Kid Rock says his new Christian album, «Halfway 2 Jesus», includes a collaboration with Eminem, and he hopes the unlikely pairing sends a message that political disagreements do not have to destroy friendships. The Detroit musicians have known each other for nearly 40 years, and Kid Rock described Eminem as a «class act» during an interview on «My View with Lara Trump».
Kid Rock said the two agreed years ago not to let politics come between them. «We said years ago, we said, 'Man, let's not let politics divide us.' And we never did. And so when I asked him to be part of this... he totally got it», Kid Rock said. He added that «two little foul-mouthed white rappers from Detroit maybe could set a good example for the rest of this country» by showing that people can differ politically and still remain friends.
The album reflects what Kid Rock describes as a lifelong relationship with God rather than a sudden religious conversion. He said the record is centered on forgiveness and second chances, and he rejected the idea that he had experienced a dramatic spiritual turning point. «I didn't get saved. I'm still Kid Rock. I'm still going to drink a beer and smoke a cigar», he said. «I feel like I've always been right with God».
Kid Rock pointed to a personal connection between his birthday, Jan. 17, 1971, and his middle name, James, and the Bible verse James 1:17, which he said «basically says all good things come from God». He also said that after Charlie Kirk was assassinated, he, like many people, began to feel closer to his faith. That renewed focus inspired a period of songwriting that shaped the album.
Beyond the music, Kid Rock said he wants the project to encourage Americans to put aside political differences. «This record is about second chances and forgiveness. It's about trying to heal some of the division in our country», he said. He also said he believes politics has no place onstage, and that the freedom to hold differing opinions is part of what makes the United States great. «Since when can you not express your points and your views and your opinions?» he asked.
Kid Rock outlined plans to bring Christian revival-style performances to arenas and stadiums, combining a traditional rock concert with a religious revival. «I wanted to create the songs that I wanted to go to church and hear», he said. «And I want to have revivals, Saturday night revivals in arenas, stadiums, people drinking beer, having a good time, celebrating our Lord and Savior». He described the proposed shows as a «full-on monster rock show» and said, «I think that could do a lot of good in the world».
The collaboration with Eminem is notable given the two artists' different public political profiles, but Kid Rock said their friendship has endured because they never allowed those differences to define their relationship. He said Eminem immediately understood the idea behind the invitation to appear on the Christian album. The album, «Halfway 2 Jesus», is framed by Kid Rock as a collection of songs about forgiveness and second chances, with a sound and message he hopes will reach audiences in both concert venues and places of worship.