By John Lindstrom
Publisher
Posted: July 13, 2017 3:44 PM

Kid Rock has promised us a big announcement. His webpage is full of Kid Rock for U.S. Senate goodies for sale, but nothing suggesting he is a serious candidate for the Senate seat now held by U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing). Most political observers are so far treating this as entertainment, the political equivalent of a summer movie: fun, but not “Citizen Kane.”

Of course, two years ago most political observers felt the same about a real estate developer from New York City running for president, that he was in the race for entertainment and possibly monetary value only. What happened to that guy again?

So, at this point for grins and giggles, let’s think about Kid Rock – would he be listed on the ballot as Kid Rock or under his birth name of Robert Ritchie, another thing to check on – running for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan in 2018.

He would (presumably) be the most tattooed candidate for the U.S. Senate Michigan has had. Or possibly the most tattooed candidate for any office ever in Michigan. He probably has been busted more times than any other candidate.

And debates. Just think of Mr. “Rock” squaring off in a GOP debate, especially against former Chief Justice Robert Young Jr. Soft-spoken, Harvard-educated propriety in Mr. Young versus Mr. “Rock.” Tickets could be sold for it.

Against all his possible opponents, though, there is no question Mr. “Rock” will have a clear advantage in a campaign song. Music is an important element in a campaign, helping build identity, keeping campaign crowds engaged while they wait on a candidate at a rally, as well as giving a psychological push to supporters.

In the past, candidates would get songs composed for their campaigns (this blog has already recalled former President Gerald Ford’s 1976 song, “I’m feeling good about America”).

Today, the campaign trend tends more to using pop songs already familiar to the audiences. President Donald Trump, whom Mr. “Rock” supported in the 2016 election, liked using Rolling Stones hits at his rallies, for example.

As far as songs goes, Mr. “Rock” has won the race. Mr. Young and business executive Lena Epstein will have to concede they got nothing that can go up against him. Having been a top selling artist for nearly 30 years, Mr. “Rock” not only has buckets of material he could use, he could draw from different artistic periods.

Should he use “Bawitdaba,” from his rap period, off the album “Devil Without A Cause?” Probably not. Sends a bit too much of a chaotic image for Republican voters. “Rock ‘n Roll Jesus,” from the album of the same name? Again, a big risk of possibly offending voters, especially evangelical voters.

Well, what about “Half Your Age,” again from “Rock ‘n Roll Jesus?” Ooooh, no. It would too easily offend women voters. “Redneck Paradise” from “Rebel Soul” has the added benefit of Hank Williams Jr. Still, coming from Mr. “Rock’s” country music period it may send the wrong the regional tones for a Michigan race.

“All Summer Long,” again from “Rock ‘n Roll Jesus,” is fun, very Michigan-specific, but not really inspiring from a political standpoint. Plus, it does mention consuming probably illegal substances and engaging in, shall we say, physical activities. That might not be a turnoff for Mr. “Rock’s” prototypical supporter, but why take the risk?

Clearly, in studying Mr. “Rock’s” canon – can his work be considered a canon? – there is one song above all he could use to good campaign effect. It has a simple melody, a strong country-rock beat, the lyrics are bold without being arrogant, condescending or offensive. And the video has a strong Michigan connection along with various touchstones that could attract many conservative GOP voters.

From the album “Born Free,” the title track, “Born Free,” which, if he does run in the 2018 U.S. Senate election, just has to be Mr. “Rock’s” campaign song.