Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist and founding member of the legendary rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74. He passed away on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall. His family expressed their deep sorrow, stating they were “completely devastated and heartbroken,” yet they vowed to cherish the memories they shared with him.
In the wake of his passing, an interview from March 2023 has resurfaced, revealing Frehley’s reflections on his longevity. He shared his belief that he would live a long life, citing his “good genes,” which he inherited from his parents. “Luckily, I have good genes,” he told The Aquarian. “My dad lived to be 96 and my mom lived to be 86, but her older sister lived to be 99.” He also mentioned a psychic’s prediction that he would reach the age of 100. With a smile, he remarked, “No problem.”
A Rock Legend’s Journey
Born Paul Daniel Frehley, Ace grew up in a musical family and began his journey with the guitar at age 13. Before gaining fame with KISS, he played in various local bands throughout New York City and worked as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix when he was just 18. KISS rose to prominence in the mid-1970s, selling millions of albums and becoming a cultural phenomenon with their theatrical performances.
The band was known for its elaborate shows, featuring fire and fake blood, with members adorned in distinctive costumes complete with platform boots and signature black-and-white face paint. KISS’s biggest commercial hit, “Beth,” peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1976. Other notable songs include “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”
Ace Frehley’s distinct persona, known as Space Ace, helped define the band’s image. He was celebrated for his innovative use of pyrotechnics, which included guitars that glowed, emitted smoke, and shot rockets from the headstock. His contributions were pivotal during some of the most formative years of KISS.
A Lasting Legacy
In a joint statement, fellow band members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley expressed their grief over Frehley’s passing. They stated, “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’s legacy.”
Ace Frehley is the first of the four founding members of KISS to pass away. His legacy in the world of rock music is indelible, marked by a career that inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. As tributes pour in, the music community continues to honor the impact he had on the industry and the joy he brought to countless fans worldwide.
