Simmons will host the event at The Roundhouse in London on Wednesday, November 9. And he’s clearly looking forward to it.

“On that momentous occasion, the planets will align, living legends will gather to honour their own and London will become the centre of the rock & roll universe. It’s one thing being a voracious and loyal reader of Classic Rock, but it’s another to be in the same room as the people who have inspired me to stop flipping burgers and jump up on stage and have a go at it myself.”

Segura and Parent Rock 'N Roll with "Archie Meets KISS"

This will not be Archie Comics' first somewhat odd inter-company crossover -- most recently, the characters met DC Comics' Tiny Titans and, most notoriously, they once faced Marvel's Punisher -- but it does continue a tradition of unexpected team-ups which Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie and their friends seem to take in stride.

CBR News spoke with Segura and Parent about "Archie Meets KISS" and how the two worlds will collide.

CBR News: First, guys, how did this unusual team-up come together?

Alex Segura: Pretty easily, actually. Gene Simmons called up our Co-CEO Jon Goldwater with the idea. Once the deal was struck, I pitched my story to Jon and President Mike Pellerito. I'd written an issue of "Archie and Friends" before, so they knew I was interested in writing more. The timing worked out really well and the chance to bring together two major pieces of Americana -- Archie and the KISS gang -- was impossible to pass up.

Have you had any input from the band on this story?

Segura: Gene and Paul [Stanley] see everything at each stage, so they chime in. It's been pretty smooth sailing, though, and they've been amazingly supportive. It's one of the easiest collaborations of this kind I've ever been a part of.

Dan Parent: From the art perspective, KISS (particularly Gene) has to approve the art. So far, so good!

Are either of you big KISS fans? Is there anything you can share about your experiences listening to, seeing or following the band?

Segura: Dan's a huge KISS fan -- his stories blow mine away. I love music and I've followed KISS for a long time, so I'm pretty familiar with all things KISS. But even that pales in comparison to Mr. Parent! Dan's not just a card-carrying member of the KISS Army, he's a lifetime member.

Parent: Yes, I was (and am) a big KISS fan, so I would've had a fit it I didn't land this project! I was particularly into them in the late '70s, when their songs were a staple at the high school dances. I had a lot of their albums. I still have the 45 of "Christine Sixteen!"

What can you tell us about the story we'll be seeing here?

Parent: It's got Sabrina, Salem, the whole Archie cast, KISS, demons, monsters, zombies -- and that's just in the first two books!

Segura: When a spell goes wrong, Sabrina and the Archies discover that Riverdale's overrun by a gang of dangerous monsters. Who will help them corral the creatures before they turn everyone into mindless zombies? None other than KISS, who arrive on the scene ready for a fight!

Riverdale has been host to some unusual guest stars -- I'm thinking mostly of the Punisher here, though I know there have been others -- so I'm wondering how Archie, Betty, Veronica and the gang might react to the KISS characters?

Parent: They're a bit shocked, but in comparison to the other crazy things going on in riverdale........

Segura: Everyone stays pretty much in character, so Archie and the crew are pretty surprised when the KISS gang appears -- even more so when they start breathing fire and flying around!

How do the various Archie characters get along with the KISS personas? Is there one, for example, that Jughead is able to bond with over a hamburger or three?

Parent: I think Betty and Veronica like their look, but I think bonding will occur when they combine musical forces. Music is that common thread that unites people.

Segura: You'll see a lot of the direct interaction in the final two parts -- part one and two are about setting the stage, presenting the conflict and seeing these characters dive into action. There's very little breathing room. In fact, there's a pretty fun, all-hands-on-deck fight scene in the middle of issue two that should get people talking.

With the musical nature of the crossover, will Josie and the Pussycats be making an appearance?

Segura: They're definitely in the mix -- but not the way you'd expect. How cryptic is that?

Dan, given KISS's more hard-edged image -- as evidenced in the band's other appearances in comics -- are there any challenges in melding their style into the Archie world?

Parent: Not really. They fit the Archie style pretty well. Our style is based in "semi-reality," so their basic look is all there, just simplified a bit.

Have there been any scenes you especially enjoyed writing or drawing?

Segura: I've enjoyed writing Sabrina and having scenes that involve the KISS guys interacting with "classic" Archie elements, like the Chok'lit Shoppe or Riverdale High. Basically, the melding of the two concepts has been a lot of fun. Also, Jughead's always cool to write. His sarcasm makes everything more fun.

Parent: I've enjoyed drawing it all -- this story is pure fun. But I love to draw Sabrina, so it's really great having her in the story. I love Halloween and it feels like one big Halloween story, which is loads of fun to draw.

OZZY OSBOURNE Tribute Album Due Next Year

2011 HOLLAND KISS FAN EXPO

KISSOnline will also be attending the event with the latest Official KISS merchandise! We look forward to seeing everyone!

The Fan Expo will also feature KISS dealers from around the world, a makeup contest, and Europe’s KISS on the RockS will perform a classic KISS set.

CLICK HERE for ticket info

The 2011 Holland KISS Fan Expo is a fan produced event. By the fans, for the fans!

Ex-KISS Drummer PETER CRISS To Walk In Support Of 'Making Strides Against Breast Cancer'

The event will take on place Sunday, October 16 in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey beginning at 10 a.m.

For more information, go to this location.

No wedding gifts: Shannon Tweed wants SPCA donations

Tweed says on Twitter that the couple didn't register for their Oct. 1 nuptials and are asking "peeps" to give to the Saskatoon SPCA.

The former Playboy model says the couple has enough china.

The SPCA tweeted that it's humbled and delighted to be part of the special day.

Tweed was born in Newfoundland, but raised in Saskatoon and filmed an episode of the TV series "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels" in the Prairie city.

This isn't the first time Tweed has helped the Saskatoon SPCA -- she made a $10,000 donation in July after hearing the story of two dogs who survived being shot.

ERIC CARR's 'Unfinished Business' Due In November

Due on November 8 through a label imprint set up by Eric's sister Loretta Caravello, "Unfinished Business" is a special 20th-year commemorative CD release that features over 17 rare Eric Carr recordings, including previously unreleased music, live performances, interview clips and more. Guests include current and former members of KISS, TWISTED SISTER, SEETHER, ZO2, EUROPE, DANGER DANGER and more.

This CD is a testament to a man whose personality and heart were as big as his enormous talent. Eric's spirit is alive in each and every song.

For more information, go to this location.

KISS ARMY CHILE INTERVIEWS ERIC SINGER

Eric Singer has certainly had a very busy year 2011. KISS tours North America with ESP in Europe and recording the new album KISS have maintained their busy schedule in recent months. Despite that Eric made ??efforts to give the interview had already committed a few weeks, which was finally possible to the August 30, the date on which Eric took the time to talk with KISS Army Chile from his home in Los Angeles. It was a relaxed conversation, just as he was being told all in KISS.

Thanks to your willingness we learn more about the KISS drummer who arrived in 1991, after 20 years in the group (with the interruption of the reunion tour) has earned the admiration and respect for all.

CLICK HERE to listen to Eric's interview with KISS Army Chile.

KISS Guitarist And Drummer's Question-And-Answer Session At 'Kiss Coffeehouse' (Video)

Tommy and Eric signed for over seven and a half hours straight, greeting fans and taking photos. After the long autograph session ended, Eric and Tommy went on stage and held a question-and-answer session with the audience. During the Q&A, it was revealed that the Kiss Coffeehouse will be opening a new restaurant/coffeehouse location in Las Vegas next year.

You can now watch video footage of the question-and-answer session in three parts below.

The Kiss Coffeehouse is a specialty coffee retailer operating at Broadway at the Beach, an entertainment complex in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Its theme revolves around the band KISS, who own the franchise. A number of items from KISS' stage shows, such as costumes, are also on display at the establishment.

The Kiss Coffeehouse, which opened to huge crowds in the summer of 2006, features signature KISS coffees, including Kiss Army Blend and French Kiss Vanilla, the Kiss Frozen Rockuccino, cookies, brownies and other sinful sweets.

The grand opening of the store was attended by founding KISS bandmembers Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

On July 9, 2006, Lisa-Holly Friedman and Ronald K Marukawa (two longtime KISS fans) were married on the premises, with Paul Stanley telephoning during the proceedings to wish them well.

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.

KISS Special To Air On CNN

"Kiss Inc." is scheduled to premiere on CNN Presents on Sunday, October 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET, replaying at 11:00 p.m. ET.

Hugh Hefner gets invite to Gene Simmons' wedding

The Playboy boss has received an invitation to attend the nuptials of the KISS rocker and his fiance Shannon Tweed on October 1.

Hugh is very excited for the couple, who have been in a relationship for 28 years, because Gene and the former Playboy Playmate met at his home.

