KISS Member Gene Simmons Advocates for America During Concert
KISS bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons expressed his admiration for the United States during a recent concert, highlighting his own journey to legal citizenship in contrast to illegal immigration. “This is the best country,” he passionately stated.
At a solo performance at Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Simmons shared his thoughts with the crowd, saying, “In case you didn’t know this, you’re blessed. You live in the greatest country on earth, and that’s America.” He took a moment to explain why he wanted to talk about America, noting that tomorrow marks the nation’s 250th birthday.
“This is the best country,” he emphasized again, adding that the presence of millions of illegal immigrants reflects their desire to come to America. “Why? Because they’re willing to break the law and come here to the greatest country on earth,” he continued.
Originally from Israel, Simmons immigrated to the U.S. as a child and discussed how his experience differed from those crossing the border illegally. He stressed, “I’m an immigrant myself, but I’m a legal immigrant. I came through a legal route. If you wait in line, respect your country, and respect its laws, you become a citizen of the United States of America.”
Simmons also mentioned an upcoming role in Washington, D.C., to commemorate American independence. “I have the honor of waking up at 3:30 this morning to catch a 5 a.m. flight because the White House has asked me to narrate the honoring of World War II veterans at the 250th Anniversary celebration,” he said.
He concluded his remarks with gratitude for the sacrifices made by military service members: “Politicians talk but veterans fight for their lives. We all gave a part, some gave everything. Let’s never forget.” He added, “And if you hate America, go back to where you came from.”
Last December, Simmons was awarded a newly designed gold medallion by President Donald Trump at the Kennedy Center, where he was inducted into the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors Class.
