Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band KISS, has passed away at the age of 74. His family confirmed that he died on Thursday, October 5, 2023, in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall. They expressed their profound sorrow, stating they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” but will cherish the memories of their beloved family member.
In the wake of his passing, an interview from March 2023 resurfaced, revealing Frehley’s optimistic views on longevity. He had expressed a desire to join KISS for a final tour, highlighting his enduring connection to the band. Reflecting on his family history, Frehley remarked, “Luckily, I have good genes. My dad lived to be 96 and my mom lived to be 86, but her older sister lived to be 99.” He recounted a conversation with a psychic who predicted he would live to be a hundred, to which he responded, “No problem.”
Frehley, born Paul Daniel Frehley, grew up in a musical family and began his musical journey at the age of 13. Prior to his time with KISS, he played in various local bands around New York City and even worked as a roadie for the legendary Jimi Hendrix at 18.
KISS: A Cultural Phenomenon
KISS emerged as a cultural force in the mid-1970s, selling tens of millions of albums and establishing a remarkable marketing brand. Their song “Beth” peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976, marking one of their biggest commercial successes. The band’s theatrical performances, characterized by elaborate pyrotechnics and striking costumes, captivated audiences worldwide. Ace Frehley, known as “Space Ace” and “The Spaceman,” was integral to the band’s unique identity, often experimenting with visually stunning guitar effects that included glowing instruments and smoke.
The original lineup of KISS featured Frehley alongside singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss. Tragically, Frehley’s death marks the first among the founding members of the band, leaving a significant void in KISS’s legacy.
In a joint statement, Stanley and Simmons expressed their heartbreak over Frehley’s passing, stating, “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”
Frehley’s contributions to rock music will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike. His legacy as a pioneer in the genre and a beloved member of KISS will continue to inspire future generations.
