Rockstars ranging from Bruce Springsteen to Tom Petty to John Mellencamp have demanded that Republican candidates stop using their music in connection with their presidential campaign bids.
While it’s obvious which celebrities oppose the Republicans in this election season, we were curious to find out which stars of rock music and country music actually support the GOP.
According to sites such as Mainstream Libertarian and Wikipedia, many musicians actually have right wing leanings, be it simple GOP loyalty or all out libertarianism.
In the interest of equal time, tune in later for our list of the top celebrity democrats in the music world. But for now, check out some of the surprising supporters of the GOP.
These popular music stars have openly identified themselves as Republicans, or, in some cases, Libertarians. Although it differs from the Republican Party in some areas, Libertarianism is a big component of the GOP, with figures such as Ronald Reagan having declared, “The very heart and soul of conservatism is libertarianism.”
Top Republican Rock Stars
Alice Cooper—“I’m Eighteen”
He’s famous for his “shock rock” antics and controversial music, but the former Vincent Furnier is a surprising supporter of the GOP.
Sonny Bono
Cher’s ex-husband and the mustachioed singer of “I’ve Got You Babe” was a Republican congressman in California.
Brooks and Dunn—“Only in America”
This boot-scootin’ top country act performed at the 2004 Republican National Convention.
Danny Elfman
His name may not sound familiar, but this composer works on many movie and tv soundtracks, including the Simpsons’ theme song.
Sammy Hagar/Van Halen
In addition to ruining VH, and running a successful tequila company, the Red Rocker contributed to the Bush/Cheney campaign fund in to 2004. We knew there was a reason we liked David Lee Roth better…
Lynryd Skynyrd
The legendary Southern Rock band performed at the 2004 Republican National Convention.
Ted Nugent
Often referred to as the Motor City Madman, this Detroit rocker is known for his wild guitar playing and his affinity for bow-hunting. Unlike Springsteen and Co., this rockstar is a Libertarian.
John Popper/Blues Traveler
This Libertarian rocker was known to sing the praises of Rush Limbaugh.
Johnny Ramone
The legendary guitarist for punk-rock icons the Ramones played songs like “Beat on the Brat (with a Baseball Bat)” but was actually a supporter of the NRA. That’s pretty punk.
Kid Rock
This Detroit rap-rock star criticized celebrities for speaking out against US policies in Iraq.
Gene Simmons/Kiss—“Rock and Roll All Nite”
Gene Simmons sex tape controversy is heating up amid rumous that he cheated on his longtime girlfriend, on tape. The outspoken Kiss bassist/fired Celebrity Apprentice contestant is also an avid Libertarian.
Jessica Simpson
The lovably ditzy popstar/reality tv star might not know the difference between Chicken of the Sea and actual chicken, but this Texas girl favors Republicans over Dems.
Grace Slick/Jefferson Airplane—“White Rabbit”
Queen of the psychedelic ‘60s scene and singer of “Somebody to Love.”
Travis Tritt—“T-R-O-U-B-L-E”
Performed at the 2004 Republican National Convention.
Dwight Yoakam
Johnny Cash was a fan of this rockabilly-style country singer. Yoakam also acted in films such as Slingblade.
ZZ Top—“Sharp Dressed Man”
These famously bearded rockers performed at the 2004 Republican National Convention.
Does an artist’s political stance influence how you feel about their music?
Leave a comment and let us know what you think!