Hugh wrote on twitter: "I received a wedding invitation from PMOY Shannon Tweed & rock star Gene Simmons today. They met at the Mansion. (sic)"

The 85-year-old business mogul - who is famous for throwing wild parties at his Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles - also revealed he was visited by his ex-girlfriend Holly Madison Thursday.

The 31-year-old blonde beauty decided to drop in to see Hugh on her day off from Las Vegas burlesque production 'Peepshow'.

He tweeted: "Holly came by & had dinner at the Mansion with GND producer Kevin Burns on the day off from her Vegas show "Peepshow." Good to see her. (sic)"

Gene and Shannon - who appear together in the reality TV show 'Gene Simmons: Family Jewels' - announced their wedding date this week and will be tying the knot at the Beverley Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard, Calif.

The invitations the couple sent out contain a picture created by their son Nick, 22, and a message written by their 19-year-old daughter Sophie.

The note read: "There will no longer be a Team Tweed or a Team Simmons but instead a Team Tweed-Simmons."

BACH UNCOVERS KISS ALIVE AFTER IRENE

The former Skid Row rocker was devastated after his New Jersey house was destroyed by the storm, causing him to lose irreplaceable mementos and one-of-a-kind rock memorabilia.

But his spirits were lifted on Wednesday (31 Aug 11) after he discovered his childhood copy of KISS Alive! in the carnage.

Bach posted a picture of the record on his Facebook.com page, writing, "Ripped today from the clutches of Irene... this is the exact copy if (sic) KISS Alive! that my dad gave to me when I was 10 years old. Years later Gene Simmons was cool enough to sign it for me... This was yanked out of Irene's soggy clutches... & ynow (sic) what? Fuck you Irene!" Can the Gargoyles be next?

The star is now planning to relocate to Los Angeles to start afresh.

THE NO. 1 GUITAR HERO: TOMMY THAYER

You're the lead guitarist in Kiss and the band's only golfer. Do the other members tease you?

They used to make jokes when they saw me reading Golf Magazine, saying things like, "Hey, how's your stiff shaft?" Now I think they're jealous because I'm at charity events with cool stars, and I play places like Medinah, Winged Foot and Augusta. Gene [Simmons] came to my charity event last year, but he doesn't have the patience for golf.

That's probably for the best—it's bad etiquette to spew blood during someone's backswing. What similarities are there between playing golf and playing guitar?

A lot. Golf and guitar are both very Zen, very in-the-moment. In golf, you don't want too many technical thoughts. It's the same playing in front of 10,000 people. I'm not thinking, "I'm moving my fingers this way, and now I'll go over here on the stage." No, you just let go. I'm an 11 handicap. I've been playing since I was 12, and it took a while to learn that. Be in the moment.

Do you get nervous on the course?

The first time I played the Hope in 2005, I walk to the first tee. I'm in John Daly's group. Then I hear, "Playing in his first Bob Hope Classic, the lead guitarist from Kiss..." Two thousand people applaud. It gets completely quiet. I'm shaking like a leaf. I almost s--t my pants. Horrifying.

You spent the night in the Butler Cabin when you played Augusta. Did you wear full Kiss makeup?

That would be a sight, wouldn't it? I could get away with it. Look at these lapels—this qualifies as a collared shirt.

Kiss had an '80s hit called "Lick It Up." Any plans to remake it into a song about putting called "Pick It Up"?

[Laughs] Sometimes I get that song stuck in my head, which doesn't help my swing. Man, I'm so lucky to have the best of both worlds—playing with the world's greatest band and playing a lot of golf.

So you're saying you "Rock and Roll All Nite and Make Par Every Day"?

Now that sounds like a hit!

ROCK 'N' ROLL CRUISES

Most of us have to work hard for a living, but Andy Levine gets to run Sixthman Productions , and he might have a little more fun than workers stuck behind a desk all day.

His company was just named as one of the nation's 500 fastest-growing companies by Inc. Magazine and was rated at number 87 overall, and the leader in the travel category. But calling Sixthman a travel company is like saying Eric Clapton is just a guitar player.

Sixthman Productions specializes in one particular kind of theme cruise: live rock 'n' roll concerts on cruise ships. Two of my favorite things are live music and cruising, combine them, and they’re magic.

How does Sixthman work? First it charters a cruise ship that holds 1,600 to 3,600 passengers. Chartering an entire ship means Sixthman gets total control of the cruise: where it sails and stops, food selections and who provides the entertainment. Naturally, they scrap the cruise line's usual production shows like “Karaoke Live!” and instead offer live concerts with headliner rock 'n' roll bands.

While the process sounds fun, it's not as simple as it sounds.

Chartering cruise ships and producing rock concerts are both risky investments. Consider the experience of another company, Shoreline Charters, which recently tried to promote the Bret Michaels Rock Your World Super Cruise, featuring the ex-lead singer of the band Poison. Michaels now alleges the company tried to renege on its original contract and cut his performance fee to $350,000 from $750,000. The cruise has been canceled.

There are a few successful companies producing music cruises. The Blues Cruise has handled some three dozen successful sailings, and The Smooth Jazz Cruise has presented two to five jazz cruises annually since 2004. But Sixthman, based in Atlanta, produces a greater variety of music theme cruises every year.

Here is a typical Sixthman Production (although there is nothing typical about it): The upcoming Kiss Kruise – Wet, Wild and Rockin’ isn’t just a cruise for Kiss fans to buy collectible Kiss dolls (although that is part of it). This cruise features the actual band playing live -- Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. Only the first two are original members, but the important thing is being at sea with nothing to think about but your Kiss makeup and a chance to meet Gene Simmons as he heads to the dining room for baked Alaska.

The Kiss Kruise sets sail on Carnival Destiny Oct. 13 – 17 from Miami to a private island in the Bahamas and to Nassau. There will be two shows by Kiss for everyone onboard to see, plus performances by four other bands. Guests on the Kiss Kruise will pay from $799 to $2,995 per person for a four-day cruise. Sixthman brings its own sound system, controls what is shown on the stateroom televisions, chooses the “drink of the day,” plots the ship’s itinerary and more. For four days Sixthman will basically “own” the cruise ship.

Other Sixthman ventures include two successful Kid Rock cruises, with a third one coming next April. Then there’s the Weezer Cruise, featuring the namesake band plus 15 or so special guests. The Rock Boat, now in its 12th year, started it all and features dozens of different bands.

I am really sorry I missed the last Simple Man Cruise, the fifth of which sailed last January with classic rock bands Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special and Little Feat, but cruise number six is being planned right now.

Then there's the fifth annual Cayamo Cruise sailing Feb. 5, 2012, where songwriters like Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, John Prine and about 20 more will present their work -- and, more importantly, talk to fellow passengers and share their ideas on songwriting and performing. Other rock cruises include the VH1 Best Cruise Ever and Ships & Dips, that includes the Barenaked Ladies and several more bands.

Sixthman plans so many different cruises every year that the best thing to do for planning purposes is just visit its website to see what’s coming up. But be warned: Music cruises are highly addictive. Sixthman says more than 60% of guests on each cruise are repeaters. One of Sixthman’s competitors, the Jam Cruise, now in its 10th year, refers to its loyal client base as “repeat offenders.” Keep in mind that Sixthman's cruises often sell out up to a year in advance.

Sixthman is branching out beyond music to offer the Turner Classic Movie cruise on Dec. 8, 2011, showing several cinematic classics and bringing aboard Ernest Borgnine, Tippi Hedren, Norman Jewison and Eva Marie Saint to discuss and reminisce about the golden age of Hollywood. Overseeing the events will be TCM channel hosts Robert Osborne and Ben Mankiewicz.

Another Sixthman distinction is its choice of ships. While both Smooth Jazz and the Blues Cruise have only used Holland America ships for years now, Sixthman will be chartering Carnival's Inspiration, Destiny and Fascination; Celebrity Millennium; and NCL's Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Dawn during the upcoming season.

When they are finished with each cruise, they will break down the stage, sound and lighting systems they bring on board and get them ready for the next adventure. And let me just say one thing: I would not want to be the person collecting the empty beer bottles.

Gene Simmons -- The Smart Ass Wedding Announcement

The wedding will put a traditional twist on a decidedly untraditional relationship between the hard rock icon and the model that, since 2006, has been chronicled in the reality TV show "Gene Simmons: Family Jewels" on cable network A&E.

The Israeli-born Simmons and the Canadian-born Tweed have two adult children together, Nick and Sophie.

An invitation for the wedding, which will be held on October 1 in Los Angeles, was created that contains drawings of the family done by Nick Simmons and a message by Sophie Simmons.

"There will no longer be a Team Tweed or a Team Simmons but instead a Team Tweed-Simmons," the message read.

Gene Simmons, 62, plays bass guitar and sings in the band Kiss, which had hits with the songs "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock and Roll All Night."

