Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band KISS, who captivated audiences with his elaborate galactic makeup and smoking guitar, died Thursday. He was 74. Frehley died peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall, according to his agent.
Family members said in a statement that they are 'completely devastated and heartbroken' but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others.
KISS, whose hits included 'Rock and Roll All Nite' and 'I Was Made for Lovin’ You,' was known for its theatrical stage shows, with band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, and signature black-and-white face paint.
As one of KISS's founding members, Frehley was known as 'Space Ace' and 'The Spaceman' and often experimented with pyrotechnics during performances, making his guitars glow and emit smoke. After several conflicts within the band, he left in 1982 but reunited with his bandmates in the mid-1990s for a comeback.
His passing is mourned widely, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians who honored his contributions to the world of rock music.
Family members said in a statement that they are 'completely devastated and heartbroken' but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others.
KISS, whose hits included 'Rock and Roll All Nite' and 'I Was Made for Lovin’ You,' was known for its theatrical stage shows, with band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, and signature black-and-white face paint.
As one of KISS's founding members, Frehley was known as 'Space Ace' and 'The Spaceman' and often experimented with pyrotechnics during performances, making his guitars glow and emit smoke. After several conflicts within the band, he left in 1982 but reunited with his bandmates in the mid-1990s for a comeback.
His passing is mourned widely, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians who honored his contributions to the world of rock music.
