July 2008 News

From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: July 30, 2008

The end of summer is only a few weeks away and it's time to start planning on back to school activities. What better way to get back into the groove of education than with official KISS School Supplies. We have notebooks, folders, pencils, lunchboxes backpacks and more! Everything for either you or your little tyke this fall.

Available at KISSmuseum.com

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Fan Meets Paul In King Of Prussia
From: TJ
Posted: July 29, 2008

I got a chance to meet and hang out with Paul during his art show at the Wentworth Gallery in King of Prussia, PA. There were some people who were really disappointed that they didn’t get a chance to meet him. I just wanted to say that in interviews and such Paul tries to make it clear to everyone that the reason he is making appearances at Wentworth is specifically to meet those fans who’ve bought his art. At record signings or conventions Paul spends a lot of time signing CD’s, posters and memorabilia for everyone when that is the reason he’s there. He did address the crowd several times to let them know how much he appreciates all of us and the turnout, and that there are folks who genuinely like his art, which is a whole other side of his creative expression. Someone grumbled that they had spent a lot of money through the years for concerts and CD’s and stuff and felt Paul was rude to not meet them. I say when you pay for a concert ticket you’re paying for that performance, not entitlement to every minute of the guy’s life. Give me a break and get real.

I heard Paul and an older dude talking about Jimi Hendrix’s fingers, about how long they were, and how his own fingers were small by comparison. Paul saw Jimi play live twice when Paul was a teenager – one of his reasons for wanting to be a rock n roll star. One of his paintings, Purple Haze, is Paul’s homage to Jimi. Some people can draw pictures of Jimi, but Paul tried to abstractly capture a memory and an experience. Very cool stuff.
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Fans In KISS Makeup
From: Roberto Pinna
Posted: July 29, 2008

We are fans of KISS in Perú, "The KISS Carnival Group" with many members and we would like to have KISS in Lima - Perú soon ( Tour Alive/35).

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VINNIE VINCENT Tribute Album Cover Art Revealed
From: SplitScreen Entertainment
Posted: July 29, 2008

SplitScreen Entertainment has revealed the cover art for its upcoming tribute album "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To VINNIE VINCENT." The image can be viewed at the official "KISS MY ANKH" MySpace page or at the SplitScreen Entertainment website. Official release date, full track listing and complete artist roster will be unveiled on August 6th, 2008.

Artists confirmed so far include Steve Brown (Trixter, Stereo Fallout), whose acoustic rendition of the PAUL STANLEY/VINNIE VINCENT composition "A Million To One" recently premiered on Eddie Trunk's nationally syndicated Friday Night Rocks radio program. Also appearing on the tribute are former Adler's Appetite vocalist Sheldon Tarsha, former Alice Cooper guitarist Ryan Roxie, former Altaria bassist Marko Pukkila and current White Lion drummer Troy Patrick Farrell, who have collaborated on a new recording of the VINNIE VINCENT Invasion power ballad "That Time of Year." Additional contributors include guitarist Chris Caffery (Savatage, Trans Siberian Orchestra), guitarist/keyboardist Paul LaPlaca (Zandelle, Z02, Chris Caffery solo band) and drummer Dennis Leeflang (Sun Caged, Epica, Bumblefoot solo band), who will offer up a dark interpretation of the foreboding KISS track "Unholy." Also confirmed is a new recording of the VINNIE VINCENT Invasion anthem "Boyz Are Gonna Rock" by Mike Weeks, guitarist on the most recent solo album by original Invasion vocalist Robert Fleischman, along with former Nitro bassist T.J. Racer and drummer Andre LaBelle, who appeared alongside Fleischman on the unreleased third VINNIE VINCENT album "Guitars from Hell."

Though VINNIE VINCENT himself has not released any new material in over a decade, "KISS MY ANKH" will pay tribute to the undeniable musical legacy of the former KISS guitarist. Vinnie's compositions are widely regarded as a highlight of the KISS catalog and remain a staple of the live KISS set list. Included on the tribute will be selections from the three KISS albums to which Vinnie contributed, as well as the two albums he released with the VINNIE VINCENT Invasion. Further details can be found at the SplitScreen Entertainment website.
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Oliver Tanson Interview With ERIC SINGER
From: KISSonline
Posted: July 28, 2008

Click the link below to hear an Oliver Tanson audio interview with ERIC SINGER. There's also a gallery of exclusive pictures on the site!

Listen to a small audio-snippet and check out the gallery at http://www.olivertanson.com/index.php?kuenstler=337!

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PAULs Upcoming St Louis Art Show
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 28, 2008

Pictured are a few photos from Paul's King of Prussia Art show yesterday.

Paul will presents his Collection of Paintings and Limited Editions at the Missouri Wentworth Gallery this upcoming weekend. The Gallery is located on the lower level in West County Center, Des Peres, Missouri.

He will make two special appearances at the gallery on Friday, August 1, 7-9 p.m. and Saturday, August 2, 5-8 p.m. An exclusive, closed-door VIP reception is scheduled prior to Saturday’s appearance from 4-5 pm.

