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News Archive July 2011
Airbrush Artist Embraces The Larger-Than-Life
From: PeninsulaNewsReview.com
Posted: July 30, 2011
With both arms covered in tattoos and wielding a spray gun, BC airbrush artist Paul Archer is no Robert Bateman.
He's known as the "rock-and-roll artist," a moniker he clearly enjoys. Based out of Vancouver, Archer is best known for his larger-than-life portraits of famous rock stars like Sting and Alice Cooper.
But beyond that, Archer has a penchant for art that is literally larger than life. He brandishes a portfolio full of murals of rock stars and athletes, splashed across buildings around the world. During seven years spent in the Cayman Islands, he painted an entire skate park, that was visited by skateboarder Tony Hawk? and Jackass star Bam Margera?.
Paul Stanley To Teach Punters How To Rock
From: The Morton Report
Posted: July 29, 2011
Gene Simmons' partner in high crimes, Paul Stanley, will be the latest guest star on VH1's Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp. The second season premieres on Saturday, August 20 at 10 p.m. ET/PT, where a new group of "Average Joes" will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put their own music skills to the test to see if they have what it takes to "rock 'n' roll all night and party every day," to quote the sainted Stanley.
Hosted by Vanguard artist Kimberly Caldwell, 15 soon-to-be rock musicians—broken into three groups—will compete to see if they can actually make the leap from civilian to rock god with the help of camp counselors Duff McKagan, Matt Sorum, and producer Mark Hudson. For one week each group will have the opportunity to learn some tricks from special guest stars who will share some of their own secrets and tips on making it. And yes, they will be instructed on exactly how to put on the right amount of black nail polish.
Among those exalted rock sensei are the aforementioned Stanley, Sammy Hagar, Marky Ramon, and Phil Collen from Def Leppard. Each week, each of the five contestants will have to give a performance in front of a group of rock star judges, then they still have a final test: The band voted best by the fans will win the opportunity to perform with Sammy Hagar.
Just to make sure you know what's you're in store for, you can watch the complete first season. The good news: it's much cheaper than paying the $9999.00 to actually attend Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp, which was the inspiration for this series.
Gene Simmons Has Baggage And So Do You...
From: The Morton Report
Posted: July 29, 2011
Apparently Gene Simmons, the 61 year-old KISS rocker, has baggage. At least that's what he told Shannon Tweed, his girlfriend of 28 years, during his marriage proposal to her, which was conveniently and totally randomly caught on film and included in the final episode of his reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels this week. "I come with so much baggage," he said as he began his attempt towards a romantic moment. Wow, way to be sexy Simmons. Call in the violins and harps.
The conversations online about the proposal, including on TMR, lean towards wondering why-oh-why Tweed might marry a guy like Simmons, a guy who has several characteristics that would land most men on the self-respecting woman's list of non-marriageable material, including his claims to have slept with thousands of women (call in the STI team). I tend to think the reason she keeps coming back to be with him is all about the baggage.
The thing is, Simmons seems think that his baggage makes him different, radical, someone Tweed might not want to be with, which is why he used it as a disclaimer to his proposal. I hate to be the bearer of things that don't at all make you unique, but having baggage is pretty much universal. If Simmons was hoping to stand out as a rebel to catch Tweed's attention in a different way, I would have suggested he ditch the baggage statement and gone with something more like "I'm a whore among all whores." It's a more specific descriptor. But there's no going back now. Simmons' baggage is what Tweed wants.
Gene Simmons Proposed 'Months Ago'
From: People.com
Posted: July 29, 2011
You can't always believe what you see on reality TV. Case in point: KISS bassist Gene Simmons finally proposed to longtime girlfriend Shannon Tweed.
Turns out, the proposal scene in Tuesday night's finale of A&E's reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels was taped "several months ago," a source confirmed, and it's been a rocky road for the pair ever since.
Simmons, 61, and Tweed, 54, were vacationing in Belize when he proclaimed, "you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I love ... and you're the only one I ever will love," before getting down on one knee.
New KISS Biography Is Ace
From: RockAAA.com
Posted: July 28, 2011
Great news for KISS fans: Ace Frehley's autobiography, "No Regrets," is confirmed to be published on November 1.
Co-written by New York Times journalist Joe Layden, "No Regrets: A Rock N' Roll Memoir" is being billed as "a funny, truthful, candid memoir about a hard-drinking, drug-addicted, music-loving guitar player who lived life as a rock star and survived to tell the tale."
For Ace, it all started in January of 1973, when the self-taught musician and Bronx native spotted an advertisement in the Village Voice posted by Paul Stanley, Peter Criss and Gene Simmons: "Guitarist wanted with flash and balls." Frehley, figuring he had both, answered the ad, and the rest was history/KISStory.
Gene Simmons syas Televised Wedding Proposal Drama Is Real
From: UltimateClassicRock.com
Posted: July 28, 2011
KISS bassist Gene Simmons says there is no phony script or pandering to television cameras on the "set" of his reality television show. The rocker even goes as far as to say the show is therapy - for him!
In a recent interview with Postmedia News, Simmons admits that his spare-no-details, open book lifestyle hasn't always worked for his family, but "It forces myself and the family to confront issues that would normally be hidden."
Simmons' proposal to common-law wife Shannon Tweed closed the sixth season of A&E's 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' earlier this week. Fans have to stay tuned for season seven to see how she reacts, but as Ultimate Classic Rock reported yesterday, it doesn't look good.
Follow The Example Of Gene Simmons?
From: The Huffington Post
Posted: July 28, 2011
A few months ago I wrote an article that stirred some discussion on The Huffington Post. The premise of the article was that anyone going through a divorce should follow the example of media giant Howard Stern. My thought was that despite what you may think of him, he handled the demise of his marriage in a private and dignified manner that should be emulated by all. So with that example in mind, what could be more outrageous? When it comes to getting engaged, you should follow the example of Gene Simmons.
