Nickelback Co-Headlines U.S. Patriot Tour—But Some Canadians Aren’t Cheering

Canadian band Nickelback, fresh off their 2023 Canadian Music Hall of Fame induction, is making headlines again—this time not for a new album, but for co-headlining an American music festival that markets itself as a patriotic celebration of “God-fearing, hardworking Americans.”

The tour, called Rock the Country, features Nickelback and Kid Rock as co-headliners across 10 small-town U.S. stops. From Cullman, Alabama to Anderson, South Carolina, the event is billed as a gathering of people who “celebrate freedom” and take pride in standing for the national anthem.

And while the festival organizers describe it as a non-political “movement,” the tone is unmistakably pro-America, pro-Trump—with a pre-recorded message from Donald Trump introducing Kid Rock’s sets and several acts associated with right-leaning views, including Hank Williams Jr., Aaron Lewis, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

But here’s the irony that’s sparking debate on both sides of the border: Nickelback is the only Canadian band on the lineup.

A Canadian Band on an American Patriot Tour?

Founded in Hanna, Alberta, Nickelback has long been one of Canada’s most commercially successful rock acts, with hits like “Photograph” and “How You Remind Me.” Their participation in a tour marketed heavily around American nationalism has many Canadians scratching their heads.

One commenter on the Rock the Country Facebook page put it bluntly:
“Did they change nationalities?”

Another wrote:
“Why is Canada’s biggest rock band headlining a festival that’s all about American patriotism?”

Social media reactions from fans have been mixed. Some are defending the band, saying it’s just a tour and shouldn’t be politicized. Others accuse them of aligning with MAGA messaging.

Nickelback Responds—Sort Of

While the band hasn’t directly addressed the political tone of the festival, bassist Mike Kroeger told Global News:

“We’re really looking forward to hitting the road and visiting some amazing towns… there’s something special about connecting with fans in these communities.”

But for many Canadians, that neutral statement doesn’t erase the visuals: Nickelback headlining an event where Trump’s voice kicks off the show and flags wave for “American greatness.”

The backlash has been especially loud online. On a fan contest post promoting the tour, one user commented:
“Didn’t know you guys were Trumpers. Boo.”

Still, others see the criticism as unfair. One fan countered:
“They should be hated for bad music, not for playing a show you don’t politically agree with.”

Meanwhile in Canada…

While Nickelback is busy rocking America’s heartland, they’ll also return to Lake Cowichan, B.C. in August for a “Proudly Canadian” concert alongside The Glorious Sons and Sam Roberts Band. That event stands in stark contrast to Rock the Country, promoting homegrown talent without a political backdrop.

Fans across Canada are now asking: Why not do a Rock the North? Or a “Make Vancouver Great Again” tour?

Where Does This Leave Nickelback?

The band has often been at the center of pop culture love-hate debates. Their music still sells. Their tours still sell out. But their image—especially as a symbol of Canadian music—now faces renewed scrutiny.

As one commenter quipped,
“If you didn’t hate Nickelback before… how about now?”

Should Canadian artists play politically charged festivals in other countries, even if the message doesn’t reflect their own? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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