Ace Frehley, the iconic founding guitarist of KISS, famously known as "Space Ace," has passed away at 74 after an accidental fall last month. His family confirmed the news in a statement on October 16, expressing their profound grief: "We are completely devastated and heartbroken, and incredibly fortunate to have been by his side in his final moments."
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, New York, Frehley displayed a strong musical aptitude from a young age. After receiving his first electric guitar for Christmas in 1964, he became a self-taught musician, drawing inspiration from rock pioneers like Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, and The Who. In late 1972, he joined KISS, a band formed by rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss, becoming an integral part of their groundbreaking sound.
Donning silver-blue battle attire and star-painted facial makeup, Ace Frehley co-wrote and performed fan favorites such as "Cold Gin," "Shock Me," and "Rocket Ride." In 1978, when all four KISS members released solo albums simultaneously, his self-titled "Ace Frehley" album garnered critical acclaim, with his cover of "New York Groove" charting in the Top 20.
However, the pressures of fame led Frehley into struggles with alcohol and drug addiction. In 1982, he departed from KISS to pursue a solo career. He made a powerful return in 1987 with Frehley's Comet, reaffirming his rock spirit with tracks like "Rock Soldiers." In 1996, he reunited with the original KISS members for a global tour, sparking a wave of nostalgia, and contributed to the 1998 album "Psycho Circus."
In 2011, Ace Frehley published his autobiography, "No Regrets: A Rock 'n' Roll Memoir," chronicling his journey from a Bronx kid to a rock superstar. In 2014, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of KISS. He remained active on stage, releasing his latest album, "10,000 Volts," in 2024.
KISS members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons issued a joint statement mourning his loss, stating, "Ace 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."
via： Variety