Born Free

The Zoo Crew is spinning Born Free by Kid Rock, a track from his 2010 album of the same name, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, the lead single from the album, carries a powerful message about freedom and gratitude. Kid Rock shared in an interview with MTV News that the inspiration for Born Free came from his trips to Afghanistan and Iraq to perform for American soldiers. He described it as an ode to the universal idea of freedom, not just a patriotic anthem for Americans, saying, “It’s about how lucky each and every one of us are, no matter where you’re from, to be born in a country that’s free.” The song’s raw energy and universal appeal have made it a staple, even catching the attention of Mitt Romney, who used it as his 2012 presidential campaign theme song. Kid Rock was cool with it, stating on Billboard, “He and anyone else who wants to use my song do not need my permission.”

Another fun tidbit about Born Free is its recording process, which was a departure for Kid Rock. Produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, the album was recorded live in just two weeks in Los Angeles, a contrast to Kid Rock’s usual Detroit-based sessions. He told MTV News, “I’d play the song on acoustic guitar, we’d chart it out, play it three, four times, listen back, play it three, four more times—done.” The track features an all-star lineup, including Benmont Tench from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, and David Hidalgo from Los Lobos. The music video, shot in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, showcases Kid Rock cruising through valleys and standing in a field at Cook’s Farm Dairy, ending on a beach at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It’s a visual love letter to his home state, and the song itself became a cultural touchstone, used in TBS’s 2010 MLB postseason coverage and Chevrolet’s 2014 summer sales campaign.

Kid Rock, born Robert James Ritchie on January 17, 1971, in Romeo, Michigan, started his musical journey far from the polished studios of LA. Growing up in a middle-class family, he was drawn to hip-hop in the 1980s, teaching himself to DJ and rap. By his teens, he was performing at local parties and clubs, adopting the name “Kid Rock” to reflect his energetic, rebellious style. His big break came in 1988 when he signed with Jive Records at just 17, releasing his debut album, Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast, in 1990. Though the album didn’t skyrocket, it got him noticed, and he toured with acts like Ice Cube and Too Short. After being dropped by Jive, he hustled in Detroit’s underground scene, blending rap, rock, and country influences. His 1998 album, Devil Without a Cause, with hits like Bawitdaba and Cowboy, went diamond, selling over 11 million copies, cementing his genre-bending legacy.

Today, Kid Rock remains a larger-than-life figure, and Zoo Freaks can connect with him across the web. His official website, kidrock.com, is the hub for tour dates, merch, and music. On Facebook, he shares updates and interacts with fans, while his Instagram offers glimpses into his life, from stage shots to Michigan adventures. On X, he’s outspoken, posting about music, politics, and more. Fans can also join the Kid Rock Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant group where supporters share stories, photos, and concert experiences. For deeper dives, check out fan sites like KidRockers.com, a community-driven page with news and forums for die-hard fans. Whether you’re a Zoo Freak or a longtime Kid Rock devotee, there’s no shortage of ways to stay connected to the American Badass.