Remembering Ace Frehley: The Legendary Guitarist of Kiss
The music world mourns the loss of Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist who played a pivotal role in catapulting Kiss to stardom during the 1970s and ’80s. Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey, at the age of 74. His family confirmed that he had recently suffered a fall at home, and just weeks prior, Frehley had announced the cancellation of his remaining 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical issues.
Frehley was not just a guitarist; he was a trailblazer who inspired a generation of musicians, from Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine to Slash of Guns N’ Roses. His unique blend of blues-infused rock and theatrical flair became a hallmark of Kiss’s sound, characterized by explosive solos and a captivating stage presence. Known for launching smoke bombs and lasers from his beloved Gibson Les Paul, Frehley’s performances were nothing short of spectacular.
In 2014, fellow guitarist Tom Morello praised Frehley’s talent during the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, highlighting his unforgettable riffs and contributions to Kiss’s legendary catalog. Frehley himself acknowledged the ease with which he approached guitar playing, stating in his memoir, “No Regrets,” that it felt more like fun than work.
Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, he was introduced to music early on, thanks to his musically inclined parents. A self-taught guitarist, Frehley began his musical journey at the age of 13. His passion for the instrument led him to play in various bands throughout New York City in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was during this time that he answered an ad in the Village Voice, leading to his audition and subsequent joining of Kiss in January 1973.
Frehley played a crucial role in shaping Kiss’s identity, even designing the band’s iconic logo. The group’s theatrical makeup and larger-than-life personas captivated audiences, and Frehley, affectionately nicknamed “Ace,” became known as the “Spaceman.” As the band rose to fame, they produced hit songs such as “Love Gun” and “Detroit Rock City,” garnering a dedicated fanbase that included the “Kiss Army,” which boasted around 100,000 members at its peak.
Throughout the late 1970s, Kiss achieved monumental success, with albums like “Destroyer” and “Rock and Roll Over” yielding numerous chart-topping hits. While Frehley did not play on the band’s biggest single, “Beth,” his contributions to the band were undeniable, with songs like “Cold Gin” and “Shock Me” showcasing his exceptional guitar skills and budding vocal talent.
However, Frehley’s journey with Kiss was not without challenges. Disillusioned by the band’s direction and battling substance abuse, he left the group in 1982, a decision that was met with mixed emotions from fans and bandmates alike. He later formed Frehley’s Comet and released several solo albums, but the ice between him and his former bandmates began to thaw in the 1990s, leading to a reunion tour in 1996.
Frehley’s struggles with addiction were well-documented, but he found the strength to get sober in 2006, thanks in part to the support of his daughter. Despite the ups and downs, Frehley maintained a sense of humor about his rock star life, reflecting on his experiences with a mix of nostalgia and disbelief.
In recent years, Frehley continued to connect with fans and celebrate his legacy. He was scheduled to be honored alongside his former bandmates at the Kennedy Center Honors in December 2025. His last reunion with Kiss occurred in 2018 during a “Kiss Kruise,” although personal conflicts lingered.
Ace Frehley’s impact on rock music and pop culture is immeasurable. His innovative guitar work, flamboyant style, and larger-than-life persona helped define an era of rock and roll. As fans around the world remember his contributions, they celebrate not just the music but the joy and excitement he brought to countless lives. Frehley’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike.