KISS paid an emotional tribute to late guitarist Ace Frehley during their first performance since his death, with frontman Paul Stanley leading a moment of silence and heartfelt words at a Las Vegas event. The band honored the founding member who tragically passed away last month after a fall in his studio.
The iconic rock band KISS returned to the stage for the first time since the death of original guitarist Ace Frehley, delivering a poignant tribute during their “KISS Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas” event. In front of a packed crowd in Las Vegas, frontman Paul Stanley paused the festivities to acknowledge Frehley’s profound impact on the band’s history. Stanley’s emotional address set a somber yet respectful tone, emphasizing Frehley’s foundational role despite past differences. The moment of silence that followed allowed fans and band members alike to reflect on the loss of the legendary “Spaceman.”
Stanley, 73, opened by stating, “Obviously, before we get going — and we’re going to have an awesome time — but before we get going, we just wanted to take a moment to think about somebody who was at the foundation of this band.” He explicitly named Ace, acknowledging that while they had disagreements, it was part of being a family. The crowd was then asked to observe a moment of silence, creating a unified gesture of remembrance. This heartfelt act highlighted the enduring bonds within the KISS family, even after Frehley’s departure from the group decades ago.
The tribute occurred during the band’s three-day “KISS Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas” event, which marked their first live performance since Frehley’s passing on October 16. Current members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Eric Singer, and Tommy Thayer carried on with the show, blending nostalgia with resilience. The event was a special engagement for fans, now imbued with additional emotional weight due to the recent tragedy. It served as a bridge between celebrating KISS’s legacy and mourning one of its key architects.
Ace Frehley, 74, died after suffering a brain bleed from a fall in his New Jersey studio a few weeks prior. The Morris County Medical Examiner’s report confirmed his death was accidental, resulting from a blunt force head injury that caused a subdural hematoma, skull fracture, and stroke. He was hospitalized and placed on life support, but his family ultimately made the difficult decision to withdraw it. Frehley’s sudden death shocked the music world, coming just over a month before this tribute performance.
In a joint statement, Stanley and Simmons expressed devastation, calling Frehley an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” during KISS’s formative years. They affirmed that he would always be part of the band’s legacy and extended condolences to his estranged wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, and fans worldwide. This statement, released shortly after his death, underscored the deep respect and history shared among the original members, despite Frehley’s absence from the current lineup.
Frehley was a founding member of KISS when the band formed in 1973, known for his “Spaceman” persona and influential guitar work. He left the group in 1982 but reunited for a highly successful tour from 1996 to 2002. His contributions are etched in rock history, with hits like “Shock Me” showcasing his talent. The recent memorial service saw original members Stanley, Simmons, and Peter Criss reunite, a rare occurrence since their 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.
This tribute performance signifies KISS’s ability to honor its past while moving forward, likely setting a precedent for how the band will address Frehley’s legacy in future shows. Fans have responded with overwhelming support, sharing videos and messages online, illustrating the lasting impact of Frehley’s music and character. As KISS continues their performances, this moment of remembrance will remain a touching chapter in their storied career, reminding everyone of the fragility and bonds within the rock community.
