Kiss Pays Emotional Tribute to Ace Frehley at First Concert Since Guitarist’s Death

In a night brimming with raw emotion and rock ‘n’ roll energy, Kiss paid a moving tribute to their former guitarist, Ace Frehley, during their first live performance since his passing. The iconic band took the stage at Madison Square Garden in New York City, delivering a concert that balanced their signature theatrics with heartfelt moments honoring Frehley’s legacy.

A Night of Nostalgia and Tribute

Kiss kicked off the show with their trademark pyrotechnics, face paint, and high-energy antics, but the most unforgettable moment came when Paul Stanley paused to address the crowd.

“Tonight, we play not just for you, but for our brother Ace,” Stanley said, his voice heavy with emotion. The audience responded with a sea of lighters and phone flashlights, creating a poignant tribute to the late guitarist.

The band then performed a stripped-down version of Shock Me, one of Frehley’s most iconic songs with Kiss. A single spotlight illuminated the space where Frehley once stood, leaving fans visibly moved.

Fans and Rock Legends React

The tribute resonated deeply, with social media flooding with reactions from fans and fellow musicians.

• Slash (Guns N’ Roses): “Ace was a pioneer. Tonight, Kiss showed why they’re legends—honoring him with class and power.”
• Fan @RockNRollSoul: “Grew up with Kiss and Ace. This hits hard. Thank you for remembering him the right way.”

Frehley, who passed away last month at 73, was a founding member of Kiss and a key architect of their early sound. His electrifying solos and spaceman persona made him a fan favorite, and his influence extended far beyond the band’s heyday.

Ace Frehley’s Enduring Legacy

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, Ace joined Kiss in 1973 and quickly became known for his wild stage presence and unparalleled guitar work. Hits like Cold Gin and his solo hit New York Groove solidified his place in rock history.

Though he left Kiss in 1982 and had a complicated relationship with the band, mutual respect remained. In recent years, Frehley had been open about his health struggles but stayed active in music, releasing solo work and making guest appearances.

What’s Next for Kiss?

The Madison Square Garden show was part of Kiss’s ongoing End of the Road farewell tour, which has faced pandemic-related delays. The band has announced additional tour dates across Europe and Asia, promising more explosive performances.

For fans, the tribute was a moment of closure.

“Ace may be gone, but his spirit is in every note they play,” said longtime fan Maria Gonzalez. “Tonight wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of his life.”

As the final chords of Rock and Roll All Nite faded, one thing was clear: Ace Frehley’s legacy lives on—in music and in the hearts of fans worldwide.

Stay tuned for more updates on Kiss’s tour and music tributes.