Kiss’s Gene Simmons Charges Over $12,000 for One Fan to Be His “Roadie” for a Day Due to “Astronomical” Insurance Costs

Insane Costs of the Ultimate Experience

Kiss’ Jin Simmons stated that “astronomical” insurance costs are the reason he charges fans over 12 thousand dollars to be his “roadie” for a single day.

Pricing Justification and Unique Experiences

The bassist and singer have recently faced criticism for providing a fan the chance to become his personal assistant and roadie for one day at a cost of $12,495 (£9,667).

Titled “The Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience,” this package, available before his current North American tour, allows a fan to assist with loading equipment on stage, sit in on sound checks, and enjoy some behind-the-scenes time.

Despite the backlash, Simmons defended his decision to offer this “experience,” stating that rising insurance costs justified the hefty price tag. Speaking with 95.9 in New Jersey, he elaborated on his reasoning.

“Here’s the deal: when I was a kid and went to see (Jimi) Hendrix or someone, I enjoyed every moment of the show and talked about it forever. However, I never knew the behind-the-scenes experience,” said Simmons, as reported by Blabbermouth. “What is it like to have breakfast or lunch with my beloved rock stars, then get into a limousine, go to the concert, set up drums, and finally perform on stage…”

He continued, “Currently, we only do one roadie experience per day because everything is so contentious. It seems that everyone is ready to sue for anything. If you get a paper cut, someone might sue. This has become life in America, particularly in California.”

“It’s madness here. So, I can’t bring on as many roadies as I’d like; instead, we are taking just one due to the astronomical insurance costs associated with it. Plus, you have to factor in additional payments.”

According to Simmons, the price of $12,495 also accounts for “financial and legal impact” along with “standard material.” He explained, “If someone has a bad experience and decides to sue, it could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. That’s why you need comprehensive insurance.”

The roadie experience lasts throughout the show and includes a special performance with Jin Simmons. He shared with The New York Post: “You will travel with me to the concert, help set up amplifiers and drums to your heart’s content. You’ll be positioned right behind the stage. You can video whatever you want, and I’ll pull you on stage to sing a song with me.”

Simmons’ North American tour, which was set to begin this month, has now been postponed to early 2026. While the reasons for the delay remain undisclosed, it has been confirmed that it is not due to health issues.

Following the postponement of his solo tour, Kiss has announced plans for a special “exposed” show in Las Vegas later this year. This will mark the band’s first performance after their farewell tour in 2023.

An email sent to fans mentioned that the concert will also feature a “special live performance by former KISS member Bruce Kulik, along with other special guests, events, exclusive impressions, and much more.”