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News Archive June 2009

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God Of Thunder At Indy Race
From: Slam Sports

The original God of Thunder will be on hand at the upcoming Honda Indy Toronto.

Gene Simmons, bassist/vocalist for classic rock stalwarts KISS, has been named grand marshal for the July 12 race, organizers announced Monday.

Simmons, who co-founded KISS more than 35 years ago, was involved in the global marketing of the IndyCar Series for several years through his partnership in Simmons Abramson Marketing.

"Gene Simmons is one of the most recognizable figures and groundbreaking businessmen in the world and we are pleased to have him be a big part of the 2009 Honda Indy Toronto," Kevin Savoree, president of race promoter Andretti Green Toronto, said in a statement.

The Honda Indy Toronto takes place July 10-12 which coincides with the southern Ontario leg of an upcoming Kiss Canadian tour, including a two-night stand at Casino Rama Entertainment Centre on July 20-21.


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KISS Tattoos With A Story
From: Kevin Gray

Well, I've been a fan since I was 2. My sister gave me Lovegun and it was all over. I started playing drums at 4 as a result (I'm 35 now). My sister passed away when I was 6, and I still have that original Love Gun tape to this day. I know that doesn't tie in with the tattoo, but it's a cool story.

I have always thought their imagery would certainly work great for a tattoo, but I didn't want to do a "self portrait" type like many people. I worked with images from the KISS 4K comic and with my artist at Topnotch Tattoo in Elgin, IL and came up with this scheme. I met Paul at an art exhibit, and Gene at winter NAMM and they both were very impressed with the work. I got it done between May and August of 08, It probably took about 40 hours all together. If anyone wants to comment feel free to Email me @ GroovinHD@yahoo.com

[more]


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Paul Stanley Inspires Keith Urban
From: CMT

When I interviewed Keith Urban last month, we talked a lot about guitars. Well, he talked. I listened. He had a lot to say about his whole arsenal. But the thrill in his voice seemed to go up a notch when we got around to his latest creation.

It's a Fender, and senior master guitar builder and artist Yuriy Shishkov made this Telecaster just for Urban. Urban told me it was his love of KISS' Paul Stanley growing up and his Mirror Ball Iceman guitar that gave him the idea for his own decked-out guitar. "I was always mesmerized by his guitar. So we reached out to the guy who'd made one for Paul, so we could do a Telecaster with that same look. Like broken pieces of mirror all over it."

When I asked him how heavy it was, he said very. "I've had a '56 Les Paul and a Start that were real back breakers, so I should be fine," he said. And when I asked him how it would sound, he laughed and told me, "You'll be blinded into thinking it sounds good."

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One Live KISS Wins Telly Award
From: PaulStanley.com

The 30th Annual TELLY AWARDS have been announced and ONE LIVE KISS received the highest honor!

ONE LIVE KISS : Producers Paul Stanley & Louis Antonelli have received the Special CLASSIC GOLD TELLY AWARD, presented to Film & Video productions that are among the finest in the 30 year history of THE TELLY AWARDS.

Founded in 1978, The Telly is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. The 30th Annual TELLY AWARDS received over 14,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents.

Among past winners of The TELLY AWARDS are industry leaders such as: Harpo Studios - Oprah Winfrey, Dreamworks, Pixar, Disney, Lightstorm Entertainment, TCM, Clear Channel Entertainment, CNN, A&E, Comcast, VH1, Time Warner, MTV, and Universal Studios.


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Gene Simmons Talks 'Family Jewels'
From: Television.aol.com

While Gene Simmons may be best known as the long-tongued bassist from Kiss, he's slowly but surely proving he also has a knack for reality TV, as 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' sails into its fourth season Sundays at 9 p.m. on A&E.

The show gives fans and voyeurs a peek behind the makeup into the rock icon's family life with longtime girlfriend Shannon Tweed, son Nick, daughter Sophie and dog Snippy.

Gene talked to AOL TV about his disdain for marriage, why he could take anyone's girl and how Adam Lambert may have already killed his post-'American Idol' career.

Now that Nick's off at college, might he get his own reality show?

I don't think he's interested, actually. He was just offered a motion picture, but it doesn't really appeal to him. He's got his graphic novel, called 'Incarnate,' so he's more about drawing and writing, and he's got music too. If the right movie comes along he'll do that. Likewise for Sophie. But the only job Sophie and Nick have is to do well in school and be charming young adults. That's it. That's their job.

