As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, Kid Rock is turning to inspiration from a sports legend while preparing to headline a controversial alternative halftime event organized by Turning Point USA. The performance is positioned as a counter-program to the official Super Bowl Halftime Show, which will feature global superstar Bad Bunny.
In a post shared on X on Thursday (Feb. 5), the musician referenced the late NBA icon Kobe Bryant and his well-known “Mamba Mentality.” The quote encouraged resilience in the face of criticism, stating, “Learn to love the hate. Embrace it. Enjoy it. You earned it.”
The message continued with a perspective on public scrutiny: everyone is entitled to their opinions, and strong criticism often comes with standing out. The sentiment suggests that backlash is often directed not at the average, but at those who make a significant impact.
The ‘All-American Halftime Show’ Lineup
Kid Rock was officially announced on Feb. 2 as part of Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show.” The lineup also includes Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, and Gabby Barrett. The event is scheduled to take place at the same time as the official Super Bowl Halftime Show on Sunday, Feb. 8.
The conservative organization first revealed plans for the alternative concert in October, framing it as a celebration of “faith, family, and freedom.” Organizers also emphasized that the event would feature performances exclusively in English, positioning it as a cultural counterpoint to the NFL’s main-stage selection.
Why Bad Bunny’s Selection Sparked Debate
The announcement that Bad Bunny would headline the Super Bowl generated mixed reactions in some political circles. Critics on the conservative side accused the Puerto Rican artist of holding anti-immigration enforcement views, although he had not previously issued a formal policy stance. His earlier comments focused on concerns that immigration enforcement activity outside venues could affect Latino fans attending his shows.
The conversation intensified after the artist’s appearance at the 2026 Grammy Awards, where he won Best Música Urbana Album for Debí Tirar Más Fotos. During his acceptance speech on Feb. 1, he made a strong statement calling for dignity and compassion toward immigrant communities, emphasizing unity and the power of love over division.
Kid Rock’s Political Positioning
Kid Rock’s participation in the alternative halftime event aligns with his long-standing political identity. A vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, the artist has publicly backed stricter immigration enforcement policies.
In May 2025, after reports surfaced that his Nashville restaurant had been the subject of immigration enforcement activity, he posted on social media expressing full support for removing undocumented individuals with criminal records, regardless of where enforcement actions take place.
A Cultural Clash Ahead of Super Bowl Sunday
With competing halftime events reflecting sharply different cultural and political viewpoints, this year’s Super Bowl weekend has evolved into more than just a football celebration. As debate continues online and across media platforms, Kid Rock appears to be leaning into the controversy — guided, at least in spirit, by Kobe Bryant’s philosophy of embracing criticism as a sign of influence.
