Kiss

Original Kiss Destroyer Tour Costume Sketches Up For Auction


Brunk Auctions from Asheville, NC, will be auctioning off some KISS (related) items later this month on e-Bay. Included are four original costume sketches (along with handwritten fabrication notes) made by the late Larry LeGaspi from New Jersey. The sketches for these 1976 Destroyer Tour costumes for Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley are all ink over pencil and ink wash on cream paper and come unframed – along with a biograhpy on LeGaspi. Bidding starts at $ 500 and it’s estimated to sell for $ 2,000 – 4,000. The auction kicks off on July 14.

(Thanks Kisskollector.com)

KISS Member Among People Not Letting Terrorism Affect Plans


The following report is courtesy of Tom Campbell from the Richmond Times-Dispatch:

Like other travelers at the Richmond airport yesterday, rock star GENE SIMMONS of KISS seemed unconcerned about security after recent scares in London and Glasgow.

Simmons was in Richmond over the weekend because the IndyCar Series was in town. His company, Simmons Abramson Marketing, promotes IndyCar racing. The SunTrust Indy Challenge ran Saturday night at Richmond International Raceway.

In an apparent terrorist attack Saturday, a blazing Jeep Cherokee crashed into the airport terminal in Glasgow, Scotland, just yards from passengers at check-in counters. Police said they think that attack is linked to two car bombs discovered in London on Friday.

"I had no concern at all [about flying] because of Homeland Security," Simmons said between rounds of posing for photos with fans.

U.S. airports have been at the "orange" threat level, the second-highest on the government's five-level scale, since August 2006, when police in the United Kingdom said they foiled a plot to blow up aircraft bound for the U.S.

Simmons said he does not complain about extra security measures imposed on airport travelers -- even travelers who fly in private or corporate jets. He sidestepped saying whether he was flying commercial from Richmond International Airport yesterday.

He said the war on terrorism is a war of ideas that will last decades, and that it will not end with the death or capture of Osama bin Laden.

"This is a worldwide fight for the minds of Muslim youth," he said.

"I'm a big proponent of the idea that in time of war some individual rights have to be curtailed, and this is a time of war," Simmons said. "I was born in Israel, although I consider America my home. When you come from a small country like that where you're surrounded by people who bear you ill will," you understand drastic measures sometimes must be taken.

Read more here.

(Thanks www.Kissasylum.com)

KISS - Kewadin Casinos Soundcheck Photos, Setlist Available





KISSOnline.com is reporting:

"Here are some photos from KISS' sound check earlier today (July 20th) here at Kewadin Casinos in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The band performed the following songs at sound check:
FREE's
'All Right Now',
'All American Man',
'Parasite',
'Detroit Rock City',
'Makin' Love', parts of 'Two Timer'
'Room Service',
'Hotter Hell',
'Watchin' You',
'God Gave Rock N Roll To You'."

As previously reported, KISS will be playing only three shows this year. Dates are as follows:

July
20 - Sault St. Marie, MI - Kewadin Casinos
21 - Cadott, WI - Rock Fest 2007
27 - San Jacinto, CA - Soboba Casino Arena

KISS Receives City Key To Sault Ste. Marie - Video Available




The following report is courtesy of www.KISSOnline.com and Donna Hopper from www.SooToday.com :

There was fire, smoke, explosions, fireworks and a sea of rabid fans wearing the clothing and make-up of their favourite band in the world.

They belong to the KISS Army and nearly 10,000 of them from around the globe converged on the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Friday night to witness what Mayor Bosbous proclaimed to be KISS Appreciation Day.

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan was one of only three dates scheduled in 2007 for the band with the most loyal fans in rock n' roll history.

Quite an honour indeed.

In a quiet ceremony prior to the show, Ray Bauer bestowed the Key to the City to the members of KISS for their contribution to the music industry, commitment to their craft and undying devotion to their fans.

Click here to watch video from backstage including the band receiving the key to Sault Ste Marie.