Please call the gallery for more information at 314-821-8884.
[more]

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Ladies Of The Night #7 On LA Times Best Seller List
From: GeneSimmons.com
by GENE SIMMONS
Posted: July 27, 2008

Folks, proud to say our LADIES OF THE NIGHT book just debuted at #7 on the LA TIMES Best Seller List (Non-Fiction). Thank you all for making this happen. I'm very proud.

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GENE Salutes Canadian Troops
From: Edmonton Sun
Posted: July 27, 2008

GENE SIMMONS, of KISS fame, gets emotional taping message for Canadian soldiers

The head of the KISS Army shed a tear for Canada's army during a message for our troops.

In town to marshal the Rexall Edmonton Indy, GENE SIMMONS took a moment after a press conference yesterday to send out a message to Canadian soldiers.
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New CBS Game Show 'Jingles' Features Some Familiar Industry Faces
From: Advertising Age
by Brian Steinberg And Rupal Parekh
Posted: July 26, 2008

Julie Roehm as Paula. Linda Kaplan Thaler as Randy. And GENE SIMMONS as Simon.

That's how we imagine the judges' panel stacks up for "Jingles," a new CBS game show from reality impresario Mark Burnett that offers a lot of brand-integration opporunities - and capitalizes on America's seeming fascination with marketing in programs from "Mad Men" to "The Apprentice."

"Jingles" has contestants write and perform jingles about a range of products, including foods, toys and health aids or even a TV show. Sometimes contestants may have to update a classic jingle for modern times. To continue on in the game they must convince the panel of judges that they have talent and with. The winner will walk away with a grand prize of $100,000 an an ad contract.
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Photos From PAUL's Friday Art Show
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 26, 2008

Here are a few photos from Paul's art show last night at Wentworth Gallery in King of Prussia.


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PAUL's Weekend Appearances
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 25, 2008

Wentworth Gallery, one of the nation's leading fine art retailers is pleased to present two art exhibitions by artist, rock icon and legendary KISS frontman, PAUL STANLEY. He will make two special appearances at the Wentworth Gallery in King of Prussia, PA

Both appearances are open to the public and free of charge

Friday - July 25, 2008 - -7-9 PM

Saturday - July 26, 2008 -- 5-8 PM

Wentworth Gallery - The Court at King of Prussia
690 West Dekalb Pike - King of Prussia, PA

For details on the VIP Reception with Paul on Saturday - July 26, 2008 4-5 PM or to RSVP call - 610-337-8988 or 800-732-6140

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KISS Kids From Mexico
From: Lilia
Posted: July 25, 2008

Greetings from Mexico City!

Mexican kids know how to rock too! These are my nephews and nieces in costumes, ready to rock a Halloween party. By the way, my sister-in-law and I used to sing her tiny pumpkins to sleep with "Deuce."

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Poptones: Despite The Blood Spewing, KISS Transcends Kitsch
From: Bryan-College Station Eagle
by Kelly Minnis
Posted: July 25, 2008

I love KISS. There, I said it. I love the rock 'n' roll band and have for 30 years. I can still say this proudly -- even after all the shyster shenanigans KISS bassist GENE SIMMONS has pulled over the years with the KISS coffins and his reality shows and whatnot.

My love dates back to 1978 and KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park. I was 4 years old when the TV movie aired, and it was tailor-made for me. They were like a Marvel comic and the Beatles all at once, but without the screaming girls and just a hint that they might really be evil Satanic demons.

The thing about KISS, though, is that the band actually had something to offer beyond the kitsch. As cool as the makeup and the characters and the fire-breathing and blood-spewing and such was, they would not be as revered if the music weren't there to back up the image.
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KISS Kids
From: Todd Geuder
Posted: July 24, 2008

Saw these kids last weekend. Not bad. They actually played and sang the songs. Pretty good for a group of kids ranging from age 10 to 13.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=kFUlQk0y6K8

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TOMMY Hosts Gold Tournament
From: KISSonline
Posted: July 24, 2008

Hosted by KISS lead guitarist TOMMY THAYER, the Pacific University Legends Golf Classic will feature some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, sports and golf to raise funds for Pacific’s intercollegiate athletics program. The field includes PGA Tour standouts John Daly, Shaun Micheel, Alex Cejka, John Mallinger and Tommy Armour III; former Major League Baseball players Bobby Grich, Eric Karros, Chuck Finely, Scott Erickson and Bret Boone; former NFL standouts Mike Sherrard and Preston Pearson" and comedian George Lopez!

The second annual celebrity tournament, a fund-raiser for Pacific’s 20-sport athletics program, takes place July 27 and 28 at The Reserve in Aloha.

The tournament field also includes former "Monday Night Football" sideline reporter Lisa Guerrero, legendary NASCAR driver Geoff Bodine, singer/songwriter Ray Kennedy and Doc McGhee, the legendary manager of Bon Jovi and KISS. Rising country star Crystal Shawanda will be the featured artist for the tournament's Sunday concert.
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KISS Tattoo
From: J Lidback
Posted: July 24, 2008

Here's a photo of Jessica's KISS Tattoo.

