Theodore "Ted" Nugent, also known as "Uncle Ted", "The Nuge", and "Motor City Madman", is a renowned American musician celebrated for his aggressive guitar work and politically charged persona. He rose to prominence as the frontman of the psychedelic and hard rock band The Amboy Dukes in the 1960s. Following the band's disbandment, Nugent launched a successful solo career, releasing multiple platinum-selling albums like "Ted Nugent", "Free-for-All", and "Cat Scratch Fever" in the 1970s. He remains musically active, releasing his latest album, "Detroit Muscle", in 2022.
December 13, 1948: Birth of Ted Nugent
On December 13, 1948, Theodore Anthony Nugent was born in Redford, Michigan.
1958: Meeting Joe Podorsek
Ted Nugent met Joe Podorsek, who would become his guitar teacher, in 1958.
1963: Attends William Fremd High School
Ted Nugent attended William Fremd High School in Palatine, Illinois, as a freshman in the 1963-1964 academic year.
1963: Formation of The Amboy Dukes
Ted Nugent co-founded the psychedelic rock and hard rock band, The Amboy Dukes, in 1963.
1964: Transfers to St. Viator High School
In 1964, Nugent transferred to St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois, continuing his education.
1965: The Amboy Dukes' Early Performances
The Amboy Dukes, with Ted Nugent, began performing at The Cellar, a teen dance club in Arlington Heights, Illinois, in late 1965, gaining local recognition.
1967: Release of Debut Album
The Amboy Dukes released their self-titled debut album in 1967, marking their entry into the music industry.
April 5, 1968: Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
Ted Nugent participated in a musical tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. on April 5, 1968, joining other musicians in a jam session following King's assassination.
August 28, 1969: Fails Draft Physical
Ted Nugent's Selective Service records indicate he failed his draft physical on August 28, 1969, resulting in a change to his draft classification.
1969: Claims of Passing Draft Physical
During his 2018 appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience," Nugent claimed he passed a draft physical in 1969 while attending Oakland Community College, contradicting his prior statements.
1969: Release of "Migration" Album
The Amboy Dukes released their third album, "Migration," in 1969, further developing their psychedelic rock sound.
1970: Marriage to Sandra Jezowski
Ted Nugent married his first wife, Sandra Jezowski, in 1970.
1971: Reclassified as 4-F
Following the abolishment of the 1-Y classification in 1971, Nugent's draft classification was changed to 4-F, indicating ineligibility for military service.
1973: Signing with DiscReet Records
In 1973, Nugent signed a record deal with Frank Zappa's label, DiscReet Records, leading to the release of albums under the name "Ted Nugent and the Amboy Dukes."
1975: Release of Debut Solo Album
Ted Nugent released his self-titled debut solo album, "Ted Nugent," in 1975, marking a significant milestone in his career.
1975: Release of "Ted Nugent" Album
The album "Ted Nugent," released in 1975, marked the beginning of Nugent's successful collaboration with Derek St. Holmes and Clifford Davies, establishing their signature sound.
1976: Release of "Free-for-All" Album
In 1976, Nugent released his second solo album, "Free-for-All," further solidifying his presence in the rock music scene.
1976: Release of "Free-for-All" Album
The 1976 release of "Free-for-All" continued Nugent's streak of successful albums with his band, featuring popular tracks like "Stranglehold" and "Dog Eat Dog."
1977: Contradicts Story in High Times Interview
In his 2018 Joe Rogan Experience appearance, Nugent claimed his 1977 High Times interview story about draft evasion was fabricated for amusement and to counter inaccurate reporting about his band.
1977: Release of "Cat Scratch Fever" Album
Nugent achieved mainstream success with his third solo album, "Cat Scratch Fever," released in 1977, which featured the hit single of the same name.
1977: Release of "Cat Scratch Fever" Album
Nugent's 1977 album, "Cat Scratch Fever," solidified his status as a rock icon, featuring the chart-topping single of the same name and showcasing his energetic musical style.
