KISStory: KISS perform Super Bowl Pre-Show

KISS performed "Rock And Roll All Nite" at Super Bowl XXXIII  on January 31, 1999.

KISStory: First ever Live KISS Show Anniversary 1/30/73

Photo KISS and manager Lew Linet/1973
(Gibson) Today marks the anniversary of the very first live performance by KISS. Gibson takes a look back: The record was going nowhere. Wicked Lester had been blessed, in many ways, by the times. Somehow, with almost no live performances under their belt and no management to speak of, the band were able to get signed by a major label on the strength of a demo. Only in the '70s, right? But blessed as they were, the band were squandering the opportunity.

The first problem to solve was the replacement of guitarist Stephen Coronel, whom Epic had deemed unsuitable. Firing a bandmate, fortunately, wasn't a problem for the band's bassist, Gene Klein, and rhythm guitarist, Stanley Eisen. In fact, firing band mates would become a bit of a habit for the duo in subsequent years, better known by their adopted stage names of Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

So, Coronel was out and session musician Ron Leejack (whose chief previous credit was Cactus) was in. Stylistically, Leejack was far enough away from Coronel that the band decided to scrap the master tracks from their demo and re-do everything. But even that was proving to be a bit of a train wreck. For one thing, the group and the label had a spotty recording schedule, ultimately taking a year to get their collective acts together to complete the record. In addition – and this was, indeed, the root of the problem – the record was a mess. It was an unfocused patchwork of pop, folk-rock and rock. And even when the band finally finished the album in late 1972, they didn't feel too great about it. Certainly, Gene and Paul didn't think much of the record. Neither did Epic's A&R director, Don Ellis, who refused to release it. Almost immediately thereafter, Wicked Lester sought and were granted a release from their contract.

At this point, Simmons and Stanley decided that the only way to move forward was to burn everything else down. They parted ways with the rest of the band and set out to find a more stylistically and stylishly cohesive unit. Stylistically, they were looking for a more stripped-down, hard rock sound. Stylishly, they were looking for a unified look… though they hadn't quite worked that part out yet.

They started their quest by hiring a drummer from the Rolling Stone classifieds, who had advertised, "EXPD. ROCK & roll drummer looking for orig. grp. doing soft & hard music. Peter, Brooklyn." Peter from Brooklyn was, of course, Peter Criss. The veteran Criss was an immediate upgrade in musicianship from the previous drummer, Tony Zarrella. Now a trio, the updated Wicked Lester worked tirelessly to write music and hone their sound. By November 1972, they were confident enough to approach Ellis for an audition. Ellis granted the audition but, ultimately, turned the group down… perhaps aided in his decision by Criss' brother, who drunkenly vomited on the record exec as he was leaving.

In December 1972, the group placed an ad in the Village Voice, stating, "LEAD GUITARIST WANTED with Flash and Ability. Album Out Shortly. No time wasters please." Among the many responses was a guy from the Bronx who showed up to the audition at the Lower East Side's Live Bait Bar wearing non-matching sneakers. As spacey as he looked, the guy could play. And so, they asked Paul Frehley – who had acquired the nickname "Ace" in high school – to join the band.

Continue reading at Antimusic.com

Christine Mulleneaux Wins Rock Lady Demon Contest

Kiss Mask would like to congratulate Christine Mulleneaux who won the Kiss Lady Demon contest last night in Las Vegas at the Body English in the Hard Rock Hotel.  The contest was sponsored by Kiss Monster Mini Golf.  She will a custom designed $10,000 Gene Simmons “Lady Demon” black leather wedding dress at the grand opening of Kiss Monster Mini Golf on March 15, 2012.
Photo by the Las Vegas Sun.

Tommy Thayer and KISS OFF! Winners Mr. Speed

Kiss Guitarist Tommy Thayer is seen here with KISS OFF! winners MR. SPEED in Las Vegas last night. Tommy was a judge in the first ever official Kiss tribute band contest.

Photo courtesy Kissonline

And The Winner Is....

Mr. Speed! The Ohio Kiss tribute band took top honors at the first ever KISS OFF!

Kiss Mask would like to congratulate Mr. Speed. If you've never seen them perform live, you are missing quite a Kiss trubute experience.

CLICK HERE to view the Las Vegas Sun's KISS OFF photo galley
(Photo by Las Vegas Sun)
Kiss guitarist Tommy Thayer
was the judge at the Hard Rock's Body English. The winner will perform at the grand opening of KISS Monster Mini Golf on March 15, 2012.

Tommy Thayer of KISS to Judge the Ultimate "KISS OFF" Finale

VegasNews.com
KISS by Monster Mini Golf is holding the “KISS OFF” finale with KISS’ own Tommy Thayer as the celebrity judge to find the World’s Best KISS tribute band. Over 200 bands worldwide submitted their entries, and received over 29,000 votes and now it is down to the final four: KISS FOREVER (Hungary), MR. SPEED (Ohio), ROCK AND ROLL OVER (Texas) and KISSTERIA (Australia).
Local Las Vegas KISS tribute band, “Las Vegas KISS” is opening for the final 4. The KISS Off! Winner will get to play at the grand opening of KISS By Monster Mini Golf on March 15, 2012.
In addition, the finale for the “Lady Demon” model search will also take place. The winner of the “2012 KISS by Monster Mini Golf Lady Demon” contest will debut the first ever custom designed $10,000 KISS studded black leather wedding dress on the “black” carpet at the grand opening of KISS by Monster Mini Golf on Mar. 15, 2012.
KISS OFF Judge: Tommy Thayer
Hosts: John Katsilometes, Trisha McCrone, Brian Thomas (Lowercase g)
Lady Demon Judges: Steph MacKenzie, Erik Kabik, Doug Elfman, Christina Vitagliano and Patrick Vitagliano
When: Sunday, January 29, 2012
KISS OFF EVENT: 2 – 6 p.m.