Now at this point, you may be thinking that I am completely crazy. Why would anyone look to this rock legend for anything to do with getting engaged or married? Gene is known for his antics not only on stage as one of the founding members of KISS, but also for his legendary antics with women off stage. Seemingly, a very poor example for a marriage - or is he?
In 2005, I wrote a book on relationships, marriage and divorce titled "What Were You Thinking??" As part of the book, I interviewed a variety of old and new friends in order to gain their perspective on getting married, and in many instances, getting divorced. One of my favorite interviews was with Gene Simmons because he understood and could articulate the risks of marriage.
KISS At Casino Rama (Concert Review)
From: Fangoria
Posted: July 28, 2011
As many Fango readers know already, your editor is indeed a card-carrying member of the KISS army (literally; the card is in my wallet, in front of my driver's license). I have been a serious fan since I was a little boy, borrowing KISS records from the library, eventually saving up my allowance to get my first slab of vinyl-which was, oddly, THE ELDER (because of this, I still have warm ties to that controversial, commercially DOA 1981 rock opera...in fact, it might be my favorite in the catalog).
I bought as much KISS krap as I could find-I had posters, flags, hats, shirts. I would draw pictures of Gene Simmons (as I've said before, especially in the cover feature in FANGORIA #298, Simmons' Demon persona was my first monster) and wished I was Paul Stanley. I loved the mythical otherworldliness of the band-the visual aesthetics which were part garish, full-color, sexed-up Hammer horror movie and part Barnum & Bailey circus. I loved the music, which was screechy, fast, dirty, sometimes epic (THE ELDER, again), anthemic and full of a kind of lunatic energy. Coupled with a love of monsters, comic books and science fiction, this love for KISS would put me on the path-for better or worse-that I'm on today, and-especially considering I've since passed all this passion on to my kids-I cannot see this enthusiasm ever ebbing.
So perhaps I'm biased when reporting on a KISS concert. Blinded a bit by love. But who cares? Here I sit in a hotel room in Ontario's Casino Rama, a monolithic entertainment center two hours outside of Toronto in the semi-rural community of Orillia, the day after watching Gene and Paul and succeeding Catman Eric Singer and Spaceman Tommy Thayer blow shit up. The Rama stop is part of KISS' relatively brief "Lost Cities" tour, which sees the band hitting off-the-beaten-path arenas across Canada and the U.S. for what is, in essence, likely a warmup for a bigger tour that will launch later in support of their impending new studio album, a follow-up to 2009's ultrasuccessful SONIC BOOM.
KISS Cranks It Up In High-Energy Spectacle
From: The Windsor Star
Posted: July 28, 2011
From the shrill opening chords of Modern Day Delilah to the confetti storm that accompanied the closing number, Rock and Roll All Nite, KISS proved again Wednesday at Caesars Windsor's Colosseum its rock circus is one smoking show.
The band that claims to be the hottest band in the world had the burners cranked up for Windsor.
Even lead singer Paul Stanley remarked at one point, "Never have two countries been closer in the spirit of rock 'n' roll than right here in Windsor and in Detroit Rock City."
Detroit Rock City, of course, is one of KISS' enduring favourites and the crowd reacted with roars of approval.
Gene Simmons Family Jewels Season Finale Draws Record Audience
From: A&E
Posted: July 28, 2011
The 6th season finale cliffhanger of the A&E hit series Gene Simmons Family Jewels set ratings records for the longest running celebrity family show on television. Gene Simmons' marriage proposal to Shannon Tweed became the franchise's most-watched telecast of all time among the key adults 18-49 and 25-54 demographics with 1.7 million and 1.9 million viewers respectively, as well as the most-watched telecast in 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' history with 3 million total viewers.
The record-breaking episode made A&E the #1 cable network among adults 25-54 in the 10pm hour. Season 6 of 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' finished as the most watched season ever for the franchise, averaging 1.2 million viewers in adults 25-54,1.1 million viewers in adults 18-49 and 1.8 million in total viewers. The series also netted double-digit increases versus Season 5 across all demos - up 29% in total viewers, 33% in adults 25-54 and 29% in adults 18-49.
Picking up where the finale's cliffhanger left off, new episodes of 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' will return Tuesday, September 6 at 10:00pm ET/PT, where viewers will find out Shannon's answer to Gene's long awaited proposal.
Simmons Steals Show
From: Toronto Sun
Posted: July 27, 2011
It's just another day at work for KISS singer-bassist turned reality TV star Gene Simmons.
The rocker proposed to longtime Canadian love Shannon Tweed on his A&E series, Gene Simmons' Family Jewels in an episode that aired Tuesday night.
Then he donned seven-inch heels, black leather and studs, spandex, black-and-white face makeup and took to the stage for a sold out crowd at Casino Rama.
Simmons brought original singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, current lead guitarist Tommy Thayer (Ace Frehley left in 2002) and current drummer Eric Singer (Peter Criss left in 2003) along with him.
Ace Frehley "No Regrets"
From: Blabbermouth.net
Posted: July 27, 2011
According to Amazon.com, original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley will release "No Regrets: A Rock 'N' Roll Memoir", a look back at his "life of sex, drugs, and rock-and-roll" on November 1, 2011 via Gallery Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Gallery plans to publish the 288-page title under the VH1 Books imprint.
"No Regrets" was co-written by New York Times journalist Joe Layden who also authored "The Last Great Fight" about what is considered by many to be the biggest upset in the history of boxing: James "Buster" Douglas' tenth-round knockout win over Mike Tyson in 1990.
Layden recently worked on MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine's autobiography, "Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir".
