Gene Simmons' Journey with Rock & Brews and His Connection to Native American Communities

Gene Simmons is a name that resonates with rock 'n' roll fans around the world. As the “Demon” from the legendary band KISS, Gene has conquered the music industry with his larger-than-life persona and iconic performances. But beyond the stage, he is a successful entrepreneur and businessman passionate about culture and community. In this episode of the Potawatomi Studio podcast, we were honored to have Gene Simmons join us for a conversation about his journey in Indian Gaming, his connection to Indigenous cultures and the story behind his Rock & Brews Restaurant. Read on to learn more about the man behind the makeup and his commitment to giving back.

Gene Simmons is more than a rock legend. Known worldwide for his role as the co-founder and bassist of KISS, Gene has also built a reputation as a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Beyond the popularity of his music career, Gene has ventured into numerous business enterprises, including television, publishing and, most notably, the restaurant industry with his chain, Rock & Brews. However, his endeavors don’t stop there; Gene has also become a passionate advocate for indigenous communities in the United States, and his connection to Native American culture is a significant part of his story.

The Road to Rock & Brews

When asked about the inspiration behind Rock & Brews, Gene took us back to 1975 in Milwaukee, to which he has a deep connection. Reflecting on the energy and sense of community he felt there, he shared how these experiences influenced his approach to business. “Every time we've come here, there's a sense of community and family,” Gene said. He contrasted this with the anonymity often found in big cities like New York and Los Angeles, where people pass by without acknowledgment. For Gene, the communal spirit he experienced in places like Milwaukee is something he wanted to replicate in his business ventures.

The concept of Rock & Brews goes beyond just offering great food and a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere. For Gene, it is about creating spaces where people can unite, celebrate life and build community. With multiple locations, including two in Wisconsin, Rock & Brews has become a popular destination for rock fans and food lovers. Gene shared his excitement about bringing the restaurant to new locations and emphasized the importance of word-of-mouth and genuine experiences in building a lasting brand. “The first thing people do when they go back to wherever they came from, they’re going to tell people they like: ‘You should go check it out,’” he explained.

Make tonight legendary – dine at Rock & Brews!

Relationship with Indigenous Nations and Culture

Gene Simmons has developed a unique bond with Native American communities, particularly through his involvement with Indian gaming. He spoke about the importance of understanding and honoring the culture and history of indigenous peoples. "It’s important for the elders and the stories to be handed down from generation to generation," he stated, recognizing the efforts that go into preserving culture and tradition. Gene praised the vision and hard work of the elders in building thriving enterprises like the Potawatomi nation, which he described as a "treasure trove" of cultural significance. He noted that visitors often feel immediately welcomed and connected, experiencing the positive and authentic spirit of the community.

Gene Simmons is a man of many talents and passions. From his days on stage as the Demon of KISS to his ventures in business and his growing relationship with Native American communities, he continues to break the mold and redefine what it means to be a rock star. His commitment to community, family, and culture shines through in every aspect of his life. As he told us, “Family is everything. What else do you live for?” It is this perspective that drives his success and makes him not just a rock legend but also a respected figure in many circles. We’re honored to have had the chance to sit down with Gene and look forward to seeing where his journey takes him next.