KISS Performs As A Trio




The following is courtesy of kissonline.com as well as Louis Antonelli, Jim Lunger, Keith Leroux and Hiro Shiga:

Last night (Friday, July 27th) an extraordinary page was written in KISSTORY. At the Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, California, on the last stop of the band’s 2007 ‘Hit & Run’ mini tour, KISS performed as a trio for the first time ever. Immediately following the band’s sound check, Paul Stanley suddenly fell ill, with what was later determined to be a “cardiac event.”

Once it was determined by emergency medical staff that Paul could not perform, there was talk that the show would need to be cancelled. It was Paul himself, who insisted that the band play the show without him. Paul was concerned that fans had traveled long distances and because of the band's individual schedules the show could not be rescheduled.

KISS Manager Doc McGhee then took the stage to announce to the crowd that Paul was sick and unable to perform but that Gene wanted to speak with the fans. Gene asked the audience if they wanted him, Tommy and Eric to perform. The crowd responded with a deafening chant of yes, yes, yes. With that, Gene announced that the concert (if they could pull it off), was a tribute to “The Greatest Voice in Rock and Roll - Rock God Paul Stanley.”

With Paul en route to the hospital - Gene,Tommy and Eric played their hearts out in honor of their stricken leader! The set list evolved as the night progressed and KISS blasted their way into the hot night air - valiantly trying to hold it together minus the band’s heart and soul. In an emotionally charged moment, Gene told the crowd that he was an only child, but nevertheless had a brother – Paul Stanley! ‘Christine Sixteen' brought 11 invited fans onto the stage to help perform the song, and added a bit of light-hearted fun to the pensive night.

The trio went on to perform a full set including classics and rarities - ‘Watchin’ You’, ‘Goin’ Blind’, ‘Nothing To Lose’, ‘Black Diamond’, ‘Cold Gin’, ‘She’, and ‘Parasite’. The sold out arena was filled with dedicated fans who appreciated what a unique night this really was, despite its bittersweet nature, and rocked hard and loud. As the final chords of ‘Rock And Roll All Night’ were struck, and the last jets of flames and confetti shot into the night sky, everyone realized what they had just witnessed was simply great music performed by dedicated, extraordinary musicians who really gave it their all, and then some.

Earlier today, Paul Stanley issued the following statement:

"During sound check yesterday, my heart spontaneously jumped to 190 plus beats per minute where it stayed for over an hour necessitating paramedics to start an IV and give me a shot to momentarily stop my heart and get it into a normal pattern. Not knowing if this episode was life threatening made it even more exhausting. After consulting with both the paramedics and a cardiologist at Cedar Sinai, they confirmed my worst fear. They said that I would put myself at risk if I tried to do the show.

I’m very proud of Gene, Tommy and Eric for carrying on without me. I apologize to anyone I disappointed and I’ll make it up to you when I see you again.

Paul"

KISS - Nashville Expo Report Available




www.KISSOnline.com reports:

"KISS fans of all ages attended Sunday's 2007 Nashville KISS Fan Expo. KISS drummer Eric Singer spent all day meeting fans, signing autographs and taking photos. Eric also held a lively Q&A session and joined Pearl Drums' reps on stage to raffle off an Eric Singer Signature snare drum! Director Louis Antonelli also held a Q&A that focused on working with Paul on his live concert film.

There were makeup and tattoo contests as well as a KISS game quiz show for prizes. KISSOnline provided prizes including tshirts, license plates and KISSology posters for yet another raffle. Throughout the day fans shopped for all things KISS and chatted with friends - old and new.

KISSOnline had a great time catching up with KISS Fans and KOL supporters. Thanks to all of you who stopped by to inquire about Paul. As promised we passed on all of your comments and best wished to Paul, who was obviously touched by your kindness!

Another fun day hanging out with the greatest fans in the world!

Thanks to Barry Duvall for taking these photos for KOL from today's expo

KISS - Solo Faces Dart Board Available This Fall; Eric Singer Answers Fan Questions




www.KISSOnline.com has issued the following updates:

"Pictured is the KISS Solo Faces Dart Board from KISS Licensee Silver Buffalo.

