https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/sound-up-with-mark/paul-stanley-VaXbJDcpf4n/embed/#

During an appearance on the “Sound Up!” podcast with Mark Goodman and Alan Light, KISS guitarist/vocalist Paul Stanley was asked if “a lot of the negativity” surrounding the band fades away when he reflects on KISS‘s 50-year run, particularly as it relates to former members. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): “I don’t see a lot of negativity. People talk about the glass half empty or half full. I see it overflowing. I mean, I don’t have any negative memories because everything that happens both happens for a reason and is part of the end result. So, if you’re living with bitterness or anger, it means you haven’t gotten past it. And I have nothing but good things to say about everybody who’s been in the band. And we couldn’t have made it without all of them. Everybody contributed something, and certainly Ace [Frehley, original KISS guitarist] and Peter [Criss, original KISS drummer], above everyone else, are the foundation of this. So, whatever spats there have been, or whatever bickering, I put it in perspective. If you win the lottery, you don’t complain about taxes.”

Back in March 2023, radio host Howard Stern asked Stanley why he and fellow original KISS member Gene Simmons didn’t perform with Frehley and Criss at the band’s 2014 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction. Stanley said: “[The Rock Hall organizers] were demanding, quite honestly, that we play with the two original guys, Peter and Ace, and at this point, that would be demeaning to the [most recent KISS] band, and also would give some people confusion. ‘Cause if you saw people on stage who looked like KISS but sounded like that, maybe we should be called PISS.”

Kiss was certainly one of the most successful and popular rock bands of the 1970s, as judged by album, ticket, and merchandise sales, in addition to their influence on future rock generations. However, the original lineup of Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss began fracturing by the end of the decade, and over the next two years, half the original lineup was out the door.

During an interview with the Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan Podcast, Simmons looked back on this era of the band. And discussed why when the ’80s hit, Frehley and Criss did not remain with the group much longer.

“While the band was sane and playing on stage, there was the ‘All for one, one for all’ [attitude],” Simmons said (transcribed by Ultimate Guitar). “Once Peter and Ace…bless them, and they were equally important for the formation of the band.”

“But not everybody’s designed in their DNA to run marathons. Most people — it’s difficult to keep a band lineup, as you know. And so once Ace and Peter succumbed to the weaknesses, the drugs and the alcohol and all that, there was trouble in paradise.”

The Kiss bassist then recalled a decision that looking back, marked a turning point in Kiss’ fortunes during the early part of the ’80s, which led to the group having to unmask in 1983 to get their career back on track.

“And then you throw flammables into the flame, and society starts to change. And new generations come up, and disco comes up. ‘Well, maybe we should do a [disco] song.’ And everybody fell victim: Rod Stewart, the Stones, everyone. So that starts to change.”

Of course, the tune Simmons is referring to is “I Was Made for Lovin’ You“, which although when originally released in 1979 turned off many of the group’s hard rock fans, has proven to be one of Kiss’ most popular tunes. And has possessed enduring popularity, as it reached #1 on Billboard’s Top TV Songs chart in 2024 and #2 on Billboard’s Hard Rock Digital Song Sales chart in 2025.

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Officially licensed.  Measures 3 x 2 inches. Made with highly durable zinc alloy.  Looks amazing in person.

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It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Karl Cochran, a beloved guitarist, songwriter, and cherished resident of Bridgewater, New Jersey. Karl passed away suddenly in a car accident, leaving his family, friends, and fans in shock and mourning. His untimely death marks the end of an extraordinary musical journey that touched the lives of countless people around the world.

Karl Cochran was not only known for his exceptional talent as a guitarist but also for his kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty as a friend. For those who were fortunate enough to know him, Karl was more than just a musician—he was a confidant, a mentor, and a cherished companion.

One of his closest friends shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling the daily 6:00 am phone calls they shared for the past five to six years. These early morning conversations covered everything from sports and politics to music and life’s daily challenges. The bond they shared was a testament to Karl’s caring nature and his unwavering commitment to staying connected with his loved ones. His friend fondly remembered teasing Karl if he ever called at 6:01 am, holding him to the punctuality they both cherished. The absence of his call the morning after his passing was a painful reminder of the void left behind.

