Bret Michaels: A Continual Source of Energy and Enthusiasm
Bret Michaels, known for his dynamic performances over a music career spanning more than 40 years, still brings remarkable enthusiasm to every show he plays. As the lead singer of the iconic ’80s band Poison, he will be taking the stage with his solo band at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet on Saturday, October 18, marking his role as the inaugural performer at the venue’s event center.
Expressing his passion, Michaels stated, “I am forever grateful to get to do what I love, be on the road, meet great people and play music. I’m as excited today as the day I started. I treat every show with the same excitement, whether it’s for a casino’s grand opening or a stadium concert.”
Fans can look forward to classics from Poison, including hits like “Nothing But a Good Time” and “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” in addition to his solo tracks. Michaels emphasized, “It’s all killer hits, no filler. This is a celebration of the grand opening of the Hollywood Casino – it’s going to be nothing but a good time.”
From Rise to Resilience
Michaels gained fame in the mid-’80s with Poison, a band that defined the Hollywood glam rock scene with several Top 10 hits and multi-platinum albums. However, with the rise of grunge in the early ’90s, Poison and similar bands saw a decline in popularity. Decades later, Michaels appreciates his loyal fans who have supported him through various challenges in the industry.
Despite facing personal battles, including a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis as a child, Michaels maintains a “victory over victim” mentality. He focuses on his health to ensure he can perform effectively, often sharing his story to inspire others who may face similar struggles.
Giving Back and Celebrating Lives
Michaels is passionate about supporting children with Type 1 diabetes through charitable donations, helping to send them to camp. Reflecting on his own experience, he noted, “When I was a kid, I thought I was alone with diabetes. My mom sent me to a camp, and I’m still friends with some of those kids today.”
In addition to his diabetes journey, Michaels survived a brain hemorrhage in 2010, requiring extensive rehabilitation to regain his abilities. Now, he focuses on delivering high-energy concerts without relying on pre-recorded tracks, expressing gratitude to veterans and first responders at each show.
Michaels promises that every performance will be memorable, emphasizing his commitment to authenticity and enjoyment. “I’m a fan of music, and it’s about treating everyone – from the audience to the crew – well,” he explained. As of now, tickets are still available on resale sites, and you can find more information about Hollywood Casino Joliet at hollywoodcasinojoliet.com and more about Bret Michaels at bretmichaels.com.
