Controversial musician Kid Rock is facing renewed criticism after social media users resurfaced a problematic song from his 2001 catalogue. The track, "Cool, Daddy Cool," contains lyrics that have sparked outrage, particularly as the singer prepares to perform at a protest event against the NFL's official Super Bowl halftime concert.
Protest Show Planned for Super Bowl Night
The so-called "All-American Halftime Show" has been organised by right-wing group Turning Point as a direct protest against the NFL's choice of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the main halftime performer. This alternative event will feature Kid Rock alongside country artists Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett.
Organisers have scheduled their protest show for Sunday 8 February 2026, coinciding with the Super Bowl where the New England Patriots will compete against the Seattle Seahawks. The protest appears to ignore the fact that Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is an American citizen, as are all individuals born in Puerto Rico.
Problematic Lyrics Under Fresh Scrutiny
Social media platforms have been circulating posts highlighting concerning lyrics from Kid Rock's 2001 song. A particular Threads post drew attention to the lines: "Young ladies, young ladies, I like 'em underage/ See, some say that's statutory, but I say it's mandatory."
These controversial lyrics were performed by rapper Joe C, who passed away in 2000 before the song's official release. Adding to the controversy, parts of this song featured in the 2001 children's animated film Osmosis Jones. At the time of writing, the track remains available on major streaming platforms including Spotify.
Political Connections and Public Reactions
Kid Rock has been an outspoken supporter of former US President Donald Trump, having performed at his inauguration eve victory rally in Washington DC. The pair reportedly developed their friendship through golf outings and campaign rallies, with Trump revealing he calls the singer "Bob."
Trump has publicly criticised the NFL's Super Bowl lineup, telling the New York Post: "I'm anti-them. I think it's a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible." The former president confirmed he would not be attending this year's Super Bowl.
Meanwhile, Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance is widely anticipated to become one of the most-viewed in history, with strong potential to surpass the record set by rapper Kendrick Lamar last year. The official NFL show will also feature rock band Green Day.
The Independent has contacted representatives for both Kid Rock and Atlantic Records for comment regarding the resurfaced song controversy.
