Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, captivated audiences with his elaborate galactic makeup and iconic guitar performances. He passed away on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by his family. Frehley was 74 years old.
His family expressed their devastation and heartbreak over his passing but plans to cherish his laughter and kindness.
Kiss rose to fame in the mid-1970s, earning a significant following due to their theatrical stage shows and classic hits like Rock and Roll All Nite and I Was Made for Lovin' You. Frehley's role in the band not only brought musical prowess but also a distinctive character, famously known as Space Ace among their fans.
His passing marks the first loss among the founding members of Kiss, which included singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss. The band has been a historic influence on rock music and its aesthetics, paving the way for future generations.
Frehley’s guitar work often featured innovative pyrotechnics, adding a flair to performances that made him a standout among the band's legendary lineup. We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley, wrote Simmons and Stanley in a joint statement, acknowledging his irreplaceable contributions to the band.
Frehley was born Paul Daniel Frehley and learned to play the guitar at a young age. He became a notable musician early on and played with other bands before KISS. Throughout his life, Frehley’s spirit and music continued to inspire countless fans and fellow musicians alike.
Frehley also endeavored into solo work, leading his band Frehley’s Comet and occasionally rejoining Kiss for special performances throughout the years.
With the band’s legacy continuing, Frehley left an everlasting impression on the music industry, which will remain cherished by both fans and the music community.
