On paper, it sounds like a crazy idea: Kid Rock and an orchestra, performing together on the same stage? But in actuality, Saturday’s concert proved to be a very successful evening, raising $1 million for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

The music at Detroit’s beautiful Fox Theatre this past weekend (May 12) blended contemporary and classical, and patrons came dressed in everything from tuxedos to jeans and T-shirts. Most importantly, the raised critical funds for the legendary orchestra. Fans paid at least $100 and up to $1,500, which was donated to the struggling orchestra.

$1 million raised for the DSO tonight. We are so grateful for this incredible event and our fellow Detroiters. #KidRockDSO—
Detroit Symphony (@DetroitSymphony) May 13, 2012

After an ‘opening set’ from the DSO, Kid emerged for his first song dressed in a tuxedo and fedora. After “Devil Without A Cause,” he then came back out in a look more suited for one his regular concerts. “Y’all didn’t really think I was wearing the tuxedo all night, did you?” he asked the crowd.

The orchestra then became a giant backup band for the Detroit rocker. Even though it was a classier event, the songs still kept the rock and hard lyrics. Hearing Kid Rock drop F-bombs over a full orchestra–and at the same time, supporting a city he loves–was a once in a lifetime experience.

Kid Rock/Detroit Symphony Orchestra set list:

• Devil Without A Cause
• You Never Met a Mother****** Quite Like Me
• All Summer Long
• Cowboy
• Rock On
• Purple Sky
• Picture
• Bawitdaba
• Times Like These
• Rock N Roll Jesus
• Born Free

Encores:

• Son of Detroit
• Wasting Time
• God Bless Saturday

Kid Rock and The Detroit Symphony Orchestra [Concert Photos]

– Steve Wiseman / 99.5 WYCD