Gene Simmons has once again found himself at the centre of controversy after delivering a strongly worded patriotic speech during a performance at Milwaukee’s Summerfest ahead of America’s 250th Independence Day celebrations.
Before launching into the classic Let Me Go, Rock ‘N’ Roll, Kiss bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons spoke to the crowd about his appreciation for the United States, drawing on his own experience as a legal immigrant.
“ In case you don’t know it, you are blessed. You are living in the greatest fking country on the planet. And that’s called USA,”** Simmons told the audience.
Marking the country’s 250th anniversary, Simmons reflected on why he believes so many people seek to live in the United States (per Metal Addicts).
“This is the greatest country,” he said. “That’s why we’ve had anywhere from 20 million to 30 million illegal immigrants. Why? ‘Cause they are willing to break the law and come into the greatest country on the face of the planet, right here.”
Migrating to the USA
Simmons, who was born in Israel before immigrating to the United States as a child, also spoke about becoming an American citizen through legal channels.
“I myself am an immigrant, but a legal one. I came through the lawful way. You wait in line, you respect the country, you respect its laws, and then you become a citizen of the United States of America.”
The veteran rocker also revealed he had been invited to Washington, D.C., to participate in events commemorating America’s 250th birthday, saying he would narrate a tribute honouring World War II veterans.
During the speech, Simmons encouraged fans to recognise the sacrifices made by military veterans and first responders, describing them as the people who help protect the country’s freedoms.
He closed his remarks with a statement that quickly attracted attention online.
“And if you don’t like America, please go back to where you fking came from.”**
The comments are the latest example of Simmons sharing his outspoken views from the stage, throughout his career, the Kiss co-founder has rarely shied away from discussing politics, patriotism and current events, often generating passionate reactions from both supporters and critics.
As expected, clips of the speech quickly spread across social media, with fans debating Simmons’ remarks in the lead up to the United States’ milestone anniversary celebrations.
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