KISS Co-Founder Ace Frehley Passes Away at 74, Leaving Legacy

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74. His passing was confirmed by Rolling Stone, citing a statement from his family released on the evening of October 14, 2023. Frehley’s death followed a recent fall in the studio at his home.

In their heartfelt statement, Frehley’s family expressed their profound grief: “We are completely heartbroken. In his final moments, as he departed this world, we were fortunate to surround him with love, peace, prayers, and good wishes.” The family emphasized that Frehley’s memory would live on forever.

Impact on Rock Music and KISS’s Legacy

Emerging in the 1970s, KISS became one of the most influential bands in rock history, known for their powerful sound, theatrical stage presence, and distinctive makeup. With songs that blended hard rock and glam rock, the band captivated audiences worldwide, setting themselves apart with their iconic black-and-white face paint, extravagant costumes, and stunning pyrotechnics.

The band is often credited as pioneers of heavy metal. Their classic hits from 1975, including “Rock and Roll All Nite” and the concert album Alive!, have become enduring anthems in the rock genre. Over their career, KISS released a total of 26 albums, all of which achieved gold status in the United States. Remarkably, each album sold at least 500,000 copies, making KISS one of the best-selling American bands in history. Fourteen of their albums reached platinum status, indicating sales of one million copies or more, although some were released after Frehley departed the group.

Frehley, alongside bandmates Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, crafted a unique image for KISS, with Frehley famously known as “The Spaceman.” He remained with the band until 1982, after which he launched his own project, Frehley’s Comet. As a solo artist, he gained recognition with the hit “New York Groove,” released in 1978.

A Musical Journey from the Bronx

Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, Frehley discovered his passion for music as a teenager while attending concerts by influential bands such as The Who and Cream. He played in various bands before responding to a newspaper advertisement seeking a guitarist, which ultimately led to his joining KISS in 1973. Frehley met Simmons, Stanley, and Criss during rehearsals at their studio in Queens, New York.

His contributions to rock music and his role in shaping KISS’s legacy will be remembered by fans and musicians alike. Frehley not only helped define a genre but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. As tributes pour in from across the music community, his spirit and artistry will continue to inspire generations of rock enthusiasts.