1977: Interview with High Times Magazine
Ted Nugent participated in an interview with High Times magazine in 1977, discussing his life and career, including controversial claims about avoiding the draft.
1977: Release of "Cat Scratch Fever" Single
Ted Nugent's most commercially successful single, "Cat Scratch Fever," was released in 1977, becoming a signature song in his discography.
1978: Relationship with Pele Massa
In 1978, Ted Nugent began a relationship with 17-year-old Pele Massa. Unable to marry due to the age difference, Nugent became her legal guardian with her parents' consent.
1978: Breakup of Ted Nugent's Band
In 1978, Ted Nugent's band experienced a major shift as St. Holmes and Grange decided to depart, leading to the band's breakup. This marked the end of a significant chapter in Nugent's career.
July 8, 1979: Performance on King Biscuit Flower Hour
On July 8, 1979, Ted Nugent was featured on the renowned rock radio program King Biscuit Flower Hour, where he delivered a memorable performance of "Live at Hammersmith '79."
1979: Divorce from Sandra Jezowski
Ted Nugent and Sandra Jezowski divorced in 1979.
1979: Release of "State of Shock" Album
Ted Nugent released his album "State of Shock" in 1979. The album charted in the US Top 25.
1980: Release of "Scream Dream" Album
Ted Nugent released "Scream Dream," another successful album that reached the US Top 25, in 1980.
1981: Release of "Intensities in 10 Cities" Album
Ted Nugent released the live album "Intensities in 10 Cities" in 1981. Notably, the album includes the controversial song "Jailbait".
1981: Controversial Song 'Jailbait'
Ted Nugent's 1981 song 'Jailbait' controversially describes having sex with a 13-year-old girl. Nugent admitted to several affairs with underage girls, and musician Courtney Love claimed she performed oral sex on him at age 12 or 14.
1982: Departure of Dave Kiswiney
Around 1982, Dave Kiswiney, who had been the bassist for Ted Nugent's band for a three-album stretch in the early 1980s, left the band.
1982: Start of Period of Declining Success
From 1982 to 1988, Ted Nugent's solo career saw a decline in critical acclaim and commercial success despite releasing four albums and adopting a more prominent role as lead vocalist.
1982: Death of Sandra Jezowski
In 1982, Ted Nugent's first wife, Sandra Jezowski, died in a single-car crash.
1986: Guest Starring Role on "Miami Vice"
In 1986, Ted Nugent showcased his acting skills with a guest-starring role in the hit television show "Miami Vice." He portrayed a villain in the episode titled "Definitely Miami." His song "Angry Young Man" was featured in the episode. Additionally, his song "Little Miss Dangerous" was also featured in a "Miami Vice" episode of the same name, although Nugent didn't appear in that particular episode.
1988: End of Period of Declining Success
In 1988, the period of declining critical and commercial success in Ted Nugent's solo career came to an end.
January 21, 1989: Marriage to Shemane Deziel
On January 21, 1989, Ted Nugent married his second wife, Shemane Deziel, whom he met while she was a news staff member at Detroit's WLLZ-FM. They have one son together, Rocco Winchester Nugent.
1989: Formation of Damn Yankees
In 1989, Ted Nugent embraced a new musical endeavor by joining the supergroup Damn Yankees, collaborating with Jack Blades, Tommy Shaw, and Michael Cartellone.
1990: Release of Damn Yankees' Debut Album
Damn Yankees released their self-titled debut album in 1990, achieving remarkable success with double-platinum status in the United States, largely driven by the hit power ballad "High Enough."
1990: Controversial Comments on Apartheid
In a 1990 interview, Ted Nugent made controversial comments about apartheid in South Africa, stating that 'all men are not created equal' and describing black South Africans in derogatory terms.
1992: Release of "Don't Tread" and Dissolution of Damn Yankees
Damn Yankees released their second and final album, "Don't Tread," in 1992. While the album attained gold status in the United States, it didn't achieve the same level of acclaim as their debut, leading to the band's dissolution shortly after.
