KISS Pay Tribute to the Late Ace Frehley

KISS have shared a heartfelt tribute following the passing of their original guitarist Ace Frehley, who died at age 74 after being placed on life support due to a brain bleed caused by a recent fall.

In a joint statement, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons reflected on Frehley’s impact on the band and its legacy, saying:

“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’ legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”

Both members also issued personal tributes on social media. Simmons wrote:

“Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. 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 Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”

Stanley shared a personal memory from the band’s early days, writing:

“I remember 1974 being in my room at the Hyatt on Sunset in LA and I heard someone playing deep and fiery guitar in the room next door. I thought ‘Boy, I wish THAT guy was in the band!’ I looked over the balcony… He was. It was Ace. This is my favorite photo of us…”

Former KISS drummer Peter Criss also posted an emotional message on his website, writing:

“With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well. I love you, my brother. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace’s extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time. As a founding member of the rock group KISS and in Ace’s solo career, Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army. At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace’s family and allow them to grieve privately. To the KISS Army and Ace’s Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all… Broken… God Bless.”

Do you love independent bands, or are you in one? The Mosh Network is not just a rock/metal news website, but it doubles as an independent band directory, designed so that visitors can browse independent bands by not just subgenre, but location as well. It’s perfect to keep your finger on the pulse of your area’s hottest and newest bands or if you’re in a band, it’s a great way to find bands to network with! Click the banner below and start discovering bands all over the world, now!