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Interview With Peppy Castro
From: Rockpages.gr
Posted: July 23, 2008

We continue our year-long KISS special article with the 14th interview with a KISS-related figure.

This week we publish an interview with Peppy Castro, a KISS’ collaborator/co-songwriter. Here’s an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: You did background vocals on "Ain’t Quite Right" and "Hold Me, Touch Me". What do you remember from these recordings?

Peppy Castro: Paul and I had always a great time together. We were hanging out in L.A. and I had a musical I wrote at a theatre in Beverly Kills and Paul would come to the show almost every day. The studio was always fun. Rockpages.gr: I know that Paul also sang background vocals on the first Balance record…

Peppy Castro: Paul never had a chance to sing anything like this! Those background harmonies were unique to him, because KISS’ songs were so heavy. He loved singing something so melodic and soft for once.

You can read the whole interview at http://www.rockpages.gr/kissspecial2008/14-PeppyCastro-en.htm.

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Clip Of PAUL On CNBC's The Big Idea
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 23, 2008

Here's a clip of Paul from his appearance on CNBC's 'The Big Idea With Donny Deutsch':

http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=1cd02882-2c48-462b-8b79-df4f6491b008

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Fast Cars Get Rocker Revved Up
From: The Edmonton Journal
by Sandra Sperounes
Posted: July 22, 2008

Three years ago, GENE SIMMONS didn't know the first thing about Indy racing. "I never thought about it, it wasn't in my blood, I didn't grow up loving cars," he says.

As the money-loving, fire-breathing bassist for KISS, he was preoccupied with his ever-expanding music and media empire, including his reality TV show, GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels, and thousands of licensing deals for products such as a KISS credit card, KISS Canon camera and KISS coffeehouse.

Then, in 2005, Simmons was invited to an Indy race in Dallas-Fort Worth. He compares the experience to meeting his longtime love, Newfoundland native Shannon Tweed.
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GENE Gets Money Roses
From: Karen Leonardi
Posted: July 22, 2008

My husband and I recently had the opportunity of meeting Mr. GENE SIMMONS in person at his book signing at Barnes & Noble in New York City. In my opinion, my husband Bob is the #1 Fan for both GENE SIMMONS and KISS. Our basement is proof of that - GENE SIMMONS/KISS from top to bottom. I more or less went along for the ride - mostly for giggles - to see what is the fascination for GENE SIMMONS and also to wish him a Happy 59th Birthday as our birthdays are close in proximity (we're ten years apart though). I even came up with a bright idea to get Mr. Simmons a gift even though my hubby thought it was a lame idea.

A lot of detail went into it, it was roses made from money - which seem to be his favorite (along with wealth, as he loves money). The roses were wrapped with a bow, black and white with jewels (I think everyone could pretty much figure that out).

To my astonishment when he opened the gift he was like a little kid on Christmas morning. It definitely had the wow factor and he even took the glasses off to get a closer look. He spoke constantly - not his usual conservative voice - he was amazed. I don't know if it was that it was money or how they were made into roses, but I was just as surprised, as you often hear how great a person is, but once you meet them, they're not like that at all. It was definitely the opposite here, Mr. Simmons is 100% kind and considerate and appreciative of all his fans.
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PAUL's Media Schedule
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 22, 2008

Paul will be appearing on several Philadelphia media outlets this weekend. Below is the current schedule of appearances:

1) WMMR - FM (Philly's #1 Rock Station) - Friday at 7:10 a.m.
2) WTFX - TV - Friday at 8:23 a.m.
3) WCAU - TV - Friday at 9 a.m.

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New KISS Magazine Covers
From: KISSonline.com
Posted: July 22, 2008

Here are the latest two magazine covers featuring KISS - the Italian Magazine - "RARO!" and the German Magazine - "GOOD TIMES".

Thanks to Alex Fedetov for the images.

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Rare KISS Interview Clip
From: YouTube.com
Posted: July 21, 2008

Check out this Asylum era interview from England's "The Whistle Test":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oktlUs8xGmk

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KISS Pinball Machine Search Resolved
From: Gianni
Posted: July 20, 2008

My name is Gianni and I’ve been a KISS fan (although fan is not the right word – ‘freak’ is a better word) since 1980 – since I was 8 years old.

I live in Malta – a small island in the middle of the Mediterranean sea.

Back in the early 1980’s it was not that easy to follow international bands here as vinyl records always arrived months after their release, international magazines took a while to get here and obviously the internet was not around yet so, being the massive KISS fan that I was, I was constantly in search for KISS info and goodies.
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KISS Badges Play Role In Identifying Remains
From: Edmonton Sun
Kevin Crush
Posted: July 20, 2008

GENE SIMMONS doesn't know it yet, but his legendary rock band had a major role in helping to solve the mysterious discovery of a man's remains in Vegreville.

And now friends and relatives of Robin Douglas Goodwin, who would have turned 47 in February, want to thank the tongue-wagging KISS frontman.

It all started last Nov. 3, when the body of an unknown man was discovered in a wooded area near Vegreville.
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PAUL On CNBC's The Big Idea
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 20, 2008

Paul will appear on CNBC’s The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch Monday, July 21, 2008 at 10:00 p.m. / 1:00 a.m. ET. The show will highlight Paul’s immense success in the music and art worlds.