[more]


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Live KISS Clip From Summerfest Show
From: KISSonline.com

KISS perform "Nothin' to Lose" and "C'mon and Love Me" during their Alive 35 Summer Tour at Milwaukee's Summerfest on 6/27/09.

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KISS Still Shouts It Out Loud
From: The Journal Sentinel

When it comes to covering up your age, makeup goes a long way.

Celebrating more than 35 years of painting their faces and blowing stuff up, Kiss, the undisputed monsters of arena rock, proved Saturday night at the Marcus Amphitheater that they've got plenty more rock left in their lycra-and-leather tanks.

With a new album on the horizon, the rockers opted instead to dig deep into their catalog, tearing through a blistering set of tunes mostly plucked from their first three albums.

Descending to the stage amid a series of fiery blasts on a metal platform spewing smoke - and with an image of bassist-turned-reality-TV-star Gene Simmons' serpentine tongue flicker splashed across towering video screens behind them - the band ripped right into the thunderous hit "Deuce" off their eponymous 1974 debut.

[more]


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KISS To Rock New Orleans
From: KISSonline.com

KISS, one of the most influential and successful rock and roll bands of all-time, will anchor this year's VOODOO EXPERIENCE!

More than 150 artists are confirmed for this year's VOODOO EXPERIENCE, Friday, October 30, Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1. The 11th annual VOODOO EXPERIENCE--and the third to coincide exactly with Halloween--will once again celebrate music, as well as New Orleans' bohemian culture, arts and cuisine.

KISS will rock New Orleans with the one-of-a-kind stage show for which they're known. Along with the screaming guitars, lights and pyrotechnics that have made KISS "The Greatest Rock n Roll Show On Earth," the band will play songs from their vast repertoire of classic hits. Having sold 90 million records worldwide, KISS has become the soundtrack of a generation.

For a limited time, three-day weekend tickets are $169, ALL IN with no additional fees; LOA Lounge VIP pass are $475, ALL IN with no additional fees and are available via Ticketmaster.com (www.ticketmaster.com) and the www.thevoodooexperience.com.

More information about this year's VOODOO EXPERIENCE can also be found at www.thevoodooexperience.com


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Mayor Votes For KISS Concert
From: ThePeterboroughExaminer.com

Mayor Paul Ayotte is shouting out loud that he supports Peterborough's bid for the KISS concert.

"I think this concert will bring a lot of people to the city," Ayotte said outside city hall yesterday. "I'm sure there are KISS fans from all over the region who will travel to Peterborough for the concert."

Superfan Darryl Andrews, 38, who has been a loyal KISS fan since he was seven, printed off "bring KISS to Peterborough" cards to collect people's email addresses.

"If they don't want to vote online I'll do it for them," said Andrews, who was dressed in a full Paul Stanley costume, complete with a black star painted over his right eye.

"You don't have to be a KISS fan to bring them to Peterborough."

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KISS At Milwaukee Summerfest
From: KISSonline.com

KISS will rock the Milwaukee Summerfest on Saturday, June 27! The show will take place at the Marcus Amphitheater.

Pavilion seats are SOLD OUT...only uncovered bleacher and lawn seats remain.

Ticket for the general public are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

Only 3 Meet & Greet Packages remain for this show.

CLICK HERE to purchase Meet & Greet Packages.

For more info on the 2009 Summerfest visit http://www.summerfest.com/.


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Yo quiero, KISS!
From: GrandstrandReview.com

While some ask, why? I say, Why not?!

Pat Roig of New Orleans, Louisiana decided to have himself permanently adorned with two of his favorite things in life. KISS and...well, his Chihuahuas.

Pat said the decision was an easy one, adding "I Love my dogs and I love KISS! Most of these dogs were rescues and as a life-long KISS fan, I'd been thinking of this idea for the last few years. I had the work done at NOLA Tattoo. It took about 2 1/2 hours. Not too painful."


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KISS Mr. Potato Head Release Date Set For August 3
From: KISSmuseum.com

The highly-anticipated release of the new KISS Mr Potato Head figures has been set for August 3, 2009. Just like the original Mr Potato Head, the special KISS edition of this classic toy has interchangeable parts to create whichever character you like.

For more images, info and pre-order information, click here.


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Michael Doret: [KISS] asked me to design their next CD cover... at the moment I'm totally immersed in it.
From: LetterCult.com

In an interview on LetterCult.com, artist Michael Doret, who designed the cover of KISS' Rock And Roll Over mentions that he is currently working on the cover art for the new KISS album:

You said you drew your inspiration (for the KISS cover) from a job for a (Japanese) magazine cover, IDEA. Where did you get your inspiration for that cover?

