Kiss co-founder Ace Frehley passes away: Rock legend remembered

Cause of death

According to media reports citing his family, the musician died as a result of complications from a fall. About a month ago, he sustained serious injuries.

"We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!" the family's statement reads.

Biography of Ace Frehley

Paul Daniel Ace Frehley was born on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York. Known for his role in the legendary rock band Kiss, he became one of the most iconic figures in the world of hard rock.

He created one of the band's most recognizable stage personas, The Spaceman, which became a signature image of Kiss.

Career beginnings with Kiss

Ace's story with Kiss began on January 4, 1973, when he responded to an ad posted by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and the other members of the band.

When he arrived for the audition, Frehley stood out with his eccentric appearance, wearing mismatched shoes and sporting an unusual mustache, and began warming up while another guitarist was still playing.

As soon as Ace started playing, the band realized they were witnessing true talent. He was accepted into the group on the condition that he shave his mustache, something he did reluctantly.

Contribution to the band's image and music

Frehley not only played guitar but also helped shape the band's visual style. He designed the stylized Kiss logo and suggested that Stanley add a star over his eye, another defining feature of the band's look. His "space guitarist" persona, complete with makeup and a flaming guitar, became a rock culture icon.

Ace performed on the band's debut album, Kiss (1974), and between 1976 and 1980, the group reached the peak of its fame.

His song "Shock Me" became a hit and his personal anthem after he was electrocuted on stage during one of the concerts.

Solo career and return to Kiss

After leaving Kiss in 1982, Ace Frehley launched a solo career and formed his own band, Frehley's Comet.

Following several successful years, he reunited with Kiss in 1995 for the MTV Unplugged show. In 1996, the band reformed its classic lineup, marking one of the most celebrated comebacks in rock history.

In 2000, after the release of the platinum-certified album Psycho Circus, Frehley left the band for the second time, officially bidding farewell to the group.

Later years

After his second departure from Kiss, Frehley refocused on his solo career, releasing several albums that gained popularity among both long-time fans and new listeners. In 2009, he released his album Anomaly, and in 2011, his autobiography "No Regrets" came out, making it into "The New York Times monthly Top 10 books" list.

Legacy

Despite multiple lineup changes in Kiss and his repeated departures, Ace Frehley left an indelible mark on rock music.

Over his career, he was named one of the greatest metal guitarists by Guitar World. His music and influence continue to inspire millions of fans worldwide.

Frehley in 1977 (photo: wikipedia.org)

Earlier, we reported that D'Angelo, the legendary R&B singer and Grammy winner, had died.