Gene Simmons Joins NOH8 Campaign
From: On Top Magazine
Posted: July 26, 2011
'Glee' co-star Kevin McHale, comedian Margaret Cho, transgender actress Candis Cayne and KISS frontman Gene Simmons have joined the NOH8 Campaign, which raises awareness and funds for gay rights causes, including ending California's 2008 voter-approved gay marriage ban, Proposition 8.
The NOH8 Campaign, which is helmed by photographer-activist Adam Bouska and his partner Jeff Parshley, photographs celebrities and everyday folks with their mouths duct taped and the campaign's familiar "NOH8" slogan often written on one cheek.
In his photo, Simmons is wearing sunglasses and pointing with one hand while signing "I love you" with the other.
Simmons and Cho have previously worked with the organization.
Gene Simmons Pops The Question To Shannon Tweed
From: E!
Posted: July 26, 2011
KISS frontman Gene Simmons sealed his longtime love for Shannon Tweed with a KISS...and proposal.
The rock legend who once vowed he wasn't the marrying kind has-after more than 25 years of living together and raising two kids-finally asked the ex-Playboy Playmate for her hand in marriage.
And wouldn't you know...the touching moment just happened to be caught on camera for their A&E reality series, Gene Simmons' Family Jewels!
KISS To Rock Out Turning Stone
From: The Post-Standard
Posted: July 26, 2011
The high energy rock sound and special effects that have made KISS a favorite through all or parts of five decades will fill the Turning Stone Casino and Resort Event Center in Verona, N.Y., this Thursday night, July 28.
Since forming in 1972, KISS has made its name with big rock, thick makeup, hot pyrotechnics and to-the-edge theatrics.
Wrote reviewer Mike Thiel for the Appleton Post-Crescent after a July 17 show in Oshkosh, Wis.:
KISS Army Ready To Invade Rama
From: The Barrie Examiner
Posted: July 25, 2011
For nearly 40 years, KISS has been one of the planet's most recognizable, popular and successful rock bands.
And it seems like that isn't going to be ending any time soon.
For the past three years, the band has performed more than 250 shows, in three dozen nations around the world, to an audience that is arguably getting younger and younger.
As part of a short mid-summer tour, KISS, comprising original members Gene Simmons, 61, and Paul Stanley, 59, along with longtime drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer, will be shaking the foundations of Casino Rama outside Orillia, on Tuesday and then take to the stage at Caesar's Windsor the following evening.
Thayer, who has been working with the band in a background capacity since the early 1990s, and joined the band as a full-fledged member in 2002, told QMI Agency about what a ride it's been for the veteran rockers over the past number of years.
KISS Guitarist Not Distracted By Simmons Sideshow
From: The Windsor Star
Posted: July 25, 2011
Tommy Thayer, lead guitarist of legendary arena rockers KISS, has a thing or two to say about the state of modern journalism.
"We don't really have that much responsible media. It's all just kind of entertainment-based," says Thayer in a telephone interview from Los Angeles.
"I don't think it helps our culture, our society, our country.
"It's disappointing.
None More Black, None More Devoted
From: Montreal Gazette
Posted: July 25, 2011
Moshed potatoes for 35,000, anyone?
Two days and nights, 39 bands, enough volume and weight to shift a tectonic plate. Knobs at 11? 12. Heavy MTL.
And when KISS followed Motorhead's customarily essential set, setting off their own Fireworks Competition display last night, one had to admit, this is the ideal one-stop-shopping outing to stock up on a year's worth of metal.
Kids Steal The Show With Tribute KISS Bike
From: Times Colonist
Posted: July 25, 2011
It was the kids that stole the show at the Gene Simmons meet and greet Saturday.
Thousands of fans left with a photograph of them with the famous family, but the Simmons' clan walked away with a photo album of their own, documenting the six-week process of building a Chopper bicycle in their honour.
Sophia Harrington, 12, built the Jewel bike with the help of three other youth as part of the Angels Chopper Bicycle Club. The club gives youth an opportunity to keep busy, rather than taking to the streets.
Gene Simmons And Family Thrill Victoria Fans
From: Times Colonist
Posted: July 25, 2011
After four decades of screaming fans at concerts and autograph signings, Gene Simmons just says "it's this or staying home, twiddling my thumbs and watching I Love Lucy re-runs, which one would you pick?"
The KISS bassist and star of Gene Simmons Family Jewels was accompanied by his wife Shannon Tweed, daughter Sophie and son Nick, for a meet and greet outside the View Royal Casino on Saturday.
"You know we aren't doing anything, we are just going to stand here and talk. We're not performing, you know that right," Nick told the crowd of screaming fans. "Then hi, nice to see you. Why are you here?"
Eric Singer Interview
From: BraveWords.com
Posted: July 24, 2011
BW&BK scribe Mitch Lafon recently caught up with KISS drummer Eric Singer, discussing a variety of subjects in anticipation of the band's July 24th appearance at Heavy MTL.
Singer: "KISS has always been somewhat of a unifying and polarizing band. Just like buying a car buying a car or eating at a restaurant - you go by participation. If I don't like something I don't buy it. I don't support it. You vote with your wallet, but KISS is about the show and about having a good time. Being in KISS is a lot of hard work. It's not easy like everybody thinks. I've been in a lot of bands and nothing takes the amount of energy, effort and work as it does to play in KISS. I've seen Paul almost yawning before he goes on stage, but when the lights go down - BAM. He's running around, jumping...What's important is when you are on that stage. That's when you have to give 100%.."
-- On the KISS audience: "We've seen how the audience has changed over the past few years. It's now more of an all-ages show. I liken KISS to Disneyworld or Universal Studios - it's one of these spectacle things that you've got to go see."