The Dart Board features a wood cabinet, 18" vinyl dart board area, 2 chalk scoring areas, chalk & cleaning cloth and 6 coated brass darts!

The Dart board will be available at retailers this fall."

Another update sees drummer Eric Singer answering fan questions...

Q: Hi Eric, I have a CD called KISS Indiscreet, a club performance KISS did in Brooklyn just after you joined the band. On that show you used extreme double bass drumming (which was awesome). But as I heard you later in the band, especially on MTV Unplugged you had reverted back to the original patterns of the songs, was it hard to learn these patterns, and as a superb double-bass drummer, was it hard to do single kick-drumming?

A: "Phil, first of all thank you for the email and props... As for double kick or single kick drum usage? It really depends on the band or songs. I am just as comfortable either way and have no problem playing more simplified if needed or asked. It really is about playing for the songs first and if there is more room to stretch then that is kool too! The KISS songs are not that complicated drum wise but rather require the feel and attitude to be more important in my opinion."

Q: Hi Eric, You rock!! My question is which KISS song do you like playing the most and why?

A: "Thanx Figueroa!! I always have liked playing a lot of KISS songs like 'Parasite', 'Got To Choose', 'Cold Gin' or just about anything from the first three records. But, I would have to say 'Do You Love Me' is my fav KISS Klassic because it represents what KISS is all about. Great Rock n Roll song!"

Q: Eric, I'm a big fan of yours and your overall playing style. My question is this - What do you get out of playing with KISS and that style of rock music versus what you have done in the past?

A: "Thanx Danny. I always loved that KISS was a visual band that had really kool songs and was basically a "Hard Rock" band in that classic sense. Rock and Roll to be more exact! You can't really have one without the other. Since I was also a fan growing up it makes it even more kool to get to play with a band that influenced me as well."

Q: Dear Eric, Sorry I missed you at the expo in Cleveland. I was not able to travel home to see you there due to some family commitments. I was wondering if you were and are a big Cleveland sports fan or if you have other teams you prefer? I was born in Cleveland, but live in Wisconsin now. Great seeing you this summer at RockFest!!! Thanks for all you do.

A: "Hey Bill, sorry you couldn't make the Cleveland Expo.... It was a good turnout and was great to be home too! As for sports teams and Cleveland? Of course I will always be a Browns, Indians and Cavs fan BUT, I really love the Lakers since I was a kid even before I moved to L.A. I also love Ohio State Football/Basketball Go Buckeyes!"

Q: HI! I'm a drummer and I love your stuff, you and Eric Carr you are my biggest influence. My question is what is your favorite Carr stuff? And which song you wish to play with KISS but you never played?

A: "Hi Karl, I also liked Eric Carr as a drummer and think Creatures is a great record partly because of his drumming for sure! As for a song(s) I would like to play but never did? 'The Oath', 'Strange Ways', 'Flaming Youth'."

Q: Hi Eric, My question is very simple…What are your favorite KISS albums and why?

A: "My favorite KISS record is either Dressed To Kill or Hotter Than Hell. I love a lot of the other records as well but, those two really made me a fan in the first place and I love the simplicity of the sound recordings as well. Very raw!"

KISS - Classic Interviews With GENE SIMMONS, PAUL STANLEY Available Online

Finnish TV station YLE has added 2 old interviews with KISS bassist/singer GENE SIMMONS and rhythm guitarist/singer PAUL STANLEY to their online video archive.

One interview is from 1988 and was taken right before the band's concert in Helsinki, Finland, the other interview is from 1992 where they talk about their coldest concert they did in Oulu, Finland in 1983 where it was so cold, that Paul had to play with gloves on and steam was coming off the people in the audience.

You can see both interviews here.

The KISS Army Returns!




www.KISSOnline.com is reporting:

"The KISS Army - LOUD & PROUD since '75! KISS is proud to relaunch their legendary Fan Club - The KISS Army! In the spirit of the original club, the highlight of the new KISS Army is the Membership Kit which features the following Members Only Exclusive items: KISS Army T shirt, Membership Card, Metal Pin, Bumper Sticker, Guitar Pick, Temporary Tattoo and Dog Tag!