1992: Nugent Ordered to Pay Damages for Slanderous Remarks
In 1992, Nugent faced legal repercussions for making derogatory and sexist comments towards an animal rights activist, resulting in a court order to pay substantial damages.
1995: Release of "Spirit of the Wild"
In 1995, Ted Nugent released "Spirit of the Wild," an album that garnered positive reviews and marked the return of Derek St. Holmes to Nugent's studio band. This album stands out for its inclusion of the bowhunting anthem "Fred Bear."
1997: Release of "Live at Hammersmith '79" Album
In 1997, an album of Ted Nugent's 1979 King Biscuit Flower Hour performance, "Live at Hammersmith '79," was released, capturing the energy of the original broadcast.
2000: Nugent Involved in Altercation with Animal Rights Protesters
In 2000, Nugent was involved in a physical confrontation with animal rights activists in San Francisco, leading to conflicting accounts of who initiated the altercation and subsequent legal action.
2001: Ted Nugent on FOX's Undeclared
In 2001, Ted Nugent appeared as himself in the FOX comedy series Undeclared in the episode 'Full Bluntal Nugety'. The episode featured Nugent discussing hunting and gun control but was later re-shot and re-edited due to FOX's concerns about his political views. The original version is available in the Undeclared DVD box set.
2001: Appearance on "That '70s Show"
Ted Nugent made a cameo appearance as himself in the third-season episode of the popular sitcom "That '70s Show" titled "Backstage Pass" in 2001.
2001: Premiere of "Spirit of the Wild" TV Show
Ted Nugent's passion for the outdoors took center stage in 2001 with the premiere of his television show, "Spirit of the Wild," on the Outdoor Channel. The show, named after his popular song, featured Nugent sharing his hunting experiences and conservation efforts with viewers.
2003: Hosting of "Surviving Nugent" and Chainsaw Injury
In 2003, Ted Nugent hosted the VH1 reality television program "Surviving Nugent," where city dwellers got a taste of life on his Michigan ranch. During filming, Nugent experienced a chainsaw injury, requiring 40 stitches and a leg brace.
2003: Nugent Begins Derogatory Remarks Towards Governor Granholm
Marking the beginning of his contentious relationship with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm's tenure (2003-2011), Ted Nugent began incorporating offensive remarks directed at her during his musical performances.
2003: Guest Appearance on "Forever Wild"
Ted Nugent made a guest appearance on the VH1 program "Forever Wild," hosted by Sebastian Bach, in 2003. During the episode, they engaged in activities such as shooting firearms and exploring Nugent's cabin in the woods.
2004: Visit to Saddam Hussein's War Room
In 2004, Ted Nugent visited Saddam Hussein's war room as a reward for entertaining U.S. troops in Iraq. He commented that the U.S. failure was not bombing Iraq more severely.
2004: Nugent Considered for Illinois Senate Race
In 2004, rumors circulated that the Illinois Republican Party saw Nugent as a potential candidate for the state's Senate race, though he never confirmed any interest and ultimately did not run.
May 2005: Nugent Hints at Running for Michigan Governor
In May 2005, Nugent announced his serious consideration of running for Michigan Governor in the upcoming 2006 election, citing his desire to bring change to his home state.
2005: Hosting of "Wanted: Ted or Alive"
In 2005, Ted Nugent took on the role of host for the reality-style show "Wanted: Ted or Alive," which aired on the Outdoor Life Network (OLN), later known as the NBC Sports Network. The show featured contestants competing for cash prizes and the opportunity to go hunting with Nugent.
2005: Child Support Agreement
In 2005, Ted Nugent agreed to pay $3,500 in monthly child support for a son he fathered with Karen Gutowski while married to Shemane Deziel.
2006: Appearance on VH1's "SuperGroup" and Blues Jam with Joe Bonamassa
In 2006, Ted Nugent appeared on VH1's reality show "SuperGroup," joining forces with Scott Ian, Evan Seinfeld, Sebastian Bach, and Jason Bonham to form a supergroup initially named FIST, later changed to Damnocracy. During this time, Nugent also participated in a memorable blues jam session with guitarist Joe Bonamassa at the Sand Dollar Blues Room, a performance captured on film by VH1.
