All-American Rejects' Backyard Gig Shut Down by Cops, But Officer, a Longtime Fan, Lets Band Play 1 More Song
All-American Rejects' Backyard Gig Shut Down by Cops, But Officer, a Longtime Fan, Lets Band Play 1 More Song

Published: May 26, 2025

The alt-rock band was in the midst of their House Party Tour when their gig was shut down by police.

Concert Cut Short

The All-American Rejects were playing in the backyard of a house near the University of Missouri in Columbia on May 18 when their gig was shut down by police. The band's lead singer, Tyson Ritter, exclaimed, "Alright guys. Whoa, whoa whoa. We've gotta stop it." The crowd booed in unison, and Ritter told the crowd, "Sorry, y'all. We just got kicked off campus."

Officer's Blessing

But, in a surprising turn of events, the police officer allowed the band to play one more song before ending the concert. Ritter thanked the officer, "I haven't done this in a long time, but I'd really like to thank the local police for letting us f------ keep carrying on. Holy s---. How often do you get a blessing from an officer?"

Police Statement

Mark Fitzgerald, the Columbia Police Department's assistant chief of police, confirmed to CNN that the band, their security, and fans were "very cooperative" with officials, even though they were "in violation of several local ordinances." Fitzgerald added that the responding officers "listened to a couple of songs" before the patrol sergeant detailed the rules with the band and their security team.

Fitzgerald noted that "the police department would be happy to have the All-American Rejects return and play in Columbia, hopefully with the proper permits and approval."

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