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1973 |
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Gene Simmons
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Paul Stanley
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Eric Singer (drums)
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Tommy Thayer (guitar)
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Peter Criss
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Ace Frehley
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Biography |
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KISS is a New York City-based heavy metal band that became famous in the mid 1970s. KISS was born out of the ashes of Wicked Lester. Although "heavy metal" did not exist when the band was formed in 1972 it can be said that they invented a big part of the sound and style which now belong to heavy metal. The band is known for its elaborate stage shows, loud music, and extravagant costumes. Until 1983 the band never appeared in public without their make-up (which disguised their real identities). The band first appeared without their make-up in 1983 on a MTV news special. They had to remove the makeup to be a viable band of the oblivious 1980s (platform shoes died with disco). KISS put it back on in 1996 for their Alive Worldwide Reunion Tour.
The original members of KISS (and their made-up personas) are Paul Stanley (star child), rhythm guitar/vocals; Gene Simmons (demon), bass/vocals; Ace Frehley (space-ace), lead guitar/vocals; and Peter Criss (catman), drums/vocals. William 'Gui' Aucoin was the original manager 1973-1981. Doc McGhee is the current manager. Sean Delaney was the group's first road manager and creative director.
Originally inspired by the New York Dolls, The Harlots of 42nd Street, and other New York glam scene bands. They felt that the feminine look did not work for them.
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