Rock And Shock Has An Ace Up Their Sleeve
From: RockAndShock.com
Posted: July 22, 2011
Just weeks after it was announced that Rock and Shock would once again be infesting the DCU Center and The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts this October 14-16, and that "Freddie Krueger" himself - Robert Englund - would be topping their 8th annual extravaganza, New England's foremost Horror happening is pulling out all the stops as former KISS guitar legend Ace Frehley will be making a very special appearance to meet and greet his legion of fans!
Inspirational and influential to musicians and music lovers around the globe, Frehley is known as a founding member of KISS who masterminded and embodied the persona of the "Space Ace" when the band shocked the planet with costumes, makeup, and exploding theatrics. Frehley was a crucial member of KISS from its inception in 1973 until his departure in 1982. After leaving KISS, Frehley embarked on a new journey that lead to a successful solo career, selling millions of albums with his band Frehley's Comet, as well as under his own name. This however was put on hold when he rejoined his old bandmates for the highly successful KISS Reunion Tour in 1996, which became the #1 grossing tour of '96-'97. He returned to the studio with KISS in 1998 to record the "Psycho Circus" album and completed his run with the boys in 2001 on the band's "Farewell Tour." Back out on his own once again, Frehley continues to tour and to share the stage with friends.
To view the ever-growing "Shock" celeberity guest list (with more to be announced soon), please visit http://www.rockandshock.com.
Westboro Baptist Church Protests Against Gene Simmons
From: RawStory.com
Posted: July 21, 2011
Members of the Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church protested Monday at the Prairie Capital Convention Center in Illinois ahead of a KISS concert.
The State Journal-Register reported that around ten Westboro Baptists held signs attacking Israel and homosexuals.
The Westboro Baptist Church believes that God is punishing the United States because of America's acceptance of homosexuality and has gained infamy for picketing the funerals of public figures and military families with offensive signs such as, "Thank God for Dead Soldiers" and "God Hates America."
Top 5 Things Gene Simmons Has Touched WIth His Tongue
From: ManCaveDaily.detroit.cbslocal.com
Posted: July 21, 2011
Gene Simmons, the co-founder/bassist/singer of the legendary rock band KISS, is known for having a very, and we mean very, long tongue. It's almost as legendary as the man himself. Simmons has always embraced his tongue, saying that he loves how handy it is with the women in his life. At over 7 inches long, Simmons' tongue has licked many a person, and here are the top 5 things/people Gene Simmons has touched with his tongue.
5. KISS Kondoms We realize this might be a bit of a stretch, but the fact is that this is a real product with Simmons' tongue depicted on it; we had to add it to our list. Anyone who is comfortable enough to use these condoms on their "Love Gun" gets our immediate respect.
4. Cher Simmons dated Cher at her peak, so we can get behind this relationship. Though Simmons did have some reservations about dating her, stating that he thought their relationship would be the end of KISS. Still, Simmons will stick by the fact that Cher was his first true love.
KISS Comes To Riverdale To Meet Archie
From: NewsArama.com
Posted: July 21, 2011
The Archie characters have survived a lot in their more than 70 years of publication, but things in Riverdale are sure to get interesting in November.
KISS is coming to town.
"It's the biggest band in rock history crossing paths with Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead and Sabrina," said Alex Segura, who's writing the four-issue story with art by Dan Parent. "Two major pieces of Americana joining forces for the first time."
It may seem like an odd pairing, to put the milkshake-sipping teens from Archie with a hard-rocking band like KISS. But the story, which begins in Archie #627, sees Riverdale invaded by monsters from another dimension. Their presence makes the town ripe for a visit by the KISS personas: Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and Catman.
Jesse's 5th Birthday With KISS
From: Jon Rubin
Posted: July 21, 2011
For my son Jesse's 5th birthday, I took him to see KISS last week and we had an amazing time watching the hottest band in the world do their thing. I actually scored a front row ticket so our view most of the time was just amazing, as he watched with his jaw on the ground the whole time. Even though the whole show was stellar, the confetti at the end was probably his favorite part...then being handed one of Tommy's guitar picks by security as the venue was clearing out was yet another unexpected highlight for the night.
It was my 60th KISS show and his 2nd (!) - and I'm sure not our last. I'm attaching some of my favorite photos of the night which I took - and of course one of Jesse & me in the confetti storm.
Thanks for yet another incredible performance guys!
KISS Coffeehouse 5th Anniversary Party
From: KISS Coffeehouse
Posted: July 21, 2011
August 13 is the date for the 5th anniversary of the KISS Coffehouse in Myrtle Beach South Carolina! This is going to be one hell of a party with Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer as the special guests! The KISS Coffeehouse anniversary parties have always been rip-roaring rock and roll events and this one will be no different!
Visit the KISS Coffeehouse website for more details.
A Rare Snapshot Of College Radio In The 70's Part 1: KISS
From: The Vinyl District
A few years ago I struck vinyl gold while living in Dallas, TX. A friend of mine from Good Records (Chris Penn aka DJ Cee Pee), put together two boxes of hand picked metal records for me. He had just picked up several hundred used records from a Dallas college radio station as they were throwing them out and going digital. Although many of the classic albums included had some pretty good wear going on with the sleeves, the actual vinyl was in excellent condition. It was a vast selection of 70s and 80s metal; a gift from the vinyl gods above.
Back in the 70s, college radio stations would put notes on the front of each record with comments from other DJs at the station along side a description of the band. Reading these notes today can be quite entertaining as you are about to see. Here are two gems from KISS along with the original notes and comments from the DJs themselves.
