KISS BIOGRAPHY

KISS is a New York City-based heavy metal band that became

famous in the mid 1970s. KISS was born out of the ashes of Wicked
Lester. Although 'Heavy Metal' didn't exist when the band was formed
in 1972 it can be said that they invented a big part of the sound and
style which now belong to Heavy Metal. The band is known for its
elaborate stage shows, loud music, and extravagant costumes. Until
1983 the band never appeared in public without their make-up (which
disguised their real identities). The band first appeared without their
make-up in 1983 on a MTV news special. They had to remove the
makeup to be a viable band of the oblivious 1980s (platform
shoes died with disco). KISS put it back on in 1996 for their Alive
Worldwide Reunion Tour.
The original members of KISS (and their made-up personas) are Paul
Stanley (star child), rhythm guitar/vocals; Gene Simmons (demon),
bass/vocals; Ace Frehley (space-ace), lead guitar/vocals; and Peter
Criss (catman), drums/vocals. William 'Gui' Aucoin was the original
manager 1973-1981. Doc McGhee is the current manager. Sean
Delaney was the group's first road manager and creative director.
Originally inspired by the New York Dolls, The Harlots of 42nd Street,
and other New York glam scene bands. They felt that the feminine
look didn't work for them.
1980 saw Peter Criss's departure for 3 'commercial flop' solo albums.
Other drummers between 1980 and 1996 and 2001 and 2004

 Eric Carr, 1981-1991 (fox, 1981-1982) (died of cancer

on November 24, 1991, the same day as Freddie Mercury)
 Eric Singer, 1991-1996, 2001-2003, 2004 - (new catman)

1982 saw Ace Frehley officially leave the band to pursue a somewhat

successful solo career. Other lead guitarists between 1982 and 1996
(when the original four members reunited):

 Vinnie Vincent, 1982-1983 (Egyptian warrior)

 Mark St. John, 1983-1984 (no character)
 Bruce Kulick, 1985-1996 (no character)
 Tommy Thayer, 2002- (new space-ace)