Shannon Tweed appeared in the pages of Playboy magazine in the 1980s and had a number of starring roles in low-budget thrillers and adventure movies such as "Cannibal Women in the Avocado Jungle of Death" and "Scorned."

Simmons proposed to Tweed in Belize, in a moment that was captured by cameras for their A&E reality show.

Gene Simmons Sets a Date to KISS the Bride

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed have set a date for their years-in-the-making nuptials, E! News confirmed Thursday. They'll do the deed at a Beverly Hills hotel.

So when's the magic day?

It's Oct. 1! Not so coincidentally, that's just three days before the seventh season premiere of A&E's Gene Simmons Family Jewels, which will follow the couple and their two kids as mom and dad get ready to tie the knot after 28 years together.

The KISS rocker popped the question while they were vacationing in Belize, an intimate and romantic moment that was the highlight of the show's sixth season finale in July—and a pretty emotional capper, considering so much of the season focused on Simmons and Tweed's volatile relationship.

But Simmons had figured a few things out by season's end.

"I come with so much baggage, but you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I love...and you're the only one I ever will love," he told Tweed, who dissolved into tears before saying yes.

New KISS Nebraska Lottery Scratch Game

Nurture your inner-rock star by playing the Nebraska Lottery's $5 KISS Scratch Game. Each time you scratch, you have a chance at winning the top prize of $50,000. And if you don't scratch a winner, you'll be given an encore chance at fame and fortune. Just enter the KISS Second-Chance Giveaway.

Nebraska Lottery MVP Club Members may enter two non-winning $5 KISS Scratch tickets for a chance to win one of two Grand Prize trips to Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp in Los Angeles, California, and other prizes.

Tickets may be entered online from August 26, 2011, to October 31, 2011.

* Grand Prize: Paid enrollment for one individual to attend Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp in Los Angeles, California, November 10-13, 2011, featuring Paul Stanley of KISS. Package includes camp registration, flight, hotel and $1,000 spending cash. Prize also includes a compact disc copy of "Destroyer" by KISS; * Second Prize: $1,000 cash and a compact disc copy of "Destroyer" by KISS; and * Third Prize: $500 cash and a compact disc copy of "Destroyer" by KISS

For more information, go to this location.

Pictured below is the promotional poster for the new KISS Nebraska Lottery Scratch Game.

PodKISSt #49: "Rock and Roll Over" Turns 35!

Listen here: http://podkisst.com

KISS NAVY LOGO

The only way to become a member of the exclusive KISS Navy is to join the band on the KISS Kruise this October.

KISS Kruise: Wet, Wild, & Rockin’ , your BEST vacation yet! Check out EVERYTHING that is included in the price of a cabin: A KISS indoor rock show, an acoustic show on the Lido Deck (no makeup!), a Q&A with all 4 guys, a photo with the band (in small groups), exclusive KISS Kruise merchandise, and so much more!

KISS Gargoyles from the 1979 Destroyed

"I am numb, in shock and devastated to report that my home of 21 years, my house featured on MTV 'Cribs', has been destroyed, condemned and deemed uninhabitable due to the extreme flooding courtesy of Hurricane Irene.

"In the two decades I have lived in this home, there has never been a single drop of water in the basement or anywhere else in the structure. Now Irene has overflowed the reservoir adjacent to my house. The surging waters have snapped the bridge in half next to my house and sent the bridge straight into my garage, knocking the house off of its foundation. The basement that has been dry for over two decades is now overflowing with water and I am not even allowed to start pumping the water out due to fears of electrocution.

"Original SKID ROW and KISS fans, I have bad news for you. Gone are irreplacable items, such as my KISS Gargoyles from the 1979 tour. KISS pinball machine. SKID ROW master tapes, video and audio, concerts, master tapes from 'Oh Say Can You Scream', etc. Boxes and boxes of one-of-a-kind SKID ROW memorabilia, from the first tour to our last, all stuff I collected on the road that no one else had. I had a library in the basement with every single magazine that had SKID ROW on the cover. This library took up a big part of the basement. All of this is lost now.

"We will salvage what we can, of course. But how I wish there was a reason to do a box set or something before Hurricane Irene hit. Nobody cared. Now it's too late.

"Don't know what you got till it's gone, indeed.

"The good news is that all my father's artwork, including the 16-foot 'Slave To The Grind' mural, is all OK. My sons and friends moved all my dad's art to the second level of the structure before Irene destroyed our home. My Silver Age comic collection is all on the third level, with the David Bierk archives, which is a completely dry level. But we are not allowed into the house yet to retrieve everything because the foundation has crumbled and the house could conceivably collapse at any second. We are working with the police and fire department to get the electricity turned off so no one gets electrocuted entering the premises. As soon as the power is off, we will pump out the basement and salvage what we can. Everything will be put into storage and then it looks like we will level the house.

"This has really taught me that the best things in life are indeed 'free.' What makes me happy is that my children and ex-wife are safe. My dad's art is unharmed. No one got hurt. My scrapbooks of memories of my life are dry and safe. The only things that are making me smile today is cranking BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 'Set The World On Fire' CD over and over again. Texting Danny from ASKING ALEXANDRIA who may become my new roommate in L.A. Getting texts from my girl Minnie [Gupta] in L.A. making sure I'm OK and trying to cheer me up. My neighbours in New Jersey clamouring around my house, calling me, offering help in any way they can. These things mean more to me than mere posessions.

"I have been holding on to my house since December, when my divorce papers were filed. I just could not let go of the only home I had ever known.

"Well, God has other plans for me it seems. He has made His decision for me.

"My home has been taken away by an 'act of God.' I just think He is giving me a much-needed push, is all.

"New Jersey, thank you all so much for 25 years of rock 'n' roll. It's all over now.

"I will always love New Jersey, but now there is literally nothing left for me here except memories of a past life.

"Hello, Los Angeles. Hello, New Life. Here i am. It's time for a new start.

"Like I have a choice."

ARCHIE MEETS ISSUE #2 VARIANT COVER

For this weeks batch of creamy rock facts, we took on KISS, one of the most beloved bands on Earth. Houston hasn't seen any shortage of KISS in the past few years, as the band has been here about three times since 2009, with the last appearance coming at this year's RodeoHouston.

Previously, we've been flying solo on these fact sheets, but this time around we enlisted the help of the biggest KISS fan we know, one Jarod Frank. Frank works in the radio industry, including a DJ slot over at the old 107.5 The Buzz from 1995 to 1999, when they were playing the bands we love that now influence all the bands we don't like on the station today. Now he works for CBS Radio Houston.

Frank currently makes time with Sunsett Stripperz, an '80s hair-metal tribute band that will be at House of Blues next Friday, and a newer project, Foo Fakers, which pays tribute to the Foo Fighters. On top of all this, you can usually see him at most every big old-school metal show in town.

We asked Frank to help us with this list, so as not to run too terribly afoul of the super-fans that KISS has amassed. For the record, our favorite KISS album is 1979's Dynasty, because it has a nasty groove you can dance to.

Peter Criss, disgruntled during and after the filming of 1978's KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park, had his voice replaced in the entire movie because he refused to show up for the looping sessions in post-production. The movie was being produced in part by Hanna-Barbera, so it makes sense that they used a voice from their stable to fill in for Criss - Michael Bell, who was doing the voice of Plastic Man as well as Zan and Gleek from the Superfriends' Wonder Twins.

Bruce Kulick's pre-KISS band, Blackjack, has other connections to KISS besides Bruce being the band's fourth lead guitar player. The group's lead singer, Michael Boloton - later changed to Michael Bolton; yes, that Michael Bolton - co-wrote KISS's most recent Top 10 hit, "Forever," with Paul Stanley in 1989. Blackjack's bassist, Jimmy Haslip, pinch-hit for Gene Simmons when some of the bass lines on 1982's Creatures of the Night proved to be a little tricky.

KISS had 12 albums that came with some sort of goodie for fans. Posters were included in Dynasty and Unmasked. All four members' 1978 solo albums came with posters that fit together as one big mural. Rock And Roll Over had stickers, Alive II had temporary tattoos, and you got toy cardboard pop gun with Love Gun.

Katey Sagal, Peg Bundy from Married... With Children and the biker mama on Sons of Anarchy, sings back-up on Gene Simmons' 1978 solo album.

Ace Frehley's solo in "She" is ripped off from The Doors' "Five To One." Interestingly enough, Pearl Jam's Mike McCready admitted to ripping off the solo in "Alive" from "She."

Paul Stanley always said he wrote "Hard Luck Woman" for Rod Stewart, but it's never clear if it was ever presented to him for Stewart's own use. Still others say that after the success of "Beth," the band, or their record company, decided to keep it for Criss to sing on the band's next record to capitalize.

KISS was offered the part of the Future Villain Band in the movie Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. The band turned down the movie because they were afraid of what it might do to their image. The part eventually went to Aerosmith, who ended up recording a hit version of The Beatles' "Come Together" for the soundtrack to the roundly panned film.