Karl Cochran NJ Death Obituary: Bridgewater Guitarist & Songwriter Passes Away in a Car Accident

Karl’s musical career was nothing short of legendary. A stellar musician, he played with numerous iconic bands and was revered by his peers for his extraordinary talent and passion for music. Karl was known for his work with KISS’ Ace Frehley, co-writing the song “Into The Void” on the “Psycho Circus” album. He also collaborated with Joe Lynn Turner, Nuclear Assault, The Eric Singer Project, and many others. Wherever he went, Karl’s presence was felt, and his reputation as a gifted guitarist preceded him.

Karl’s contributions to the world of rock and roll are immeasurable. He was admired not only for his remarkable musical abilities but also for his genuine humility and kind spirit. Fellow musicians and fans alike have taken to social media to express their sorrow and pay tribute to his legacy. One post read, “May you play again in heaven with Jimi, Jeff, BB, and Les and all your rock & roll heroes! You will always be my platinum star up there, my friend, and you will be dearly missed.”

Karl’s journey was not without challenges. In 2014, he suffered a serious stroke that left him in a coma. With incredible strength and resilience, he fought his way back to recovery, inspiring those around him with his courage and determination. Despite the adversity he faced, Karl continued to pursue his passion for music, never allowing his struggles to define him. His journey of perseverance and bravery remains an inspiration to all who knew him.

Beyond his musical achievements, Karl was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Geri, and a loyal friend to many. His love for his family was unwavering, and his bond with his wife was a testament to his kind and loving nature. Geri, their daughter Arna, and the rest of his family are in the hearts and prayers of everyone who loved Karl. The outpouring of condolences from friends, fans, and fellow musicians reflects the deep impact Karl had on so many lives.

Karl was not only a remarkable musician but also a wonderful human being whose kindness, generosity, and humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His legacy as a guitarist and songwriter will live on through his music, while his legacy as a friend, husband, and father will continue to be cherished by those who loved him.

As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary soul, we also celebrate his life and the joy he brought to so many. Karl’s music will continue to inspire generations to come, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his presence. His passing is a profound loss to the music world and to the countless lives he impacted throughout his journey.

Karl Cochran will always be remembered as a brilliant musician, a devoted husband, a loyal friend, and a kind soul whose light shone brightly in the lives of those around him. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy will continue to live on through his music, his memories, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Rest in peace, Karl Cochran. You were truly one of a kind, and you will be deeply missed. May your music echo through eternity, and may your spirit find peace in the company of the rock & roll legends you admired. Your legacy will live on forever, and your memory will be cherished by all who were blessed to know you.

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Russ Ballard has shared a video for his new rendition of “God Gave Rock N’ Roll To You”, the song that he penned that was a hit for both Argent and KISS.

Ballard had this to say, “It reflected the optimism I felt at the time, with lines like ‘love your friend, love your neighbour, love your life and love your labour, it’s never too late to change your mind.’ It was a hit for Argent and a hit for KISS 18 years later when it was included in the film ‘Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey.'”

This new rendition of “God Gave Rock N’ Roll To You” follows Russ’s recent release of a new version of “New York Groove”, which was a hit for KISS guitarist Ace Frehley on his 1978 solo album.

Freeman Promotions shared this background info on Russ: Ballard is simply one of the most renowned and gifted songwriters in pop and rock music. His music career started when he was only 14 years old, and he wrote a tune, which was recorded by The Shadows, appearing on their album, ‘The Sound Of The Shadows’ in 1964.

During the 70s and 80s, his songs ruled the airwaves, and the list of hits is pretty much endless. From “Since You Been Gone” (Rainbow), “God Gave Rock’n’Roll To You” (Argent and KISS), “So You Win Again” (Hot Chocolate), “New York Groove” (Hello and Ace Frehley), “You Can Do Magic” (America), “Winning” (Santana) or “I Don’t Believe In Miracles” (Colin Blunstone) – just to name a few – everyone who needed a great song knew that with RUSS BALLARD they could not go wrong.