2006: Induction into Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame
Ted Nugent's contributions to music were recognized in 2006 when he was honored with induction into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame.
2006: Nugent Declines to Run for Michigan Governor
Despite earlier announcements, Nugent ultimately chose not to pursue the governorship of Michigan in 2006, leaving his political aspirations unrealized.
August 22, 2007: Nugent Makes Threatening Remarks Towards Barack Obama and Dianne Feinstein
On August 22, 2007, Nugent made aggressive and offensive statements toward then-Senator Barack Obama and Senator Dianne Feinstein while brandishing firearms at a concert.
2007: Touring with Alex Winston
During the summers of 2007 and 2008, Ted Nugent embarked on tours with local Detroit musician Alex Winston.
2007: Nugent Considers Second Run for Michigan Governor
In 2007, Nugent again hinted at a potential gubernatorial run, this time aiming for the 2010 Michigan election. His comments about the state's governance drew both support and criticism.
2007: Nugent in Nickelback's 'Rockstar' Video and The Simpsons
In 2007, Ted Nugent appeared in Nickelback's music video for 'Rockstar' and debated hunting ethics on The Howard Stern Show. He also made a voice appearance in The Simpsons episode 'I Don't Wanna Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,' humorously addressing his political stance on crossbows in schools.
2007: Collaboration with David Crowder Band
In 2007, Ted Nugent showcased his musical versatility by collaborating with the David Crowder Band, contributing his guitar skills to the song "We Won't Be Quiet" on their album "Remedy."
2007: Nugent Makes Crude Remarks about Governor Granholm, Considers Gubernatorial Run
In 2007, amidst speculation about a potential gubernatorial bid, Nugent made a crude and sexist remark about Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, further fueling controversies surrounding his political aspirations.
2007: Admission of Hearing Loss
In a 2007 interview, Ted Nugent admitted that he suffers from hearing loss, particularly in noisy environments, but considers it a small price to pay for his musical journey.
July 4, 2008: 6,000th Concert
On July 4, 2008, Ted Nugent celebrated a significant milestone by performing his 6,000th concert at the DTE Energy Music Theater in Clarkston, Michigan. The event featured special appearances by Derek St. Holmes, Johnny Bee Badanjek, and Joe Podorsek, who joined Nugent on stage for various songs, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
July 2008: Nugent Expresses Interest in Political Office
In July 2008, Nugent reiterated his stance on potentially entering politics, emphasizing his commitment to finding candidates who uphold the US Constitution and Bill of Rights, even suggesting he might run himself if necessary.
July 17, 2008: Skepticism About John McCain
On July 17, 2008, Ted Nugent expressed skepticism about GOP Presidential nominee John McCain, accusing him of catering to 'soulless Americans' and calling it 'un-American and pathetic.'
July 30, 2008: Interview on The Alex Jones Show
On July 30, 2008, Ted Nugent was interviewed on The Alex Jones Show about his book 'Ted, White and Blue: The Nugent Manifesto'.
2008: Feature Film Debut in 'Beer for My Horses'
In 2008, Ted Nugent made his feature film debut in Toby Keith's film 'Beer for My Horses,' playing Skunk, a rock 'n' roll deputy sheriff who loves bowhunting and guns.
2008: Guest Appearance on "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations"
In 2008, Ted Nugent made a guest appearance on the "Southwest Road Trip Special" episode of the popular travel and food show "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations." During his appearance, he shared his views against obesity and public health care.
2008: Touring with Alex Winston
During the summers of 2007 and 2008, Ted Nugent embarked on tours with local Detroit musician Alex Winston.
August 2009: Starring in CMT's "Runnin' Wild ... From Ted Nugent"
In August 2009, Ted Nugent starred in the CMT reality show "Runnin' Wild ... From Ted Nugent," where he shared his survival skills with contestants who were then tasked with using those skills in challenges as Nugent hunted them down.
2009: Support for Mountaintop Removal Mining
In 2009, at a rally sponsored by Massey Energy in West Virginia, Ted Nugent defended mountaintop removal mining, urging for more coal production.
