Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of the legendary rock band Kiss, whose electrifying guitar solos, flamboyant stage presence, and signature “Spaceman” persona helped define one of the most iconic acts in rock history, has died at the age of 74.
His family announced on Thursday.
Frehley’s representative, Lori Lousararian, told Rolling Stone that the musician died following a recent fall at his home.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” his family said in a statement, adding that “loving, caring words and prayers surrounded him in his last moments.”
They described his passing as “of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension,” vowing that his memory would “continue to live on forever.”
L/R: The original stars of Kiss – Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley – in 1998. Pic: Reuters
Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, he began playing guitar as a teenager and was inspired by rock icons like The Who and Cream.
His musical journey changed course when he answered a newspaper ad seeking a guitarist with “flash and ability,” leading him to meet Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, the founding members of Kiss.
Formed in the early 1970s, Kiss exploded onto the rock scene with their trademark black-and-white face paint, metallic costumes, and explosive stage shows.
Their mix of hard rock and glam theatrics revolutionized live performance and inspired generations of heavy metal and hard rock bands.
Frehley’s star-adorned makeup earned him the nickname “The Spaceman,” and his fiery guitar solos became a hallmark of the group’s shows.
Kiss released a string of hits throughout the 1970s, including the anthem “Rock and Roll All Nite” and the live album “Alive!”, both of which became defining works of the genre.
The band went on to achieve record-breaking success, with 26 gold albums and 14 platinum certifications in the U.S., the most by any American band.
Frehley remained with Kiss through its peak years before departing in the early 1980s, later rejoining for the band’s 1990s reunion tour.
As a solo artist, he scored a hit with “New York Groove” in 1978, showcasing his versatility beyond the band’s collective sound.
Known for his technical prowess, charisma, and pioneering use of effects, Frehley’s influence stretched far beyond Kiss’s massive fan base. Generations of guitarists have cited him as a formative inspiration.
Ace Frehley’s music, character, and legacy remain immortal in rock history, a true “Spaceman” whose riffs and spirit continue to echo across the stars.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