KISS - The emponymous debut. When it was released on February 18, 1974, KISS had been a band for a little over a year. Much of the material on the album was written by Gene Simmons and/or Paul Stanley, as members of their pre-KISS band, Wicked Lester. Simmons estimated that the entire process of recording and mixing took three weeks. Photographer Joel Brodsky thought KISS were literally clowns, and wanted to place balloons behind the group for the shoot.
Simmons Still Rocking The KISS Machine
From: Times Colonist
Gene Simmons didn't get famous by accident.
The tongue-wagging, blood-spitting, fire-breathing bassist for KISS is among the world's biggest stars, in part because of his larger-than-life personality. His mantra? The bigger - and more expensive - the better.
Of late, he has been helped by Gene Simmons Family Jewels, the reality show that features Simmons and his family. It has become a huge hit, enough so that a tour featuring the cast is currently underway. Simmons and his clan will be at the View Royal Casino on Saturday (noon to 3 p.m.) for a public meet-and-greet that will most definitely be over the top.
While television has made him a celebrity, it's important to remember the role KISS has played in his life. The group is still out on the road gigging, and is playing with a voracity that hasn't ebbed in 35 years. Simmons - especially when he dons his makeup and calls himself the Demon - is a huge part of that.
Need proof? Here are 10 songs by KISS on which Simmons takes over on lead vocals.
KISS And Tell With Rock Royalty
From: Metro Vancouver
Rocker Gene Simmons said he takes a step back to become Mr. Tweed when he's here in Canada and lets his longtime partner become the centre of attention.
"I know my place," the KISS frontman and founder said yesterday at the Boulevard 500 Show 'N' Shine in Coquitlam. "I know that I'm an invited guest and this is Shannon's territory."
It was also heartwarming to see the continued support of Canadians after all these years to their hit TV show "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels," he added.
KISS Fans Await Family Jewels
From: 24 Hours Vancouver
I wanna rock and roll all night and party ... for almost six hours.
That's how long one diehard waited Sunday before KISS bassist Gene Simmons and his family arrived for a meet-and-greet at show 'n' shine at a Coquitlam casino.
"I love the music, the image," exclaimed Graham Young, a KISS fan for more than three decades. The 45-year-old was first in line when Simmons arrived 90 minutes late. He didn't mind, however, saying it was "worth the wait" after lining up at 8:30 a.m.
KISS Lights Up Rock USA
From: PostCrecent.com
It was time for the real thing.
KISS tribute bands have been fluttering through Northeast Wisconsin this past year, but it was finally the right moment for Gene Simmons and the gang to show the boys how it's done.
The theatrical rock spectacle known as KISS, literally lit up Ford Festival Park in Oshkosh Saturday night, with a stage rig that made 4th of July look like a fountain with a wet wick.
Though Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are long gone from the band, Simmons and Paul Stanley hold down the original KISS lineup, while lead guitarist (Frehley fill-in) Tommy Thayer and drummer (Criss fill-in) Eric Singer have handled their respective duties since the early Millennium. And though some will always yearn for the original all-star lineup, Simmons and company let Oshkosh know that KISS is still alive in 2011.
KISS Brings Punch To Poconos
From: TheWeekender.com
Since its debut in 1974, KISS has been playing shows in eastern and central Pennsylvania. The band has performed in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Allentown, Bethlehem, Harrisburg, Hershey and, of course, Philadelphia. But until Wednesday night, the iconic rock legends had never played the Poconos.
Well, they have now. And the picturesque Appalachian Mountains that surround the Mt. Laurel Pocono Mountains Performing Arts Center might not be standing quite as high as they were prior to the show.
KISS, as expected, leveled the place.
Longtime KISS Fans Passionate For Years
From: State Journal-Register
You always remember your first time.
For Mike Austin, it was in St. Louis at the old Checkerdome.
"I had to sneak out of the house and lie to the parents to get to go," he said. "I had to catch a ride with other people who had tickets."
Is It Time To KISS And Make Up?
From: MontrealGazette.com
In the end, it's all about forgiveness.
There's a vignette of KISS bassist Gene Simmons from a few years back that neatly captures that sentiment. Simmons was in his native and beloved Israel, where he was born Chaim Witz, visiting the grave of the father who'd abandoned the family when Gene was a child. Simmons had little good to say of the man in any interview I'd read on the subject. But here he was, becoming "visibly shaky as he entered the cemetery, where he put a kippa on his head as he approached the grave. After breaking down in tears, he said, 'I am so stupid. Why didn't I go to see him before he died?' "
Indeed. Sometimes it's too late for those reappraisals - and sometimes it's not. There were signs recently of a similar rapprochement, an opening of détente, in the longest-running feud in rock 'n' roll: between KISS and the Kritics.
In this case, we'll focus the critical establishment in Rolling Stone magazine, which had long maintained a "hell freezes over" policy on the band, contending that for KISS, theatrics were not an accessory to music but a replacement for it. KISS - you can sell more albums than the Beatles times Elvis, play more sold-out tours than U2 and Bruce, you can cure cancer for all we care, but you will be mocked as "a bunch of Walt Disney rejects," receive no large-scale coverage, enjoy few reviews, and certainly never qualify for induction into our sacred Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
KISS Is The 'Only Rock 'N' Roll Brand'
From: Gatehouse News Service
In the band's nearly four-decade history, KISS has never had a No. 1 single.
But that hasn't stopped the group from selling millions of albums, singles and videos over the years. The band's popularity comes in part from its relentless, shameless self-promotion of not only the music but a countless array of products.
"Rock and Roll All Nite" is arguably KISS' best-known song. It captures one of the group's contradictions: massive popularity despite lacking one of the conventional markers of music-business success.
KISS Rocks And Rolls
From: WNEP
Hundreds of rock and roll fans were in the Poconos Wednesday night jamming to some live music by the legendary band "KISS."
The band known for it's showy performances and outrageous make-up took the stage around 9:30 p.m. at Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center.
