Ace Frehley phot by Jayme Thornton
Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, co-founder and original lead guitarist of the legendary rock band Kiss, has died at the age of seventy-four following injuries sustained in a fall last month. His family announced the news in a statement expressing their heartbreak and gratitude that they were able to be by his side during his final moments.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” the statement read. “In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever.”
Frehley’s death marks the loss of one of rock and roll’s most innovative and instantly recognizable guitarists. As the original “Spaceman,” Frehley helped define the look, sound, and attitude of Kiss, one of the most successful and theatrical bands in history. His blend of sharp riffing, melodic phrasing, and flamboyant stage presence inspired generations of guitarists and solidified his place among the true icons of the genre.
Born in the Bronx, New York, on April 27, 1951, Frehley was drawn to music from an early age and began teaching himself guitar at thirteen. Before joining Kiss, he played in local bands including The Outrage, The Four Roses, and Honey. In late 1972, he answered an ad in the Village Voice placed by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss, who were searching for a lead guitarist. By early 1973, the lineup that would soon become Kiss was complete. Frehley not only brought his guitar talents but also designed the band’s iconic lightning-bolt logo and created his trademark silver makeup as “The Spaceman,” establishing one of the most distinctive stage identities in rock.
Kiss released their self-titled debut album in 1974, followed by a string of classics including Hotter Than Hell, Dressed to Kill, and Destroyer. Frehley quickly earned acclaim for his inventive solos and memorable songwriting contributions. He co-wrote Kiss staples such as “Cold Gin” and “Parasite” and delivered his first lead vocal on “Shock Me” from Love Gun in 1977, a song inspired by an onstage electrical accident that nearly killed him. His fiery solos, often performed with a smoking Les Paul, became legendary moments in Kiss’s explosive live shows.
In 1978, Kiss released four simultaneous solo albums, one by each member. Frehley’s record proved the most successful, driven by his hit single “New York Groove,” which climbed into the Top Twenty on the Billboard Hot 100. The album’s success confirmed what fans already knew — Ace Frehley’s voice and vision could shine on their own.
After leaving Kiss in 1982, Frehley formed the band Frehley’s Comet, releasing their self-titled debut in 1987. The album reached the Billboard charts and featured the popular single “Into the Night.” Over the next decade, he continued releasing solo work and touring, staying active in the evolving hard rock and metal scenes.
In 1996, Frehley reunited with the original Kiss lineup for a massive world tour that reignited the band’s global following. The reunion produced the 1998 studio album Psycho Circus, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance. Although he left the group again in 2002, his influence never waned, and he remained beloved by fans for his authenticity and humor, traits that balanced his larger-than-life persona.
Frehley’s later career showcased his resilience and creativity. He released a series of acclaimed solo albums including Anomaly in 2009, Space Invader in 2014, and Spaceman in 2018. His 2024 album 10,000 Volts debuted on several Billboard charts and reaffirmed his enduring talent and relevance. In 2014, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Kiss, an honor that recognized his role in shaping one of rock’s greatest success stories.
Beyond the stage lights, Frehley was known for his humor, generosity, and genuine love of music. His fans remained fiercely loyal, following him through decades of lineup changes, reunions, and reinventions. He inspired countless guitarists to pick up their first instrument, often citing his playing as the spark that set them on their musical path.
This is really sad news. Andrew has interviewed Ace many times. He has had nothing but amazing things to say about Ace. They were good friends. This is tough.
