KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley, Co-Founder, Passes Away

Ace Frehley, renowned guitarist and co-founder of the iconic band KISS, known for his Spaceman persona, has passed away at the age of 74. The musician tragically fell at home in Morristown, New Jersey, leading to his untimely death.

In a heartfelt statement issued by Frehley’s family, they expressed their devastation and heartbreak over the loss. They were grateful to have surrounded him with love, prayers, and peaceful intentions in his final moments. Remembering him for his laughter, kindness, and remarkable achievements, the family acknowledged the significant impact of his passing, paying tribute to his enduring memory and legacy.

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in The Bronx, New York, Ace Frehley discovered his passion for music at the age of 13 when he picked up a guitar. Influenced by legendary artists such as Led Zeppelin, Cream, The Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix, whom he once worked for as a roadie, Frehley embarked on a musical journey that would span over five decades. Joining forces with fellow musicians Peter Criss, Paul Stanley, and Gene Simmons, he co-founded KISS, where he showcased his talents as the lead guitarist, adopting personas like “Space Ace” and later “The Spaceman.”

Throughout his illustrious career, Frehley released a series of solo albums, including the platinum-selling debut “Ace Frehley” in 1972, followed by “Frehley’s Comet” in 1987 and “Anomaly” in 2009. His album “Space Invader” from 2014 reached the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart. He collaborated with renowned artists such as Mike McCready, Slash, Lita Ford, and John 5, releasing successful albums like “Origins Vol. 1” in 2016 and “Spaceman” in 2018.

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with KISS in 2014, Frehley received critical acclaim and honors throughout his career, including a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance and a Gibson USA Legends award. His most recent album, “10,000 Volts,” was released in early 2024, and he was touring in support of the record at the time of his passing.

Survived by his wife, daughter, siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family, Frehley leaves behind a rich musical legacy that has touched the hearts of millions. His former bandmates, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, emphasizing his significant contributions to KISS and the enduring impact he has had on their legacy.

Peter Criss, another founding member of KISS, also shared a heartfelt message expressing his love and deepest condolences to Frehley’s family, fans, and friends, urging respect for their privacy during this difficult time. As the music industry mourns the loss of a rock legend, Ace Frehley’s influence and legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of his devoted fans and fellow musicians.