Where: Body English
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
4455 Paradise Road
Las Vegas, NV 89169
The finale is free to the public, and for all ages. Limited # of VIP Tickets available at www.monsterminigolf.com/kiss

Gene Simmons at Sundance - Video

874 Productions

Former KISS Drummer Peter Criss Set To Release Book

Artisan News
Former Kiss Drummer Peter Criss says he's working on a new book, says fans won't be disapointed.

Tommy Thayer Interview with KOMP Las Vegas

KISS LOVE GUN Retro Action Figures Coming

Kissonline
Figures Toy Company to Release Retro 8 and 12 inch KISS Action Figures

Finally!! "You Want It You Got It" "The Hottest Band in the World" "KISS"

KISS Collectors, Rock Fans get ready. Figures Toy Company is about to introduce KISS action figures, reminiscent of the action figures first released in 1977-1978 by the Mego Toy Company. These figures will have rooted hair, cloth clothing, 16 points of articulation and for the first time will be available in 8 inch as well as a re-release of the 12 inch.

CFO Anthony Balasco states, "I never understood why 8 inch KISS action figures were not produced back in the 1970's when The Mego Toy Company had already released the 12 inch versions. Our first release will have the retro look from the 1970's, but future releases will cover all time periods in KISS's almost 40 year musical career from 1973 to 2012". Look for special exclusives and limited edition releases. Collectors will be able to find these at toy stores, comic shops, music stores and on-line retailers starting in March 2012.

Each 8" KISS action Figure comes with a mini replica Love Gun album cover, and each individual 12" Figure comes with 1 of 4 retro mini KISS concert T-shirts!

The Love Gun Action figures will be followed by Sonic Boom, Dressed To Kill and the first KISS album Figure Series!

Visit www.figurestoycompany.com for more info on this exciting KISS Action Figure Series!

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed on 20/20's "Hollywed"

Gene and Shannon on 20/20's "Hollywed" Special Edition

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed are just one of the celebrity couple's who will appear on a special edition of '20/20's "Hollywed" next Friday night (February 3 @ 10PM EST) airing on ABC. The special will spotlight celebrity marriages and the high price of Hollywood divorce.

Win Tickets to KISS Monster Mini Golf Grand Opening

Kissonline.com

Coming to the KISS OFF Finals? Want to WIN A free Pair of VIP Tickets to The Grand Opening of KISS by Monster Mini Golf with...KISS?

Email your name to: WinKissVip@gmail.com
It's that easy!! *must be present to win!

Big thanks to "Las Vegas KISS" for getting up crazy early this morning to do a live shoot on ABC channel 13 Vegas to promote the KISS OFF Tribute band finals this Sunday @ The Hard Rock Hotel (Body English)
Details at www.monsterminigolf.com/kiss.

Click here to watch ABC 13 Action News' "KISS off" competition report with Las Vegas KISS.

General Admission for Sunday's event is FREE (all ages)
Limited Edition VIP Tickets only $99

Bruce Kulick Live at the NAAM Jam - West Hollywood

Bruce Kulick live at the Key Club in West Hollywood, CA., January 21, 2012

Take a look at "The KISS Loft" at 10 23rd Street - Video

Take a look inside the loft where KISS started at 10 23rd Street in New York City. The loft now houses Manhatten Comics, a comic book store.
Uploaded to YouTube by Toddadean

Grandfather unmasks Sacramento 'Evil Clown' robber

Sacramento Bee

Sacramento police say that the KISS bandit is actually more of an Evil Clown robber - and he's struck again.
And now, thanks to a tough store clerk in his 70s, the clown mask is in police evidence. The robber has been unmasked by a grandfather.
The Sacramento Police Department is asking the public's help in identifying the masked individual sought in connection with the armed robberies of three businesses. In all cases, police say, the robber wore a white clown mask.
He was initially dubbed the Kiss Mask Robber because the mask he wore was similar to the make-up worn by the KISS rock band.
Continue reading at Sacramento Bee

Tommy Thayer to take part in Warburton/St. Jude Golf Charity

Mydesert.com

The second annual Patrick Warburton ‘Golf For Kids’ Celebrity Golf Tournament will be played at Classic Club in Palm Desert March 2-4.
Presented by HighTower, the tournament benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, one of the world’s premier centers for research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other deadly diseases.

Among the celebrities who are scheduled to appear at this year’s tournament include Bruce Jenner, Cheech Marin, Robert Hays, Oliver Hudson, Luke Perry, Scott Wolf, Sam Page, Bruce McGill, Sam McMurray, Joel Gretsch, Steve Cropper and many more.

Hosted by actor Patrick Warburton, the event will kick off on with a pairing party March 2 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert. That evening will include a new jam session featuring Kim Carnes, Alice Cooper, Steve Cropper, Mike Reno from Loverboy, Tommy Thayer from KISS, Jerry Cantrell from Alice in Chains, Ricky Phillips from Styx and more.

Golf will be March 3 and 4 at Classic Club. Cost is $1,500 per player, $6,000 for a foursome. Tickets to the Friday night jam session are $100, and Saturday gala tickets are $250. For information, visit PatrickWarburtonGolf.com.

Gene Simmons Helps Millions Connect Through Language (VIDEO)

Genconnect.com
KISS front-man and global entertainer Gene Simmons is lending his iconic personality to help spread the word about Ortsbo’s unique translator experience. During a live global event with comic book writer Stan Lee, the two icons showed off the translating chat service from Ortsbo.com, a tool that enables real-time conversational translation in over 50 languages. Simmons explained the global chat to genConnect:

“This was a global chat with potentially millions of Stan Lee fans around the world and it was streamed live in real time in any number of languages,” Simmons said. “Fans from Greece, Bulgaria, the Phillipines, would ask questions of Stan in their language, the question was then asked of Stan Lee in English, he would answer in English and in real time somebody in the Phillipines or Greece would get the answer in their language. Therein lies the magic of Ortsbo.com.”