Check your local listings and tune in!!

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Photos From KISS' European Alive/35 Tour
From: Diamant Noir
Posted: July 19, 2008

Let's take advantage of the current calm in KISS' activities to see another photo gallery from the European Alive / 35 Tour, this time provided by Christophe Rebaudot. His photos, taken during KISS' shows in Paris, Stuttgart and Bilbao, are among the most beautiful from this tour! Well worth a special page! Check it out by clicking here!

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Ticket Stub From 1975
From: Jason DeLong
Posted: July 19, 2008

Here is a picture of a classic KISS gem. A ticket stub from KISS' appearance in Flint, Michigan on November 17, 1975! and I might add it was front row center!!!!!

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Bill Baker's ACE FREHLEY Archives Update - July 2008
From: TheAceFrehleyArchive.com
Posted: July 19, 2008

Bill Baker is back with another update to his ACE FREHLEY Archives website.

First i wanted to let you all know that the layout for my book, "ACE FREHLEY - The Ultimate Fan Scrapbook" is finally finished! Hooray! After all these years! Now it goes to the printer and by the time you read this, it will have been delivered and I await my proofs!

I have updated the Fractured Mirror media pages with 15 new videos. Covering all the years of the worlds only ACE FREHLEY tribute band. Heaps of cool Ace/Kiss songs featured in there.
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PAUL's Rockin' Art
From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: July 17, 2008

For PAUL STANLEY, missing an opportunity to go on a guided tour of The Louvre in France because of some other obligations was unfortunate.

After all, one of the most visited art museums in the world is home to many famous works, like Leonardo Da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," something an artist like Stanley likely would appreciate seeing in person.

But Stanley isn't just another artist. He's probably better known for being able to rock and roll all night and party every day as the flamboyant frontman for the legendary rock band KISS.
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KISS Coffeehouse 2nd Anniversary
From: KISSonline.com
Posted: July 18, 2008

The KISS Coffeehouse 2nd Anniversary Party will be held on Saturday, September 6th in Myrtle Beach, SC. This will be an all day and night rock and roll party, with contests, live music and a very special guest. All events will be free of charge. More details to be announced shortly.

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CBS Gives GENE SIMMONS A Jingle
From: E! Online
by Natalie Finn
Posted: July 17, 2008

Executive producer Mark Burnett was apparently quite impressed with Gene Simmon's impertinent Celebrity Apprentice performance.

The shameless KISS rocker has been tapped to be head judge on the new CBS competition show Jingles, Burnett's latest offering to the remote-wielding masses.

Simmons will preside over a hunt for the best ad jingle for "anything and everything," according to the network's press release. Each week, contestants will be asked to write and perform their own catchy little tunes touting toys, food, beauty products, sports teams, etc.
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"I'm Gonna Marry VINNIE VINCENT" On Stage In Sweden
From: Norrländska Socialdemokraten
Posted: July 16, 2008

A theater play titled "I'm Gonna Marry VINNIE VINCENT" is playing to full houses in Haparanda, Sweden. The play features five 40 year old rockers chicks who attempt to recapture the feelings 25 years ago. The lead, Jessica, is going through a bitter divorce from her ex-husband who left her for a younger woman. She decides to steal her ex-husband's money and go to the USA to meet her teen crush - VINNIE VINCENT.

For more information on the play (translated to English from Swedish), click here

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KISS The Canvas: PAUL Brings Art To St. Louis
From: Vital Voice
by Corey Stulce
Posted: July 16, 2008

PAUL STANLEY doesn’t like a blank canvas. Just check out his chest, full of dark curls, which he’s showed off thousands of times for KISS Army members around the globe.

KISS is currently on its 35th anniversary tour, which has seen the beloved band stop in Australia, Russia and all over Europe. But Stanley is taking some time off the road — sans Starchild makeup — to visit St. Louis and show off his paintings.

One might expect the art from a member of a band whose initials were thought to stand for "Knights in Satan’s Service" to be a bit on the twisted side. "Like human sacrifices or something? I never have gone on record or told anybody that my life was dark or heavy or ominous," Stanley said.
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KISS And Ace Photos From This Summer's Tours
From: KISSarmyFinland.com
Posted: July 16, 2008

KISS ARMY FINLAND's Marko Syrjälä released tons of pics from six KISS shows and from three Ace shows in this address:

http://www.kissarmyfinland.com/galleriat.html

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Ace At Rocklahoma: Review And Photos
From: KISS Asylum
by Maribeth
Posted: July 15, 2008

On Sunday July 13th Ace performed at the Rocklahoma festival in Pryor, Oklahoma. The day before there was damaging winds that caused two side stages to collapse - but thankfully the weather was great for Ace's performance.

Ace performed a great set that included (not in order) Rip It Out, Parasite, I Want You/Rock Soldiers, Snowblind, Into The Void, Shout It Out Loud, Shock Me (which he dedicated to former New York Yankee Bobby Mercer who passed away this week), New York Groove, Love Gun, Deuce/Black Diamond outro.