The magazine was doing a feature on my work and they asked me to come up with a cover for that issue. I did the cover image to look like a shooting gallery. So the inspiration probably goes all the way back to Coney Island—but the direct inspiration was also vintage tin toys and tin litho target games. Anyway I did the IDEA cover first and the whole KISS / Rock and Roll Over thing came afterward. I loved the way the IDEA cover came out, the way I had them print it in Pantone colors— it almost felt like a silkscreen. I really wanted to go that route again. As the members of KISS were wearing Kabuki-style makeup, the Japanese-y approach I did on the IDEA cover seemed a perfect match. So I came up with that graphic and used a similar color scheme and look. We even did it in five flat colors—not in 4 color process.

(The KISS cover) was like a shooting gallery then?

Not at all. It turned out to be more like a mandala, more Asian-influenced. I was just going for the look I had come up with on that other cover. The visual theme I chose came out of the album's name, the "Rollover" thing. There was no "right side up" to that cover...An interesting side-note is that after all these years since I did that work for KISS, they've come back to me and asked me to design their next CD cover. It's a big project, and at the moment, I'm totally immersed in it.

Read the entire interview at http://www.lettercult.com/archives/529


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Note From Paul On New KISS Album
From: KISSonline.com

Hey All,

We're about four days from finishing the new KISS album. Eleven tracks, and it IS everything I've told you. It IS classic. It IS all written within the band. And IT ROCKS BIG TIME! Tommy and Eric both handle lead vocals. The songs, sound and playing will knock your socks off. You will all be as proud and excited as we all are. Oh...and WAIT till you see the cover!

We ARE just getting started!

Paul

(Photo of KISS in the Recording Studio - by Dean Snowden for KISSONLINE.)


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David Spindel: "I wish I had saved the notes from 'Alive!'"
From: RockPages.gr

We continue our KISS special feature with the 30th interview of a KISS-related figure. This week, David Spindel, the famous photographer of "The Elder" and not only...Here's an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: How did you get the job for doing the artwork for "The Elder?" Was it someone from the KISS management that conducted you?

David Spindel: I worked for an advertising agency named Howard Marks. Dennis Woloch was the art director. He asked me to create numerous items for Kiss. I wish I had saved the notes from Kiss from the album Alive. I gave them to a kid in my neighborhood after I finished the photos.

Rockpages.gr: Have you worked with any other band before your job with KISS? How different it was the "Elder" cover in comparison with your previous or (why not) future artworks?

David Spindel: I did do a few photos for a group called STARZ. Other than those I didn't do any other bands. I did photograph The Village People when they were attempting to make a comeback. I still have the photos. In the early 60's I worked as an assistant in a studio that did many record albums. It was a time consuming event to find the table for the cover. Other than that fact, creating the photographs were a piece of cake. The door was built by a model maker.

Read the full interview at: http://www.rockpages.gr/standard.aspx?type=13&sub=K&lang=EN


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KISS Coffeehouse 3rd Anniversary
From: KISSonline.com

The KISS Coffeehouse's 3rd Anniversary Party will be held on Saturday, August 1st, 2009 in Myrtle Beach, SC.

KISS Drummer Eric Singer will be the Special Guest!

KISSONLINE will attend the event and a KISS Tribute band will perform.

PACKAGE OPTIONS:

Gold Package (FREE):

Meet & Greet w/Eric Singer!
Last In line For Meet & Greet (4 PM - 6 PM)

Platinum Package ($25):

Meet & Greet w/Eric Singer!
Picture w/Eric!
Basic Laminate Pass!
2nd In line For Meet & Greet (2 PM - 4 PM)

Double Platinum Package ($75):

Meet & Greet w/Eric Singer!
KISS Coffeehouse Recordable Key Chain & Personalized Greeting From Eric To You!
Picture w/Eric!
VIP Laminate Pass!
1st In line For Meet & Greet! (11 AM - 1 PM)

Packages go on sale July 1 at www.kisscoffeehouse.com.


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KISS To Rock Sarnia
From: KISSonline.com

KISSONLINE has received numerous emails regarding a rumor circulating on Facebook about KISS in Sarnia.. Contrary to the rumor, KISS WILL rock the stage at this year's eleventh annual Rogers Bayfest in Sarnia, Canada on Friday, July 10!