2009: Contributor to Waco Tribune-Herald
Ted Nugent was a weekly contributor to the Waco Tribune-Herald until 2009.
April 21, 2010: Announcement of "Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead" Tour
On April 21, 2010, Ted Nugent announced his upcoming "Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead" tour, hinting at another energetic chapter in his musical journey.
July 9, 2010: Criticism of Obama Administration's Gun Policies
On July 9, 2010, Ted Nugent criticized the Obama administration's gun policies during an interview with Alex Jones, arguing that rejecting self-defense rights under the Second Amendment could destroy American society.
2010: Nugent Opts Out of Michigan Gubernatorial Race
Despite expressing interest in running for Governor of Michigan in 2010, Nugent ultimately did not enter the race, leaving his political ambitions unfulfilled.
2010: Revelation of Adopted Children
In 2010, it became public knowledge that Ted Nugent had fathered two children in the late 1960s, whom he gave up for adoption. The identities of these children, Ted Mann and Louisa Savarese, were discovered through the daughter's efforts to contact their birth parents.
2010: Nugent Outlines Political Plans
In a 2010 interview, Nugent shared his hypothetical approach to governance if elected, emphasizing reducing government waste, firing redundant workers, and cutting handouts, reflecting his conservative political views.
March 14, 2011: Release of "I Still Believe"
On March 14, 2011, Ted Nugent released his new song, "I Still Believe," offering it as a free download on his website for newsletter subscribers. Expressing his patriotic sentiments, Nugent described the song as an embodiment of "the animal spirit of rugged individualism in pure MotorCity ultra high-energy rhythm and blues and rock and roll."
April 2011: Announcement of Derek St. Holmes' Return and "I Still Believe Tour"
In April 2011, Ted Nugent delighted fans by announcing that former frontman Derek St. Holmes would be rejoining his band for the upcoming "I Still Believe Tour."
2011: End of Nugent's Public Feud with Governor Granholm
With the conclusion of Jennifer Granholm's tenure as Michigan Governor in 2011, Ted Nugent's public, often disrespectful, criticism through song and commentary ceased, marking the end of that era in his public life.
April 2012: Nugent Pleads Guilty to Illegal Bear Hunting Charges
In April 2012, Nugent pleaded guilty to illegally transporting a hunted black bear in Alaska, resulting in probation, hunting restrictions, a fine, and a mandate to participate in a public service announcement about responsible hunting practices.
April 17, 2012: Nugent Makes Threatening Remarks About Obama at NRA Convention
During the 2012 NRA Convention, Nugent made alarming statements about President Obama, implying potential harm if he were re-elected, which led to a Secret Service investigation and his removal from a scheduled performance at a military base.
2012: Nugent on The Simpsons as Presidential Candidate
In 2012, Ted Nugent appeared as himself on The Simpsons in the episode 'Politically Inept, with Homer Simpson,' where he is nominated as a Republican presidential candidate.
February 12, 2013: Nugent Attends Obama's State of the Union Address
Nugent attended President Obama's State of the Union address in February 2013 as a guest of a Texas congressman, despite his previous controversial remarks about the president.
July 2013: Nugent Considers Presidential Run
In July 2013, Nugent revealed to The Washington Post his consideration of a 2016 presidential bid as a Republican, though he ultimately never formally pursued the office.
January 2014: Nugent Calls Obama a "Subhuman Mongrel"
In January 2014, Nugent used a racist slur to describe President Obama, causing widespread condemnation and leading to his disavowal by a Texas gubernatorial candidate he had endorsed.
2014: Nugent's Longview Concert Cancellation Sparks Controversy
In 2014, Nugent's scheduled performance at the Longview Independence Day concert was canceled due to his controversial music, leading to a public dispute with the city's mayor.
2014: Nugent Supports Sid Miller's Campaign for Texas Agriculture Commissioner
Ted Nugent actively participated in the 2014 campaign of Sid Miller for Texas Agriculture Commissioner, serving as both treasurer and co-chairman.
