Childhood and Education Journey of Kid Rock in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Kid Rock, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Kid Rock, born Robert James Ritchie, is an American musician recognized for his genre-bending career. Beginning in hip-hop in Detroit, he gained widespread popularity with a rap rock sound before evolving into country rock. Self-taught, he professes proficiency in various instruments and has significant involvement in the production of his albums.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

1941: William "Bill" Ritchie Born

In 1941, William "Bill" Ritchie, Kid Rock's father, was born. He later owned multiple car dealerships, contributing to the family's wealth.

January 17, 1971: Robert James Ritchie Born

On January 17, 1971, Robert James Ritchie, known professionally as Kid Rock, was born in Romeo, Michigan. This marks the start of his life and eventual career as a musician.

Others born on this day/year

1993: Birth of Son and Breakup with Kelley South Russell

In summer 1993, Kelley South Russell gave birth to Kid Rock's son, Robert James Ritchie Jr. They split up in late 1993 when Ritchie discovered that only one of the two children they raised together was his, and he subsequently raised his son as a single father.

2005: Nashville as Part-Time Home

Kid Rock has called Nashville a part-time home since 2005, and also splits time between his native Detroit and Alabama.

2008: Supported Barack Obama's election

In 2008, Kid Rock supported newly elected President Barack Obama, stating that Obama's election was "a great thing for black people."

2012: Campaigned for Mitt Romney

In 2012, Kid Rock campaigned for Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, with Romney using Rock's song "Born Free" as his campaign theme.

2014: Becoming a Grandfather

In 2014, Kid Rock became a grandfather when his son's girlfriend gave birth to a daughter.

2015: Detroit Free Press on Kid Rock's Reinvention

A 2015 piece by the Detroit Free Press said that Kid Rock reinvented "his persona from scrappy hip hop street kid to swaggering rock-rap showman."

2015: Endorsed Ben Carson for President

In 2015, Kid Rock publicly endorsed Ben Carson for the Republican nomination for President of the United States in the 2016 election.

February 2016: Approved of Donald Trump's campaign

In February 2016, Kid Rock voiced approval for Donald Trump's campaign for the same office.

October 2017: Ended Senate run speculation

In October 2017, Kid Rock ended speculation about a potential Senate run, clarifying that it was a joke and donating the raised funds to a College Republican group.