For more info on the FEST visit www.sarniabayfest.com.

KISS 2009 Canadian tour dates:

July 10 - Sarnia, ON - Rogers Sarnia Bayfest
http://www.sarniabayfest.com/

July 11 - Windsor, ON - Caesars Windsor
http://www.CaesarsWindsor.com

July 13 - Montreal, QC - Bell Centre
http://www.geg.ca/en/show/event/2883

July 15 - Ottawa, ON - Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
http://www.ottawabluesfest.ca

July 16 - Quebec, QC - Summer Festival (Festival d'été)
http://www.infofestival.com/Html/en-ca/index.html

July 18 - Halifax, NS - Halifax Commons Park
http://www.halifaxrocks.ca/

July 20/21 - Orillia, ON - Casino Rama
https://www.casinorama.com/


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Gene Tapes Shatner's Raw Nerve
From: KISSonline.com

Yesterday, Gene headed off to WILLIAM SHATNER'S to be interviewed by him for his RAW NERVE show on BIO.

"It's a bit disarming to sit with Capt Kirk himself and not be aware of the remarkable iconic brand imagery that is STAR TREK. It was a part of my childhood I will never forget. In some ways, the originals, though not as lavishly produced as later re-incarnations, still had what later versions did not = Shatner and Nimoy. Quality actors and quality scripts. So much so, that to this day, I watch reruns and love them still."


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Preview Of This Week's Gene Simmons Family Jewels
From: Blabbermouth.net

Legendary rock god multi-hyphenate Gene Simmons and his unconventional family are back and better than ever for an all-new season of A&E's hit unscripted series "Gene Simmons Family Jewels." The 15-episode season kicked off on June 7 with Sophie's sweet sixteen party, giving viewers an all-access pass to the milestone celebration.

This week, in "Godfather Gene," Gene and longtime girlfriend Shannon Tweed hit New Jersey to be the Godfather to a friend's newborn grandson and Shannon inadvertently starts a feminist uprising amongst the subservient wives when she refuses to fall into line with tradition.

"Gene Simmons Family Jewels" airs Sundays at 9:00 p.m. on A&E.

In addition to Sophie's sweet sixteen, the new season will give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the entire family's many adventures. From Gene's appearance on "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" to Gene filming a Japanese monster flick, to Shannon preparing for a role in a roller derby exploitation film, to Nick getting his own apartment, to Sophie fending off ill-intentioned teenaged boys, viewers will follow the Simmons-Tweed clan as they set out to prove, yet again, why they are the most non-traditional, traditional family in America.

Leslie Greif, Adam Reed, Adam Freeman and Gene Simmons are the series executive producers. "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" is produced by The Greif Company and the Gene Simmons Company. Robert Sharenow and Neil A. Cohen are the A&E executive producers.


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Fan Photos of New KISS Alive Costume Replica
From: Anan Al-Sabban

KISS fan Anan Al-Sabban shows off his new GENE SIMMONS ALIVE COSTUME REPLICA in this series of fantastic images he sent us. People have been asking us if these costumes look as good as we have been telling you they are, and these photos pretty much answer the questions! Quite an incredible, intricate and extremely accurate reproduction of the Demon! Al writes us:

"Just wanted to share with you some pictures of me in my new Gene Simmons 'Demon' Costume and the youngest Saudi KISS fan (my son) fooling around. I have to say this is some good quality stuff! Thank you for all the support and appreciation to your fans around the world."

Thanks for writing us Anan, and if anyone else has some images of themselves in the new line of KISS Costume Replicas that just came out, please send them, we would love to share them with our readers.


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Anomaly: Complete Track Listing
From: AceFrehley.com

Earth People!!!

How are you?...... I'm happy to say that my new album "Anomaly" is finished!

Mixed, mastered...Done!!!!! It clocks in as one full hour of new music......... I'm waiting for my distribution company to get me solid release dates that we can decide on. I want "Anomaly" to be available to you in every store around the world that sells cds these days (and that number is shrinking). Digitally, "Anomaly" will be available on iTunes (with an exclusive bonus, album only track!!). Believe me, as soon as we decide on the release date..... you'll be the first to know. But for now, the "official" track listing for "Anomaly" follows........ Talk to you soon.......

