Remembering a Rock Icon: Ace Frehley
As I sat down to watch KISS's first performance since the tragic passing of their legendary guitarist, Ace Frehley, I felt a wave of nostalgia and grief wash over me. The band's KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas wasn't just another concert; it was a celebration of a profound legacy that shaped not only rock music but the very fabric of KISS as a band.
Paul Stanley's Moving Speech
Before the show, Paul Stanley paid homage to Frehley with heartfelt words that reverberated throughout the venue. "Obviously, before we get going — and we're going to have an awesome time — we just wanted to take a moment to think about somebody who was at the foundation of this band. And we're talking about Ace,” he remarked, bringing a poignant sense of reverence to the evening. Indeed, Frehley's influence is palpable in the music that KISS fans have loved for decades.
“We certainly had differences, but that's what family is about...let's have a moment for Ace.”
The Outpouring of Love from Fans
As the crowd gathered at Virgin Hotels, a palpable electric energy filled the air, amplified by an emotional chant of “Ace! Ace! Ace!” that broke out when Stanley paused for a moment of silence. It was a reminder that Frehley's spirit lives on in every riff and melody, resonating deeply with those who grew up listening to KISS. Fans held plastic candles aloft, lighting the darkness with their collective affection, illuminating not just the arena but also the many memories Frehley helped create through his music.
The Legacy of Ace Frehley
Frehley's death on October 16 at the age of 74, due to a tragic fall, left a void not just in KISS but in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. Gene Simmons reflected on this sorrowful loss, stating, “Our hearts are broken. No one can touch Ace's legacy.” Frehley was not just a guitarist; he was a creative force whose work has influenced countless musicians and captivated audiences with his flamboyant stage presence and innovative guitar play.
A Moment of Reflection
The tribute highlighted the family's bond that the band encapsulated, breaking down barriers while acknowledging their differences. Stanley's quotation regarding Frehley looking down on them from “the planet Jendell” added a playful, yet touching, layer to the evening, reminding everyone present of the humanity behind the larger-than-life personas.
What Lies Ahead for KISS
After the emotional tribute, KISS launched into their hit “Comin' Home,” the symbolic choice serving as a reminder that while they may have bid farewell to traditional touring, a different journey awaits. As Stanley quipped, “Here we are. No ship,” teasing their plans for next year's cruise and hinting at more exciting developments ahead for the band.
Conclusion: Celebrating a Rock Legend's Legacy
The KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas wasn't just about celebrating the remaining members of KISS; it was about honoring a beloved rock legend whose legacy will forever echo through the annals of music history. As fans left the venue, their hearts were full - not just with memories of Ace Frehley, but with hope for the future of KISS and rock music as a whole.
Find Out More
If you'd like to experience this unforgettable moment, catch more details in the original Rolling Stone article here.
Source reference: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/kiss-tribute-ace-frehley-first-show-guitarist-death-1235465769/