Members also receive a $10 coupon and 10% discounts to the KISSOnline Shop, access to Members Only KISS merchandise, frequent KISS Army e-newsletters and access to amazing seats with our exclusive Fan Club Pre-Sales.

Join the ranks of the KISS Army today and share your love for the greatest band in the world as part of this exclusive community!

Click here to join the KISS Army."

KISS To Perform Live In Whistler




KISS will perform Live in Whistler (outside Vancouver, BC) on Saturday, September 15th. According to KISS, "Whistler is primed to 'Rock & Roll All Nite' with 'The Hottest Band In The World'. Catch this legendary band under the stars in North America's number one resort destination. Updates will be posted soon - including Ticket on sale date and venue info!"

"The Most Rare, Valuable And Most Sought After KISS Single" On eBay




Described by KISSNews.de as "the most rare, valuable and most sought after KISS single," the Portugese 'Kissin' Time' 7" single is now on eBay. The single is backed with 'Love Theme From KISS'.

Both tracks are from the band's 1974 self-titled debut that was released on February 8th by Casablanca Records. According to Wikipedia, 'Kissin' Time' was written while the band were in Bell Sound Studios, New York City with producers Kenny Kerner and
Richie Wise. The current bid for the single is #325.00 US. The auction ends tomorrow (August 26th).

Japan KISS Fan Expo Report Available




www.KISSOnline.com is reporting:

The first day of the 2007 Japan KISS Fan Expo took place today in Tokyo as Japanese (and a few Australian) KISS fans gathered together to celebrate KISS. The Expo featured special guests Bob Kulick, Nate Morton (Paul Stanley Solo Band), Fran Stuart (Paul’s Guitar Tech) and Michael Norton (Mark St. John’s Brother).

For the first few hours fans shopped for KISS Collectibles and visited with the special guests - who signed autographs and took photos with all who attended. Next up were Q&A sessions with Nate, Fran and Bob, which focused on working with Mr. Stanley. Bob also spoke about his work with KISS over the years. A touching tribute to Mark St. John followed, featuring a talk with Michael and a video/audio presentation that included photos of Mark throughout his life.

The Expo ended with live performances from Japanese KISS tribute band KISS DOLLS and an Expo only Band featuring Bob (lead guitar), Fran (rhythm & lead vocals), Michael (bass) and Nate (drums). Appropriately enough, the band’s scorching set included only Paul Stanley written songs from both KISS and his 1978 solo album.

Photos by Hiro Shiga)

New KISS Collectibles Due This Fall





Kissonline.com is reporting:
"Here are the latest KISS Pre-production samples - approved and ready for production. All items should be available this fall. Pictured are the following:

KISS Ipod Speakers and Mini Puzzle Cube Key chain are from KISS Licensee Rabbit Tanaka.
The KISS ARMY Beanie and Destroyer Hat are from KISS Licensee Concept One."

KISS To Perform At Australian Grand Prix; Date Announced

According to Sam Edmund from Australia's Herald Sun, in a coup for the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, KISS will play to thousands of revved-up fans at Albert Park. The outdoor concert will rock the GP after practice, qualifying or the race, from March 13-16. Singer and guitarist Paul Stanley confirmed the American band would be performing at the race. The GP show will be sandwiched between the band's big-budget stage performances across Australia and New Zealand. "We're going to Australia - we're doing the Grand Prix," Stanley said. "We're gearing up for some big shows out of the country." A spokesman for the AGPC said the full program for next year's race would be announced in November. The signing of Kiss is part of a bid by GP organisers to bounce back from last year's sluggish ticket sales. The 2008 Grand Prix will also mark the return of the V8 Supercars.

KISS - Grand Prix Australia Ad Revealed






www.KISSOnline.com reports:

"Here's a advertisement for KISS' performance at the Grand Prix in Australia next March!

KISS will perform their full concert extravaganza for race fans on a specially erected stage, just after the Formula 1™ race on Sunday, March 16th.