Ace

1. Foxy & Free
2. Outer Space
3. Pain In The Neck
4. Fox On The Run
5. Genghis Khan
6. Too Many Faces
7. Change The World
8. Space Bear
9. A Little Below The Angels
10. Sister
11. It's A Great Life
12. Fractured Quantum
13. The Return of Space Bear (Dedicated to Tom Snyder) - iTunes Exclusive album only track


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Tongues Were Wagging As KISS Star Visited Memphis
From: commercialappeal.com

Gene Simmons paid his respects to Memphis music last fall with a visit to the home of rock and roll for tonight's episode of his A&E reality show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels."

The tongue-wagging lead singer and guitarist for KISS, Simmons visited Graceland, Sun Studio, Beale Street and The Peabody, where he served as honorary duck master and signed autographs for fans in the hotel's famous lobby.

Spokesmen for the Memphis attractions said they were sworn to secrecy about Simmons' visit and learned only this week the air date is set for 8 tonight.

"They don't give you the air date until close to the time it's going to run," said Peabody public relations director Kelly Earnest.

She said A&E network scouts arrived in the city prior to Simmons' visit in early October. On the day of the taping, he arrived an hour before the famous 5 p.m. duck march.

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Paul On Fox News Rising
From: PaulStanley.com

Paul Stanley was in Charlotte for his art exhibit, and stopped by the Bahakel Communications Fox affiliate during its Fox News Rising program. As the show ended at 8 a.m., so too did analog broadcasting for WCCB. The anchors counted down from 10, and Stanley flipped the switch. "It was historic," Stanley told (digital) viewers seconds later.

Click the links below to see Paul on the Fox News Rising program....looks like everyone had a great time!

CLICK HERE to watch the clip of Paul "pulling the switch".

CLICK HERE to view Paul's interview.

CLICK HERE to watch the Fox News Rising crew rockin' out to KISS!


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Rock Stars Drag Vegas Into Long-Running Feud
From: fox5vegas.com

Gene Simmons had harsh words for Carlos Santana during a Thursday morning interview on FOX5 News: Live In Las Vegas.

When asked about the future of KISS, Simmons talked of plans for a new album and tour. Then, out of nowhere, he took a swipe at Hard Rock headliner Santana.

"It's time for us to go out and show the little boys how the big boys do it," the 59-year-old said, "I'm sick and tired of these bands like Carlos Santana looking at his shoes and thinking that's a rock concert."

"Get off the stage," Simmons said.

FOX5 did some research and found there has been an ongoing feud between the two rock stars since 2005, when Santana questioned Simmons' musical ability and labeled him "Las Vegas Entertainment."

"A musician doesn't need the mask and the mascara so there's a difference between an entertainer and a musician," Santana was quoted saying in an article posted on KNAC.com.

Santana has obviously softened his stance on Las Vegas since signing a two-year deal to perform at the Hard Rock earlier this year.


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Paul's Friday Media Schedule
From: PaulStanley.com

Paul will be appearing on several Charlotte media outlets on Friday.

Below is the schedule of appearances:

1) WCCB / FOX TV / Fox News Rising @ 7:10 AM EST

2) WLNK-FM Radio / Bob & Sheri Show @ 9:10 AM EST

3) News 14 TV @ 10:30 AM EST

4) WCNC-TV NBC 6 @ 11:15 AM EST


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Gene On Good Day Philadelphia
From: myFoxphilly.com

He is the co-founder of KISS, a best-selling author and a reality TV star on A&E. Some people said he may be the hardest working man in rock and roll.

Joining "Good Day Philadelphia" Thursday morning from Los Angeles was rock icon Gene Simmons, who is now in his fourth season of his family's reality show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels."

During the interview, Simmons said "American Idol" runner-up Adam Lambert is "great and has a lot of talent," adding that "he's got a future if he wants sing in Queen or be on Broadway."

But Simmons also had some pointed advice for Lambert, who recently spoke out about his sexual preference, among other things, in Rolling Stone Magazine.

"Mostly he should shut up about his sexual preferences. We, America, the rest of the world, really don't care," Simmons said. "I mean, if the story becomes 'I prefer farm animals to,' you know, who cares?"

Simmons also seemed to take umbrage with Fox 29's Jennaphr Frederick's phrasing of a question about KISS performing with Lambert on "Idol."

"How was it for him to perform with us, you mean?" Simmons said. "That's right, I see. Well, you just have to realize who the governor is and who the little puppy is."

