Gene Simmons from KISS appeared on Australia’s “The Sunday Project” and talked about the band’s decision to end its career with two shows at Madison Square Garden in early December.
“Well, look, at a certain point Mother Nature takes over no matter what your plans are,” Gene said. “And at a certain time you’ve gotta have the dignity and pride but also the love and admiration of your fans to know when it’s time to call it quits.
“We’ve all seen boxers that stay in the ring too long, and we’ve all seen bands that stay on the stage too long. So, I’m still looking pretty damn good. But that’s not the point. The point is the physical nature of what we do is gonna limit how long we do it. And we remember, we introduce ourselves with ‘You wanted the best. You got the best. The hottest band in the world.’ I don’t wanna be in one of those bands where the fans just say, ‘Oh, you should have seen them back in 1804 when they were really rocking.’ Right here, right now, either be a champion or get off the stage.
“So we’re gonna quit while the quitting’s good, while we’re on top,” he added. “And gratefully, I don’t know how to verbalize what an amazing journey it’s been, and it’s only due to the fans. Without them, I’d be asking the next person in line if they’d like some fries with that. Don’t kid yourself.”
Starting this September, KISS will begin their final tours with extra stops in Crandon, Wisconsin, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Cleveland, Ohio. The band will conclude their remarkable career journey with a grand performance at the Madison Square Garden in New York City, where it all started more than 40 years ago. The city has always been an integral part of the band’s history, and it is fitting for them to end their Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame-worthy career on such an iconic stage.