Gene Simmons tried to get any and all of the Beatles to guest on his 1978 solo album, but couldn't. So he got members of tribute band Beatlemania instead to fill in.

KISS was paid $35 for its first show in 1973.

Gene Simmons Family Jewels Season 7 Starts October 4

Picking up where last season’s cliffhanger left off, viewers will find out Shannon’s answer to Gene’s long awaited marriage proposal in a special one-hour season premiere.

ARCHIE MEETS ISSUE #2 VARIANT COVER

And here’s the standard cover (on the left) by Dan Parent. Which, you know, isn’t bad or anything… (www.bleedingcool.com)

Lady Gaga Rocks, But 'Rock Sucks' According to Simmons

"There is only one exciting artist, and her name is Lady Gaga," Simmons told us when we caught up with him in Los Angeles on the red carpet celebrating the Blu-ray release of the 1983 Al Pacino classic, "Scarface." "Everybody else is exactly the same. Every rapper is the same as every other rapper; every rocker is the same as every other rocker. Uniqueness is the only important thing, and Gaga is the real thing."

The outspoken icon gave Justin Bieber his just due, though he compared him to other teen idols like 1970s sensation David Cassidy. "I mean, he's terrific, but I've seen him before," Simmons said of Bieber.

Without naming names, Simmons was pretty sour on all current musicians, contemporary rock and roll artists, in particular. "I think rock sucks at the moment. Artists look like delivery boys; they look like they could use a bath," he said. "There's no respect for the stage — the stage is holy ground. I don't care what you do. You don't have to spit fire or drool blood but when you get on that stage, you should give people bang for their buck."

It isn't just present-day rockers Simmons took issue with, however. He wouldn't validate anyone pre-1980. "From 1958 to 1980 — that's about 30 years — you can name a thousand major artists: Elvis, the Beatles, Hendrix, on and on and on. From 1980 till today, name me an artist that's going to last the test of time," he challenged us. "Good luck with that, by the way." (Video)

Yell! Magazine's Holy Trinity Series - Three Ikonik KISS Albums

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, KISS’ influence and bombastic impact on heavy metal and hard rock is irrefutable. Who in the civilized world isn’t familiar with at least one of their songs (most likely “Rock And Roll All Nite”) or can’t name that band based solely on an image? And while, yes, the argument presented thus far is weak, we’ll appease any naysayers, though they already know it’s true, and state that:

KISS has sold more than 100 million albums world wide; while promoting their first album much bigger bands refused to let KISS open for them for fear of being upstaged by their live show; KISS was the first band to find success with a live album (Alive!), setting the bar and ushering in a new era of music consumption; KISS are marketing giants having achieved a level of branding many strive for but few reach; KISS beat the The Beatles at Budakan, selling and performing five sold out shows while The Beatles only managed four; between 1977 and 1979 alone, KISS merchandise sales reached an estimated $100 million (do you know how much money that was in the ‘70s? It’s about $300 million today.); KISS was the first band (and I can’t name any subsequent bands) to have all members release “solo” albums simultaneously on the same day; they’ve released 19 studio albums (12 of which were released in their first decade of existence); in total KISS has received 42 Gold and 16 Platinum Awards in the U.S. alone.

Plus, Dimebag Darrell is buried in a KISS Kasket. RIP.

When it comes to a band with as extensive a history and such a deep discography as KISS’, it’s challenging to settle on one holy trinity. In fact, there are two holy trinities within the KISS discography, but here we’ll focus on the superior of the two. Superior because these three albums are the most driven, hungry, straight-forward, and ambitious (in the sense that they feature some of the band’s hardest-hitting, intense rock and roll, which at the time was classified as heavy metal and/or hard rock; the terms were interchangeable in the ‘70s as the genres hadn’t been divided yet) KISS albums produced.

KISS: KISS

The first album we’ll address is the one that started it all, the self-titled KISS. Released on February 18, 1974, this 35-minute opus not only has one of the greatest album covers in music history (featuring all four of their sinister faces against a black background), but it also contains so many great songs, such as “Strutter” and “Deuce,” that they’ve remained staples of KISS’ live performances for more than 35 years.

Yes, there are a couple of tracks that could be considered throw-aways, like “Love Theme From KISS” and the cover “Kissin’ Time,” the latter of which didn’t actually appear on the original release; it was added at the insistence of then Casablanca co-founder, Neil Bogart, in an attempt to boost lackluster album sales. It worked, but KISS didn’t want it on the album. The album was also panned by the critics, who wrote the band off as a joke, but when they performed their first single, “Nothin’ to Lose”, on Dick Clark’s In Concert, many were exposed to the phenomenal live KISS experience and then people slowly began to understand.

Unfortunately, as great as this album is, it failed to capture the earth-shattering live essence of KISS. That would have to wait for Alive! Nonetheless, KISS remains a fan favorite, an essential to anyone’s KISS kollection or classic rock collection for that matter. Many of the tracks were written by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley during their pre-KISS days in Wicked Lester, some of which have the rare distinction of having co-writing credit between the two and “Love Theme From KISS” is the only song in the entire KISS catalog to give credit to all four original members.

What makes KISS so great is its ability to straddle ‘50s-era rock and roll with a Beatles style and bring it into the then-modern era of heavy metal, which meant more prominent bass guitar, grittier vocals (though still perfectly harmonized), blistering guitar solos, and a lot more jazz-inspired drum fills. It’s simple. It’s fun. It’s dark. It changed the genre. And it inspired countless musicians and bands to follow.

Stand out tracks outside of “Strutter” and “Deuce” include: “Nothin’ To Lose,” “Firehouse,” “Cold Gin,” “100,000 Years,” and “Black Diamond.” Yes, that’s almost the entire album – that’s how good it is.

KISS: Hotter Than Hell

After just a few months of intense touring following the release of KISS, the tireless band returned to the studio in July to hammer out and release Hotter Than Hell on October 22, 1974. The first thing that many listeners will notice about this sophomore effort is the recording; it sounds gritty, scratchy, less than perfect. This wasn’t a mistake as KISS was intend on capturing their live sound.

Despite some of KISS’ best material and displays of their best musicianship, Hotter Than Hell didn’t capture the public’s attention as they had hoped – in fact, the album was a bigger flop than their debut. Many owe this to the fact that their label, Casablanca, lost its distribution deal with Warner Bros. and, thus, lost out on backing.

Some say that KISS hadn’t grown musically, and that may be true, or that Hotter Than Hell doesn’t offer anything that hadn’t already been heard on KISS, but this is decidedly a darker, gloomier, heavier, grittier, raunchier album than its predecessor. However, the “outro” provided at the end of KISS’ final track, “Black Diamond,” does seem to foretell the vibe that would appear on Hotter.

Why the slight shift in sound? It might be because KISS had to relocate to California to record it and though you might think that would give them a sunny disposition, they were New Yorkers and pissed to be out of their element. Sure, there are some lighter rock-and-roll-feel-good tracks (“Got To Choose,” “Hotter Than Hell,” Let Me Go, Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “All The Way,” and “Comin’ Home”), but many of these tracks feel slower than they should be, deal with less-than-honorable subject matter, and sound tuned down.

Also, a good listen to the rest of the album will show an attentive ear that a number of the tracks served as precursors for speed metal (“Parasite”), the glam-metal ballad (“Goin’ Blind”), goth metal (“Strange Ways”), and grunge (“Watching’ You” – though that might be a stretch).

Much of the material on Hotter Than Hell was written while in the studio or shortly before sessions began. Only a few of the tracks – namely, “Goin’ Blind” and “Watchin’ You” were carry overs from the Wicked Lester days. Unlike the preceding album, there are no throw-aways on Hotter Than Hell, but here’s a rundown of some of the more memorable gems:

“Got To Chose” is a nice opener to the album; it’s the one that sounds a bit too slow, but the harmony and bass line are fantastic, and Gene truly carries this number that sets the stage for the ferocity that is “Parasite.”

“Parasite” is by far the heaviest track on the album and is quite possibly the heaviest track KISS ever recorded (excluding the majority of what appears on Carnival of Souls). The main riff is so simple that any hack on the guitar can play it, but it’s powerful. Peter Criss also peaks as a drummer on this one and Gene’s vocals are nothing short of fierce.

The title track, “Hotter Than Hell,” is one of those that gets into your bones. Great riffs, great solos, great back beat, great vocals, great story. Pure KISS. Pure genius.

“Watchin’ You” is a groovy number with precursor Iron Maiden-esque dueling guitars, question and answer solos between Ace and Paul, some required ‘70s era cowbell, and great bass fills from Gene.

“Strange Ways,” written by Frehley and sung by Criss, is another heavy track. Slow and methodic, it’s the type of song that’ll make you change the way you walk. It also features one of Ace’s best guitar solos.

