Kiss Co-Founder and Guitarist Ace Frehley Passes Away at 74
Ace Frehley, the founding guitarist of the iconic rock band Kiss, has passed away at the age of 74. His agent confirmed that he died peacefully on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall. Frehley was surrounded by his family during his final moments, who expressed their heartbreak over his loss.
A Lasting Legacy in Rock Music
Frehley was not only the original lead guitarist of Kiss, but also a key figure who helped shape the band’s theatrical image. With elaborate makeup and a signature “Spaceman” persona, he captivated fans around the world. Kiss, known for hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” became a cultural phenomenon in the 1970s.
The Formation of Kiss
- Ace Frehley was part of the original lineup, which included:
- Paul Stanley (singer-guitarist)
- Gene Simmons (bassist)
- Peter Criss (drummer)
The band members took on comic book-style personas, enhancing their theatrical performances. Frehley was famous for his innovative use of pyrotechnics, making his guitar glow and emit smoke.
Impact and Recognition
In a joint statement, Simmons and Stanley expressed their devastation at Frehley’s passing and praised him as an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” in the band’s history. The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, marking a significant milestone in their legacy.
Kiss’s influence in the music industry is enduring, with their unique style and large-scale performances attracting millions. The band sold tens of millions of albums, and their biggest hit, “Beth,” reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976.
Later Years
Frehley left Kiss in 1982, during a period when the band experimented with a new image. He pursued a solo career and formed Frehley’s Comet. In the mid-1990s, he rejoined Kiss, leading to a triumphant reunion that celebrated their classic style.
Frehley’s death marks the first loss among Kiss’s founding members. His contributions to rock music and the band’s legacy will be remembered by generations of fans.
