Metal Anarchy

Original KISS members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss have paid tribute to their late bandmate Ace Frehley. As previously reported, the legendary musician died after suffering a head injury during a recent fall.

The band said the following:

“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’ legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”

Stanley, Simmons, and Criss also shared individual tributes:

Stanley:

“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…”

Simmons:

“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!”

Criss:

“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. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace’s extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time.

As a founding member of the rock group KISS and in Ace’s solo career, Ace influenced and touch the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army.

At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace’s family and allow them to grieve privately.

To the KISS Army and Ace’s Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all… Broken… God Bless.”