Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, passed away at the age of 74. The iconic musician died peacefully in Morristown, N.J., surrounded by his family after a recent fall, as confirmed by his agent.
In a statement, family members expressed deep sorrow at his loss but highlighted the joy of his laughter and the kindness he shared with others. Known for their hit songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” Kiss dazzled audiences with their theatrical stage performances featuring fireworks, smoking instruments, and dramatic costumes.
Frehley, along with singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss, formed the original lineup of Kiss. Each member adopted comic book-style personas, with Frehley known as “Space Ace” and the “Spaceman.” Renowned for his pyrotechnic guitar displays, Frehley’s stage presence was electrifying, with guitars that glowed, emitted smoke, and shot rockets.
Following Frehley’s passing, bandmates Simmons and Stanley paid tribute to his significant role in Kiss’s history, emphasizing his irreplaceable contribution. The band, which achieved immense popularity in the mid-1970s, sold millions of albums and licensed their distinctive image for various products. Their chart-topping single “Beth” became a commercial success in the U.S., reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1976.
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, Kiss made headlines in 2024 when they sold their catalog, brand name, and intellectual property to Pophouse Entertainment Group for over $300 million US. Frehley’s musical journey began in his youth, growing up in a musical household and starting to play the guitar at the age of 13. Before joining Kiss, he played in local bands in New York City and worked as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix.
After leaving Kiss in 1982, Frehley pursued a solo career and formed Frehley’s Comet. He later rejoined Kiss in the mid-1990s for a successful reunion, reconnecting with the band’s original style. Despite his eventual departure in 2002, Frehley’s impact on rock music remained profound.
Following his passing, numerous musicians, including Tom Morello and Mike McCready, paid tribute to Frehley, hailing him as an authentic rock star with an enduring legacy. Guitarist Steve Vai described Frehley as the “embodiment of rock ‘n’ roll attitude,” emphasizing his unforgettable stage presence and musical influence.
Kiss’s enduring impact on the music industry will be further recognized this year as they are set to receive an accolade from the Kennedy Center, commemorating their contributions to rock music.