As an immigrant himself, Simmons recalls his own difficulty learning English when he came to America and believes Ortsbo will be a pivitol point in our history. He encourages people to learn more about this powerful language tool.

“What tears people apart are our differences,” Simmons told genConnect, “and language is the biggest difference we have.”

Bruce Kulick and Nikki Sixx at Paul Stanley's Birthday Party

LOS ANGELES-
Here is a photo of Bruce Kulick and Nikki Sixx at Paul Stanley's 60th Birthday party in Los Angeles on Friday, January 20, 2012. Photo courtesy Bruce Kulick

Retro-KISS: Live At Budokan 1977

Kiss live at Budokan, Tokyo, Japan- April 2, 1977
DETROIT ROCK CITY
Original broadcast:HBO June 1977.

The Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom Outfit - Video

Here is video of the new Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom at the NAAM Show in Anaheim, CA.

5 Year Old Drummer Kills on Eric Carr's "Carr Jam 1991"

Check out five year old Kiss fan and drummer Avery Molek as he drums to "Carr Jam '91
Avery's first solo with no music. Avery on drums & dad on rhythm guitar having some fun. Also playing a double bass pedal for the first time!
In memory of Eric Carr.
www.averymolek.com
No Copyright Infringement Intended.

"The Elder" Movie Moving Forward

We first reported this story here a few months ago and the press is picking up again regarding a film based on Kiss' 1981 concept album, "(Music From) The Elder."

KISS - The Elder - The Movie?
Text:HARDMUSICNEWS.COM
A film inspired by the 1981 KISS concept album “(Music From) The Elder” may be coming to the big screen.
The album was intended to be the soundtrack to a movie — a movie which, due to the relative commercial failure of the album, was never made.
30 years after the album’s original release, U.K.-based writer, musician and independent filmmaker Seb Hunter has announced plans to produce a “post-apocalyptic road movie” based on ‘(Music From) The Elder’”, with production slated to begin this summer.
The Guardian reports Hunter updated his blog last fall to use it as a means of raising funds for the film.
The storyline depicts the thoughts of The Boy during his training by the Elders, under the auspices of Morpheus. An attempt to emulate the success of Pink Floyd’s “The Wall,” it boasted a choir, orchestra, bits of spoken-word, lyrics by Lou Reed and none of the three-chord jock rock KISS were famous for.
Needless to say, it tanked, and the film was never made.
Hunter reckons that “shoehorning a 30-year-old record into the movie would be clunky.” Instead, he plans to use “(Music From) The Elder” as an “aural resource” and, rather than adapt the Kiss Koncept, he’s threatening a “post-apocalyptic road movie; The Road meets 28 Days Later meets Excalibur.”
As to whether KISS bassist Gene Simmons will give it his blessing, Hunter has a plan. “I want him to play the arch baddie, Mr. Blackwell,” he says. “Gene had a half-decent acting career in the mid-80s, actually – Wanted: Dead Or Alive and Runaway. He played villains in both.”
There’s more info at elderthemovie.com.

KISS' MONSTER Machine Gearing Up for Album, Tour

2012 Going to be a KISS Year-New Album, Tour, DVD, Book



KISS shot photos in Los Angeles for their new album MONSTER this past Thursday. The album which is described as a cross between Destroyer and Revenge  will feature 15 songs and produced by Paul Stanley.  It's been rumored that Kiss may be wearing new stage outfits as Eric Singer revealed to Braveword's  Mitch Lafon last summer of the possibility.  A new stage show, as Gene Simmons has stated, will be "technically advanced," is in the works. A 10 hour DVD (replacing Kissology 4?) will release to coincide as well as a 4 foot book. The album is scheduled to release on Kiss Records in May or June of 2012 with a world tour to follow that will take Kiss across the globe to Europe, Australia and the US. There has been talk that Kiss has expressed interest in performing in Russia and Gene has said that he would like to see Kiss play Israel.. The US leg is expected to run in the fall with Motley Crue opening the tour. The Destroyer:35th Anniversary Deluxe Edition is set to release in the US on February 28 (February 27 in Europe). And of course, the Kiss Kruise II is set to sail next Halloween. Buckle up Kiss fans. It is going to be a Kiss year!

New Eric Carr Tribute:"I'm A Legend Tonight" Released

A new CD in tribute to Eric Carr has been released. The album, "I'm A Legend Tonight" is a collection of Kiss covers is released through Italy's  Bologna City Records. All the Kiss songs covered are tracks that Eric Carr has drummed and sang on. The album has the support of the Carravelo family.

You can purchase the album Here.

	1	Danger Zone "Crazy crazy nights"
	2	Crying Steel "Lick it Up"
	3	Markonee "Who wants to be lonely"
	4	H.A.R.E.M. "Under the gun"
	5	Midnite Sun "War machine"
	6	Deadly Tide "Forever"
	7	Neurasthenia "I love it loud"
	8	Sange Main Machine "Creatures of the night"
	9	Kissexy "I'm a legend tonight"
	10	Noise Pollution "King of the mountain"
	11	Superhorrorfuck "Heaven's on fire"
	12	Luppi/Priori "A world without heroes"
	13	Gunsmoke "Rock and roll hell"
	14	Live 4 Win "Hide your heart"
	15	Kiss Web Italy All Star "Uh! All night"

POLL: Pick the Best KISS Songs, Album by Album

Ultimateclassicrock.com - Reader's Poll
CLICK HERE TO VOTE THE BEST KISS SONGS ALBUM BY ALBUM

Here's your chance to vote for your favorite KISS song, album by album, in honor of Paul Stanley's 6oth Birthday.

