Explore images from Michigan’s ‘Planet KISS’ event in 1975
In 1975, the rock band KISS brought their larger-than-life presence to the small town of Cadillac, Michigan, creating a lasting memory for the residents. This unexpected visit became a legendary event in the town’s history and left an indelible mark on the community.
The story began with Assistant Coach Jim Neff and head coach David Brines of the Cadillac Vikings football team. After a disappointing 1974 season opener, Neff decided to introduce the team to the music of KISS to boost morale. The band’s music had a transformative effect on the team, leading them to a seven-game winning streak and a conference co-championship. Inspired by the music’s impact, Neff reached out to KISS’s manager, Bill Aucoin, establishing a unique friendship between the band and the football team.
As the band gained popularity with the release of their live album “Alive!” in September 1975, excitement grew in Cadillac. Neff saw an opportunity to invite KISS for the town’s homecoming celebration, coinciding with a nearby concert the band was scheduled to perform. With the band’s approval, plans were set in motion to bring KISS to Cadillac High School for a memorable event that would go down in history.
On October 9, 1975, KISS surprised the students of Cadillac High School by arriving in a limo, decked out in their signature makeup and costumes. The larger-than-life band members made a grand entrance that left students in awe of their presence. The school was transformed into a KISS-themed spectacle, with students sporting makeup and designs inspired by the band.
The band’s visit included a parade, a concert in the school gymnasium, and even a ceremony where they received a key to the city. Students were thrilled to interact with their rock idols and capture memories that would last a lifetime. For many, the experience was truly surreal, as they interacted with the legendary band in the confines of their small town.
For Mary Stubbs, a former student who was selected as the “most KISSable girl” to take photos with the band, the experience was both exhilarating and unexpected. As someone who described herself as a “goody goody” in high school, being a part of such a unique and unforgettable event was a highlight that she would always cherish.
In the end, KISS’s visit to Cadillac was more than just a concert; it was a transformative moment that united the community and created lasting memories for all involved. The band’s iconic presence left an indelible mark on the town of Cadillac, turning it into a legendary chapter in the band’s history and the town’s lore.