Kiss is one of the biggest and most recognizable rock bands in the world. Their farewell tour and final shows drew millions of fans to venues around the world. However, not everyone is a fan. Some don’t like the music they create. Others can’t get past the band’s space-age costumes and face paint. Those people see the band’s gimmick and dismiss them before looking into the music. Legendary guitarist and songwriter Carlos Santana is in that camp.
The co-founder of Santana has been wowing fans with his blend of rock and Latin American jazz since the late ‘60s. His guitar chops have inspired countless players to pick up the instrument and gave them goals for their sound. While he has collaborated with several other musicians over the years, fans likely won’t see him teaming up with Gene Simmons or the other members of Kiss.
Carlos Santana once fired shots at Kiss in general and Gene Simmons in particular. “He’s not a musician, he’s an entertainer,” Santana said of Simmons. “A musician is John Coltrane, Bob Marley. Kiss is Las Vegas entertainment, so he wouldn’t know what music is anyway. That’s why he wears all that stuff,” he added
Then, Santana explained his position. “A musician doesn’t need the mask and the mascara so there’s a difference between an entertainer and a musician,” he explained.
Gene Simmons heard Carlos Santana’s criticism of Kiss and responded. Initially, he was understanding. “Not everyone likes the same meal,” he said, comparing music to food. Later, though, he was a little less kind in his comments. He fired shots at Santana as well as other musicians who didn’t have over-the-top stage shows.