Paul Stanley Sings at his 60th Birthday Bash - Video

Paul Stanley Jams to Led Zeppelin at Birthday Bash


Paul Stanley sang "You Shook Me," a Led Zeppelin classic, at his 60th birthday party. The party was held at the Soho House in Los Angeles on January 20, 2013 thrown by Paul's lovely wife, Erin, and his bandmate brother, Gene Simmons. Performing with Paul is Ty Taylor of Vintage Trouble. The party was attended by his family, friends and fellow bandmates Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer.

Paul's bandmates also sent birthday greetings via Kiss' website, Kissonline.com

Gene Simmons, “Paul, my very best wishes on your birthday. You’re the brother I never had. You’ve always been there. For me. For the band. For the fans.”
Eric Singer, “Paul Stanley, Happy Birthday to the Grand Master of Ceremonies! Your (sic) still the best and I wish you only better days ahead.”
Tommy Thayer, “Happy Birthday Paul! You’re a great friend & a brother in arms.. We just made a kick-a** album together and had a great time doing it. You are THE rock & roll champion! Happy 60th!!”

Check out Paul cranking in "You Shook Me" below.

Rafael Moreira, Guitarist for Paul Stanley, Checks In with KISS MASK

Our friend Rafael Moreira, who played lead guitar on Paul Stanley's Live To Win tour, checks in with KISS Mask Webzine on what's going on with him. Raf plays in his own band, Magnetico. Here's what Raf is up to:

Hey everyone here's my schedule this week, if you're in LA visiting or
just for the NAMM show, please come by and say hello! NAMM party on
Wednesday Jan 18th at 10:30PM in LA at "On The Rox" (above the Roxy on
Sunset Blvd), free with the NAMM badge or the printed email
confirmation otherwise it's $10! Friday at NAMM i will be at the Dean
Markley booth at 2PM for autograph signing and at 3PM i will perform
with Bruce Kulick (KISS) at the Seymour Duncan booth! Saturday i'll be
performing at the BAE preamp booth at 2PM for the launch of my stereo
1073 signature model pre!! This is a long post, but i hope to see some
of your faces this week! ... Rafa

Check Out Rafael's Website!

Retro KISS: Billy Crystal Interviews KISS - 1979

Here is an interview Billy Crystal did with KISS in 1979 before their show at the LA Forum. The segment was taped November 7, 1979 for the Dinah Shore Show.
Uploaded on YouTube by necramoniumdotc0m

Paul Stanley's Birthday Cake

PAUL STANLEY'S  VERY COOL BIRTHDAY CAKE

The Starchild's Cake
Here is a photo of Paul's dual (one side the singer of Kiss, the other side the painter) birthday cake from his surprise 60th birthday celebration Friday night in Los Angeles. The party was thrown by Paul's lovely wife Erin and Kiss brother, Gene Simmons and attended by Paul's family and friends. Photo courtesy of Kissonline.

Gene Simmons & Stan Lee Live from the Sundance Festival

Gene Simmons and Comic Legend Stan Lee will chat live on Ortsbo.com along with Variety on January 24, 2012 from the Sundance Film Festival. The event will air at 11:45PM Pacific Standard Time (2:45PM EST). Click Live&Global Sundance for all your information.

You may remember KISS recieved a Guiness World Record Award,  May 21, 2011, for have the most nationalities, Ortsbo, in one world live chat- a total of 92 countries.

KISS Shooting Photos for MONSTER Album Cover

Tommy Thayer tweeted yesterday, January 19, "Heading into town to meet Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and Eric Singer for album cover photo shoot."

Happy Birthday, Paul Stanley!

Happy Birthday Paul!

KISS Mask Webzine and it's readers would like to wish Paul Stanley a very Happy Birthday!
Paul turns 60 years young today.

"I Was Made For Lovin' You" from Kiss Symphony, Melbourne, Australia, 2003, Telstra Dome.

Paul Stanley Partners with Washburn for Starfire Signature Guitar

Washburn Guitars have announced a partnership with Paul Stanley to create the Starfire Signature Series.

Paul Stanley of KISS is legendary around the world, and he has partnered with Washburn Guitars to release the amazing PS21012 “Starfire” signature guitar.

The PS2012 features a carved “raised center” solid Mahogany body with chrome hardware, and has two Seymour-Duncan® SM-3 Mini Humbuckers, controlled by two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a 3-way toggle switch. A custom Tone-Pros® Tune-O-Matic bridge and custom Paul Stanley tailpiece machined from solid aluminum completes this rocking body. This USA made guitar is available in Black and White.

The neck is also Mahogany and has a bound ebony fingerboard with 22 Jumbo frets and stunning “split” block inlays, with the top half being Pearl, and the bottom being Abalone. The PS2012 Starfire embodies rock and roll in a way only Paul Stanley and Washburn can.

Washburn Guitars is owned by US Music Corp, located in Mundelein, IL.  

Check out the Washburn website for more details

Gibson Exclusive: Ace Frehley Talks ‘Budokan’ Les Paul Custom

Gibson.com/Ace Frehley

Gibson Custom has recreated one of the most famous guitars in music history – the Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom. The master craftsmen at the Custom Shop have forged this tribute to the KISS guitarist’s most famous axe. Frehley nicknamed his Les Paul “Budokan” because it was the very guitar he played when KISS broke The Beatles' sell-out record at Japan’s legendary Budokan arena in 1977. It also was Ace’s main touring guitar throughout ’77 and ’78, was his go-to studio guitar after that and was used in the 1996 KISS reunion.
With the Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom, Gibson Custom has painstakingly recreated every single one of the idiosyncrasies of Ace’s customized guitar, drawing on digital scanning technology and working closely with Frehley and the guitar’s current owner, Matt Swanson. When Frehley recently took one of the guitars for a spin, he was amazed at how much the guitar felt, played and sounded like the real deal.
Check out Gibson’s exclusive interview with Ace below, in which he shows off the new “Budokan” Les Paul Custom, talks about KISS’s early days and shares some stories from his new book, No Regrets.