The final album in our KISS Holy Trinity is up next…

KISS: Dressed To Kill

Dressed To Kill is the best album in the holy trinity – if not the best KISS album. Yes, it has the song that everybody in the world knows, “Rock And Roll All Nite,” but that is hardly why this is a great album.

Released on March 19, 1975, just five months after Hotter Than Hell, Dressed To Kill was yet another album that flopped in the eyes of the public, that is, until the live version of “Rock And Roll All Nite” (charting at Number 12) from Alive! was released later that year. While Neil Bogart was the first to recognize that KISS needed an anthem, and Gene and Paul obliged by putting together two songs that they’d been working on independently, “Rock And Roll All Nite” is KISS’ “Stairway to Heaven” – the song everyone knows and is tired of hearing. Since its release, this song has closed most every KISS concert and appears on all best of compilations and live albums.

Behind the scenes there was some considerable duplicitous infighting between the label, management, and producers, which resulted in Neil Bogart (struggling Casablanca label owner) becoming the new producer. This might answer some fans concerns regarding KISS’ departure from a more “metal” sound to one with a lot more pop in it, however, they still maintained their ‘50s-era rock and roll sound and Beatle-like harmony. With major labels showing interest in the band, not for moving products (the previous two albums weren’t moving off the shelves) but for a must-see live performance, Bogart needed to try something different with KISS’ sound if he wanted to keep them on his sinking label.

OK, Dressed To Kill has the greatest back cover in history and, once again, it’s just simplicity; it’s the negative of the photo on the front cover. Musically, there are a few surprises. First, Gene and his bass carry this album; without it, it would sound like shit. Ace is tight throughout, even on KISS’ first acoustic solo introducing “Rock Bottom.” And Peter Criss never sounded as good vocally as he does on “Getaway.” And while the album is fairly pop-oriented, “She” comes out of no where with heavy riffs, blistering solos, great vocals, and awesome lyrics like “The power’s all within her as she takes off her clothes.”

Again, there are no throw-away tracks on this album (except “Rock And Roll All Nite,” but KISS understandably needed this song at the time – and it’s good, so it belongs), but the songs to pay attention to are: “Room Service,” “Getaway,” “Rock Bottom,” “C’mon And Love Me,” and “She.”

KISS This: Just think that all this was accomplished with an uncompromising attitude, a belief in your greatness, and 13 months.

KISS' NEW ALBUM IS A "MONSTER!"

"We were all blown away by the unanimous raves from critics and fans for Sonic Boom. Anyone who thought that album was a lucky fluke is in for a brutal surprise. This album kills." - Paul Stanley

KISS is planning a massive 2012-2013 "Monster" world tour which will take the band around the globe.

KISSONOMICS

KISS, the iconic rock band led by its co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, manager Doc McGhee, along with their partnership with Live Nation Merchandise led by industry veteran Dell Furano, have built a multi-million dollar integrated marketing and merchandising brand that rivals many of the successful properties not only in the history of music licensing but across the entirety of brand licensing.

According to Furano, CEO of Live Nation Merchandise, KISS has generated $500 million in retail sales of licensed merchandise from concerts, online sales and at retail since 1996, making it the largest and best selling rock and roll band.

This legendary rock group has not only been focused on the creativity of their music and stage show, but it has always been in tune with the business side that has now produced a wide array of licensed products from condoms to coffins, from lighters to lottery tickets and from cars to cruises.

While so many artists and musicians have been reluctant to aggressively pursue brand extensions and licensing, KISS has embraced it since the very beginning, realizing there was a bona fide business lurking beyond the elaborate stage show they have performed regularly for decades.

To understand the global success of KISS, one has to understand the philosophy of its two partners Simmons and Stanley who have built a brand licensing juggernaut that its loyal and diverse fan base–now with almost five million fans on Facebook alone–just can't seem to get enough of.

"KISS was the anti-hero," says Simmons, recalling the band's formative years in New York City clubs in the mid-1970s. KISS was formed in 1973, and its first album "KISS" was released in February 1974. "KISS was tired of seeing groups on stage looking at their shoes and thinking they were doing you a favor by performing, so we decided to give our fans a bang for the buck and higher heels that their mommy ever did. We wanted to make a spectacle on stage and in a very short time KISS became a phenomenon within a year and a half after starting and releasing our first record.

"I read all the trade publications because I wanted to know how the business worked," recalls Simmons, who grew up in Queens, New York, as the only child of his mother, a German Nazi Concentration Camp survivor. "It was the 'music business' with the word 'business' that is right up there, like show business. It's not just called 'music' or 'licensing.' It is actually called the 'music business' and the 'licensing business,'" he points out.

Simmons says the KISS Mantra was simple: "There are no rules. We want to blow stuff up, have fireworks on stage, do everything you could imagine, but always stay consistent."

KISS represents four personas that have become, Simmons proudly says, "four of the most recognized faces around world."

"When we signed our first record deal with Casablanca 38 years ago, we quickly became their biggest act. But we were critically lambasted because we began doing licensing for toys, games, jeans and jackets and we actually thought it was fun," says Simmons. "We didn't know the rules and we didn't care about the rules."

In June, Simmons was recognized for his business accomplishments by Forbes, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award as part of "The Entrepreneur Behind the Icon" event, held in Hollywood, Calif.

Stanley, who also grew up in New York and always wanted to be a rock star (hence the nickname Starchild), looks back on the band, its music and its merchandising business with the same passion and attitude of partner Simmons.

"In the rock community, people looked down on the merchandise as if selling was a four letter word. Fan clubs and everything about them were frowned upon," recalls Stanley. "I always thought there was no better way for a fan to align themselves and show allegiance to the band than to wear the colors, so to speak, whether it was a t-shirt or a belt buckle. It all started very grass roots. It was fans telling us what they wanted and we gave it to them.

"We really understand our customer," Stanley adds. "As long there is no quality or ethical issue, we will put our brand on anything. Most of the other bands are boring, but KISS' entertainment and iconic imagery is unbeatable. We have created super heroes with guitars."

This uncanny blend of music, spectacle and, of course, business acumen from the early days of the band in the mid-1970s (which was atypical during that era) has become the strategic essence of the band and property today.

"KISS is the only band that has adopted a persona with Starchild, Demon and other characters–along with make up and costumes–which they have had since the beginning, and that has really been the foundation of their merchandising and licensing program," explains Furano, who is a friend, neighbor and business partner of Simmons and Stanley for 20 years. "Gene and Paul have remained accessible to their fans and the momentum of the last three years has been enormous," Furano adds. "The KISS artwork and imagery are so easily translated to merchandise and the merchandising program has almost eclipsed the band."

Furano adds that Simmons and Stanley understood the real value of cross-promotional marketing and integrated marketing much more than any other band. According to Furano, they studied other iconic licensed properties, in particular Star Wars and how George Lucas and Lucas Licensing strategically built the property over the years.

"When they approve merchandise, every band thinks about their image and their fans and they all have a role they want their merchandising to play," say Furano. "Many artists want to keep their merchandising a natural extension of their concert tours and don't want to take it beyond that. KISS is just the opposite. Merchandising is an integral part of who they are as a band."

Longtime manager Doc McGhee, who has been with KISS since 1996, recalls how it was a more simple merchandising strategy back then focused on basic quality products and collectibles and how it was difficult to get major companies to partner with the band. But all that changed very quickly as more and more corporate brands joined forces with KISS. The latest deal with Hello Kitty truly exemplifies the global and consumer popularity of the band.

"The brand is bigger than the band," says McGhee. "It's not just about the next record, it's about the experience of KISS."

McGhee admits it has been both a blessing and curse.

"Some people will say they don't know if they are the best band in world, but they are the best marketers."

KISS now has its brand and various logos featuring the costumes, make up and nicknames on just about everything imaginable, boasting almost 3,000 SKUs and counting. And there is no end in sight as the brand and the band will likely garner even more publicity and gain new fans worldwide in 2012 and beyond as KISS approaches its 40th anniversary.

KISS, which just concluded its 2011 "Lost Cities" tour last month, is already working on its 2012-2013 "Monster" world tour which will take the band to numerous countries throughout Europe, South America and Asia. The first new album since 2009's "Sonic Boom," also called "Monster," is scheduled for release in January. The "KISSology IV" DVD is also scheduled for a January release. Furano points out that all new imagery is being developed that will further expand KISS' licensing efforts over the next several years.

KISS is also developing more extensive global merchandising initiatives with various partners that could be considered unlikely on the one hand, but among the most innovative deals in the licensing industry on the other.

Consider the breadth and scope of KISS' new licensing initiatives that are in various stages of development:

KISS and Hello Kitty–KISS recently announced a partnership with another iconic brand, Hello Kitty, which will further expand the merchandising efforts of both properties. Furano says the new partnership, which will bring co-branded merchandise to 250 countries, will be heavily promoted during Brand Licensing Europe, Oct. 18-20, in London, and hit retail in the second half of 2012.