A great set, and the band sounded fantastic. It was great to see Ace playing in front of a large festival crowd. Here are 36 photos from Ace's performance.
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Memories Of A KISS Summer
From: Diamant Noir
Posted: July 15, 2008

Photos from both KISS and Ace tours have been posted on DN! You'll find 134 pictures in all! Check them out here:

http://diamnoir.free.fr/dotclear/index.php/?General-english

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KISS Collection
From: Simmons Is God
Posted: July 15, 2008

The Pictures say it All 980 Square feet of KISS! More photos at:



http://s291.photobucket.com/albums/ll305/SIMMONSGOD/

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Fans Meet Gene At Barnes And Noble
From: Adam
Posted: July 15, 2008

My family and I also met Gene at Barnes & Noble on Friday, July 11th and as the other articles stated Gene is nothing but friendly and gracious.

We chatted about my 9 year old daughters interst fair project, cottage cheese and oatmeal and Guitar Hero KISS. He quickly answered YES, there will be a real Guitar Hero KISS, it is in the works and it will be special.

This was the first time I met Gene and I felt like Ralph Kramden on The 99,000 answer.
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GENE Ready To Rock The Rexall Edmonton Indy
From: Northlands
Posted: July 14, 2008

EDMONTON, AB – One of the biggest names in rock and roll is heading to Edmonton to help fans rev their engines for the Rexall Edmonton Indy. GENE SIMMONS, the co-founder of KISS, and star of the hit A&E Reality Show, GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels, will take the stage as Grand Marshall for the first IndyCar Series race in Edmonton’s history.

"I AM INDY! This is who I am," said GENE SIMMONS. "From the top of my head to the bottom of my platformed bootheels. There is no greater thrill than to be within earshot of the fastest cars on Planet Earth. I look forward to seeing you all at the Citadel of Speed – the Rexall Edmonton Indy."

"We are thrilled to welcome GENE SIMMONS to the Rexall Edmonton Indy as the Grand Marshall for three days of wild," said Ken Knowles, President of Northlands. "When the flag drops on July 26th, we know Gene will be leading the fans as they rock and roll all nite and party every day at the Rexall Edmonton Indy."
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Fan Meets Gene
From: Pat's Dynasty
Posted: July 14, 2008

I met Gene at Barnes and Noble for the signing of his new book. I have a couple of KISS tattoos, one of the Rock and Roll Over cover as well as two portraits of Ace. The Ace tattoos are one from the Love Gun album cover and the other is the smoking guitar poster {Alive 2}. I always wanted Gene to see them so I had my chance that day. Gene as always was very friendly and really liked my tattoos - he even called some people over to look at it. He thought it was beautiful and told me he could imagine the pain I went through. We also discussed all the women that have him tattoed in various places. I always tell people everytime I've met a member of KISS (Gene and Ace so far) they have been very cool.

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GENE SIMMONS "Ladies Of The Night" Review And Book Signing Review
From: KISS Asylum
by Joe Penn
Posted: July 14, 2008

Book Review: I just read GENE SIMMONS new book - "LADIES OF THE NIGHT: A Historical and Personal Perspective on the Oldest Profession in the World." (The title is as much of a mouthful as Gene's tongue!) If you have not picked up the book yet, I highly recommend you do - and I am not just saying this because I am a HUGE GENE SIMMONS/KISS fan. I could not put the book down at all, and actually read it all day. I can't wait to se what he comes out with next. Unlike most of the people out there, I never doubted the book, or considered it cheesy/smutty. The book goes over the profession from the dawn of man, to Ancient Greece - and - to the Middle Ages, and today. All 18 chapters will amuse you, as well as the little facts near the end of each chapter. Some of the facts will definitely leave you thinking. The book itself, if you have not seen it yet, is beautifully decorated. It features a soft, yet hard cover, and even has gold lined pages with a red velvet bookmark, along with a Renaissance-type picture on the cover (and yes, the picture is of a LADY). So if your reading this review and think, "Wow, Gene probably didn't even write it, he just wants the money and his name on it". Then you are very wrong. Gene devoted an entire chapter to three lovely LADIES of today, that he personally interviewed, as well as helping in the whole construction of the book. Do yourself a favor and get the book today, even if you are not a KISS fan, a good history lesson will do you good!

GENE SIMMONS - Book Signing Review: As always GENE SIMMONS was a pleasure to meet. For the trip, as with this past NY/NJ KISS Expo, I brought along my Mom Karen, and Girlfriend Samantha. Gene signed for at least 4 hours this past Friday, in New York. We were in a good spot online, and had the chance to meet Gene early into the signing. Gene did such a good job that he actually spoke with everyone for quite sometime, took a picture (if you had a camera), and signed the book of course. When I finally reached Gene, I introduced myself to refresh his memory - we posed for a few pictures, and then he looked up. Gene spots my Mom and Girlfriend and thinks they are sisters ( not knowing they were with me). My Mom introduced herself, and Gene responded happily. As most know Gene is as much of a momma's boy as I am. Next up to meet Gene was my Girlfriend, and Gene loved her! Soon after my Mom stepped up to Gene, it was magical. Gene hugged my Mom and began to whisper in her ear...What did he whisper? He told her what every Mother should hear - telling my Mom that she is my hero, as Gene's Mom is to him. Truly an awesome moment when your hero connects with your Mom on such a level.