Numerous records/artists were also produced by him, like Roger Daltrey, America, Elkie Brooks, Skindred or Sada Vidoo. In 1974, he started a solo career (after his stint with the band Argent in early 70’s), which had its highest momentum with the ‘S/t’ album in 1984 (which included the hit single “Voices”) and the follow up “The Fire Still Burns”.

Since then, BALLARD has released 10 studio albums and is still writing and producing hits. Three songs from his 1984 and 1985 albums were featured in the TV show “Miami Vice” and were extensively played on dance floors around Europe.

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KISS guitarist and vocalist Paul Stanley discussed his adjustment to life after the band’s “End Of The Road” farewell tour, which concluded over a year ago, during a recent appearance on the debut episode of the “Stories To Tell With Richard Marx” podcast..

“There are people who are touring constantly because they’re empty and because they need that audience positive response. Years ago for me, probably decades ago, that may have been the case,” Stanley said (as transcribed by Blabbermouth). “At this point, it’s been incredibly gratifying. The last tour was just a chance to really take in how valuable and how much this meant to me. But I couldn’t keep doing it any more than Michael Jordan could.

“I’ve always been more than a musician or performer — I’ve been an athlete — and you realize that you can only do that so long. I’ve been blessed to do it into my 70s, which if you told me that 50 years ago, I’d say you’re out of your mind. So, yeah, I miss it, but I don’t crave it. I think the people who really crave it are the ones who don’t find other means for gratification either from other people or self-gratification, whether it’s, for me, painting or my family or friends.

“I think ultimately, hopefully, I would hope that most people find that in life, at some point, you start to narrow down what’s really important,” he continued. “And ultimately, what’s important is family, friends and how you feel about yourself. You face yourself every day when those crowds aren’t there. It doesn’t matter whether there’s 20,000 or 100,000 people, if you don’t like who you see in the mirror, it’s kind of meaningless.

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KISS celebrate 50 Years of their anthem “Strutter” with an ultra-rare “Pure Gold Edition” and limited “Gold-Plated Edition” playable 24-Karat gold records.

Los Angeles, CA – February 18, 2025 – The #1 most Gold-awarded U.S. artist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame© Inductees KISS, proudly present “Strutter” on a limited-edition, playable gold records in honor of 50 years of the single available now. KISS partners with Precious Sound to produce two versions—the ultra-rare Pure Gold Edition and the Gold-Plated Edition.

As the ultimate KISS precious metal collectible, the world’s first-ever Pure Gold Edition playable disc will be limited to only 5 copies worldwide pressed from eight ounces of pure .999 24-karat gold. These 5-inch records are specifically remastered for gold playback on any manual turntable system. The A-side boasts the playable grooves, a rim engraving with each record’s unique edition number as well as the KISS logo adorned with Swarovski crystals and the B-side celebrates the original Casablanca single label etched into the gold with proof-quality finish. The package features a luxurious coffee table display case bound in sustainable faux leather with gold foil accents and a Swarovski crystals KISS logo. The two-drawer case is hand-crafted to preserve this everlasting record for a lifetime. One drawer houses a protective sapphire crystal glass capsule and the other holds an exclusive book signed by Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley. Other accessories in the set range from the gold-accented pen utilized to sign the respective book, a laser-engraved and numbered metal certificate of authenticity, a custom-made cork record mat for optimal playback, and a microfiber cleaning cloth. Each pressing is made-to-order.

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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.

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Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley built KISS from the ground up in 1973, turning it into one of the biggest rock bands in history. For over 50 years, they’ve been the band’s backbone, handling songwriting, business deals, and licensing rights as equal partners. But despite this shared control, Simmons has amassed a significantly larger fortune than Stanley. So what’s behind this financial gap?

