VACAVILLE — Paul Stanley, rhythm guitarist/singer/songwriter for the rock band KISS, made an appearance Tuesday in Vacaville at Rock & Brews, the chain of restaurants he, along with bandmate Gene Simmons and others, founded.
The purpose of Stanley’s appearance was twofold: to promote the rock-themed restaurant and to honor military members, 200 of whom were treated to a free luncheon.
Stanley’s career with KISS goes back more than four decades and includes selling more than 75 million records worldwide. In addition to his time spent touring while wearing the band’s iconic makeup and recording both band and solo albums, Stanley has indulged in other interests.
They include writing a memoir, performing on Broadway in the title role of “The Phantom of the Opera,” touring with Paul Stanley’s Soul Station, which plays classic Motown and other R & B hits, creating fine art paintings and working with an organization called About Face that helps children born with facial differences.
Stanley answered a few questions for the Daily Republic before the military luncheon Tuesday.
Q: Do you have any stories about how your music helped fans?
A: The stories are so numerous, it’s hard to pick one. I’m thankful the music can be an inspiration to them and something for them to hold on to. It’s great to hear people say I helped get through tough times – getting through school or through a death in the family. It’s always great to know you are an inspiration to people.
Q: Is there a song that you had a difficult time with, going from the original idea to finished song?
A: I don’t think most of my songs are that tough to create once I know what I want to do. Like in the case of “Rock and Roll All Nite” somebody brought up the idea that we should have an anthem. Once it was explained to me that it would be something that people could rally around and get behind, I went back to my hotel and came up with “I want to rock and roll all nite and party every day.” It kind of summed up what the band was about and what the fan experience was. I don’t labor over songs. I don’t just spit them out, either, but I don’t work them into the ground.
Q: How did you get involved with About Face?
A: I was born with virtually no ear on my right side and was on that side. I had it corrected in my 30s. I support any organization that helps people deal with facial differences. Whenever I meet children with difficulties, it’s always good to tell them that I may not walk in their shoes, but I’ve had similar dealings. It’s important to be realistic with children. Some parents sometimes think it’s better to tell a child they are just like everybody else, but they are not just like everybody else. So better to say life is tougher for some people than others, but it can have a really happy ending. You just have to struggle and you are not alone.
Q: What do you think about television music contest shows or YouTube sensations compared to how Kiss created an audience?