Tributes are pouring in following the death of Ace Frehley, the original KISS guitarist and beloved “Spaceman,” who passed away at the age of 74. Among the first to speak out was KISS co-founder Gene Simmons, who shared a heartfelt message honoring his longtime bandmate and friend.
“Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy,” Simmons said. “I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in December. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
Frehley’s family confirmed his passing in a statement last night, writing: “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York, Ace became a household name as KISS’s “Spaceman” — the original lead guitarist whose innovative riffs, melodic solos, and theatrical stage persona helped define the band’s signature sound.
Frehley played on some of KISS’s most legendary albums, including Kiss (1974), Destroyer (1976), Love Gun (1977), and Dynasty (1979), writing and performing classics like “Shock Me,” “Rocket Ride,” and “Talk to Me.” His 1978 self-titled solo album, featuring the hit single “New York Groove,” remains a fan favorite.
After leaving KISS in the early 1980s, Frehley continued a successful solo career with FREHLEY’S COMET and released a string of acclaimed albums, including Anomaly (2009) and 10,000 Volts (2024). He reunited with KISS for their 1996 reunion tour, thrilling fans worldwide and reaffirming his place as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
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