided to open this opportunity to fans, stating, “Nobody’s ever done it. Why not let someone be my personal roadie for the day?” The hefty fee encompasses breakfast at the hotel, assistance in stage assembly, joining Simmons for promotional meetings, and a chance to take in the concert from the stage while being introduced to the audience. As a parting gift, participants will also receive an autographed bass.
What’s Included and What’s Not
It’s important to note that this experience does not include an actual ticket to the show, as tickets are sold through individual venues. Simmons clarified the exclusivity of this offer, saying, “This is not for everybody and it ain’t cheap.” He also mentioned the high cost is partially due to insurance requirements. “It’s a different world than what I grew up in. Nowadays, if you get a paper cut… everybody gets sued,” he added in a separate interview with Buffalo’s WIVB.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Despite the postponement of over a dozen shows for Simmons’ 2025 solo tour, there are still opportunities for fans to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Up to 10 fans can fulfill their dreams of being the God of Thunder’s roadie at the following shows:
- May 2 – Peachtree City, GA – The Fred Amp
- May 3 – Beaver Dam, KY – Beaver Dam Amphitheater
- May 5 – Red Bank, NJ – Basie
- May 6 – Montclair, NJ – Wellmont
- May 8 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Casino
- May 9 – Huntington, NY – The Paramount
- May 11 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
- May 14 – Northfield, OH – MGM
- May 15 – Niagara Falls, ON – Fallsview Casino
- Aug. 3 – Sturgis, SD – Buffalo Chip
Conclusion
While many might raise eyebrows at the steep price tag for Simmons’ “roadie for a day” experience, the KISS star remains unapologetic and enthusiastic about giving fans a unique glimpse into the world of rock and roll. As he boldly stated, this opportunity allows fans to fulfill a dream that few ever get to experience firsthand.
FAQs
What does the “roadie for a day” experience include?
The experience includes breakfast at the hotel, helping to set up the stage, accompanying Gene Simmons during promotional meetings, being introduced to the audience during the concert, and receiving an autographed bass.
Is a concert ticket included in the experience?
No, the “roadie for a day” experience does not include a ticket to the concert, which must be purchased separately through the venues.
Why is the experience so expensive?
The cost is attributed to various factors, including insurance requirements and the exclusivity of the experience, which Simmons acknowledges is not for everyone.
How many fans can participate in this experience?
Up to 10 fans will have the opportunity to participate in the “roadie for a day” experience at each selected concert on the tour.