While everyone with a valid Grand Prix ticket for Sunday, March 16th will be able to watch the concert, a limited number of tickets named “KISS Pole Position” will be available in a reserved general admission area at the front of the stage for $149 inclusive - $50 more than the standard general admission ticket price. Patrons in this area will receive a souvenir KISS 2008 Formula 1™ ING Australian Grand Prix ticket and lanyard on entry to the “KISS Pole Position” area.

Patrons with corporate, grandstand or standard general admission tickets valid for Sunday will be able to purchase a $50 upgrade voucher for the “KISS Pole Position” area while space lasts.

“KISS Pole Position” tickets for the reserved general admission area will go on sale to the general public on Friday, 30 November from Ticketek - 131 931 or www.ticketek.com.au ."

KISS Wine Available For Pre-Order

Kissonline.com is reporting:

"KISS Wines... A Perfect Blend of Award Winning Wine and a Tribute to KISS!

Several new Limited Edition KISS Wines are available for preorder now, with a starting ship date of December 10th. All KISS wines are produced in small, hand crafted lots and are carefully selected. Three of the wines feature individually hand-etched bottles and each comes with an Official Certificate of Authenticity.

The new KISS Etched Bottle Editions available are:

KISS THIS Destroyer 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Collectible Etched Wine

KISS THIS Faces 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Collectible Etched Wine

KISSology 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Collectible Etched Wine

A Dressed To Kill Paper Label Wine Collection is also available.

To pre-order these KISS Wines, or to join the Official KISS Wine Club click here

KISS - KISSology Advance Video Clip Available





Kissonline.com has posted 'Shout It Out Loud' from KISS' October 31, 1998 Halloween show in Los Angeles. Click below to view:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nAiEZUEc3c&eurl=http://www.bravewords.com/news/78742


The clip is taken from KISSology Volume Three - which features the full Dodger Stadium show. VH1 Classic Records will release “KISSology: Volume Three 1992-2000” the third installment of the definitive collection on DVD Tuesday, December 18, 2007.


Kissonline.com adds:

"This is the biggest...the baddest...the most incredible of them all...

The third installment of the multi-platinum, hugely successful KISSology Series. KISS is back with their biggest statement to date - nearly ten hours of KISS live on stage.

KISSology VOL. 3 also features - MTV's Unplugged performance, including songs that didn't make it into the broadcast or CD version! Plus, a behind the scenes documentary shot during rehearsals and back stage - Never before seen!

And we teased this on KISSology VOL. 1 - the much heralded Queens, NY Coventry Show from December, 1973 - the band's first ever concert filmed in make up in its entirety!

KISSology VOL. 3 1992-2000 has been super-expanded to four DVD's - nearly ten hours of KISS live and on stage! Includes over 100 live performances, commentary from Paul, Gene, Bruce Kulick & Tommy Thayer as well as a 20 page full color booklet!

Five concerts included : Detroit - 1992, Detroit - 1996, Los Angeles - 1998, New Jersey - 2000 And Queens, Ny - 1973.

The Count Down To KISSology 3 Continues!”

KISSNews.de is also reporting that more photos from the KISSology Vol. 3 DVD box set can be found here.

KISS - VH1 Classic's KISSmas Special Detailed









According to Kissonline.com, below is the full schedule for VH1 Classic's "KISSmas" special, airing December 7th and 8th:

December 7:
9:00 PM Dodger Stadium 98 Concert
11:00 PM KISSology II Special

December 8:
12:00 AM Dodger Stadium 98
2:00 AM Unplugged
3:00 AM Sydney 1980
4:00 AM KISSology II Special
5:00 AM To be announced
6:00 AM KISS Video Hour
7:00 AM KISSology II Special
8:00 AM Sydney 1980
9:00 AM Unplugged
10:00 AM Houston 1977
11:00 AM KISSology II Special
12:00 PM Dodger Stadium 98
2:00 PM KISS Video Hour
3:00 PM Houston 1977
4:00 PM Unplugged
5:00 PM KISSology II Special
6:00 PM Sydney 1980
7:00 PM KISS Video Hour
8:00 PM Unplugged
9:00 PM KISSology II Special
10:00 PM Dodger Stadium 98

KISS Rock 2 Wellington TV Ad Available


KISS News USA report that a TV ad for Rock 2 Wellington from New Zealand is now available and can be viewed below...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuSK8yR8uhk&eurl=http://www.bravewords.com/news/79293

www.KISSOnline recently reported, "Wellington-based promoter Capital C: Concerts plans to make ROCK2WGTH, a unique Rocktacular!, that will host some of the greatest legendary bands on the planet! KISS will headline the first day at Westpac Stadium on March 22nd.