As the frontman and rhythm guitarist, Paul Stanley helped define KISS’ sound and stage presence. He played a major role in writing some of the band’s biggest anthems, including ‘Rock and Roll All Nite’ and ‘Detroit Rock City.’ His contributions solidified his place as the face of KISS alongside Simmons.

Outside of the band, Stanley has explored various creative and business ventures. He released a self-titled solo album in 1978, followed by ‘Live to Win’ in 2006, which peaked at No. 53 on the Billboard 200. In 1999, he stepped into musical theater, starring as the Phantom in the Toronto production of ‘The Phantom of the Opera.’ He also found success in the art world, selling paintings for substantial sums. These endeavors, combined with KISS’ massive earnings, have built Stanley’s net worth to an estimated $200 million.

Gene Simmons is more than just KISS’ bassist—he’s a businessman through and through. While the band’s record sales, exceeding 100 million worldwide, contribute to his wealth, his real advantage lies in branding and marketing.

Since the ‘70s, Simmons has been the driving force behind KISS’ merchandising empire. With over 5,000 officially licensed products—including action figures, pinball machines, and even KISS-branded coffins—he helped generate more than $1 billion in licensing revenue.

Beyond KISS, Simmons has built multiple revenue streams. His reality show, ‘Gene Simmons Family Jewels,’ ran for seven seasons, bringing in substantial income. He also dabbled in film production, launching ‘Detroit Rock City’ in 1999, and made countless TV appearances. On top of that, he’s made millions from high-paid speaking engagements and consulting work. With all these ventures combined, Simmons’ net worth stands at an impressive $400 million—double Stanley’s fortune.

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February 18, 1974 – Kiss release their self-titled debut album on Casablanca Records. Warner Bros. dissolved their deal with the record label after the band refused to remove their makeup.  The album initially sold only 75,000 copies, although now it is certified Gold.

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Kiss star Gene Simmons says it very simply: “I’ve always loved and admired Black Sabbath. And can proudly say the early days of touring together will be a lifelong memory.”

But as he admits, there was a fierce rivalry between Sabbath and Kiss during their brief time together on a US tour in 1974.

Gene recalls: “The Sabbath of 1974 had all the adrenaline of a new band in a strange land doing what they believe in. There was no question Sabbath was going to do things their own way. Love them or hate them, this would be a band that would mark its own territory like an animal.

“Kiss was touring on its first album. We got an opening slot, thankfully, on the Sabbath tour… but only for three or four shows.

It was at the Boston Theater in 1974, if memory serves me correctly…

“I was backstage fully made-up and ready to go out on stage with the band. Standing next to me was the great Geezer Butler. All five feet six inches of him! In my platform heels, I stood at about six feet nine inches tall.

“It’s in my DNA – once the war paint was on, I became The Demon. And Geezer didn’t quite know what to make of me.

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The Stylistics have released a new single, ‘Yes, I Will’, featuring Shania Twain ahead of their upcoming album, Falling In Love With My Girl.

Legendary Philadelphia R&B group The Stylistics have released a Valentine’s Day single with the iconic Shania Twain.

Yes, I Will’ was written by Twain, and is the lead single from The Stylistics’ first album in nearly twenty years – Falling In Love With My Girl. The album is set to release on February 21.

“I’m not known for making soul records but soul has always been a big influence for me musically,” said Twain. “I’m so in awe of The Stylistics for their natural talent and effortless delivery.”

“I fell in love with Shania Twain the first time I heard ‘You’re Still the One’ – a great song that I still love,” said Airrion Love, one of three Stylistics members. “When we heard there might be a chance to do something with her we said “Hell yeah!””

Falling In Love With My Girl is set to feature a range of high-profile musicians, including Ronnie Wood of the Rolling Stones, Bill Champlin of Chicago, Gene Simmons of Kiss, Billy F Gibbons of ZZ Top, Justin Hawkins of The Darkness, The Real Thing, and Tower of Power

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Bruce signed these for us in a private signing in Indianapolis, IN 2023. He signed these in blue paint pen. Comes with our Certificate of Authenticity.

Bruce Kulick Promo poster SIT Strings. Measures 17 x 23 inches.

