Ace Frehley, Founding Member of Kiss, Passes Away at 74

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of the iconic glam rock band Kiss, has passed away at the age of 74. His family and agent confirmed that he died peacefully on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, following complications from a recent fall. The news has left his family “completely devastated and heartbroken,” as they plan to cherish his laughter and celebrate his kindness.

Frehley was recovering from a “minor fall” that led to the cancellation of a scheduled performance in late September. His tour manager, John Ostrosky, known as John Ostronomy, shared on Facebook that doctors advised Frehley against traveling after the incident.

Legacy of a Rock Icon

Born in 1951 in the Bronx, Frehley developed a passion for music early on, receiving his first electric guitar as a Christmas gift in 1964. He co-founded Kiss in 1973 alongside fellow musicians Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The band quickly rose to fame, producing several classic albums, including “Destroyer,” “Rock and Roll Over,” and “Love Gun.” Kiss is notable for holding the record for the most gold albums of any American band, with sales exceeding 100 million records worldwide.

Kiss gained recognition not only for their music but also for their theatrical live performances, which featured elaborate costumes, face paint, and pyrotechnics. Their hits, such as “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City,” have become anthems of the rock genre.

A Solo Career and Reunion

In 1978, Frehley released his first solo album, which included the hit single “New York Groove.” After departing from Kiss in 1982, he formed the band Frehley’s Comet and continued to record music under his own name.

Frehley rejoined Kiss for their much-anticipated reunion tour in 1996 but left again in the early 2000s. The band continued to perform with replacement members donning Frehley’s makeup and costumes. In 2023, Kiss announced their farewell tour, marking the end of an era for the legendary band.

In recognition of his contributions to music, Frehley and his bandmates were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. His passing marks a significant loss for the music world, as fans and fellow musicians remember him for his talent, innovative guitar work, and the indelible mark he left on rock music.