Click here to view the interview

Top 4 KISS Tribute Band Finalists Are Revealed

According to Kissonline.com, the top four finalists for the the World's Best KISS Tribute Band have been announced. They are:

KISS FOREVER- Hungary
MR. SPEED - Ohio
ROCK AND ROLL OVER - Texas
KISSTERIA - Australia
The Top 4 will go to Las Vegas on Januray 29 for the finals with Guitarist Tommy Thayer as a judge.
_____________________________________________________________


The following information is provided by Kissonline and KISS by Monster Min Golf:

The “KISS® OFF”, ultimate battle of the bands finale will be on Sunday, Jan. 29 at Body English at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino located at 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89109. No cover charge for this event. Free for fans!

Besides bragging rights, the “KISS® OFF” winner will:
* Perform at the Grand Opening event of KISS® By Monster Mini Golf®.
* Receive a complete set of authentic KISS® costumes and boots (valued at $3,000)
* Meet and Greet with Tommy Thayer
* Appear on KISS® by Monster Mini Golf® website, social media, publicity and
advertising campaigns and collateral materials.
* Free “Lifetime Pass” KISS® by Monster Mini Golf® for each of the four band
members. (Valued at $1,000)
* Free framed 8x10 portrait of choice for KISS® FAN PAPER featured in the KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® Fan Wall (one for each band member, Valued at $1,000)

Tribute bands will be judged based on talent, performance,
appearance and showmanship. Sound, lights & back line provided for all bands.

KISS By Monster Mini Golf is located across from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino at the Shoppes at Harmon Square at 4501 Paradise Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89069. For more information, visit this link.

The Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom is Revealed

Ltd Ed Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom Outfit: Epiphone is proud to announce our tribute to Ace Frehley, one of rock's most influential guitarists, with the Epiphone Limited Edition Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom Outfit. As the lead guitarist for KISS (and the original designer of the famous KISS logo) Ace Frehley is renown around the world as one of the Les Paul guitar's most exciting ambassadors as well as one of rock's greatest showman. Ace single handedly inspired a generation of guitarists to pick up rock and roll's most powerful axe. Now, Epiphone makes this iconic guitar available to players everywhere.

The Budokan Les Paul: Ace's original "Budokan" Les Paul made its stage debut in 1977 during KISS's "Rock and Roll Over" world tour, which helped establish KISS as the #1 live act on the planet. Ace made the "Budokan" Les Paul his main axe at the very time KISS's fame was exploding around the world thanks to prime time television appearances, a sold out debut at Madison Square Garden and the release of their classic album, Love Gun, which included Ace's signature hit, "Shock Me," ranked #50 in Guitar World's "100 Greatest Guitar Solos" ever. But 1977 is most remembered as the year KISS sold out four nights at the Budokan Theater in Tokyo, Japan, breaking the record previously held by The Beatles since 1966. Ace returned to Japan with his "Budokan" Les Paul the following year for the Alive II tour where KISS broke the record again with a sold out five night stand.

Click Here to go to the Official Site!

KISS featured in VH1's "Metal Evolution" Documentary Series

KISS are just one of the countess bands featured in the VH1 Classic Series, "Metal Evolution." The episode, "Early US Metal" examines the beginnings of hard rock in the 1970's with new interviews  with Peter Criss, Ace Frehley, Bob Ezrin and Casablanca Records co-founder Larry Harris as "Alive!," "Beth" and "I Was Made For Lovin' You" are discussed in detail.  Although Kiss has never seen itself as a heavy metal band, the 12 part, one-hour series, hosted by Sam Dunn, take on the entire history of hard rock and heavy metal. The episode "Early US Metal" is now online and available HERE. Kiss will also be one of the subjects on this Saturday night's episode "Shock Rock" airing at 10PM Eastern Time.

Peter Criss: "I've become a domestic cat!" -Video

Peter Criss: The Cat talks about his cancer and a KISS reunion is questioned- Video

Artisan News
Artisan interviewed Peter Criss at the Drum Legends ceremony in Los Angeles Satuday, January 14. Peter discussed his battle with male breast cancer and a possible Kiss reunion is questioned. Peter just celebrated his 66th birthday and looks as well as sounds fantastic.
Check out the interview below-

Ultimate KISS Tribute Band Contest Voting Begins

KISS by Monster Mini Golf
KISS® by Monster Mini Golf® is searching for the ultimate KISS® tribute band with its first ever, “KISS® OFF” (judged by Kiss' Tommy Thayer at the Hard Rock Hotel, Las Vegas). The “KISS® OFF” winner will receive the opportunity to perform at the grand opening event of the KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® on Thursday, Mar. 15, 2012.

We want to send out a huge thank you to all of the bands who submitted their videos. It was extremely difficult to narrow the choice down to only 20 bands.

These top 20 bands from around the world are competing to be one of 4 finalists that will perform at the "KISS® Off" that will be held at the
Hard Rock Hotel on January 29, 2012.

The Top 4 Bands must be able to attend the finals on Jan 29th. If one of the top 4 bands can not attend the finals on the 29th, we will contact the next band in line.

20 Finalists: - Hotter Than Hell ~ New York, USA - KISS Forever ~ Hungary - KISS MY ASS ~ Argentina - Dressed to KISS ~ Rome Italy - KISSteria ~ Australia - Mr. Speed ~ Cleveland, OH USA - Rock and Roll Over ~ Rhode Island, USA - Heroes A KISS Experience ~ LA, CA & Las Vegas, NV - Killers KISS Cover ~ Capinas, Brazil - Kissed ~ Montreal, Canada

- IKONS ~ Calgary Alberta Canada - Destroyer ~ Fort Worth, TX - KISS Army ~ Kentucky, USA - Destroyer ~ Ontario, Canada - KISSNATION ~ Argentina - Rock and Roll Over ~ Dallas/Fort Worth - KISS Alive ~ Kansas City - KISS Alive the Tribute ~ Ft. Lauderdale, FL - KLASSIK KISS ~ Boston, Massachusetts - Love Guns ~ New Brunswick, Canada Click Here to vote for your favorite KISS tibute band. Tommy Thayer will judge the finalists. KISS by Monster Mini Golf opens March 15, 2012.

