The rock world mourns “The Spaceman”
The world of rock and roll is reeling from the loss of an icon, as news broke Thursday afternoon of the death of Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the legendary band Kiss, at the age of 74. Known to millions as “The Spaceman,” Frehley’s signature cosmic makeup, electrifying stage presence, and iconic, melodic guitar work inspired generations of musicians.
An outpouring of tributes quickly followed, with former bandmates and rock legends reflecting on his profound influence on music history. Frehley died peacefully in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by his family, following a recent fall and health complications.
Despite a famously tumultuous history, Frehley’s surviving original bandmates offered emotional statements honoring his essential role in Kiss’s legacy.
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley released a joint statement expressing their devastation: “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of Kiss’s legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
They also shared their own thoughts with Stanley, posting a picture of him and Frehley in Hollywood.
“I remember 1974 being in my room at the Hyatt on Sunset in LA and I heard someone playing deep and fiery guitar in the room next door. I thought “Boy, I wish THAT guy was in the band!” I looked over the balcony… He was. It was Ace. This is my favorite photo of us…” Stanley writes on X.
Simmons shared his condolences on X, writing, “Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
Original Kiss drummer Peter Criss posted a deeply personal message to his website and social media, stating, “With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well. I love you my brother. As a founding member of the rock group Kiss and in Ace’s solo career, Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the Kiss Army.”
Bruce Kulick, who served as Kiss’s lead guitarist in the years following Frehley’s first departure, also paid tribute. “The news of Ace’s passing is devastating to the world of rock,” he wrote. “He was one of a kind and truly an iconic guitar player. His undeniable role in the creation and success of Kiss cannot be forgotten… he influenced millions of guitarists around the world. RIP.”
Frehley’s influence spanned generations and genres, evident in the reactions from prominent figures across the music landscape.
Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello called Frehley his “first guitar hero” in a post, stating, “The legendary Space Ace Frehley inspired generations to love rock n roll and love rock’n’roll guitar playing. His timeless riffs and solos, the billowing smoke coming from his Les Paul, the rockets shooting from his headstock, his cool spacey onstage wobble and his unforgettable crazy laugh will be missed but will never be forgotten. Thank you, Ace for a lifetime of great music and memories.”
Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready shared a touching personal story, writing on his band’s Facebook page, “I would not have picked up a guitar without Ace and Kiss’s influence… I studied his solos endlessly over the years… Ace was a hero of mine and also I would consider a friend. RIP it out Ace, you changed my life.”
Poison frontman Bret Michaels remembered a shared connection, writing on Facebook, “Ace, my brother, I surely cannot thank you enough for the years of great music, the many festivals we’ve done together and your lead guitar on Nothing But A Good Time. All my love and respect, from my family and myself – may you rest in peace!!!”
Chic’s Nile Rodgers recalled an early encounter, tweeting, “Ace RIP was the 1st person I met when we were forming Chic! @KISS were playing at a spot called Le Jardin. Without his makeup nobody recognized him as he sat at my table. Only a few minutes before the crowd were losing their shit over him. I learned a lot that night. Truly historic #rock ”
Guitar virtuoso Steve Vai praised his unique artistry, sharing on X, “Ace Frehley was the embodiment of rock ‘n’ roll attitude — unapologetic, loud, and irresistibly catchy. His riffs had swagger, his tone had bite, and his presence lit up stages like a supernova. The Spaceman has left the stage, but his orbit will shine forever.”
Frehley, known for his work on classics like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” and his solo hit “New York Groove,” was a key force in defining the spectacle of 1970s hard rock. His death comes just months before he, along with the other original Kiss members, was slated to be honored at the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in December.
As the rock community grapples with the loss, the consensus is clear: the legacy of “The Spaceman” is one of groundbreaking music, undeniable swagger, and an inspiration that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
