Behind the Makeup: An Exclusive Interview with KISS’ Ace Frehley
When it comes to rock ‘n’ roll legends, few names shine as brightly as KISS. With their iconic makeup, electrifying performances, and a career spanning over four decades, the band has left an indelible mark on music history. Today, we have the incredible opportunity to sit down with none other than Ace Frehley, the lead guitarist and founding member of KISS. Fasten your seatbelts as we dive into a fun and fascinating conversation about life, music, and what it’s like to be a member of the hottest band in the world!
The Magic of Makeup
Interviewer: Ace, thank you for joining us! Let’s start with the iconic KISS makeup. How did you come up with the Spaceman persona?
Ace Frehley: Well, first off, thank you for having me! The Spaceman, or as some call me, ‘Space Ace,’ was born from my fascination with science fiction and space travel. I always wanted to be an astronaut as a kid, and when it came time to create my stage persona, I thought, “Why not combine rock and roll with a little extraterrestrial flair?” The makeup allows me to be larger than life on stage, and it’s just a blast to see the fans dressed up as us!
On Stage vs. Off Stage
Interviewer: That’s awesome! Speaking of stage presence, KISS concerts are a spectacle like no other. What’s the biggest difference between Ace Frehley on stage and Ace Frehley off stage?
Ace Frehley: Ah, that’s a great question! On stage, I’m this larger-than-life character, full of energy and power, feeding off the crowd’s excitement. It’s like I’m in a different world, and I love every second of it. Off stage, I’m just a regular guy who enjoys a quiet evening with a good book or a movie. I think every musician has to have that balance – it keeps you grounded!
Memorable Moments
Interviewer: Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your career with KISS?
Ace Frehley: Oh man, there are so many! But one that stands out is when we played at Madison Square Garden for the first time. The energy in that place was electric! I remember looking out at the sea of fans and thinking, “We’ve really made it.” The sound of 20,000 people singing along to “Rock and Roll All Nite” was surreal. It’s moments like that that fuel my passion for what I do.
The KISS Legacy
Interviewer: KISS has such a loyal fan base. What do you think makes KISS so special to your fans?
Ace Frehley: I think it’s the thrill and the escapism that KISS provides. Our music is fun, and it’s all about celebrating life, love, and rock ‘n’ roll. Plus, there’s the whole spectacle of it – the costumes, the fireworks, the guitar solos! We take our fans on a journey, and it’s a journey they never want to end. When they come to see us, they know they’re going to have an unforgettable experience.
Future Adventures
Interviewer: What’s next for you and KISS? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
Ace Frehley: Absolutely! We’re always working on new music. I love to experiment with different sounds and styles while still keeping that classic KISS vibe. And of course, we’ll be hitting the road again soon! I can’t wait to see all the fans again and bring the KISS experience to new cities. Rock and roll will never die!
Advice for Aspiring Rock Stars
Interviewer: Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to make their mark in the industry?
Ace Frehley: My advice is simple: be true to yourself and play what you love. Don’t get caught up in trends; find your sound, and stick to it. And most importantly, have fun! Music is a beautiful form of expression, so enjoy the ride and never lose sight of why you started playing in the first place.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude this delightful chat, it’s clear that Ace Frehley embodies the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. With his passion for music, love for his fans, and a sense of humor that could light up any stage, he continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. So, whether you’re painting your face like the Spaceman or rocking out to “Detroit Rock City,” remember the magic that KISS brings to the world of music.
Rock on, Ace!