KISS to Tour Australia in 2013?

KISS might be heading back to Australia in 2013, after manager Doc McGhee revealed to The Music Network recently that the revered stadium rockers will likely tour next year.
musicfeeds.com.

The famous glam metal band, who first visited us in 1980, have not been on our shores since 2008′s Grand Prix Tour, and 2004′s Kiss Symphony, where they joined with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra to release a live album Alive IV.
McGhee, who has managed the likes of Motley Crue, Bon Jovi and Guns ‘n’ Roses, was asked last week by TMN, if the band have plans to come to Australia again. McGhee replied, “Yes, next year, 2013.”

Canucks' Hansen doesn't get KISS-ed off by rock star

Vancouver Canucks winger Jannick Hansen meets long-time KISS star Gene Simmons (in shades) and his wife, actress Shannon Tweed (left), prior to Sunday night's NHL game against the visiting Anaheim Ducks at Rogers Arena.

Photograph by: Jeff Vinnick, NHLI via Getty Images

By Brad Ziemer, Vancouver Sun
VANCOUVER — It was during Sunday night's pre-game warmup when Jannik Hansen noticed a guy sitting in the penalty box who sure didn't look like your typical NHL official. Hansen, a big fan of the Family Jewels TV show, realized it was none other than aging rocker Gene Simmons. So the Canucks winger skated over the penalty box, opened the door and asked Simmons to sign his stick.
"It not every day you get a chance to meet a guy like that," Hansen said Monday. "He was happy to do it."
Asked if he is a KISS fan, Hansen said: "Obviously they are a little older than I am. But I am definitely a Gene Simmons fan."
It should be noted that the Canucks are 0-2 with Simmons in the house.
Simmons and his wife Shannon Tweed also attended the Canucks' New Year's Eve game in Los Angeles, which they lost 4-1.

Read more: at Vancouver Sun

Gene Simmons visits Surrey as KISS rocker's daughter unveils Sophie's Place

Centre will bring new approach to helping children after abuse

Amy Reid, Surrey Now

 

SURREY - Surrey is going to be home to the region's first multidisciplinary child protection centre, dubbed Sophie's Place.
Unveiled on Sunday by Sophie Tweed-Simmons, daughter of KISS rocker Gene Simmons, the centre will open its doors in February and will be located on the second floor of The Centre for Child Development building in Surrey.
The idea is to bring services together under one roof in a warm, comfortable setting for children under 12 who have been physically, mentally or sexually abused.
"It's really to make it more convenient for the child to not have to go to three or four places and be uncertain," said Gerard Bremault, CEO of The Child Development Centre. "It's about bringing everything to the child as best we can. So, the staff themselves are still the same people who've been doing child protection for years and years and are highly skilled in it. It's about bringing everyone together in a new way."
The multidisciplinary approach is modeled after children's advocacy centres in the United States, as well as Zebra Child Protection Centre in Edmonton.

Continue reading Sopie's Place

Bruce Kulick News Update

Former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick will appear and sign ahtographes at the SIT Strings booth at the NAMM 2012 Convention on Januray 20 at 3:30PM. The annual event will be held in Anaheim, CA. For more information go to NAMM's website.

Bruce will also be heading back to Australia in February for at least two dates. Head on over to Bruce's website KULICK.Net  for live dates.

Peter Criss In LA: Drum Legend Induction - January 14, 2012 -Video

Video: RobBenjaminMusic
Peter Criss was honored, Saturday January 14,  with a Drum Center Legend's Induction at Club Nokia in Los Angeles. Peter,  inducted along with Missing Persons' drummer Terry Bozio. sat on a panel for Guitar Center 23rd Annual Drum-Off competition.

Peter dedicated his award to Kiss manager Bill Aucoin who passed away in 2010.

Here is video of the event.

Ace Frehley to appear at Mad Monster Party

Mad Monster Party
ACE FREHLEY ROCKS THE MAD MONSTER PARTY IN CHARLOTTE, NC!
March 23-25, 2012

MAD MONSTER PARTY is excited to announce their latest special guest Ace Frehley legendary lead guitarist of the rock band KISS. Ace, the "Spaceman" or "Space Ace" played with the group from its inception in 1973 until his departure in 1982. After leaving KISS, Frehley embarked on a solo career, which was put on hold when he rejoined KISS in 1996 for a highly successful reunion tour. His second tenure with KISS lasted until 2002, when he left at the conclusion of what was purported to be the band's Farewell Tour. His latest album, Anomaly, was released on September 15, 2009. Prestigious Guitar World magazine ranks Ace as one of the top 20 Greatest Metal Guitarists of All Time. Ace has also contributed to TV and film projects like Metalocalypse, Remedy, Detroit Rock City, Millennium, and KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park. Ace will be meeting fans and signing autographs all weekend long!
In addition to Ace Frehley, fans can come meet movie stars RUTGER HAUER, BRAD DOURIF (One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Exorcist 3, Child’s Play, Lord of the Rings, Deadwood), DEE WALLACE (E.T., The Howling, Cujo, Critters, The Frighteners), ROWDY RODDY PIPER (Wrestling Legend, They Live), JOE TURKEL (The Shining, Blade Runner), MARKY RAMONE (The Ramones, Rock & Roll High School), RICHARD MOLL (“Bull” from Night Court, House) and many, MANY more well known fiendish faces. Mad Monster Party will also bring you some rare and 1^st-time celebrity guests that fans have been demanding for years.