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Dito Godwin: "Peter Was A Great Singer"
From: Rockpages.gr

We continue our KISS special feature with the 29th interview of a KISS-related figure. This week, Dito Godwin, the producer of "Cat #1"...Here's an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: In 1994, CRISS released their first (and as it turned out last) full-length album that you also produced. Peter has stated that this was his best recording experience in years. What do you remember from that work in the studio?

Dito Godwin: So much...(laughs) First of all, Peter, in his two previous solo records, didn't play drums on all the songs. That was the big difference with "Cat #1" where he played everything and did a brilliant job. Another thing that really stands out is the fact that in 1994 there was a major earthquake in Los Angeles and Peter was really upset. We established a great relationship...we were like brothers. To tell you the truth, up until the point that we got to work together, I haven't realized how great Peter was as a singer...

Rockpages.gr: Many people, including Gene Simmons, have said that Peter has a unique voice but he sings out of tune...

Dito Godwin: No, that's not true at all. You got to understand that in 1994 there were no Pro-Tools or the aid of the advanced computer technology like nowadays. Peter did not sing out of tune!

Read the full interview at: http://www.rockpages.gr/standard.aspx?type=13&sub=K&lang=EN


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Gene Simmons Encourages Fathers To Take Responsibility
From: Look To The Stars

KISS bassist Gene Simmons has reportedly sold his kidney stone for charity.

"I passed a kidney stone and I put it on eBay for charity," the musician told The Today Show's Kathie Lee Gifford last week. "I got $15,000."

Simmons did not reveal which charity he will give the money to.

In the same interview, the rocker went on to talk about how men need to step up to the responsibility of being fathers.

"Men need to be men and stop acting like little boys. When you have children, it is not just your responsibility to be their friend but to be their father. Step up and give them the guidance so that when they grow up, they know how to treat girls. As men... we need to grow up and become the fathers we wish we had."


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Tommy Quote From 'Guitarra Total'
From: KISSonline.com

Here's a quote from Tommy Thayer's recent 'Guitarra Total' Magazine cover story:

"It's a great tune, there is something that people missed, and that's I am a good singer, I am a good vocalist. I have much experience, but I've never been a solo singer. My voice works well on that and I think people will be surprised. The band is working on a song called 'Rotten To The Core' but it is not the old one. We are recording all new songs. All four of us are involved. It will be the best KISS album in a long time. For what concern new possible costumes for the fall tour a decision will be taken soon."

 


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Paul On Syndicated 'John Boy & Bill Big Show'
From: PaulStanley.com

Paul Stanley will appear on the nationally syndicated 'John Boy & Billy Big Show' Tuesday at 8:10 AM EST.

Charlotte's #1 morning radio show broadcasts from WRFX and is syndicated in over 70 US Markets.

CLICK HERE to vist the 'John Boy & Billy Big Show' Website.


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What's New In KISS Collecting
KISS Knife Collection
From: KISSmuseum.com

These prototype images have just been relased for the new KISS Knife collection due out late September or early October 2009. We will have price, product and final image info up as soon as it becomes available. All will be available from KISSmuseum.com on the release date. We will keep you posted!

As for now, click here to enjoy the incredible high-res images of these new items.


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DJ Birthday
From: Bill

12-year-old Kevin Brewster of Chapmanville, WV was sure of one thing. He wanted his 13th birthday party to rock! He encouraged his parents to throw him a huge "Guitar Hero" themed party in a local school's gymnasium. Kevin and his band "War Threat" would play to open the party. Then, things would be turned over to DJ Bill France. Kevin and Bill are both huge KISS fans. Kevin didn't know this, but his mom did. So when the stage curtain opened and the crowd of about 200 kids heard the sounds of Detroit Rock City blasting throughout the gym, France stepped out decked his repica Gene costume. France said he hadn't worn the outfit about four years. "The place went completely nuts," France said. He was having second thoughts just before the curtain opened. France says, "Never doubt the power of KISS!" France said he spent more than an hour taking pictures with the kids after the party ended!


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KISS Canadian Alive 35 Tour
From: KISSonline.com

KISS will bring their ALIVE 35 Tour to Canada this July! There are limited amounts of tickets left for these shows. Montreal is completely SOLD OUT.

KISS 2009 Canadian tour dates:

July 10 - Sarnia, ON - Rogers Sarnia Bayfest
http://www.sarniabayfest.com/.

July 11 - Windsor, ON - Caesars Windsor
http://www.CaesarsWindsor.com.

July 13 - Montreal, QC - Bell Centre
http://www.geg.ca/en/show/event/2883.

July 15 - Ottawa, ON - Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
http://www.ottawabluesfest.ca.