KISS, Archie Comics and IDW Publishing–The "Archie Meets KISS" four-part series will debut in November, while IDW plans to launch a new KISS comic book series in 2012.

KISS and Round 2–In celebration of the 35th anniversary of the "Destroyer" album, KISS signed a deal with Round 2 to create model figures of the band's characters as they appeared on the 1976 album cover art.

KISS and Rubie's–Set to hit retail for this Halloween, Rubie's has created KISS-themed costumes, masks, wigs and accessories for adults and children.

KISS and Monster Mini Golf–Scheduled to open in November in Las Vegas, the mini indoor glow-in-the-dark golf course will feature animated KISS monster props at each hole, music, themed party rooms and a gift shop.

KISS and Eternal Image–Following its deal for the KISS coffin, Eternal Image recently announced the KISS cremation urn featuring color images of the band and its flame logo.

KISS and Graphic Armor–The newest line of KISS Kondoms go beyond the box and wrapper, featuring Simmons' tongue extending the length of the latex condom in the first FDA-approved Picture Condoms. A "Studded Paul" condom featuring Stanley is also being developed.

KISS and Mini–Four customized KISS Mini Countryman cars, featuring mirror caps autographed by the band, were auctioned in June with part of the proceeds donated to UNICEF. In addition, Mini will sell exclusive vehicle wraps that resemble the actual car designs.

KISS and Spirit Halloween–Retailer Spirit Halloween will feature an exclusive KISS end cap display this fall promoting the band's Halloween products.

KISS and Carnival–The first themed KISS Kruise on the Carnival Destiny sets sail in October from Miami to Nassau, Bahamas, featuring a KISS show and various other activities.

KISS and WMS–WMS is creating new KISS branded slot machines.

KISS and Grab Games–The KISS virtual game is currently being developed.

In addition to all the licensing programs, Simmons and Stanley have also leveraged various co-branding and promotional partnerships including Dr. Pepper, Cannon, VISA and 7-Eleven, as well as lottery in Sweden and lottery programs currently in five U.S. states.

According to Simmons, KISS recently signed a deal with The HUB network for a new animated kids show that will further extend the band's audience.

And then there are various individual interests. For example, Simmons stars in the A&E network's reality show, "Family Jewels," which just completed its sixth season. Stanley is an accomplished artist, who has held numerous art exhibitions and has turned his passion into a thriving business.

The list of licensing programs and partnerships will only get bigger, according to Furano, identifying categories for expansion that include food and beverage, spirits, sporting goods and fashion apparel for juniors and kids.

"There are no boundaries for KISS licensing, and there are plans to develop and expand KISS sports line, KISS girls (from stilettos to make up, panties, scarfs and accessories), KISS Pandas and several KISS Kids programs," says Furano.

"Other bands don't want merchandising to overshadow its music, but with KISS it's an integral part and the heart of what's different," Furano adds.

With a new album, new world tour and a plethora of new licensed products and partnerships, the iconic KISS brand will continue to rock on over the next several years as it approaches its 40th anniversary and reinforces its position as one of hottest and most influential entertainment properties in global licensing.

View the article (with all photos) at www.licensemag.com.

Paul Stanley: Girls Are God's Revenge!

“I always say I’ve learned that girls are God’s revenge,” he jokes to PEOPLE. “It’s payback for my past.”

Born on Aug. 9, Emily joins big siblings Sarah Brianna, 2½, and Colin Michael, 4½ – Stanley’s two children with wife Erin, an attorney – and 17-year-old Evan Shane, the rocker’s son from a previous relationship.

“Honestly, it’s just the greatest gift,” he says of adding another little girl to the family.

“There’s a relationship and a bond between dads and daughters that only a dad can understand. It’s very unique. To have my last two children be girls is pretty spectacular.”

Emily’s birth has also served to bring the family closer together than ever before.

“My house is really what most people would wish for and dream of,” Stanley, 59, says. “I have the greatest kids, an amazing wife. My 4-year-old was holding Emily like a 40-year-old would. Before we went to the hospital, he dressed up in his best clothes on his own and went there and had her in his lap. It’s really something very profound because you get to see that children really are a reflection of their parents. If you spend the time and the effort, you get something great for it.”

When it comes to the couple’s classic naming style, Stanley jokes, “I guess we’re not cool enough for names like Peach or Astro Girl.”

“We were a little more traditional and stick with names our children hopefully won’t regret when they grow up,” he explains. “Your kids aren’t objects for amusement, so why would you give them a name that would subject them to possible ridicule at school? Kids can be pretty tough on each other, and who wants to put a child named Spaghetti through school?”

Having just wrapped the North American leg of KISS‘s most recent tour, Stanley is looking forward to spending time at home, though he emphasizes that family has always taken precedence over career commitments.

“There’s really no struggle,” he says. “Last year, everybody toured Europe with me. There’s nothing like coming off stage to 100,000 people and having your little ones in pajamas say good night to you. It can be done.”

But for the time being, he is happily basking in the glow of being a new dad.

“I couldn’t write a better story if I tried,” Stanley says. “This has all turned out better than I could have anticipated. My life is blessed but I’ve worked hard for those blessings.”

ERIC SINGER ON RED EYE RADIO TONIGHT

Tonight's show will be hosted from 790 KABC in Los Angeles by talk radio icon Marc Germain.

1 (866) 90-REDEYE – 1 (866) 907-3339

The show is currently aired by WABC in New York City , 790 KABC in Los Angeles, 680 WRKO in Boston , MA, 700 KSEV Houston, TX, 98.9 KXBT Austin, TX, 850 WFTL, Ft. Lauderdale/Miami/West Palm Beach, FL, 1220/106.9 WSRQ, Sarasota, FL, 1200 WINK Ft. Meyers, FL, 1310/95.5 WLOB Portland, ME, 970 KCMB in Portland, OR, 100.5 WAPI Birmingham, Al, 105.9 WXTL Syracuse, NY, 99.7 WNTK New London, NH, 94.3 WTRW Scranton, PA, 99.1 KSMD Searcy, AR, 950 KXJK Forrest City, AR, 1240 WATN Watertown, NY, 1420 WLIS Old Saybrook, CT, 1150 WMRD Middletown, CT, 1400 WILI Wilimantic, CT, 106.7 WSRT Traverse City, MI, 105.5 WSRJ Traverse City, MI, 940 KYNO Fresno, CA, 106.7 KNKI , Show Lo, AZ, 1450 WBMW Wahpeton, ND, 960 WSBT South Bend, IN, 1300 WGDJ Albany, NY, 1240 WRTA Altoona, PA, 1300 WLSC Charlotte, NC/Kershaw, SC, 910 WAVL Apollo, PA, 1010/94.9 KIND Independence, KS and Cable Radio Network.

Gene Simmons reveals bloody butcher's job

The KISS rocker admits one of his worst jobs came when he was a youngster in New York as he was responsible for cleaning up in the areas where animal carcasses were divided into cuts of meat.

He told RadarOnline.com: "I worked in a butcher's shop where I had to work rubbing the fat off the chopping block, which they used to chop the heads of the chickens. It's true. I was 12."

Despite the disgusting nature of his tasks, Gene, now 61, doesn't resent working from such a young age.

He said: "You should work, kids should be working."

The 'Crazy Crazy Nights' hitmaker has previously spoken of his belief that it is important to have a number of different experiences and expertise in order to become more successful.

He has said: "To never put all your eggs in one basket has always been a good idea and a mantra of mine. Spread the risk. Have one job and do one thing and be able to do two or three other things in case one thing doesn't work out. Just don't be a master in one and a knucklehead in all others.

"[Don't] do one thing. Never be the same rat that goes through the same maze to get the same cheese."

Gene Simmons - Imported American Pride

This piece is written by a grateful immigrant. A legal one, but an immigrant nonetheless.

I was born in Haifa, Israel.

I emigrated to America with my mother, Florence, when I was a child. My mother was a survivor of the Nazi Germany concentration camps of World War II. She was in the camps when she was 14 years old.

If it weren’t for America and the brave sacrifices of its military, my mother and millions of others would have perished.

After the war, my mother found her way to Israel.

Life was hard, but in Israel - finally - there was a place where people didn’t try to kill you just because of your religious persuasion. You could breathe fresh, free air and not be afraid to say “I’m a Jew.”

When I was 8 1/2 years old, my mother took me by the hand, and we emigrated to America. The land of the free. The home of the brave. The land of hopes and dreams.

When we landed in New York, I was simply awed by the majesty that is America. The skyscrapers. Television. Streets full of cars. It was too much to take in all at once.

I soon became an unabashed, unapologetic, dyed-in-the-wool American who believes in standing at attention when the Stars and Strips flies at full mast. To this day, I proudly say the Pledge of Allegiance and sing the national anthem. And I am ashamed when some natural-born citizens of America don’t.

