Kid Rock Pleads for Political Civility (Video)

TAMPA, Fla – In a makeshift concert venue packed with a few thousand Republicans early Thursday morning, Kid Rock made a plea for political civility, regardless of which party wins the White House in November. He also gave a gentle dig at the media for stoking divisiveness ahead of the  election.

“I pray that no matter what happens, that this will not divide us as a country, because I believe that no matter what you see on TV, no matter what they tell you on the news channels over and over, all day long,“ the singer said before interrupting himself.

“Actually, I want to ask you a question,” he said, before waving his arms and pointing his finger for emphasis. “I wanna know if you believe – do you still believe that you live in the greatest country in the world?”

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The audience cheered in the affirmative, and Kid Rock launched into his song “Born Free,” which ends with the lyrics:  “I was born free, born free. I will bow to the shining seas, and celebrate God’s grace on me!”

Kid Rock was performing at Liberty Plaza in a makeshift concert-tent where Trace Adkins appeared a night prior and Journey is set to perform Thursday night.

“Thank you so much Tampa. God bless you all. God bless America,” the rocker said at the end of the song, waving goodbye to the audience as he stood in front of a massive U.S. flag.

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Kid Rock’s performance took place a few hundred yards from, and a few hours after, vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan’s speech at the Republican National Convention.

Watch amateur video of the performance above.

Kid Rock has endorsed Republican Mitt Romney for president and Romney’s campaign has used his music at events.

Email: Paul.Bond@thr.com