Gene Simmons Charges $12.5K for Roadie Experience Draws Mixed Fan Reactions

Gene Simmons, bassist and co-founder of KISS, has introduced a $12,495 "Personal Assistant and Band Roadie for a Day" experience on his solo tour, allowing fans to spend a day behind the scenes with him. Despite initial skepticism and criticism of the high price, Dwayne Rosado, a retired corrections officer recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and his 13-year-old son Zach took part in the experience and described it as worth every penny. Their day included light roadie duties, attending the soundcheck where Zach performed an original song, sharing a meal with Simmons, and enjoying onstage introductions and a private meeting after the show. Simmons defends the pricing by citing free market principles and increased touring insurance costs, emphasizing that people choose how to spend their money. The experience also provided meaningful personal moments, such as Simmons praising Rosado's dedication to his son and sharing candid stories. This unique offering reflects Simmons' ongoing entrepreneurial approach to monetizing the KISS brand and engaging with fans in unconventional ways.