In addition to the 4-5 International rock bands, the event will feature local musicians and a special effects package that will set landmarks in concert production!

A ticket presale for KISS ARMY Fan Club members will be announced next week."

As previously reported, OZZY OSBOURNE will headline the second night on March 23rd.

KISS To Rock The Biggest Event Weekend Ever To Hit New Zealand







Kissonline.com is reporting:

"Wellington-based promoter Capital C: Concerts plans to make ROCK2WGTH, a unique Rocktacular!, that will host some of the greatest legendary bands on the planet! KISS will headline the first day at Westpac Stadium on March 22nd.

In addition to the 4-5 International rock bands, the event will feature local musicians and a special effects package that will set landmarks in concert production!

A ticket presale for KISS ARMY Fan Club members will be announced next week."

As previously reported, OZZY OSBOURNE will headline the second night on March 23rd.

KISS Rumoured To Play Stockholm In May

According to Kissnews.de, Swedish concert promoter EMA Telstar has reportedly planned a KISS show for May 30th in Stockholm, Sweden at the Oympia Stadium. The show has NOT been confirmed as yet, however, and should considered a rumour for the moment.

The original report is available in Swedish here.

2008 Japan KISS Expos Confirmed


www.KISSOnline.com reports that the 2008 Japan KISS Expos have been confirmed for February 9th and 10th at Club One Two (ESP Musical Academy Bldg. No.12) in Takadanobaba,Tokyo (doors: 1 PM, start: 1:30 PM).

This year's special guests are Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick (GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, ex-KISS). John Corabi (MÖTLEY CRÜE), Chuck Garric (ALICE COOPER) and Richie Scarlet (ACE FREHLEY band) will also perfom.

For info and to purchase tickets visit http://spacewalktothecomet.hp.infoseek.co.jp.

KISS - Photos From NAMM Available



www.KISSOnline reports:



"Here are a few photos from the NAMM show today in Anaheim (CA).

The top two photos are from the Washburn Booth, where Paul (Stanley) signed autographs and both Bruce Kulick and Tommy Thayer stopped by to visit him.

The bottom photo of Eric Singer is from the Pearl booth, where he signed autographs for several hours before moving over to the Zildjian booth."

GENE SIMMONS To Address IEG's 25th Annual Sponsorship Conference

The following report is courtesy of Prweb.com:

It is no longer in doubt that sponsorship makes sense. In the 25 years since it emerged as a discrete marketing medium -- and since IEG began producing the industry's annual gathering -- sponsorship has proven to be effective at achieving a host of objectives.

But to keep producing positive results amid rapid-fire social, technological and market changes requires a new perspective. It is no longer enough to align with the right partners and integrate and activate intelligently.

Going forward, those sponsorships that will have impact will only be those that resonate deeply with their targets on an emotional level. In other words, sponsorships must stop just making sense; they must be sensory as well.

That is why the theme for the 25th annual conference on sports, entertainment, event, experience, affinity and cause marketing is Making Sensory. The event will take place from March 16 to 19, 2008 in Chicago.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
From two of the world's smartest sponsors to two entrepreneurs using business to change the world to one rock 'n roll pioneer whose marketing prowess exceeds his legendary exploits, the conference's keynote speakers will inspire, motivate and enthrall:

GENE SIMMONS, musician, marketer and empire builder, who created and maintains the KISS global brand juggernaut, will discuss how marketers can take advantage of the convergence of media, entertainment and consumer power to develop relationships and brands that endure.

Read more here.