Click here for more information

Cort Announces Gene Simmons Axe II Guitar

The God of Thunder Swings His Mighty Axe

Cort Guitars announced today the brand new GENE SIMMONS AXE Guitar. The GS GUITAR AXE-2 is the latest addition to the series of signature instruments from GENE SIMMONS and Cort Guitars. The guitar will officially be unveiled at the 2012 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) trade show next week in Anaheim, California. Fans and players alike have been buying up the previous two bass models and guitar players have been asking for something of their own.

Besides the eye catching axe shape, the new GS GUITAR AXE-2 features include:

Basswood body
Bolt-on, 25 1/2” maple neck
24 fret, rosewood fretboard
Two Mighty Mite Humbucker pickups
Chrome hardware
Custom paint and artwork
One volume, one tone, toggle switch
TOM bridge with strings through body
GENE SIMMONS custom gig bag

For more information, click here -Gene Simmons Series

Cort Gene Simmons AXE II from Guruz Media on Vimeo.


Cort Gene Simmons AXE Construction from Guruz Media on Vimeo.

Peter Criss to recieve Drum Legend Induction in Los Angeles

by KissAsylum.com
Kiss Asylum
This weekend Peter Criss will be honored at the Drum Legend Induction along with Terry Bozzio (Frank Zappa, Missing Persons). The Drum Legend induction recognizes icons in the drum world that have paved the way for today’s drummers. The award is given to those whom have made significant contributions to the craft and have hugely influenced players by their style and illustrious musical career. Past inductees include John Bonham, Billy Cobham, Nicko McBrain, Steve Smith, Dave Garibaldi, Alan White, Greg Errico, and more.

In addition to the induction, Peter Criss will be on the panel of judges for the 23rd annual Guitar Center Drum-Off – the nationwide search for the next great undiscovered drummer with a $50,000 grand prize going to the winner.

This event is open to the public at Club Nokia in Los Angeles California this Saturday January 14, 2012. Tickets are $20. KISS fans – come down to see the show and maybe be lucky enough to get the chance to rub elbows with the Catman!

Click here for tickets

Tommy Thayer Talks to Kiss Army Argentina

 

KISS Army Argentina Exclusive Interview with Tommy Thayer

Kiss Army Argentina: First of all, Tommy, thanks a lot for your time; it is an honor and a pleasure for us.

Tommy Thayer: It's my pleasure and honor.

Kiss Army Argentina: We, the fans, are anxious about the release of the new album. What can you tell us about it?

Tommy Thayer: We've been recording the new album on and off now for several months. It's going to bean incredible album. It's very, very good.

Kiss Army Argentina: The time and in a way, the approach, taken to record the album is different than in “Sonic Boom”; there has been a recent short summer tour and now you have resumed the recording sessions for this new album. Does touring somehow help to shape the new album, in terms of, probably, getting and thinking over new ideas?

Tommy Thayer: Not really; although being on the road together gives us the opportunity to easily get together on off days to work on ideas.

Kiss Army Argentina: Have you been involved in songwriting for the new album as much as you had been involved for “Sonic Boom”?

Tommy Thayer: Probably more on this one.

Kiss Army Argentina: Please tell us about the equipment that you used for recording the new album.

Tommy Thayer: Again, I borrowed Paul's Gibson SG guitar that really sounds great. I've been using one of my Hughes & Kettner signature amps along with a variety of other amps to get a nice scorching sound!

Kiss Army Argentina: How would you describe the material recorded for the new album?

Tommy Thayer: The new songs are GREAT, probably even better as a whole than SB. And SB was fantastic.

Kiss Army Argentina: We know that on the album you will be, once again, doing lead vocals in a song, like you did in “Sonic Boom”; in this sense, many of us wonder why you have not sung“When Lightning Strikes” yet; what can you tell us about that? And what can you tell us about this new song that you will be singing?

Tommy Thayer: It tough choosing song lists for a live set. When you have a brand new album out and people don't know the songs as well yet, it's hard to put more than two or three new songs in the set; more than that and it kills the momentum of the show.

Kiss Army Argentina: Is there an estimated release date for the album?

Tommy Thayer: Sometime in 2012.

Kiss Army Argentina: Some weeks ago Gene said that there will be new outfits and a new concept for the stage; is this true?

Tommy Thayer: We've been talking about the show and stage a lot. There are some great ideas in the planning stages right now.

Kiss Army Argentina: Between the current projects there is the release of a DVD, “KISSology IV”,in which you have been actively involved; is there a release date already?

Tommy Thayer: No specific release dates yet. I know it's hard to wait!

Kiss Army Argentina: You have been working with KISS for many years in different audio visual projects, from which we infer that you have access to a lot of unreleased material from different eras. Among that material, we suppose that there are those famous Pro Shot files that Gene had from the “Asylum” Tour; is this assumption correct? Because there is very little official material from that era, and we the fans only have some bootlegs, and it would be great to have more official stuff!

Tommy Thayer: I will take note!

Kiss Army Argentina: Talking about set lists, KISS has a huge amount of songs to choose.Knowing that there will soon be a new tour, are there any plans to renew the setlist? Because it would be great to listen again to some songs, such as “Ladies Room”, “Take Me”, or “Mr. Speed”,to mention just a few of them, instead of some of the songs that have been consistently performed in the latest tours…

Tommy Thayer: Tell me what you'd like to hear..

Kiss Army Argentina: Which KISS song that has never been performed live would you like to play,if Gene and Paul gave you the opportunity to choose?

Tommy Thayer: Maybe "All Hell's Breakin' Loose." I've always loved that song.

Kiss Army Argentina: Is there an estimated date for the next tour already? And a question that we have to ask: will you visit South America, and Argentina in particular?

