Ace Frehley

Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley was born on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York City. He received his first guitar as a Christmas present at 13, immersing himself in the instrument without formal lessons. His early musical influences included Jimi Hendrix, Albert Lee, Buddy Guy, and Led Zeppelin. After a challenging childhood that included dropping out of high school and associating with a local street gang, music became a central focus in his life. He played in various local bands, eventually signing with RCA Records with his band Molimo.

In late 1972, Frehley answered an advertisement for a lead guitarist and, despite an unconventional appearance at the audition, impressed Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss with his playing. He joined the band that would become KISS in January 1973. Frehley designed the band’s iconic double-lightning-bolt logo and developed his “Spaceman” persona, drawing inspiration from science fiction. The band quickly rose to prominence with their theatrical performances, distinctive makeup, and powerful rock sound. Frehley’s innovative guitar work, including a custom Gibson Les Paul that emitted smoke and pyrotechnics, became a hallmark of KISS’s live shows. He contributed significantly to the band’s songwriting, with his first vocal credit on the 1977 track “Shock Me.” In 1978, he released a successful eponymous solo album, which notably included the hit single “New York Groove.”

Frehley’s initial tenure with KISS lasted until 1982 when creative differences and personal struggles led to his departure. He then formed Frehley’s Comet, releasing several albums and achieving commercial success with his 1987 self-titled album and the single “Into the Night.” He rejoined KISS for a highly anticipated reunion tour in 1996, performing with the original lineup until 2002. Frehley continued his solo career, releasing multiple albums including “10,000 Volts” in 2024. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 as a member of KISS. Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74, following complications from a fall.