Former Bandmates of a Late ’70s Rock Legend Plan Tribute Tour for 2026
Late ’70s Rock Legend’s Former Bandmates Set Tribute Tour for 2026
Ace Frehley, the iconic ’70s rock legend, will be honored by a group of his former bandmates in a special tribute tour set for 2026. The original KISS guitarist handpicked a group of talented musicians for his 2018 Australian tour, consisting of Philip Shouse on bass, Ryan Spencer Cook on guitar and vocals, Jeremy Asbrock on guitar and vocals, and Christopher Williams on drums. This dynamic quartet has now announced a series of concerts across Australia, starting in September 2026.
During this tour, Frehley’s former bandmates will pay homage to his legacy by performing his acclaimed 1978 self-titled solo album in its entirety. They will also showcase various KISS classics, tracks from Frehley’s Comet, and delve into some deeper cuts from Frehley’s extensive catalog for dedicated fans to enjoy. The tour will kick off on September 11 in Perth, followed by shows in Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, offering a comprehensive musical journey through Frehley’s prolific career.
Joining the band on this tribute tour will be KISS Klassic, a collective from Adelaide deeply connected to the world of KISS, and KISSIT, a tribute act from Brisbane focusing on material from the band’s 1982–1992 era. Before embarking on their international journey, the group will first deliver a special Frehley tribute performance on April 17 at Eastside Bowl in Madison, Tennessee, setting the stage for a memorable tour ahead.
The bond between Frehley’s former bandmates was solidified during their collaboration with Gene Simmons as part of the GENE SIMMONS BAND in 2018. Following Simmons’ return to KISS for their “End Of The Road” tour, several members seamlessly transitioned into Frehley’s solo lineup, maintaining a legacy of musical excellence and camaraderie.
The rock music community suffered a profound loss with Frehley’s passing in October 2025 at the age of 74. The Morris County Medical Examiner confirmed that Frehley succumbed to blunt-force head injuries sustained from a fall, revealing a CT scan that showed fractures, contusions, hemorrhages, and subdural hematoma. His family shared their devastation on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to surround Frehley with love and peace in his final moments.
A private memorial was held for the founding KISS guitarist at Sinatra Memorial Home in Yonkers before he was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx on October 22. Frehley’s music and spirit continue to resonate with fans worldwide, and this upcoming tribute tour serves as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and influence on the rock music landscape.