Rock Legend Ace Frehley, KISS Founding Guitarist, Passes Away at 74: A Tribute to His Iconic Legacy

Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, the legendary guitarist of KISS, has passed away at 74. His family shared the news, expressing their deep pain and sorrow. They found comfort in being able to surround him with love as he departed.

Frehley was known for his “Spaceman” character in KISS, a band formed in 1973, alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The group captivated fans with their unique style, black leather outfits, and iconic face paint that created memorable personas like Demon, Starchild, Catman, and, of course, Spaceman.

Stanley and Simmons shared heartfelt tributes to Frehley, calling him an irreplaceable part of KISS’s history. Alice Cooper also honored him, emphasizing his status as a guitar pioneer. “He brought it every night,” Cooper stated, reflecting on their friendship and performances together.

KISS has had an enduring impact, with hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “God of Thunder.” By 2024, the band sold over 100 million records, showcasing their massive popularity. Frehley was known for his dramatic performances, including using guitars that emitted smoke—a signature of his incredible stage presence.

Historically, the band’s “unmasking” in 1983 marked a significant shift, but they later returned to their iconic look in the late 1990s. Frehley left KISS in 1982 but rejoined for a reunion tour in 1996 and settled in with the band until 2002. In 2014, the original lineup was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Born in the Bronx, Frehley received his first guitar at 13. Despite dropping out of high school, he became a millionaire without formal music lessons. In 2024, KISS sold their music catalog for over $300 million, signaling their exit from live performances, although Frehley continued to create solo music.

Recently, Frehley’s health faced challenges that forced him to cancel performances, including a recent show due to medical issues. Survived by his wife Jeanette and daughter Monique, Frehley’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, remembered for his contributions to rock music and the unforgettable moments he shared with fans and friends alike.

For more on KISS’s journey and Frehley’s influence, you can visit authoritative sources like Rolling Stone for insightful articles on the band’s impact and Frehley’s enduring legacy.

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