Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of legendary rock band KISS died on Thursday, October 16 at age 74. His representative, Lori Lousararian, said the cause was complications from a recent fall at his home.
Frehley’s presence was central to KISS’ identity. Alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, he helped craft the band’s loud, theatrical approach to rock. From the moment they hit stages in the mid-70s, KISS became a global phenomenon with their fire-spewing performances, towering platform boots, and black-and-white face paint that transformed each member into a comic-book alter ego. Frehley was “The Spaceman,” a role he carried with swagger and humor while anchoring the band’s sound with blistering, melodic guitar lines.
His playing powered some of KISS’ most enduring tracks, including “Detroit Rock City,” “Shock Me,” and the arena anthem “Rock and Roll All Nite.” Frehley’s 1978 solo album further proved his musicianship and became a cult favorite among fans.
Before KISS, Frehley was a working musician in New York City, even spending time as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix before answering a Village Voice ad seeking a guitarist “with Flash and Ability.” That audition would change his life. KISS became synonymous with glam rock excess and Frehley’s name with guitar heroism. When the band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, his legacy as one of rock’s most influential and larger-than-life figures was already secured.
Their most notable albums are their debut album in 1974, Alive! in 1975, Destroyer released in 1976, and Dynasty in 1979.