July 16 - Quebec, QC - Summer Festival (Festival d'été)
http://www.infofestival.com/Html/en-ca/index.html.

July 18 - Halifax, NS - Halifax Commons Park
http://www.halifaxrocks.ca/.

July 20/21 - Orillia, ON - Casino Rama
https://www.casinorama.com/.


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What's New In KISS Collecting
KISS Mr Potato Head Figures
From: KISSmuseum.com

Yes, KISS will one day encompass all things and the takeover of the iconic Mr Potato Head is just one step further to that goal. This set of 4 figures are the standard Mr Potato Head dolls but with a large collection of KISS accessories to mix and match to turn into whichever character you like. The KISSmuseum has just obtained some prototype images of the packaging and they can be viewed at the link below.

There will be a small initial release of this set in mid-July. The major release to the larger outlets will follow closer to the Christmas season. You can pre-order now to insure you get one from the first run.

Pre-order at KISSmuseum.com for $39.95


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Gene Simmons Family Jewels: Season 4 Premiere
From: BuddyTV.com

Legendary KISS bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons will once again let viewers take a peek into his "non-traditional" family as his hit reality series Gene Simmons Family Jewels premiere with a special one-hour episode on Sunday 10pm on A&E. The 15-episode season kicks off with the sweet sixteen party of his daughter Sophie Tweed-Simmons. However, the celebration does not go as planned when a seemingly innocuous case of sibling rivalry spirals out of control. Blame it on 21-year-old Nick, who wanted to turn the low-key party into something party, and he's bent on pulling on dad's heartstrings and sense of theatrics to make it happen. All these, of course, to the dismay of Sophie, who's more often than not painfully shy.

After the Gene Simmons Family Jewels opener, the rest of the season features Gene's appearance on Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader and his stint on a Japanese monster flick. Meanwhile, wife Shannon also has some appearances of her own, with a role in a roller derby exploitation film. Nick is also set to get his own apartment, while Sophie will fend off ill-intentioned teenage boys. All the while, the Simmons family is out to prove that they're indeed the most "non-traditional, traditional" family in America.


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Oshawa Has Found Something It Can Re-pin Its Dreams On: KISS
From: Macleans

As the auto industry continues its painful collapse, Oshawa, Ont., has become pretty desperate these days for a little good news. So in April, urged on by councillor Robert Lutczyk, the city endorsed a plan-peculiar even by municipal government standards-aimed at winning a contest hosted by KISS. The rock legends had called on fans to determine, via online voting, the route Gene Simmons and the boys would take on tour this fall. At the time, Oshawa was ranked 143rd as a potential stop. Suddenly, getting the city on the band's map was a top priority. As part of the effort to get out the vote, Oshawa declared the week of April 27 "KISS in Oshawa Week." This culminated in an event at a local mall where shoppers voted, pulled on KISS T-shirts, and had their faces painted like it was 1976 while, in many cases, their kids watched in horror. "No matter where you go, from the grocery store to the train station, [the contest] is the talk of the town," says Lutczyk. "I've never seen so much excitement and energy around city hall in my life." Even those tight with the big guy (that's God, not Gene) are in on the action. For two weeks in May, Oshawa's Simcoe Street United Church showed its support on its lawn sign in big block letters: CHURCH MEMBERS HAVE VOTED. BRING KISS TO OSHAWA.

Several weeks and more than 12,000 votes later, Oshawa has vaulted into first place. In fact, at last check, Canadian cities, including Winnipeg, Sault Ste. Marie and Peterborough, make up the entire top 10 list. "KISS has always done well in the non-hipster centres," says Alan Cross, host of The Ongoing History of New Music, a nationally syndicated radio show. "The smaller centres, the blue-collar concentrations, don't have the choice," he says. "So when an internationally renowned band comes through town it's a huge deal." For some of the smaller cities in contention for KISS, this is that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So with the possibility of seeing the famous tongue-wagging in person just a click or two away, it's no surprise people are lunging at the chance. Still, nowhere in North America has the KISS army mobilized as strategically and with as much vigour as it has in Oshawa. "This is the headquarters," laughs Lutczyk. "Oshawa Rock City."