The venue has been closed for the last three summers and music lovers say it's great to see it back in business.
Entertainment Legend Gene Simmons To Keynote 2nd Annual LA Mobile Entertainment Summit
From: Melodika
Posted: July 14, 2011
Unicomm, a leading event management company and The Bob Dowling Group today announced that media powerhouse Gene Simmons will headline its second annual LA Mobile Entertainment Summit®, in association with Variety, scheduled for Tuesday-Wednesday, September 20-21, 2011 at the Hollywood & Highland Center, Hollywood, CA.
"We couldn't be more excited to have international entertainment legend, and serial entrepreneur Gene Simmons to keynote the LA Mobile Entertainment Summit," said John Golicz, CEO of Unicomm.
"Gene is definitely in a league of his own when it comes to creating, marketing and monetizing an international entertainment brand globally."
A founding member of the iconic rock group KISS, Simmons shows no signs of slowing down these days. KISS has just added tour dates in Canada for this summer and he and his family are currently shooting a seventh season of A&E's "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," now the longest-running celebrity reality series on TV and exported to more than 80 countries. In addition, he continues to build upon a licensing and merchandising empire that includes movies, publishing, TV, and of course, music.
Shannon Tweed Misses Newfoundland, Appears In 'Republic Of Doyle' Episode
From: The Telegram
She's blonde, beautiful, and very ... blunt. After performing with KISS for a crowd of 22,000 in the pouring rain in Grand Falls-Windsor last Saturday night, Gene Simmons and his common-law wife, Shannon Tweed, are in St. John's this week.
Tweed, a native of Markland, just beyond Whitbourne, is filming a guest appearance on CBC's "Republic of Doyle," to air when the new season starts in January.
Gene Simmons And Shannon Tweed Urge Fans To Adopt, Not Shop For Pets
From: ContactMusic.com
Posted: July 14, 2011
Rocker Gene Simmons and girlfriend Shannon Tweed have banded together to urge fans to adopt animals, rather than shop around for pets.
Tweed recently took her young nephew to a local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty Against Animals shelter in Canada to pick out a puppy, and after she saw how many dogs and cats were in need of a home, she made a $10,000 (£6,250) donation on the spot.
But the reality TV star wanted to do more for the organisation and so she persuaded the Kiss star to join her in a playful promotional video to encourage others to adopt, instead of spending money on a new pet at a store.
Awkward! Simmons Meets 1st Guy To Snap Nude Tweed
From: Today.com
Posted: July 14, 2011
KISS rocker Gene Simmons has proudly boasted about sleeping with roughly 4,600 women. But when his love of 28 years, Shannon Tweed, shares a few juicy tidbits of her own while dining with her high-school boyfriend? Nuh uh! Don't even go there!
On Tuesday's episode of "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," the pair traveled to Canada, where Tweed is from. While there, the two dined with Tweed's former love John Puderak, which led to a few rather uncomfortable moments (and some jealous looks!) for Simmons. One racy revelation? That Puderak was the first to snap nekkid photos of the former Playboy model. And lo and behold, Tweed seemed to be enjoying giving her longtime love a taste of his own medicine!
KISS Brings Bombast And Familiarity To Moutain Laurel
From: The Express-Times
Posted: July 14, 2011
Hard rock legends KISS kicked off the first concert at the recently re-opened and revamped Mountain Laurel Pocono Mountains Performing Center in style on Wednesday night; with more pyrotechnics, bombast and fireworks than a Fourth of July celebration.
The makeup-clad quartet opened with "Modern Day Delilah," the first single off their 2009 studio album "Sonic Boom," following it up with a one-two punch of "Cold Gin" and "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll." The latter allowed bassist/singer Gene Simmons, wagging his famous and fully extended tongue in the air, to flex his muscles for a brief rhythmic solo.
The classic KISS stage presentation has not changed much since the band's mid-1970s heyday. However, age proved to be a factor working against the group.
Top 10 Eric Carr KISS Songs
From: UltimateClassicRock.com
Posted: July 12, 2011
Eric Carr KISS songs, as in, tracks that feature the late musician's drumming, songwriting or even singing in a particularly noteworthy manner, may not be large in number compared to the band's voluminous history. But during his 10-year stint with the band, he always managed to make himself heard one way or another. To celebrate what would have been his 61st birthday (July 12), we take a look at the Top 10 Eric Carr KISS Songs:
10 'Carr Jam 1981' 'Revenge,' 1991
During the recording sessions for his first album with KISS, 1981's 'Music From The Elder,' Eric Carr recorded a demo of a song he was working on, and spontaneously added in his first and apparently only studio long-form drum solo. Following his early demise from heart cancer in 1991, his bandmates added the track to their next album, 'Revenge,' as a tribute. Former guitarist Ace Frehley's solo was removed from that version, but he had already used the song's main riff on his 1987 solo song 'Breakout.'
9 'Under the Rose' 'Music from The Elder,' 1981
Eric Carr' 61st Birthday
From: KISSasylum.com
Posted: July 12, 2011
Today would have been Eric Carr's 61st birthday.
KISS Rocks Salmon Festival Crowd
From: Grand Falls-Windsor Advertiser
Posted: July 10, 2011
Rock icons KISS, including founding members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, did not disappoint throngs of fans that converged on Grand Falls-Windsor for this year's Salmon Festival concert Saturday night.
After opening acts Fefe Dobson, The Orchestra, Down With Webster and Smashmouth played under sunny skies, clouds moved in as if on cue, but the crowd&39;s enthusiasm shone through.
The headliners, known for their outlandish makeup and costumes and spectacular pyrotechnics, performed many of their hits, including "Shout It Out Loud," "Detroit Rock City," and "Beth."
