Remembering Ace Frehley: The Legendary Guitarist of Kiss

Ace Frehley, the iconic lead guitarist of the legendary rock band Kiss, passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74.

His family announced that he died in a hospital following a recent fall at his home in Morristown, New Jersey.

Frehley’s death marks the end of an era for rock music, as he was not only a founding member of Kiss but also a key figure in shaping the band’s distinctive sound and theatrical performances.

Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, he was the youngest of three children.

From a young age, Frehley displayed a passion for music, inspired by the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

At the age of 13, he began playing guitar, receiving his first electric guitar as a Christmas gift from his parents.

Despite their hopes that it would keep him out of trouble, Frehley’s love for music only grew stronger.

The Rise of Kiss

In 1972, Frehley answered an advertisement in The Village Voice seeking a lead guitarist with “flash and ability.”

He auditioned for the band that would soon become known as Kiss, and after impressing the other members, he joined the group.

It was during this time that he adopted the stage name “Ace,” a nickname given to him by a drummer in one of his early bands.

Kiss was formed alongside fellow founding members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss, and together they would create a musical legacy that would endure for decades.

Frehley’s unique stage persona, characterized by his silver-and-black face makeup and flamboyant outfits, helped define the band’s image.

He became known as “the Spaceman” or “Space Ace,” a fitting title given his out-of-this-world persona and the silver stars that adorned his face.

Musical Contributions

During his time with Kiss, Frehley was responsible for some of the band’s most memorable guitar riffs and solos.

He contributed to many of the band’s biggest hits, including “Love Gun,” “Christine Sixteen,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”

Frehley’s guitar work was integral to the band’s sound, blending hard rock with theatrical elements that captivated audiences around the world.

Kiss released 11 albums during Frehley’s initial tenure with the band, all of which achieved gold or platinum status in the United States.

The band’s popularity soared, leading to the sale of over 100 million records worldwide.

Despite facing skepticism from critics who initially dismissed Kiss as a gimmicky band, the group’s energetic performances and theatrical stage shows garnered a dedicated following.

Fans, known as the “Kiss Army,” embraced the band’s larger-than-life persona and became a significant part of Kiss’s success.

The Legacy of Kiss

Kiss’s influence on rock music cannot be understated.

The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, a testament to their enduring impact on the music industry.

During the induction ceremony, guitarist Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine praised Frehley’s contributions, stating that he “blazed unforgettable, timeless licks across their greatest records.”

Frehley’s signature sound and style have inspired countless musicians across various genres, from heavy metal to pop.

His ability to combine technical proficiency with showmanship set him apart as one of the most talented guitarists of his generation.

In addition to his work with Kiss, Frehley also enjoyed a successful solo career.

His single “New York Groove” became a Top 20 hit and remains a beloved anthem, often played at New York Mets games.

The song was part of a unique marketing strategy in 1978 when all four members of Kiss released solo albums simultaneously, showcasing their individual talents while still being part of the iconic band.

Personal Struggles

Despite his success, Frehley faced numerous personal challenges throughout his life.

He struggled with substance abuse, which often affected his relationships with fellow band members.

In his memoir, “No Regrets,” he candidly discussed his battles with drugs and alcohol, revealing how these struggles contributed to his alienation from the band.

Frehley expressed frustration with the increasing commercialism of Kiss, noting the extensive range of merchandise that the band produced during its peak popularity.

He acknowledged that while he enjoyed the financial success, he felt that the band’s focus had shifted away from music and artistry.

Reunion and Later Years

Frehley left Kiss in 1982 but later rejoined the band in 1996 for a highly successful reunion tour.

His return marked a significant moment for fans, as the original lineup of Kiss took the stage once more, thrilling audiences with their classic hits and theatrical performances.

Frehley’s last show with the band was during the closing ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, a fitting farewell for a guitarist who had become synonymous with the band’s identity.

In the years following his departure from Kiss, Frehley continued to release solo albums and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase.

He remained active in the music scene, collaborating with various artists and participating in interviews, sharing stories from his illustrious career.

A Lasting Impact

Ace Frehley’s influence extends far beyond his time with Kiss.

He is remembered not only for his exceptional guitar skills but also for his charismatic stage presence and dedication to the craft of rock music.

Frehley’s ability to connect with audiences through his performances solidified his status as a rock legend.

As fans and fellow musicians mourn his passing, they celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.

Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeanette Trerotola; their daughter, Monique; his brother, Charles; and his sister, Nancy Salvner.

His contributions to music will continue to resonate for generations to come, as new artists draw inspiration from his groundbreaking work.

Conclusion

The death of Ace Frehley marks a significant loss for the world of rock music.

As a founding member of Kiss, he played a crucial role in shaping the band’s identity and sound, captivating audiences with his electrifying guitar work and theatrical performances.

Frehley’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the countless musicians he inspired.

His story serves as a reminder of the power of rock and roll and its ability to transcend generations, uniting fans through the shared experience of music.

As we remember Ace Frehley, we celebrate not only his achievements but also the joy and excitement he brought to the world of rock music.

His spirit will forever be a part of the Kiss legacy, and his impact on the genre will be felt for years to come.

Rest in peace, Ace Frehley. Your music will continue to inspire and entertain us all.