Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, known for his captivating stage presence and unique guitar style, passed away at the age of 74 on Thursday. The rock legend died peacefully in Morristown, N.J., surrounded by his family after a recent fall.
Frehley’s family expressed their deep sorrow in a statement, emphasizing their devastation over the loss but also highlighting the cherished memories of his laughter and the kindness he shared with others. As a key member of Kiss, Frehley, along with Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss, formed the band’s original lineup and embraced theatrical performances featuring elaborate makeup, smoking instruments, and explosive stage effects.
Recognized for hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” Kiss’s popularity soared in the mid-1970s, with millions of albums sold and a distinctive visual identity that was licensed for various products. Frehley, known as “Space Ace” and the “Spaceman,” was a pioneer in incorporating pyrotechnics into his performances, making his guitars glow and emit smoke, captivating audiences with his rock star persona.
Simmons and Stanley, in a joint statement, mourned the passing of Frehley, acknowledging his indispensable role in shaping Kiss’s legacy. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, the band’s impact on the music industry was profound, with iconic songs like “Beth” and a memorable appearance at the Grammy Awards in 1996.
Before his tenure with Kiss, Frehley honed his musical talents in local bands in New York City and even worked as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix. Despite leaving the band in 1982 and later reuniting with them in the mid-1990s, Frehley’s influence on rock music extended beyond his time with Kiss, as he continued to perform as a solo artist and with his band, Frehley’s Comet.
Frehley’s legacy was celebrated by fellow musicians, with tributes pouring in from artists like Tom Morello, Mike McCready, and Steve Vai, who hailed him as an authentic rock star with an unparalleled stage presence. As the music world mourns the loss of a true icon, Frehley’s impact on rock ‘n’ roll will continue to shine brightly, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.