Kid Rock’s appearance at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee’s closing night stirred a range of reactions, from fervent applause to uncomfortable silence. Amid his spirited performance, the controversial musician made a provocative statement that left many attendees puzzled.
Addressing the predominantly older audience, Kid Rock rallied support for former President Donald Trump with his signature bravado. “If you’re ready for President Trump to take the stage,” he shouted, “I need everybody to stand up! Put a fist up in the air!”
In his typical style, Kid Rock delivered a charged rendition, interspersing lyrics that included a cryptic line about the atmosphere: “I know it stinks in here ’cause Trump’s the shhhh.”
The line caused a rift among the audience. While some enthusiastically embraced it, others visibly showed discomfort or confusion, possibly reflecting on allegations about Trump’s purported unpleasant odor.
Former Republican lawmaker Adam Kinzinger once described Trump’s scent as a blend of “armpits, ketchup, a butt, and makeup,” comparing it to a cologne concoction that defies conventional expectations.
Adam Kinzinger describes Donald Trump’s odor situation as “not good” and says he smells like arm pits, ketchup, makeup, and ass pic.twitter.com/LvqQ5As9Ez
— Acyn (@Acyn) December 28, 2023
After Kid Rock exited the stage, UFC President Dana White transitioned the evening’s proceedings, eventually introducing Trump amidst further spectacle, including a cameo by retired wrestler Hulk Hogan.
Kid Rock’s presence, marked by his pointed lyrical innuendo, added yet another layer of controversy to an already charged event, drawing attention beyond political rhetoric to the unexpected twists of the evening.
Watch his wild performance below (His “stink” line comes at the 3:18 mark):
Kid Rock baby! #TrumpTrump #FightFight #MAGA pic.twitter.com/YIWFjNKP6x
— Karli Bonne’ 🇺🇸 (@KarluskaP) July 19, 2024