The business-minded reputation of hard rock icons KISS has long been as much a part of their legacy as their music and imagery — and bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons is once again addressing criticism surrounding the band’s financial ambitions.
Over the decades, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame outfit have become synonymous with aggressive branding and merchandising, from seemingly endless farewell tours to an expansive range of licensed products. Those ventures have included everything from the infamous KISS Kasket — notably used for the burial of late Pantera guitarist Dimebag Darrell Abbott — to novelty merchandise, video games, and countless collectible items.
Even the conclusion of the band’s most recent farewell run extended that business philosophy, with KISS selling their likeness rights and portions of their catalog to support future performances featuring digital avatar versions of the group. Despite that tour being promoted as their final run on the road, unmasked appearances from members of the band have since taken place.
The latest controversy surrounding Simmons began after he shared a promotional clip on X (formerly Twitter) for director Renny Harlin’s upcoming disaster film ‘Deep Water’ on April 4th. In the video, Simmons mentioned plans to attend select screenings anonymously alongside fans, prompting some users to speculate the post was a paid promotion.
That sparked a wave of criticism accusing Simmons of greed — claims he addressed directly during an impromptu Q&A with fans on the platform.
After one user asked, “Don’t you have ENOUGH money yet Gene???”, Simmons replied:
“This is a loser’s question. Warren Buffet, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk all get up every day and try to make more. No matter how much they’ve got. Get out of your losers’s mentality, and try to win in life, every day.”
When another commenter suggested retirement would be more dignified, Simmons responded bluntly:
“Retire? And do what?”
He later elaborated on his philosophy when questioned about equating financial success with winning in life:
“Because by earning more, you create more jobs, by spending more money, which provides other people with being able to support their families. Without earning more, you can’t even give to charity, much less support your family.”
The exchange grew increasingly heated as criticism continued. After one user claimed wealthy figures hoard money late in life, Simmons fired back:
“…You’re a jealous loser. You don’t understand, sadly. Do some research and find out why the richest and most powerful people on the planet continue to work hard to try to make more, so they can give more and create more.”
Responding to another harsh critique accusing him of valuing money above all else, Simmons defended his record of financial contributions and philanthropy:
“Timmy, i’ve paid more than $100 million in taxes. I’ve created thousands of jobs, which enabled thousands of people to feed their families. I’ve contributed millions to wounded warriors, pediatric aids and support 1400 African children. And what have you accomplished in life?”
Additional exchanges from the online discussion have since circulated across social media platforms.
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He’s always been a complete twat, and Kiss are among the most overrated bands of all time. Hard to believe anyone still thinks they’re relevant.
Sounds like something a greedy jackass would say.
Gene would sell Ace’s body if he could. Smfh
I am a Kiss Fanatic, but can not stand Gene Simmons and His Money Greed
Yes, because my networth isn’t even a fraction of yours makes you superior. What a jackass.