KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley Dies at 74, Leaving a Legacy

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, passed away on the evening of October 27, 2023, at the age of 74. His death was confirmed by the family through a statement reported by Rolling Stone, which indicated that Frehley succumbed to injuries sustained in a recent fall at his home studio.

The family expressed their deep sorrow, stating, “We are completely heartbroken. In his final moments, as he left this world, we were fortunate to surround him with love, peace, prayers, and good wishes.” They added that Frehley’s memory will live on forever.

Frehley’s Impact on Rock Music

KISS emerged onto the music scene in the 1970s, quickly establishing itself as one of the most influential and recognizable bands in rock history. Known for their powerful sound, theatrical performances, and iconic face paint, KISS has left an indelible mark on both hard rock and glam rock genres. Their unique aesthetic, featuring black and white face paint and extravagant leather costumes, set them apart from contemporaries.

The band’s 1975 hits, including “Rock and Roll All Nite” and their live album Alive!, became rock classics. Over the years, KISS has released a total of 26 albums, with each achieving gold status. In the United States alone, every album sold at least 500,000 copies, a record unmatched by any other American band. Fourteen of these albums reached platinum status, with sales exceeding one million copies, although some were released after Frehley left the group.

Frehley, along with lead singer and bassist Gene Simmons, guitarist Paul Stanley, and drummer Peter Criss, created a distinctive image for the band. Known as “The Spaceman” due to his star-painted face, Frehley’s persona became synonymous with KISS’s brand.

A Life Dedicated to Music

Frehley, born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, New York, on April 27, 1951, discovered his passion for music as a teenager. He began playing guitar and attended concerts by bands such as The Who and Cream. After playing in various bands, he answered a newspaper ad seeking a guitarist, which led him to join KISS in 1973. During rehearsals at their studio in Queens, he met Simmons, Stanley, and Criss, marking the beginning of a legendary partnership.

Frehley remained with KISS until 1982, after which he launched his own project, Frehley’s Comet. He achieved solo success with the hit “New York Groove,” released in 1978.

Frehley’s musical contributions and distinctive style have earned him a lasting legacy in the world of rock music. His influence on future generations of musicians and the impact of KISS as a cultural phenomenon will be remembered for years to come.