Before we headed out, my original intention was to get Gene to sign my ALMOST complete KISS tattoo on my leg. I purposely left Gene a spot to sign my his face - he looked at me and said, "I would love to, but I can only do it outside". This was to keep everything moving smoothly for Barnes & Nobles, etc. So I waited. (While outside I was lucky to meet J.R. Smallings, and Mick Campise who haved worked with KISS). Gene came out after the signing, after I made friends with Joe (his driver - who rocked) and a huge crowd had formed by then. Gene took his time making sure to sign for everyone who had waited for him, all this time my Mom kept yelling to him, "remember you promised him Gene, don't forget to sign his leg". So the moment of truth came, I was face-to-face with Gene again, and his driver lifted my leg. Gene began to sign my leg as I stood there in shock. Gene looks up, we lock eyes, and says, "I told you I always keep my end of the deal". I thanked him with a handshake, and wished him a safe trip. I got my leg tattooed the same night. All I can say is that it was a rush, and Gene always listens to the fans.
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Simmons To Fire Up His Indy Game Face
From: The Edmonton Journal
by Joanne Ireland
Posted: July 13, 2008

GENE SIMMONS, the fire-breathing, tongue-wagging bass guitarist from KISS, is going to be in Edmonton rev up the inaugural Indy.

Maybe Simmons just wants to rock and roll all night and race every day of this event. And he'll probably sign a few books while he's at it.

Henrietta Tiefenthaler, editor of Phoenix Books & Audio, confirmed on Friday that the rocker will indeed be in Edmonton in two weeks time. The actor/musician/author/tireless entrepreneur is going to tie in a book signing while he doubles as the grand marshal of the race.
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Gene on MSNBC
From: MSNBC
Posted: July 12, 2008

Here's a clip of Gene on MSNBC:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/
22425001/vp/25640888#25640888

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Gene Clip From On The Record
From: GeneSimmons.com
Posted: July 12, 2008

Here's a clip of Gene from On The Record with Greta Van Sustren.

http://www.genesimmons.com/video/
lotn-sustern/index.html

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Fans Meet Gene In NYC
From: Peter Joffe DC
Posted: July 11, 2008

My daughter Makayla and I attended Gene's book signing in NYC. We had such a great time. We arrived at the Barnes and Noble around 11 am (Gene was expected at 1230). The line was halfway around the block with also a hundred or so people waiting inside. The security approached my daughter and I and told me to follow them. They brought us to the front of the line to be the first to see Gene (because she is 2 and was in her stroller) Makayla is following in my footsteps. I became a fan in 1979 when i was 3. She was decked out in her KISS shirt, holding her Gene doll and watching Cobo Hall 76 on her DVD player. When Gene arrived, she was shy for a moment but her eyes lit up when we approached him for the signing. He was so gracious and took this great picture of the 3 of us. It definitely was a great memory for the 2 of us. Thanks again Gene

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Taking Brush To Canvas
From: Courier-Journal
by Angie Fenton
Posted: July 10, 2008

PAUL STANLEY has a deal with himself.

"I don't bring guitars into my painting studio, and I don't bring paintbrushes on stage," he said in a recent phone interview. "You have to be able to close one door when you open another."

Obviously, the KISS frontman still rocks all night -- three and a half decades after his glam metal band formed. In fact, they've been tearing it up on the European leg of the KISS Alive/35 World Tour.
[more]

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Gene On CBS' Early Show
From: CBS.com
Posted: July 10, 2008

Here's a clip of Gene on CBS' Early Show.

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/
i_video/main500251.shtml?id=4247508n

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Gene On WPIX
From: GeneSimmons.com
Posted: July 10, 2008

Here's a clip of Gene being interviewed on New York's WPIX (CW).

http://www.genesimmons.com/
video/cw11ny/index.html

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Revenge Diorama
From: Peter K.
Posted: July 9, 2008

Thought I'd share some photos of a statue / diorama I recently completed of the Revenge era. I wanted to re-create the band photo on the back of the Revenge album cover. Hope you all enjoy it

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Gene On The Radio In NYC
From: WAXQ
Posted: July 9, 2008

Gene will be in studio on Q1043's The Jim Kerr Rock 'n Roll Morning Show Friday July 11th at 7am to promote Ladies of the Night.

You can listen on-line: http://www.q1043.com/pages/onair/morningshow.html

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See These Bears In Your Yard?
From: Melanie

Posted: July 8, 2008

A quartet of oddly familiar bears have been seen roaming the area. People are advised to maintain a distance of at least 100 feet, unless wearing proper ear protection.

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A KISS For Inspriation
From: Appeal-Democrat
Posted: July 9, 2008

Arboga Elementary School students learning the three Rs — reading, 'riting (writing), and 'rithmetic (arithmetic) — were rockin' and rollin' Monday in preparation for the annual state STAR testing.

