Bret Michaels Summer Kickoff at HollywoodPNRC Show
Rock legend honors hometown heroes and dads on Flag Day with an epic all-killer hits party
Image: Instagram
Summer Kickoff With Patriot Pride
Bret Michaels, the driving force behind ’80s rock icons Poison, kicked off his summer tour with a high-energy performance at Grantville’s HollywoodPNRC amphitheater. Marking Flag Day and tipping his hat to Father’s Day, he opened the evening with party tracks at 5:30 p.m., accompanied by a local DJ spinning classic rock anthems and dance remixes that kept the energy high until the band hit the stage at 6:50 p.m. Fans gathered under clear skies for an evening of “nothing but all killer hits, no filler,” echoing his Instagram promise.
Honoring Heroes And Dads
In his Instagram caption, Michaels wrote, “Tonight is gonna be beautiful @hollywoodpnrc, a great kickoff to the summer with fun, nothing but all killer hits, no filler & nothing but a good time🎊 We will honor our hometown heroes on this #FlagDay and a big shout out to all the great dads – Happy Father’s Day.” The frontman’s patriotic sentiment resonated as red, white, and blue lights swept across the stage during favorites like “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” and “Nothin’ But a Good Time.”
Rock Legacy And Solo Journey
Bret Michaels, born Bret Michael Sychak in Butler, Pennsylvania, rose to fame as lead singer of Poison, whose debut album Look What the Cat Dragged In went platinum in 1986. Over a career spanning nearly four decades, he’s sold more than 45 million records worldwide and earned a Grammy nomination with Poison’s 1988 smash Open Up and Say… Ahh! Beyond the band, Michaels has released solo records—his 2013 album Custom Built topped Billboard’s rock charts—and starred on reality shows such as Rock of Love. His longevity on the road resonates with fans drawn to his blend of hard rock swagger and personal storytelling.
Backstage Buzz: Local Media And Rehearsal Prep
In the days leading up to the amphitheater show, Michaels took to Instagram to rally support and share behind-the-scenes moments. On June 12 he posted a photo from a rehearsal at Messiah College’s Falcon Fitness Center, writing “Getting pumped up for the Grantville show…with some of my best Mechanicsburg brothers” (https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzhUxExShk/). He also thanked Central Pennsylvania outlets, tagging ABC’s Chris James, Mike Miller, Glenn, Harley, and Dennis, saying he was “Giving love to all the awesome media I spoke to today about tomorrow’s show” (https://www.instagram.com/p/DK2uVWth7EI/).
Stage Swagger And Fan Moments
Under the glow of arena lights, Michaels embraced his classic look—denim vest, red bandana, and weathered guitar. Between songs, he paused to share anecdotes about his Butler upbringing, inviting families and long-time fans to reflect on Flag Day memories. During an acoustic breakdown, Michaels invited several servicemen and first responders onstage, offering them front-row views and personal thanks, underscoring the show’s community-driven ethos in line with Flag Day traditions. A standout came when he dedicated “Home Sweet Home” to his hometown heroes, turning glow sticks in the crowd into a sea of waving lights.
Fan Energy And Vip Access
Crowds lined up early, fueled by summer vibes and a sense of community. Earlier in the week, Michaels teased exclusive VIP Meet & Greet and Side of Stage seating packages for this June 14 “Parti-Gras” show (https://www.instagram.com/p/DKswtdgTr5W/). These limited packages offered up-close access, photo ops, and signed merchandise—elements that cement his reputation for fan-friendly experiences.
Rocking Into Summer And Beyond
Michaels’ set list blended Poison classics with solo cuts from his Custom Built era, including “Go That Far” and “All I Ever Needed.” He tested new arrangements during a brief medley, inviting a surprise guest appearance from Stephen Pearcy of RATT on “Round and Round,” and previewed unreleased acoustic cuts from an upcoming solo EP, giving die-hard fans an early listen to his next creative chapter. His backing band, including drummer Rikki Rockett and bassist Todd Kerns, kept the pace tight, especially during high-octane finales.
Tonight’s performance proved Michaels remains a tour de force—melding his storied catalog with patriotic flair and local fandom. As he heads out on the rest of his summer trek, he’s slated to hit Ocean City, Maryland, for another round of charity-driven shows, before lighting up Mankato, Minnesota, this fall. Fans will be watching his social channels for more exclusive glimpses and announcements. For now, Grantville had its moment in the spotlight, courtesy of one of rock’s enduring frontmen.
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