Lutczyk, a regular on local TV and radio in the last couple of months, is a 41-year-old piano-playing former mayoral candidate turned army lieutenant turned city councillor who, admittedly, has never been to a KISS concert. He's a fan of their music, but more importantly, Lutczyk figures that scoring the city a date with KISS will not only provide a "positive distraction" during these tough times and elevate Oshawa's image but will generate about $1 million for the local economy. That argument, no doubt, carries a lot of weight with fellow councillors and the public. Since the city owns the General Motors Centre, a 6,400-seat arena in downtown Oshawa, taxpayers are essentially on the hook each night it sits empty. "Getting KISS here is going to open the eyes of promoters who will bring in more acts, more money," says Lutczyk, who makes the comparison with the Rolling Stones' appearance at SARS-stock. "Until the Stones played Toronto, tourism was like a lead balloon."

[more]


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Paul's Music Helps Fan Recover
From: Claremont Courier

Lifelong Claremont resident Tony Banks, 48, has almost fully recovered from a serious head injury that nearly ended his life 2 years ago.

While attending his daughter Taylor's volleyball match on May 12, 2007, Mr. Banks fell off the bleachers while retrieving volleyballs. He dropped about 30 feet and hit his head on a nearby cement wall. He immediately fell unconscious and spent weeks in the Intensive Care Unit, where doctors performed multiple surgeries and removed a portion of his front temporal lobe.

During a 3-week coma, Mr. Banks explained the sensation of being stuck in a crypt made of ice and screaming at doctors and family members above. In reality, he could not speak or move.

While in the hospital, his wife Jacqueline played his favorite album and doctors said his blood pressure would improve while he was listening to the music. The album was Live to Win by Kiss guitarist Paul Stanley.

[more]


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KISS Costume Accessories - A Closer Look
From: KISSmuseum.com

We finish off our series of reviews of the new KISS COSTUMES with a look at the finishing accessories to complete each outfit. This review gives you many in-depth close-up images and descriptions of these brilliant replicas.

See the review and detailed close-up photos here.

FREE SHIPPING on the 4 new KISS costumes as well as the 4 new pairs of KISS boots at KISSmuseum.com. Offer good until June 10th! Take advantage of these great savings!


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Gene On Wags & Elliot Show
From: KISSonline.com

Wags & Elliott of the Columbus, Ohio radio station QFM96 recently conducted an interview with KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons. Gene talks about Family Jewels, the KISS 'DEMAND IT!' Contest and the new KISS Album!

CLICK HERE to download an MP3 audio file of the 8 minute interview.

Gene on the new KISS Album:

"[It's the] first studio album in 11 years. And you can't force those things - either it's in your blood and it's happening or... This is, I have to say... this might be the best new record we've done since 'Destroyer'. In fact, it has a similar sound - 'Rock And Roll Over'-meets-'Love Gun' kind of a record. That's coming out in September/October, and then we're gonna be doing a 60-city American tour."

Right click & SAVE "Wags and Elliott talk to Gene Simmons of KISS."

http://images.radcity.net/6531/3710672.mp3


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Paul Adds Atlanta Art Shows
From: PaulStanley.com

Wentworth Gallery is pleased to present two art exhibitions by artist, rock icon and legendary KISS frontman Paul Stanley. Paul will make two special appearances at Wentworth Gallery in July & August

Friday - July 31, 2009 - 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wentworth Gallery - Phipps Plaza
3500 Peachtree Road NE
Atlanta, Georgia

For details on the VIP Reception with Paul Stanley or to RSVP please call 404-233-0903 or 800-732-6140

Saturday - August 1, 2009 - 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wentworth Gallery - Perimeter Mall
4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road
Atlanta, Georgia

For details on the VIP Reception with Paul Stanley or to RSVP please call 770-913-0641 or 800-732-6140


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Wayne Johnson: "Beth is one of my favorite KISS songs"
From: RockPages.gr

We continue our KISS special feature with the 28th interview of a KISS-related figure. This week, Wayne Johnson, shares some details about his guitar solo of "Beth" on CRISS' "Cat #1"! Here's an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: You played the guitar solo on one of the most famous KISS songs ever ("Beth"). Did you have the chance to listen to the original version?

Wayne Johnson: Yes...and as with many other fans...it is one of my favorite KISS songs.

Rockpages.gr: Listening to your version, one can tell that you gave the tune an almost Latin feel on the solo. Do you agree?

Wayne Johnson: Yes, very good ears you have! I play a lot of acoustic music as well most of which is focused on Latin grooves. I love the percussive aspects of these types of music…different Latin + Flamenco grooves.

Read the full interview at: http://www.rockpages.gr/standard.aspx?type=13&sub=K&lang=EN


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