That last phrase makes some native-born Americans uneasy. Being patriotic has become politically incorrect. I refuse to succumb to a numb apathy that seems to pervade some elements of the media and pop culture.

For me, it’s all too real. If it weren’t for America, my mother wouldn’t be alive. If it weren’t for America, this world would be in chaos.

Too politically simplistic, you say? Too black-and-white?

Actually, it’s profoundly true, and it’s time for all Americans to proudly recognize those facts.

I want to be blunt about a message to America:

In the Middle East, you have no greater friend, no greater ally - than Israel. It owes its very existence to America.

A simple political message?

I stand by every word of it.

Op-ed pieces from immigrants in newspapers and statements on television are a good idea. Listen to what we have to say. Hear the gratitude and love for America we all share.

Wake up to what we all have to say: America is the greatest country on Earth.

And finally, thank you for making a poor immigrant boy’s dreams come true.

Gene Simmons is a media mogul and frontman of the rock band Kiss, the juggernaut of all music licensing and merchandise entities. He is head of his own label, Simmons/Universal Records and has the longest- running celebrity reality show, “Gene Simmons Family Jewels.”

CLASSIC ROCK INTERVIEW: KISS ON NEW ALBUM

"It's Sonic Boom on steroids!" Exclusive! Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons on KISS's new studio album. And the book. And the golf course...

Nearly 40 years into their career, and the fire is burning stronger than ever for Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. KISS's senior partners are back in the studio with guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer to record their 20th album. Just as 2009's Sonic Boom revitalized them as both a viable recording band and a proper unit, this new album -- recorded, like its immediate predecessor, at L.A.'s Conway Studios -- finds them more focused than ever. "KISS, over the years, has strayed," says Simmons, giving Classic Rock the exclusive low-down on the as-yet-untitled album with Stanley. "We've had bitches who didn't love us, we just liked their asses and we did them for the night. But I will say unequivocally that the new record feels honest."

How far into the album are you?

Paul Stanley: We've recorded eight tracks. Everything's on except the vocals. There'll be 10 on the album, with a couple of tracks as bonuses for different projects.

How does it build on Sonic Boom?

PS: Sonic Boom was a pivotal album in the sense that we were aware of who we were as a performing band, but we had to re-establish who we are as a recording band. That being done, this is much easier and that much more self-assured.

Gene Simmons: This new record feels heavier than Sonic Boom. It feels like there's a connection between Destroyer and Revenge.

Care to throw us a few song titles?

PS: I'd be surprised if the album didn't start with "Hell or Hallelujah." It's up-tempo, a great riff, definitive KISS. There's a track called "Born to be a Sinner," and Tommy has a song called "Out of This World" which is terrific. They're anthemic soncs. That's the nature of how we write. There are no ballads.

GS: "Are You Ready?" is a new track that I worked out, wrote, and brought everyone into the studio and said: "Let's bang this out." Another of the new songs, tentatively titled "Wall of Sound," we just came up with on the spot. The guts of that song were written in 40 minutes.

KISS Dropped From MICHAEL JACKSON Tribute Concert

The promoters tell TMZ.com, "We have listened to Michael's fans and are grateful to have been alerted to these unfortunate statements by Gene Simmons. Under the circumstances we fully agree that even though KISS is a band Michael admired we have no choice but to rescind our invitation to them to appear in our tribute concert."

In a 2010 issue of U.K.'s Classic Rock magazine, Gene Simmons told journalist Geoff Barton he believed Jackson was a child molester despite the fact that the singer was acquitted of child-molestation charges.

"I knew Michael," Simmons was quoted as saying. "I ran into him a few times. I met him the first time before he became the superstar, when he was sort of teenagey, when he was still a JACKSON FIVE. This was in the Cher days, when Cher and I lived together.

"But as time moved on, and no matter what my fond memories and fond images of Michael were, with one allegation of pedophilia after another and another and another…Oh dear."

Simmons went on to say that he knew some of the musicians Jackson toured with, and cited one who quit after seeing "boys coming out of the hotel rooms...Well, you know, where there's smoke there's fire. There's no question in my mind he molested those kids. Not a doubt."

Simmons also said, "There's never been a single female of any age that I've ever known about who has ever made a claim that she has had a physical relationship with Michael, ever.

"The only sexual references ever made about Michael Jackson that were made by anyone, anywhere around the world, have always been made by kids, and specifically males usually 10 to 14 years of age; never females, that age or older, and never grown men."

KISS TO OPEN THEMED COFFEEHOUSE IN LAS VEGAS

The iconic glam-rock band is embarking on two themed ventures that could leave a lasting footprint — in the shape of a high-heeled leather demon boot, of course.

Band members on Sunday announced plans to open a Kiss Coffeehouse in Las Vegas next year. It will be the second Kiss java joint in the country (one in Myrtle Beach, S.C., just celebrated its fifth anniversary) and could set the stage for a national chain. It will also piggyback on a Kiss-themed miniature golf course scheduled to open this fall just off the Strip.

“We’re coming to take over Vegas,” said Johnny Rock, owner of the Myrtle Beach shop and one of the Las Vegas location’s developers.

The Las Vegas haunt likely will be modeled after its Southern predecessor, which is nothing like a Starbucks or typical coffee joint. Twenty-foot-tall smoking Kiss boots greet guests, Kiss music blares and patrons gulp beverages out of 100-ounce “guitar sippers” that flash colors and play hard rock. It’s possibly the last place where you’d want to curl up with a good book.

Extending Kiss’ already billion-dollar brand to coffee and putt putt springs from the success of the Myrtle Beach store and reflects what other celebrities are pursuing. For example, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville franchise has grown to include more than 20 restaurants, a hotel and casinos. Caesars Entertainment is transforming a portion of the Flamingo into a Buffett-themed minicasino that will attach to the Margaritaville restaurant that anchors the north corner of the hotel.

In Myrtle Beach, the Kiss Coffeehouse was twice voted “best coffee shop” by residents and tourists. Sunday, fans from around the world gathered to celebrate the business’s fifth birthday with Kiss band members Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. It was there the musicians announced their plans for Las Vegas.

In a later interview, Rock said only that the coffeehouse would open “soon” and would be in a different location and under different management than the Kiss minigolf course, which is slated to open in November at the Shoppes at Harmon Square at Harmon Avenue and Paradise Road.

If Myrtle Beach is any clue, a best guess would place the Las Vegas coffeehouse on the Strip. The Myrtle Beach location sits in the middle of Broadway at the Beach, an outdoor tourist area dedicated to flashy restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Rock said developers seek high traffic, high visibility tourist destinations.

“Locations in New York City, Orlando, Hollywood, they’re all on our radar,” Rock said. “Las Vegas was the destination we decided to go with first. It’s where the party is.” And indeed, the band is no stranger to Vegas.

The coffeehouse’s website outlines its real estate requirements in more detail: at least 1,200 square feet in a spot with no less than 5 million visitors annually and no other coffee vendors. Room to build a storefront sign that includes giant boots and the Kiss logo is a must. Casinos, amusement parks and stadiums are cited as ideal venues.

As for the menu, the coffeehouse serves the standard lattes, cookies and teas, as well as some specialties, including a dozen flavors of frozen, $6 “rockuccinos.”

Kiss is among the most merchandised bands of all time (along with the Beatles, AC/DC and the Rolling Stones) and has lent its name and members’ likenesses to comic books, condoms and even coffins. In October, Kiss will headline the first “Kiss Kruise,” a five-day themed voyage from Miami to the Bahamas.

Kiss frontman Gene Simmons explained the band’s strategy last year at a Montreal music conference: “It doesn’t matter what it is: Whether it has music, whether it’s a religious symbol, a political symbol, or a politician — everything should be a brand.”

MJ Tribute Concert: Gene Simmons to Perform Despite Calling MJ a Pedophile

Katherine Jackson was on CNN this AM, talking about the concert, when promoters revealed that KISS would be performing.

Yet Gene Simmons went on record last year -- mind you, a year after MJ died -- saying, "There is no question in my mind he molested those kids. Not a doubt."

Simmons went on to say, "The only sexual references ever made about Michael Jackson that were made by anyone, anywhere around the world, have always been made by kids, and specifically males usually 10 to 14 years of age; never females, that age or older, and never grown men."

Hate the man. Love the music.

KISS JOINS MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE

Other major artists may be announced soon to round out the roster of acts for "Michael Forever: The Tribute Concert" in Cardiff, Wales, according to promoter Global Live Events.

Katherine Jackson, matriarch of the musical family, appeared on CNN Monday to discuss the show, which will also includes performances by her children and grandchildren.

It appeared unlikely the October 8 concert would be the scene for a Jackson 5 reunion, since two of the brothers, Jermaine and Randy, have publicly objected to the show being held at the same time Michael Jackson's doctor is on trial for his death.

