Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, co-founder and legendary lead guitarist of the rock band Kiss, has passed away at 74 due to injuries sustained from a fall last month, his family confirmed in a statement.
Frehley, known to millions of fans as “Space Ace,” was one of the most iconic and influential figures in rock history, helping to define the sound and spectacle of 1970s arena rock. His family released a heartfelt message announcing his death, saying they were “completely devastated and heartbroken.”
They added, “In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever.”
Frehley’s loss marks the end of an era for one of rock’s most theatrical and recognizable bands. Kiss, with their trademark face paint, elaborate costumes, and explosive stage shows, redefined live rock performance.
The group released their debut album Kiss in 1974, featuring Frehley’s composition “Cold Gin.” Though their early records found modest success, it was their 1975 live album, Kiss Alive!, that turned them into rock icons. The live version of “Rock and Roll All Nite” became an anthem for the decade and remains one of rock’s most enduring songs.
Frehley’s guitar playing was crucial to Kiss’s success. His solos on songs like “Shock Me,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “Parasite” showcased a style that was both technically impressive and emotionally raw. Unlike many of his peers, Frehley emphasized melody and atmosphere over pure speed, and his use of effects pedals helped pioneer a sound that influenced countless future guitarists.
After leaving Kiss in 1982 to pursue a solo career, Frehley formed the band Frehley’s Comet and released several albums that blended hard rock, blues, and a touch of humor. His 1978 self-titled solo album, released alongside solo records from each Kiss member, remains a fan favorite — particularly for his hit cover of “New York Groove,” which became a Top 20 single and a staple of his live shows for decades.
Frehley’s relationship with Kiss was often turbulent. He rejoined the original lineup for the band’s 1996 reunion tour, which was a massive commercial success, drawing millions of fans and reigniting interest in the group’s early years.
However, creative and personal differences led to his second departure in 2002. Despite their ups and downs, his bandmates frequently acknowledged Frehley’s irreplaceable role in the group’s sound and image.
Born on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, Frehley grew up in a working-class, musical family. He received his first electric guitar as a Christmas gift in 1964 and was immediately hooked.
Without taking formal lessons, he taught himself to play by studying records by Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Led Zeppelin. His friends nicknamed him “Ace” for his reputation as a ladies’ man — a name that would later become legendary.
Before Kiss, Frehley played in several local bands, including Cathedral and Molimo, developing his stage presence and signature tone. His big break came in late 1972, when he answered an ad in The Village Voice seeking a lead guitarist for a new band. Famously, he showed up to the audition wearing mismatched sneakers — one red and one orange — but his playing blew away Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. The trio invited him to join, and Kiss was officially born in January 1973.
The band faced skepticism from New York’s elite rock circles early on. Frehley worked as a cab driver to pay the bills while the group struggled to find an audience. That changed after meeting manager Bill Aucoin in 1973, who helped transform Kiss into a visual and commercial powerhouse.
With their explosive stage shows — featuring fire, smoke, blood-spitting, and Frehley’s famous smoking guitar — Kiss captured the imagination of young fans around the world.
By the mid-1970s, Kiss had become a cultural phenomenon. Their faces adorned lunchboxes, comic books, and action figures. Teenagers painted their faces like their heroes, while parents fretted about the band’s outrageous image.
Frehley’s “Space Ace” persona stood out even among the group’s wild characters, embodying both humor and mystery. His distinctive silver makeup became one of the most recognizable symbols in rock.
Even after his departures from Kiss, Frehley continued to record and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase. His later albums — including Anomaly (2009) and Spaceman (2018) — were well received by fans and critics alike, proving that his creative spark never dimmed.
