Kid Rock’s Cigar Results in Disgruntled Concertgoers

Musician Kid Rock is known for having a brash attitude, so it’s no surprise that he caused a bit of controversy during a recent concert. No, the January 13th concert wasn’t his. Instead, he showed up to the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom in Warren, Michigan, to listen to country music artist Travis Tritt. As for the controversy, it was caused when Rock decided to light up a cigar shortly after his arrival.

Cigar smoking at a concert wouldn’t normally cause a huge fuss, but the fact that it’s illegal in Michigan and a celebrity was behind the act allowed it to become news. Michigan banned smoking in bars, restaurants, and other public establishments in May 2010. While the law does exempt tobacco specialty shops, cigar bars, and gambling floors of casinos, the 1,000-seat Andiamo Celebrity Showroom does not fall into any of those categories.

One concertgoer, Randy Snell, was particularly outspoken on the incident. He told the Detroit News: “It's a violation of a state law, and people paid good money to come to a nonsmoking venue, but they were not treated to a nonsmoking venue. Special privileges were extended in disregarding the law.” Snell called Joe Vicari, the venue’s owner, to complain, but noted that no return call was received. He also said he plans to file a formal complaint with the health department, citing asthma issues.

Rock apologized for smoking and admitted that he usually receives special treatment. He also acknowledged that alcohol may have factored into his decision. Finally, in classic Kid Rock fashion, the singer said, “My most sincere apologies to the patrons I may have offended, and a big middle finger in advance to all the haters and attorneys who will somehow try to find an easy paycheck in all this.”