"Rock the Test" was the theme as members of the Linda Fire Department, led by Dave Gothrow, did their best impersonation of the band KISS during a morning performance at the school. Gothrow attended Arboga and his son is a kindergartner there.

Each spring, California students in grades 2 through 11 must take a series of tests that comprise the state's STAR (Standardized Testing and Reporting) program. These must be completed 10 days before or after 85 percent of a school's year has passed. Testing at Arboga starts Wednesday.

(In the photo - Members of the Linda Fire Department portray the band KISS on Monday during a rally at Arboga School for STAR (Standardized Testing and Reporting) tests. Photo by Chris Kaufman/Appeal)

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Fans In KISS Masks
From: Todd Geuder

Posted: July 8, 2008

Here's a picture of my family Sunday at the Cincinnati Reds game cheering on the peeps during the 7th inning stretch. The Reds won a 4 game sweep over the Washington Nationals. OH YEAH !!! GO REDS !!!!

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A Cleaned-Up ACE FREHLEY Receives Vindication for His Post-Kiss Career
From: Spinner.com
by Steve Baltin
Posted: July 8, 2008

Once upon a time, ACE FREHLEY stood atop the hard-rock guitar-player mountain, delivering thunderous riffs on KISS staples such as 'Calling Dr. Love,' 'Strutter' and 'Detroit Rock City,' songs that helped lead the makeup-wearing quartet to '70s rock-god status. But while GENE SIMMONS created a business empire that rivaled Disney in merchandising, Frehley went the way of so many '70s rock stars, namely into drugs and drink. It was a point that reached home a few years ago when Simmons started saying publicly he wouldn't work with Frehley again because of the substance abuse.

Today, though, having completed a successful tour, currently working on a new album and being feted by a new generation of guitar slingers, Frehley is getting some sweet vindication. The "Space Ace" talked to Spinner about the wild ways of his past, his own guitar heroes and a recently resurfaced memory of being a roadie for Jimi Hendrix.

Why are people still picking up on the music 30 years after you started?
[more]

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GENE SIMMONS and the Whores He Admires
From: The Village Voice
by Michael Musto
Posted: July 7, 2008

GENE SIMMONS—rocker, reality star, author, and world-famous tongue—called from Germany for our scheduled interview. So how was GENE SIMMONS doing? "I get to be me another day," he responded, blithely. "And that's never a bad thing." Before you go after him with a cartoon buzzsaw, you should know the man's not exaggerating. He's on fire—and not just because he's usually breathing it onstage. All at once, he's started the fourth season of A&E's hit reality show GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels; KISS keeps selling out tours after what he calls "35 years of confounding the critics"; and now he's authored the must-grab book Ladies of the Night, "a personal and historical overview" of the fine art of whoring. Is he a client? "I never have delved, as they say," Simmons swore. But he's apparently researched the subject even more than Eliot Spitzer has. "It's often called the oldest profession in the world," Simmons related, "and it is. At the dawn of man, in what was then known as Eastern Europe in the middle of the Ice Age, one of the first Cro-Magnon females turned to her male counterpart in the cave and said something like, 'Ugh. Why don't you get your hairy ass out there and bring me delicious mastodon meat, and I'll trade you some of mine for some of yours?' "

An exact quote, I'm sure. "The 15-year-old pimply-faced boy next-door," he went on, "wants the sunshine-faced girl next-door, and he'll pay. He always paid and he always will pay. It's not prostitutes as such, but let's be honest—if you take anybody out, you're paying for it. Whether you call it going to dinner or prostitution or even matrimony, you're paying. With marriage, there's traditionally been payment on the way in—a dowry—and on the way out—alimony!" No wonder we gays are fighting for the right to marry: It'll legitimize our whoring!

Anyway, Simmons interviewed tons of 'hos for the book and told me: "They said, 'I love my family and kids, and I'm well-educated. But since I enjoy sex, I thought: Why shouldn't I get paid for it?' And it's on their terms. They decide who they're having sex with and how much they'll charge." And whether to do a skanky music video when their politico client is caught by the big guys.
[more]

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GENE Poster In Kerrang
From: KISSonline
Posted: July 6, 2008

The latest issue of KERRANG! Magazine features this poster of Gene from the Download Festival!

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John Lissauer: "Peter was a talented drummer / songwriter / musician"
From: Rockpages.gr
Posted: July 5, 2008

We continue our year-long KISS special article with the 13th interview with a KISS-related figure.

This week we publish an interview with John Lissauer, the string-conductor of PETER CRISS’ "Out of Control"! Here’s an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: If someone reads the "Out Of Control" credits he can see that you were the string conductor. Do you remember what were exactly your duties and can you describe to us a typical day in the studio?
[more]

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BRUCE KULICK Update
From: Kulick.net
by BRUCE KULICK
Posted: July 4, 2008

Hello everyone! I have had an incredibly busy June, so let me tell you how wild it was in this Message. It is hard for me to do any updates on my site when I am ALL over the place doing what I love most, playing guitar and making music. I was asked to be part of a corporate event with the Rock N Roll Fantasy camp on the Big Island in Hawaii. A very successful software company was doing their big thank you for the hard work their employers did, so they offered the opportunity to sign up for being part of the Fantasy Camp.

