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Founding KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley Passes Away, Aged 74
New York: Ace Frehley, the legendary lead guitarist and co-founder of the rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74 following complications from a fall last month, his family announced today.
Frehley, affectionately known as “Space Ace” for his cosmic on-stage persona, played a defining role in creating KISS’s bombastic sound and theatrical style that helped turn the band into global rock icons during the 1970s and beyond.
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx in 1951, Frehley picked up his first guitar in 1964 and was inspired by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and the Rolling Stones. Before his rise to fame, he worked various jobs including as a taxi driver while chasing his musical ambitions.
He co-founded KISS in 1972 alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The band skyrocketed to stardom with explosive performances, elaborate costumes, and face paint that became their trademark. Frehley’s distinctive guitar solos and stage presence became integral to the band’s identity.
In 1978, during a brief hiatus from the group, Frehley released a self-titled solo album that included the hit single “New York Groove,” showcasing his talent as both a guitarist and frontman.
Frehley initially left KISS in 1982 to pursue a solo career, releasing a number of albums that solidified his legacy outside the band. He rejoined for the group’s highly anticipated 1996 reunion tour and remained involved with KISS until 2002, continuing to perform and record as a solo artist in the years that followed.
In 2014, Frehley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with the original members of KISS a recognition of his enduring influence on rock music.
Ace Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, and several other family members.
Fans and fellow musicians have already begun paying tribute to the guitar legend, whose contributions helped shape generations of rock music.
