KISS guitarist Ace Frehley dies at 74, tributes pour in from rock icons

ByEnigma 808

Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons paid tribute on Friday to KISS founding member Ace Frehley, who passed away on Thursday at 74. Frehley died peacefully in New Jersey, surrounded by his family. In a joint statement, Stanley and Simmons called Frehley an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” and a key part of KISS’s legacy.

Musicians and fans worldwide mourned his loss. Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready shared how Frehley’s guitar solos inspired him, while Nile Rodgers remembered their first meeting when KISS was performing. Born in the Bronx, Frehley’s guitar skills and unique “Spaceman” persona helped define KISS’s iconic glam rock style in the 1970s.

Bret Michaels and Tom Morello also honored Frehley, recalling his lasting influence. Frehley’s family expressed devastation, remembering his monumental contributions to music. The Kennedy Center, where Frehley was to be honored, promised a tribute to his legacy in December.

Author

  • Enigma XO avatar (80x80)

    Besides writing and being a content creator, Enigma 808 sometimes likes to watch paint dry on walls, listening to ASMR while timing snails racing. Such is life.