Hawaii is simply peaceful, serene, and like the Garden of Eden! The hotel was perfect, food amazing, and the company I did my "rock star" counseling all made the trip a joy. I did get a short time to enjoy the pool, but you know it was work before pleasure. My band along with Elliot Easton from "The Cars" as my co-counselor won the competition at the big show. The set the Fantasy Camp counselor band did was great, and we performed on a stage built IN THE BAY off of the Marriot Hotel on the Big Island. An amazing night was had by all indeed! So, another successful event for the Fantasy Camp, as people who don't realize what it is to play on stage and make music, ham it up and go crazy from how playing or singing music can make you feel.

Read the rest at www.kulick.net

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Happy Fourth Of July
From: KISS
Posted: July 4, 2008

We wish everyone a happy and safe July 4th. Let's all remember the meaning of this day and celebrate all the great American heroes who won our independence and those who continue to keep us free.

Paul, Gene, Tommy & Eric

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GENE Book Signings In NYC And LA
From: GeneSimmons.com
Posted: July 3, 2008

GENE SIMMONS launches his new book, Ladies of the Night, with the following book signings in Los Angeles and New York:

Los Angeles Signing info:

Date: July 8th
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: BORDERS BOOKS
1360 Westwood Blvd
Westwood, CA 90024

New York Signing info:

Date: July 11th
Time:12:30 p.m.
Location: BARNES & NOBLE
555 Fifth Ave (46th Street)
New York, NY 10011

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Photos From Milan
From: Saudi Arabian KISS Army
Posted: July 2, 2008

These photos were taken at the KISS Milan concert (Alive35 Tour) on the 24th of June, 2008 by the Saudi Arabian KISS Army members who attended the concert.


[more]

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What's New In KISS Collecting
ERIC CARR Audiograph
From: Celebrity Voice Signatures
Posted: July 1, 2008

Paul Caravello (a.k.a. ERIC CARR, "The Fox"), was the first "replacement" member of KISS; he followed PETER CRISS, who played the drums for KISS in the 1970s. He was somewhat quiet and reserved, and approached his role in the band with dedication and professionalism, grateful for the position he had been awarded.

In our first Audiograph product for ERIC CARR, listen to the KISS drummer recall his audition to replace PETER CRISS and how he helped create The Fox character.

Limited Edition. Individually numbered series of only 200 pieces! (Audio is approximately 60 seconds long. Frame is 17.25"H x 12"W x 1.875"D. Photograph is 8x10".)

Listen to the audio clip here

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What's New In KISS Collecting
KISS Alive 35 Gold Record
From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: July 1, 2008

Just released today - The much anticipated KISS ALIVE 35 GOLD RECORD. Limited edition of 2,500. An absolutely beautiful presentation of the Alive 35 tour. 24kt gold-plated record surrounded by an amazing photographic background. 20" x 26" black metal frame.

$199 at KISSmuseum.com

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Chris Caffery, More Added to VINNIE VINCENT Tribute
From: SplitScreenEntertainment.com
Posted: July 1, 2008

Six additional musicians have been confirmed for the upcoming tribute album "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To VINNIE VINCENT."

Guitarist/keyboardist Paul LaPlaca (Zandelle, Z02, Chris Caffery solo band) has been tapped to contribute a dark interpretation of the foreboding KISS track "Unholy." Chris Caffery himself (Savatage, Trans Siberian Orchestra) will perform the guitar solo with drums provided by Dennis Leeflang (Sun Caged, Epica, Bumblefoot solo band). Penned by VINNIE VINCENT and GENE SIMMONS, the song is one of three Vincent co-writes to appear on KISS' "Revenge" album from 1992, nearly a decade after his departure from the band.

Also confirmed for the tribute is a new recording of the VINNIE VINCENT Invasion anthem "Boyz Are Gonna Rock" by Mike Weeks, guitarist on the most recent solo album by original Invasion vocalist Robert Fleischman. Joining Weeks on the track are former Nitro bassist T.J. Racer and drummer Andre LaBelle, who appeared alongside Fleischman on the unreleased third VINNIE VINCENT album "Guitars from Hell."
[more]

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Live Photos From Belgium
From: KISSonline
photos by Hiro Shiga
Posted: July 1, 2008

Check out these awesome KISS photos from Saturday's show in Dessel, Belgium!


[more]

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Musicians Try Hand At New Outlet
From: Gannett News Service
by Marco R. Dellacava

Posted: July 1, 2008

Kiss singer PAUL STANLEY fell into a funk after his 2001 divorce. His lifeline was unexpected: a paintbrush.

"Pouring out how I feel onto a canvas is both solitary and cathartic," says Stanley, whose dabbling has turned serious. His art sales topped $2 million last year, and a new exhibit of his work is set for July 25-26 at the Wentworth Gallery in King of Prussia, Pa.

Stanley is just one in a long line of musical innovators who've made a name for themselves in the art world.
[more]

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Looking for more KISS News? Here's a link to last month's News Archive