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KISS Band Crew Black Jacket – Silver Embroidered Logo – R.A. Roth Hot In The Shade 1990 Concert Tour – Size Mens LARGE

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KISS is a legendary rock band whose black-and-white painted face and their dramatic gothic-punk aesthetic are recognizable anywhere around the world.

Most can name at least one KISS song, or at minimal describe what they look like as their band image has remained the same since the 1970s. However, many don’t know what the band’s name means, and even if they think they do, they’re probably wrong. For years, there was a longstanding rumor that the band’s name was an acronym for the Knights in Satan’s Service. KISS’ live performances over the years, which included fire-breathing pyrotechnics, smoking guitars, blood-spitting, rockets, and levitating drums could’ve contributed to the idea that the band embraced dark forces.

But KISS’ co-lead vocalist Paul Stanley revealed on the Howard Stern Show that the belief was untrue, shutting down the rumor once and for all.

In actuality, the band’s name originated from another band’s name. The name KISS came to Paul when he and his bandmates, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss were driving around New York. During their car ride, Peter had mentioned he’d been in a band called Lips.

According to the American Songwriter website, Paul suggested something like, “What about Kiss?” Shortly after that, fellow group member Ace Frehley designed the iconic logo, making the ending “SS” appear like lightning bolts.

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Music is just one part of the experience—it always has been and always will be. A band’s sound is crucial, but so is the way they present themselves. Take Kiss, for example. When you listen to them, you hear heavy, electrifying, guitar-driven rock. But when you see them, it’s a whole different story—they look almost possessed, covered in makeup, surrounded by flames, and commanding every inch of the stage.

When Gene Simmons discussed the decision to wear makeup as they did, he said The Beatles initially inspired them because of their look and sound. He liked the idea that no matter what music they made or where in the world they went, there would be no doubt that Kiss was a musical collective, borderline joined at the hip.

We also took pride in having the same freedom The Beatles had,” said Gene Simmons. “ Their philosophy was, ‘No matter what kind of music we do, it’s still The Beatles’. That’s what was amazing about them… The Beatles were not trapped in that way. They could do music hall, psychedelia – anything – and they did. Yet somehow, it always sounded like The Beatles.”

While Simmons might be adamant that The Beatles were one of the biggest influences on Kiss, Ace Frehley would probably disagree. Like so many guitarists at the time, Frehley found himself in awe at Jimi Hendrix the first time he heard his music, blown away by his guitar-playing ability and the poetic nature of his lyrics. The first album that he listened to by Jimi Hendrix was Are You Experienced?, which completely took over his life.

“I was about 16 when I first heard it. I remember walking around with it all the time. I brought it to school with me and showed it to everyone,” he recalled. “I brought it to band rehearsals. I lived with that album until someone ripped it off at a party. Of course, I went right out and bought another one. My guitar style was modelled after a lot of musicians, and Hendrix was definitely one of them.”

Of course, Frehley was drawn to more than just Hendrix’s sound; it was his whole performance. Jimi Hendrix wasn’t just renowned for playing the guitar, but he was well respected as one of the most flamboyant and entertaining performers out there. He would play the guitar behind the back of his head with his teeth and set it on fire. A lot of the pyrotechnics and stage presence that Frehley went on to champion in his career can be directly linked to Hendrix. As a fan, it wasn’t long before Frehley went to see Hendrix live, but he became more integral to the gig than he originally thought.

“I got a chance to meet him when I was 18. I snuck backstage at his last New York appearance at Randall’s Island, and they ended up putting me to work with the road crew,” he remembered. “Back then, they didn’t have laminates or heads of security, and if you looked like you belonged with the band, they let you go backstage. I had hair down to my waist, lemon-yellow hot pants and a black T-shirt with a snakeskin star on it, so they let me in.”

He concluded, “But after a while, they were like, ‘Who is this fuckin’ guy?’ But before they kicked me out, they said, ‘Can you do anything?’ And they put me to work setting up Mitch Mitchell’s drums and working on the stage when Jimi was playing. It was bizarre.”

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