KISS bassist Gene Simmons recently addressed the $12,495 price tag for the band’s roadie-for-a-day fan experience package in an interview with 95.9 The Rat.
“We only do one roadie for a day per show. And I’ll tell you why — because nowadays everything is so litigious. That’s a big word, like gymnasium,” Simmons explained.
“That means everybody sues everybody for no reason. So if you get a paper cut, somebody gets sued. That’s just the way life is here in America — much more in California, by the way. It’s crazy out here,” he continued. “I can’t even bring out roadie for a day with 10, 20, 30, as many people as we would like. We do one because the insurance costs are astronomical. This package isn’t cheap. It’s not for everybody. For that one person, you do have to pay premium numbers. That’s just life.”
“The $12,495 price tag doesn’t just include the classic stuff. It covers exposure, financial and legal exposure,” Simmons added. “Somebody has a bad experience, and they sue you, it costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. You need insurance for everything. Do you have a car? You’ve got insurance. Everything in life requires it. When you buy anything — even a tool — they offer insurance. Would you like the one-year or three-year? Everything’s insured.”
The exclusive package offers unique opportunities for dedicated KISS enthusiasts, despite the controversial price tag.
A report from Blabbermouth revealed that the experience remains strictly limited to one fan per concert. This restriction maintains its status as a truly exclusive opportunity.
American Songwriter detailed the comprehensive package features. Participants will attend soundcheck sessions and share a meal with Simmons himself.
Loud And Quiet highlighted another valuable aspect of the package. Each participant receives a bass guitar previously used by Simmons during performances.
The experience culminates in a special moment during the show. The chosen fan receives an introduction to the audience, creating a memorable concert experience.