Gene Simmons recently discussed KISS‘s upcoming makeup-free performance at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas during the “KISS Army Storms Vegas” event in an interview on New York City’s Q104.3 “Jim Kerr Rock & Roll Morning Show.”
“Well, this is not a KISS concert,” Gene said (as transcribed by Blabbermouth). “We promised when we sold the IP [KISS intellectual property rights] to Pophouse, an amazing company — they’re futurists — about a year and a half ago when we finished touring at Madison Square Garden. There’s gonna be a film and there’s a lot of stuff coming up. We promised we would never tour again, because, as you noticed, I’m stunning in real life and that’s when you want it… While you’re on top, get out of the ring. Don’t wait for some chump to knock you out. We’ve all seen boxers and rockers and everything that stayed around too long. 50 years, half a century is plenty of time.”
“So that’s what we’re doing, we are showing up for a fan-run event,” he continued. “Three days in November at the Virgin Hotel. Be there or be square. And it’s really for the fans. There’ll be lots of questions — if they want a back rub or anything. But it’s not a KISS concert. We will jump up [and] jam, but certainly we are not bringing the flying rigs and 60 people on the crew and the jets and all that stuff… Other bands will pop up on stage and stuff, but it’s really a chance to be more intimate with the fans — actually, to be cornball about it, to our bosses. Because without the fans, I would surely have been asking the next person in line, ‘Would you like some fries with that?'”
Scheduled to take place November 14–16 at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, “KISS Army Storms Vegas” marks the first public appearance by KISS since the band’s official retirement from touring following their explosive “End Of The Road” farewell concert at Madison Square Garden in December 2023. The event also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the KISS Army fan club — a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and the loyalty of its global following.
Simmons confirmed that he, along with frontman Paul Stanley and longtime guitarist Tommy Thayer, will be in attendance, with drummer Eric Singer’s participation still unconfirmed. Adding to the excitement, former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick is also expected to join the festivities.
While fans may be hoping for one more surprise concert, Simmons emphasized that this event will be something entirely different. “It ain’t a concert — we’re gonna do none of that stuff,” he said bluntly. “I may even bring my solo band up there just for s**ts and giggles.”
Instead of a full-blown rock show, attendees can expect a more intimate and interactive experience. The event promises jam sessions, Q&A segments, and up-close interactions with KISS members past and present — a unique celebration more akin to a fan convention than a farewell gig.
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