2015: Support for Medical Marijuana Legalization
In 2015, Ted Nugent, a national spokesman for the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program, declared his support for the legalization of marijuana for medical use.
2015: Vocal Support for Donald Trump
Since 2015, Nugent has been a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, performing at his rallies and campaign events, highlighting his political activism.
February 2016: Nugent Expresses Admiration for Ted Cruz
In February 2016, Nugent publicly expressed strong support for Ted Cruz's presidential campaign, highlighting his admiration for Cruz's political positions.
2016: Nugent's Anti-Semitic Post Sparks Outrage and Calls for NRA Resignation
In 2016, Nugent faced severe backlash and calls for his resignation from the NRA after sharing an anti-Semitic post on Facebook linking Jewish people to gun control advocacy.
2016: Nugent Makes Threatening Remarks Towards Hillary Clinton
During the 2016 election, Nugent repeatedly targeted Hillary Clinton with inflammatory rhetoric, including sharing a violent video and calling for her imprisonment.
2016: Nugent Does Not Run for President
Despite previous hints at a potential presidential run, Nugent did not participate in the 2016 election, solidifying his decision to remain outside the political arena.
April 2017: Nugent Refuses to Apologize for Past Remarks About Obama
In April 2017, Nugent remained defiant and refused to apologize for his previous offensive comments about President Obama, reaffirming his stance and justifying his actions.
April 19, 2017: Nugent Visits the White House with Kid Rock and Sarah Palin
On April 19, 2017, Nugent, accompanied by Kid Rock and Sarah Palin, had an extended visit to the White House, describing a positive and welcoming experience with President Trump.
March 2018: Nugent Criticizes Parkland Shooting Survivors
In March 2018, Nugent sparked controversy by condemning Parkland shooting survivors who became gun control advocates, using dehumanizing language and questioning their integrity.
June 2018: Nugent Makes Inflammatory Remarks Against Liberals and Democrats
In June 2018, Nugent made incendiary statements targeting liberals, Democrats, and media outlets, using violent language and comparing them to dangerous animals.
2018: Appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience
In 2018, Nugent appeared on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, where he addressed and contradicted his previous claims about avoiding the draft.
2018: Admission of Drinking Wine
In 2018, Ted Nugent admitted that he drinks 'a little wine,' despite his previous stance as a spokesman for the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program.
2020: Nugent Opposes Gray Wolf Reintroduction in Colorado
Nugent actively campaigned against a 2020 proposition to reintroduce gray wolves in Colorado, clashing with environmental groups supporting the initiative.
April 19, 2021: COVID-19 Diagnosis
On April 19, 2021, Ted Nugent announced on Facebook that he had tested positive for COVID-19, referring to it as the 'Chinese shit'. He described feeling extremely ill and mentioned his refusal to get vaccinated.
2022: Release of "Detroit Muscle" Album
Ted Nugent's latest album, "Detroit Muscle," was released in 2022, demonstrating his enduring musical career.
April 13, 2023: Announcement of "Adios Mofo" Farewell Tour
On April 13, 2023, Ted Nugent revealed that his forthcoming "Adios Mofo" tour would be his last, citing the challenges of being away from his dogs and grandchildren as the primary reason for stepping back from extensive touring. However, he reassured fans that he would continue to record music.
April 29, 2023: Confrontation at Austin Rally
On April 29, 2023, at a rally in Austin focused on Texas border security, Ted Nugent was heckled by a protester about the COVID-19 vaccine. Nugent responded aggressively, telling the protester to 'bring your needle up here, I'll shove it up your ass.'
2023: Launch of "Adios Mofo Tour"
In 2023, Nugent embarked on his farewell tour, dubbed the "Adios Mofo Tour," signaling a potential end to his extensive touring career.
2023: Nugent Makes Controversial Remarks About Homosexuality and Ukraine Funding
In 2023, Ted Nugent expressed contradictory views on homosexuality, stating tolerance for his children's sexual orientation while simultaneously making offensive remarks about gay people at a political rally.