Frontman Paul Stanley Chats About Tour, Iconic Band Image
From: New Hampshire Union Leader
Posted: July 8, 2011
KISS never soared to the top of music charts - it only had two songs, "Beth" and "Forever," reach the top 10 in the U.S. singles chart. But the band made the most of its legendary stage show, and the Starchild, Demon, Spaceman and Catman, also known as Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, respectively, will bring that show to the Verizon Wireless Arena on Tuesday, July 12.
"We built our reputation as a live animal," Stanley said during a phone interview while he was at a tour stop in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. "The beast is prowling and ready to pounce."
The band's lineup has shifted considerably since it was founded by Stanley and Simmons, who began as the group Wicked Lester in New York City in 1971. Stanley and Simmons have been the band's only constant members.
Tommy Thayer Discusses New Album, Replacing Ace Frehley And Inaugural KISS Kruise
From: The Express-Times
Posted: July 8, 2011
Tommy Thayer says he is still considered the "new guy" in KISS - despite having worked with the band for more than two decades.
"I've been so much involved with KISS and (singer/guitarist) Paul (Stanley) and (singer/bassist) Gene (Simmons) so many years, we're talking 25 years, there's a repertoire there already. For me to start as the new lead guitarist was actually a kind of natural, easy transition because we knew each other so well," Thayer says over the phone. "It wasn't like there was a learning curve there."
Before replacing founding member Ace Frehley as the band's lead guitarist in 2002, Thayer co-wrote two songs for KISS' 1989 studio album, "Hot in the Shade." He continued to work with the band behind-the-scenes until getting the go ahead to don the Spaceman regalia after Frehley's departure, although the decision was met with backlash by some longtime KISS fans.
KISS 'Changed The Live Concert Experience,' Gene Simmons Says
From: Morning Call
Posted: July 8, 2011
With the rock band KISS coming to Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center in Bushkill, Pike County, on July 13, fans have quite a show to look forward to, the band's demon-faced bassist, Gene Simmons, says.
"What you have to look forward to is KISS," Simmons said in a recent telephone interview. "And if that doesn't say it all. I mean, we're the ones who changed the live concert experience, period."
There's little argument that, with the emergence of KISS in the mid 1970s, concerts expanded from exclusively musical to a show experience. With its members wearing painted faces and costumes, fire breathing and shooting, Simmons spitting blood and more, KISS clearly changed the concert paradigm.
Bayfest: KISS Opens Sarnia's Music Festival With A Bang
From: The Observer
Posted: July 7, 2011
The 'Gods of Thunder' didn't disappoint Wednesday with an explosive concert that wowed Sarnia Rock City and kicked off Bayfest just right.
Clad in their signature makeup and sparkling get-up, KISS members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer proved they're as outrageous as ever, with thunderous pyrotechnics and an elaborate stage show that opened in a flurry of fireballs and explosions.
The band took the stage at 10 p.m. sharp, opening with hit singles Modern Day Delilah and Cold Gin.
Kids With Cancer Tour Of Hope Gets Big KISS From Gene Simmons
From: Edmonton Journal
Posted: July 7, 2011
KISS bassist vocalist Gene Simmons has made sure our Kids with Cancer Le Tour of Hope biking campaign will top $400,000 this year.
And the final success of Pinot on the Patio at the Royal Glenora Club is due to Global TV's Gord Steinke.
"I met the KISS tour bus driver's mom on a motorcycle charity ride and she suggested to her son, Billy Wapshott, that Gene would maybe help me raise money for a charity with a signed bass guitar,' says Steinke.
Gene Simmons To Shannon Tweed: 'We Could Elope'
From: Examiner.com
Posted: July 7, 2011
On last night's episode of Gene Simmons Family Jewels, the KISS rocker all but proposed to his live-in girlfriend of 28 years, former Playboy Playmate of the Year Shannon Tweed. "We could elope," Simmons said to an astonished Tweed.
The musician is famously opposed to marriage and has often referred to his long relationship with Tweed as being "happily unmarried." The couple has two grown children together, and while Simmons has steadfastly refused to even consider marriage in the past, the couple's recent relationship troubles and reconciliation seem to have put things in a new perspective for him.
In last week's episode Simmons returned to his birthplace in Israel for the first time in 51 years, and Tweed arranged for him to meet with some siblings that he never knew he had, born of his estranged father's subsequent marriages. Simmons also visited his father's grave, seeking to make sense of the abandonment he felt as a child. "It was high time," he told therapist Dr. Ann Wexler last night. "It reconnected me with emotions and thoughts I thought I'd completely hid."
Gene Simmons Scheduled For Public Meet-And-Greet At View Royal Casino
From: Goldstream News Gazette
Posted: July 7, 2011
KISS frontman and reality TV star Gene Simmons will be appearing outside of the View Royal casino for a public meet and greet on July 23 from noon to 4 p.m.
Great Canadian Casino Corp. has confirmed the legendary rock star and his family - model Shannon Tweed and kids Nick and Sophie, all who star on Simmons's reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels - will be a the casino.
"(Simmons) will come and do a public meet and greet," said Sonja Mandic with Great Canadian Casinos. "It's an opportunity to get a professional photo done for free with him and his family.
Gene Simmons Tosses Perfect Pitch At Dodger Stadium
From: Noise Creep
Posted: July 7, 2011
KISS legend Gene Simmons made a special appearance last night at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles before the Dodgers faced the New York Mets to toss out the honorary first pitch before the game.
Simmons, who unlike many celebrities, nailed a perfect strike, was joined by his longtime paramour Shannon Tweed and their daughter Sophie (both co-stars in the long running hit reality series, Gene Simmons Family Jewels).
