Known as The SpacemanFrehley was noted for his unique guitar style and stage presence marked by the makeup and theatrical costumes that characterized the band.
Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehleyguitarist and founding member of the rock band Kiss, died at 74 years old after suffering a stroke stemming from a fall in his studio at the end of September. His health condition had raised concerns in recent days, and he was connected to an assisted breathing device.
Frehley’s family released an official statement expressing their grief: “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his final moments, we were fortunate to surround him with loving words, thoughts and prayers. We celebrate the strength and kindness he provided to others. His memory will live on forever.”
Following the accident, the musician’s production team canceled all remaining dates of his 2025 tour, citing “ongoing medical issues.” The October and November presentations had previously been suspended due to medical indication.
His career in Kiss
Frehley was one of the founding members of Kiss in 1973, along with Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss. Known as The SpacemanFrehley was noted for his unique guitar style and stage presence marked by the makeup and theatrical costumes that characterized the band.
During his initial stage with Kiss, which lasted until 1982, he participated in iconic albums such as Kiss, Hotter Than Hell and Dressed to Killand was responsible for memorable songs like “Cold Gin.” After leaving the band, he formed Frehley’s Comet and developed a solo career, before rejoining the group for the 1996 reunion tour, which extended until 2002.
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Kiss achieved worldwide fame thanks to its spectacular performances, with pyrotechnics, scenery and a visual style that captivated teenagers around the world. The band consolidated itself with albums like destroyerwhich included classics like “Detroit Rock City” and “Shout It Out Loud,” and later with Rock and Roll Over, Love Gun and Alive IIwhere Frehley had notable opportunities as lead vocalist on songs like “Shock Me” and “Rocket Ride.”
The guitarist was also recognized for his 1978 solo album, which many fans considered the strongest of the series of four albums released simultaneously by the members of Kiss, highlighting the success of “New York Groove.”
Throughout his career, Frehley influenced generations of guitarists and left a musical legacy that transcended the boundaries of theatrical rock. His innovative style and eccentric character made him a benchmark of the genre.
Despite his personal problems, including bouts of alcohol and drug abuse, Frehley maintained his passion for music until his later years, cementing his reputation as one of rock’s most iconic guitarists. His death marks the end of an era for Kiss and leaves a void in rock history, remembered as much for his talent as for his contribution to the mystique and spectacle that defined the band.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
