KISS Honors Ace Frehley at 'KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas' Event
KISS recently honored their founding guitarist, Ace Frehley, during their first show in almost two years. The band kicked off the "KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas" event with an outdoor unplugged performance at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Paul Stanley paid tribute to Ace by asking fans to lift electric candles in his memory. The setlist included some of KISS's classic songs, and the event celebrates the band's five-decade career and the 50th anniversary of the KISS Army. The weekend also features performances by other artists like QUIET RIOT, Stephen Pearcy, and more.
The special event marks the first time KISS has performed together since retiring from touring in December 2023. The band had previously planned a residency in Las Vegas but canceled all the dates. Paul Stanley shared that the band will play all their classic songs without their iconic makeup, emphasizing that the core of the band has always been about the music. The event is a celebration of KISS's legacy and the impact they have had on the music industry.
Ace Frehley passed away in October due to injuries sustained from a fall. The medical examiner's report revealed the cause of death as blunt trauma injuries to his head. Frehley was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Bronx, New York, following a private memorial service. His family confirmed his passing and expressed their devastation at the loss. Frehley's legacy in KISS and his contributions to the band's history were acknowledged by his bandmates and fans worldwide.
Ace Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 and appeared on the band's first nine albums. He left and rejoined the band multiple times, eventually parting ways in 2002. Frehley's departure led to guitarist Tommy Thayer taking on the role of the Spaceman. Despite his rocky relationship with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, Frehley's impact on KISS's music and image remains significant. His struggles with substance abuse and eventual sobriety were also part of his journey.
In a 2024 interview, Ace Frehley shared his journey to sobriety, crediting his daughter Monique for inspiring him to give up drinking in 2006. He acknowledged the impact of his family and the challenges he faced in his personal life. Frehley's legacy as a rock icon and founding member of KISS continues to resonate with fans and the music community. His contributions to the band's success and his unique style as the Spaceman will always be remembered in the history of rock music.