Recently, Gene Simmons announced a number of exclusive experiences fans have the opportunity to purchase as part of his current tour. One option, which made headlines recently, is the opportunity to be his “personal assistant and band roadie for the day” for the bargain price of $12,495.
While many online were critical of the idea of spending $12.5k to lug around Simmons’ gear, Shinedown guitarist Zach Myers says while he wouldn’t shell out the money, he thinks it’s a great idea.
“No, I wouldn’t [pay to work as his roadie], but I respect the hustle so much,” he said in a recent interview with radio station 101 WRIF. “Everyone’s bashing him about it, but I’m like, ‘Dude do it.’ That guy was so nice to us when we toured with them, the whole band.”
Aside from the opportunity to be Simmons’ roadie, the bassist is also selling backstage meet and greets that come with your choice of a non-stage-played signature bass (for $6,500) or a stage-played bass (starting at $12,500).
Simmons did the same thing during KISS’ final tour, selling stage-played basses for up to $15,000.
Speaking about that final tour (which took place from 2019 to 2023), Myers estimated what he thinks Simmons’ made just by selling his stage-used basses.
“I did the math the other day on just the basses he sold on the final tour. Not KISS touring money or merch money – which was probably millions – just the stage-played basses alone, which he sells between $13,000 and $8,000. I averaged it in the middle at $10,000,” Myers explained.
“He does two a night, and I think he made between 5 and 7 million dollars just selling basses. That is insane.”
