A brief history of KISS

When were KISS formed?
To start our A brief history of KISS we need to go back to the beginning. Kiss was formed in New York City in 1973 and is widely known for its extravagant live shows, which often include fire breathing, blood spitting, and pyrotechnics. Their costumes, which include face paint and leather outfits, have become iconic and a symbol of the band. Over the decades, Kiss has become one of the most recognizable rock acts in the world.
The first KISS album

KISS released their self-titled debut album in February 1974, but it was not a commercial success. Despite this, the band gained a large and devoted following through their live performances. The following year, they released their breakthrough album, “Alive!”, which became their first gold record. This success helped to propel the band to greater heights and cemented their place in rock history.
Since those early days KISS have become one of the most successful bands of all time, having released over 20 studio albums and selling over 100 million records worldwide. This impressive track record has earned them a place among the best-selling bands of all time, and they continue to be a popular choice for music fans around the world. Their music has transcended generations and genres, and they remain a beloved and influential force in the music industry.
The original KISS line up
The original lineup of KISS consisted of Gene Simmons on bass and vocals, Paul Stanley on guitar and vocals, Ace Frehley on guitar, and Peter Criss on drums. The band’s unique sound, which blended elements of hard rock, glam rock, and heavy metal, helped them become one of the most popular rock bands of the 1970s.
KISS was a hugely successful band, renowned for their high-energy live performances and catchy, radio-friendly songs. Some of their most iconic hits include “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” and “Beth,” which helped to cement their place in music history. Their music was loved by many and their live shows were always a spectacle, making them one of the most successful acts of the decade.
Official KISS T-Shirts at Amazon
New KISS line up
In the 1980s, KISS experienced some major lineup changes, with original members Peter Criss and Ace Frehley leaving the band and being replaced by Eric Carr and Vinnie Vincent. Despite the changes, the band still managed to release successful albums and tour, but their popularity began to decline in the 1990s.
KISS without the makeup

In 1996, KISS made a major change in their style and image. After years of wearing makeup and costumes, they decided to retire those and return to their roots as a hard rock band. To mark this new era, they released the album “Lick It Up“. This move was met with great enthusiasm from some of their fans and dismay from others.
KISS reunion

In 1998 they released Psycho Circus and the makeup retuned, KISS then embarked on a reunion tour featuring the original lineup. The reunion was short-lived, however, as Criss left the band again in 2001. Since then, KISS has continued to tour and release new music, with Stanley and Simmons being the only two remaining original members. Despite lineup changes, the band has maintained a devoted fan base and continues to be a significant force in the world of rock music.
Something not many people know about the band KISS
Paul Stanley is also a successful painter and author. He has released several books, including a memoir titled “Face the Music: A Life Exposed,” and has had his paintings exhibited in galleries around the world.

KISS in 2023
KISS are currently on their end of the world tour, which shows no sign of actually ending. The band’s stage show and performance is unmatched and has been so for many years. To this day, KISS continue to wow audiences with their iconic, larger-than-life performances, and their end of the world tour is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.

Will KISS continue after retirement ?
Gene Simmons has often discussed KISS after his retirement from the band. He has expressed his pride in the band’s accomplishments, and his admiration for the fans who continue to support the band. He has also discussed the legacy of KISS and how it has impacted the music industry and the lives of millions of fans.
Gene had this to say in a recent interview “KISS will continue in ways that even I haven’t thought of,” Gene predicted. “But I can conceive of… You know, the Blue Man Group and Phantom Of The Opera tours around the world with different personnel.
“There could and should be a KISS show, kind of live on stage with effects and everything else, but also semi-autobiographical thing about four knuckleheads off the streets of New York that ends with the last third as a full-blown celebration, a full-on performance. Not with us. Although not a problem stepping in every once in a while.”
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KISS’s final UK tour dates:
JUNE 2023
Plymouth Argyle Home Park – Sat 3rd
Birmingham Arena – Mon 5th
Newcastle Utilita Arena – Tue 6th
July 2023
London The O2 – Wed 5th
Manchester AO Arena – Fri 7th
Glasgow OVO Hydro – Sat 8th
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