Tommy Thayer: Again, everyone will need to wait a little bit longer before we announce release dates, tour dates etc. After three years will we definitely be ready to tour South America again; some of the rowdiest fans in the world!

Kiss S Army Argentina: We know that apart from music, you have other interests; for instance, you are a very good golf player. Can you tell us how and when you became involved with this sport?

Tommy Thayer: It's a nice diversion from the rock & roll lifestyle.

Kiss Army Argentina: Finally, could you please leave a message for KISS Army Argentina?

Tommy Thayer: To KISS Army Argentina: WE LOVE YOU!!!

Interview: MARCELO GARCIA and DIEGO FERREYRA (KISS ARMY ARGENTINA)

From Adele to Kiss' Paul Stanley: Why Are So Many Award-Winning Singers Undergoing Vocal Cord Surgery?

Paul Stanley, left, of KISS performs on stage during their Sonic Boom Over Europe tour at Wembley Arena in this May 12, 2010 file photo in London, England. Adele poses in front of the winners board at the Barclaycard Mercury Prize 2011 at Grosvenor House in this Sept. 6, 2011 file photo in London. (Neil Lupin/Redferns/Getty Images; Dave Hogan/Getty Images)

ABCNews.com
For some of today's most powerful young singers, vocal cord issues have them "rolling in the deep."
The health of singing sensation Adele's raspy voice, which propelled her into superstardom and has made her a favorite to sweep the Grammys next month, was threatened last year. Weeks after her Sept. 22 concert at Albert Hall in London, the singer/songwriter had surgery to repair her vocal cords and save her career. She hasn't sung publically since her surgery.

But the 23-year-old isn't the only young singer to go under the knife to help save her voice. John Mayer, 34, was operated on last year, as was 44-year-old country star Keith Urban.

Singers are suffering from polyps, nodules and even hemorrhaging in their throats, the kind of severe damage that can shut down any booming voice, according to Dr. Shawn Nasseri, an otolaryngologist in Beverly Hills who treats many of the biggest money-making singers in the music business today.
It takes the coordination of the lungs, diaphragm, neck, voice box, throat and mouth to produce a voice, but it's when the vocal cords are brought together and vibrate that a pitch and tone are produced. Nasseri said for a singer suffering from a hemorrhaging polyp on their vocal cords, similar to what Adele had, the polyp can keep the two vocal cords from meeting and give the person "absolutely no voice."

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KISS Trademarks KISS MONSTER Logo

Check out the KISS MONSTER Logo the band submitted for trademark with the US Traemark Office.

Click Here to see the MONSTER

KISS "Destroyer:Deluxe 35th Anniversary Edition" Scheduled for Europe/USA Release Dates

According to Universal's Danish Release Dates, KISS'  DESTROYER 35th Anniversary Deluxe Edition is scheduled for release in Europe on February 27, 2012 and in the USA on February 28, 2012.

Is This the Artwork for "MONSTER?"

This has just surfaced online. Is this the artwork for KISS' new album MONSTER?

We did notice on the back cover there is no Associate Producer credit to Greg Collins as well as no song title list.
Notice: This cover has not been confirmed by KISS.

Tommy Thayer at Palm Desert's Celebrity Golf Invitational

TommyThayer.com

KISS lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and former US Vice President Dan Quayle exchanged hellos at the opening night of the ChildHelp Celebrity Golf Invitational, hosted by Cheryl Ladd and John O'Hurley. The three-day event (Jan. 8th to 10th) in Palm Desert, CA is a fundraiser to help abused and neglected children.
Photo by Ned Redway

Paul Stanley on ABC's Nightline moved to Tonight, January 10

Paul Stanley, who will discuss his recent vocal surgery among other topics, will appear on ABC's Nightline tonight PM EST. Paul's segment was originally to air last night has been moved to tonight.

Does Gene Simmons have any Sex Advice for Tim Tebow?

TMZ.com

Since Gene has slpet with 4,000 women, does he have any sex advice for Tim Tebow who has is a virgin?

KISS guitar auction aids Davies family

KISS Continue Doing Good, Sign Guitar for Auction for Family of fallen Firefighter

By Steven H. Foskett Jr. TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
Despite a shipping mix-up, a local KISS tribute band is continuing its effort to raise money for the children of Worcester Firefighter Jon D. Davies, who died Dec. 8 in a fire on Arlington Street.

Hundreds of items of memorabilia related to KISS, the longtime arena rockers, litter the pages of eBay. There are posters, plaques, and even a listing for a 34-year-old combination guitar pick/bloody towel thrown by lead singer Gene Simmons (“USED BLOODY TOWEL from DECEMBER 16TH at MADISON SQUARE GARDEN KISS ALIVE II TOUR,” the description reads). And among these is a brand-new Washburn guitar, signed by all four members of KISS: Mr. Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. Bidding had reached $5,400 as of tonight.

Keith Leroux, webmaster for the band's official website, KISSOnline.com, is an area native who attended Holy Name High School in Worcester, one year ahead of Firefighter Davies. He said he didn't know Firefighter Davies, but when he found out members of local tribute band KISS Forever were looking to have a fundraiser for the Jon Davies Children's Fund, he got in touch with KISS, whose members agreed to sign the guitar to be auctioned off for the fund.

The guitar was sent with expedited shipping to the band so it would arrive before the Dec. 16 fundraiser at J.J.'s Sports Bar & Grille in Northboro. But something went wrong, and the guitar got lost in transit.

Coninue reading here

Gene Simmons: "Every Single Track Rocks" on 'MONSTER'

"KISS Studio Album is done. Great job by Paul producing. Tommy (Thayer) and Eric (Singer) = really kicked it up a notch. Without overstating the obvious, when you hear the album, every single track rocks. No ballads. No outside writers. No keyboards. No children's choirs. No nothin'. Just meat and potatoes."