According to sources, talk show hostess/comedienne Chelsea Handler was spotted in the Dugout Club at the game supporting the rock legend, after he was grilled last month on Chelsea Lately. Simmons spent time chatting with All-Star player Matt Kemp, and getting a few pointers from the Dodger players in the dugout and on the field.
Watch Gene Simmons' perfect pitch
Immediately after the game Simmons rejoined his band mates in Canada where they are in the midst of headlining a North American summer tour.
KISS Gives CN Centre Crowd What They Came For
From: Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Posted: July 7, 2011
They could do no wrong and they knew it.
With more fireworks than many Canada Day celebrations, more makeup than a sleepover for 13-year-old girls, fire breathing, tongue flashing, shooting guitars and blood spitting, KISS gave their fans, many decked out in their own KISS make-up, exactly what they came for, rock 'n' roll and showmanship.
They hammed it up for photographers, they hammed it up for the crowd.
Sure, the sound wasn't the best, their voices no longer youthful, but none of the more than 5,000 fans, many, members of the KISS army, in the CN Centre noticed, or they just didn't care, they were ecstatic.
KISS Puckers Up For The Poconos
From: TheWeekender.com
Posted: July 6, 2011
Paul Stanley talks about the new KISS tour, the next album, his former band members, Eric Carr and "KISSOLOGY IV." He also shares his thoughts on his solo albums and his surprising vision on the future of KISS.
When concert venues began announcing their summer lineups earlier this year, one band that appeared on some of those lists was a pleasant surprise, particularly to its self-proclaimed "Army" of fans. KISS, which had toured throughout much of 2009-2010 and is in the midst of recording a new album, wasn't expected to be on the road this year. And yet on the road they are, including a stop at the Mt. Laurel Pocono Mountains Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, July 13.
KISS co-founder Paul Stanley, in an interview with the Weekender, says that at one point the band had conducted an online poll asking its fans where they'd like to see a show. And while it wasn't always possible for the group to get to some of those places on the 2009-2010 tours, some of the stops on this summer's road jaunt are now indeed in those regions.
Gene Simmons Thanks U.S. Troops
From: Today.com
Posted: July 5, 2011
Gene Simmons is in the mood to share again.
The KISS bassist recently revealed the troubled state of his relationship on "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," and visited half-siblings in Israel he never knew he had.
But this time, it's not his family that he wants to share with fans and viewers, but his love for the U.S. of A. On Tuesday's episode of the reality show, titled "The Demon Salutes," the rocker and longtime love Shannon Tweed chat with his therapist about his feelings for the United States.
KISS Show Draws Crowds To MacIsland
From: Fort McMurray Today
Posted: July 5, 2011
Iconic rock band KISS didn't rely on its flamethrowers and fireworks at Saturday's Macdonald Island concert to prove their show is still hot.
The nearly 10,000 fans at the night's show took care of that, stoking their own excitement to a frenzy and revelling in the heat thrown off by the flames and sparks flying above the stage.
While many were fuelled by nostalgia for the band they grew up listening to from the mid-1970s onward, others were carried by the excitement of being part of the biggest rock and roll show to ever hit Fort McMurray.
Vinnie Vincent: "...plans to re-record the ALL SYSTEMS GO" album"
From: Vinnie Vincent
Posted: July 4, 2011
I am posting this factual account of events pertaining to VVI in order to correct Wikipedia's false rendition.
After quitting KISS following the LIU tour, Vinnie Vincent recorded and produced a song demo containing the songs "Boyz Are Gonna Rock" "Shoot U Full of Love" and "No Substitute." Vincent played guitars and bass on all the tracks and Myron Grumbacker played drums. Vincent heard a demo of Robert Fleishman and knew he found the perfect vocalist for his music. Robert was asked to sing on the three song demo Vinnie had recorded. Fleischman and Vincent's chemistry was unmatched.
Chrysalis Records New York heard the demo and called Vincent in LA. With Vincent's demo blaring in the background, Chrysalis asked Vincent to fly to New York immediately stating they were anxious to sign Vincent as a solo artist. After months of negotiating, an eight album 4 million deal was born. The common misconception was that a "band" was signed to the label, however, it was Vincent who was signed exclusively to Chrysalis as a "solo artist" off the power of his demo.
Decibel Geek Podcast: Vinnie Vincent Special
From: Decible Geek Podcast
Posted: July 1, 2011
I think Hell has officially frozen over!
This episode is a long time coming and I hope it will inform people that have always wondered "What the hell happened to Vinnie Vincent?"
The show begins with a quick recap of how I had the seedling of an idea of finding out what happened to Vinnie Vincent and turning it into a writing project. What began as a quick idea that would make an interesting magazine article snowballed when I received so much information from so many angles that I began to entertain thoughts of turning the story into a book.......then, I got realistic. A book at this point in time about a recluse guitarist who's 15 minutes of fame ended in the 1980's just wasn't practical; no matter how much I loved his music, songwriting, and intriguing story.
I launched the Decibel Geek podcast when I remembered how much fun it was to interview some of the people that I grew up listening to and artists of today that I dig. I had already conducted some interviews for the Vinnie Vincent project at the time and figured I could use some of those and add some new ones for a big episode on Vinnie.
Marvel Issues KISS Comic Book Using Ink Mixed With Band Members' Blood
From: LAist.com
Posted: July 1, 2011
On June 30, 1977 "Marvel Comics published a magazine-format full-color KISS Comic Book presenting the band as superheroes," notes Retro Rebirth. For today's video lunch we remember the highly questionably decision to mix the blood of each band member into the comic's ink. Drawn by a registered nurse and witnessed by a notary public, KISS blood was reportedly poured into the ink vats at Marvel's Borden Ink plant in Depew, New York. Yeesh. Enjoy the encore from their LA Forum show from the same year.
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