"We want to make clear that this does not reflect the position of the entire family," the two brothers said in a joint statement after their mother and four siblings endorsed the show.

"While we wholeheartedly support the spirit of a tribute that honors our brother, we find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael's death," Jermaine and Randy Jackson said.

Members of the Jackson family taking the stage October 8 include several of Michael Jackson's brothers, "the next generation of Jacksons," and 3T, which consists of Tito Jackson's three sons, the promoters said.

Alternative rock band Alien Ant Farm and British R&B singer Craig David are also on the bill.

"This concert will unite various generations and musical genres, reminding everyone of just how amazing a talent Michael was," Global Live Events executive Paul Ring said.

Fans can "register their interest for tickets" online at http://www.michaelforevertribute.com/ through Thursday, the promoter said. A lottery will determine which fans will be invited to purchase tickets, it said.

The concert in the Wales Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, which seats 75,000 people, would be at least four hours long, Global Live Events CEO Chris Hunt said.

A spokesman for Michael Jackson's estate said last month that the promoters never sought or obtained permission from the estate's executors to use the late pop singer's name or image.

"The estate has not been contacted and is not involved with Global Live Events in the UK tribute concert announced today," spokesman Jim Bates told CNN at the time.

Couple Watch

Ex-KISS Guitarist BRUCE KULICK Working With 'Incredible Artist' ANDREW LONDON

Kulick's third solo album, "BK3", sold around 1,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at No. 12 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.

"BK3" was released in Europe in January 2010 via Frontiers Records and in North America in February 2010 through Twenty 4 Records/Rocket Science Ventures. The first single from the album, "Hand Of The King", featuring Nick Simmons (son of KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons), was a digital-only release available at all online music stores, including iTunes.

'Kiss Coffeehouse' To Open Las Vegas Location Next Year

Tommy and Eric signed for over seven and a half hours straight, greeting fans and taking photos. After the long autograph session ended, Eric and Tommy went on stage and held a question-and-answer session with the audience. During the Q&A, it was revealed that the Kiss Coffeehouse will be opening a new restaurant/coffeehouse location in Las Vegas next year. More details about this exciting development will be posted on KissOnline.com in the months ahead.

The Kiss Coffeehouse is a specialty coffee retailer operating at Broadway at the Beach, an entertainment complex in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Its theme revolves around the band KISS, who own the franchise. A number of items from KISS' stage shows, such as costumes, are also on display at the establishment.

The Kiss Coffeehouse, which opened to huge crowds in the summer of 2006, features signature KISS coffees, including Kiss Army Blend and French Kiss Vanilla, the Kiss Frozen Rockuccino, cookies, brownies and other sinful sweets.

The grand opening of the store was attended by founding KISS bandmembers Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

On July 9, 2006, Lisa-Holly Friedman and Ronald K Marukawa (two longtime KISS fans) were married on the premises, with Paul Stanley telephoning during the proceedings to wish them well.

KISS FANS LINE UP TO MEET BAND MEMBERS

Saturday also marks the five year anniversary for the KISS coffeehouse in Myrtle Beach.

Fans came for a meet and greet session with drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer.

By noon, more than 500 had waited in line. Some, like Jacob Jones who waited as long as three hours, but said it was worth it. "It's something we fit into and it's something we enjoy to get away from regular life."

Among the lucky fans, brothers Evan and Ethan Crookham.

"It was a once in a lifetime thing and I got the guitar signed which was really cool," Ethan said.

"He {Eric Singer} made me pose like a rock star for out picture with my guitar," 9-year-old Evan added.

KISS fans will continue to celebrate Saturday night with a question and answer session with Singer and Thayer, followed by a KISS army tribute concert.

KISS' VISIT TO CADILLAC RE-COMMEMORATED

As part of the reunion festivities planned by the Class of 1976, reunion organizers will present to the school a plaque marking KISS' visit to Cadillac during homecoming weekend in October 1975. The public is invited to a presentation set for 1 p.m. in the high school's “Hall of Fame” hallway, said Class of '76 member Harold Falan, who spearheaded the group's effort.

Although the American Bicentennial occurred weeks after graduation, the Class of '76 is best known as the “KISS Class,” and its gift reflects that famous visit. It's a 24-inch by 30-inch plaque featuring photos and other memorabilia from the visit.

Falan, a retired Michigan State Police trooper, said whenever he mentioned his hometown during his law enforcement career, someone always brought up the KISS visit. He brought the plaque idea to the reunion committee and Cadillac Area Public Schools Superintendent Paul Liabenow. Both the committee and Liabenow enthusiastically gave their approval.

Falan then had Spike Lawrence Inc. in Berkley craft the plaque.

“I think this gift is going to be a nice addition to this high school,” Liabenow said, adding the plaque will celebrate a moment in local history. “(The visit) put Cadillac High School on the map, if you will.”

Not only is the plaque meant to inform students and the community about KISS' visit, the reunion committee wanted to replace a plaque the band had given the school. It had been placed on a wall outside the principal's office and had disappeared within six months.

Over the years, there were rumors of who might have stolen the plaque, said Jim Neff, the assistant football coach and teacher who was instrumental in bringing KISS to town.

“It never surfaced,” he said. “That was kind of the odd thing.”

It's hard to speculate what might have happened to the original plaque. It would be difficult to sell today because KISS memorabilia collectors well-versed in Cadillac “KISSstory” are well aware the plaque is stolen, Neff said.

“It could be in the Wexford County Landfill for all I know,” he added.

Neff plans to attend tomorrow's presentation.

“It's just a great gesture,” he said. “The fact that it came from the Class of '76 is even more special.”

Also planning to attend the presentation and reunion is Harry Hagstrom, co-captain of the 1975-76 football team who met the band during its famous visit and who, like, Neff has been interviewed by local, state and national media about the experience.

“I think it's a great thing,” he said of the plaque.

Both Neff and Hagstrom marvel that people are still interested in Cadillac's KISSstory nearly 36 years later.

“I'm amazed it still has this kind of attention,” Hagstrom said.

Neff and his family met with the band when it performed at the DTE Energy Theater near Detroit in September 2010. Gene Simmons not only recognized him but Neff said Simmons also told him how the 1975 visit had become a “wonderful story.”

A brief KISStory lesson: In 1974, the Cadillac High School Vikings football team was in a slump. Assistant football coach Jim Neff began playing KISS albums in the locker room before games to loosen up the players and to get them pumped to play. Before long, the team was winning. Neff wrote to the band to inform them of their role in the team's success. Soon, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons asked Neff to call in after every game to let them know how the team did. Neff and players twice saw the band in concert in Detroit and Saginaw. Upon learning that KISS would be performing in concert in Kalamazoo at the same time of the Vikings' homecoming in October 1975, Neff invited the group to a pep assembly. KISS did one better. During a whirlwind overnight stay in Cadillac, the band met with students, played a concert at the high school, got the key to the city, posed for photos with city and school officials and rode on a float in the homecoming parade. This visit has been well-chronicled on VH1 and ESPN, on Neff's website – www.neffzone.com/kiss -- as well as several newspaper articles and in the stories shared by those who were there.

KISS KRUISE UPDATE

Stay tuned for more exciting details on the first-ever KISS Kruise! (www.thekisskruise.com)

KISS COFFEEHOUSE EVENT TOMORROW

Check out this interview that Eric Singer did today to promote Saturday's Anniversary Party!

Kiss Are About 'Self-Empowerment,' Not Merchandise 'Schlock' Says Paul Stanley

Never.

"It's misleading because of the volume of things we have, that Kiss is just a schlock house," Stanley tells Spinner. "The truth of the matter is, we have pride in everything we do. At the core this is a rock 'n' roll band, but we don't put our name on anything that we don't believe in, or that the fans don't believe in.

"People sometimes say, why do you have things like Kiss sleeping bags? Because a fan asked for it. We're not great merchandisers -- we're great listeners. We give the fans what they want. If that's a crime, I'm ready for my trial."

As for what makes the Kiss brand endure like it does, Stanley explains his theory.

"Kiss is a timeless truth," he says. "It was true 100 years ago and it will be true 100 years from today. It's all about self-empowerment, it's about believing in yourself and believing that the only thing in the way of you and your dreams is hard work. We believe a great work ethic will pretty much get you wherever you want to go.

"Kiss will outlive me, for sure. What we've done is create a way of thinking, an ideal that hopefully will go on beyond me and the other guys in the band because the idea is bigger than any individual."

HELP KISS SUPPORT CITY OF HOPE

TOMMY TALKS ABOUT KISS COFFEEHOUSE PARTY

A fifth anniversary party for the KISS Coffeehouse at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, with events starting at 10 a.m., will center around two special guests from the group: drummer Eric Singer and lead guitarist Tommy Thayer.

Thayer was on hand for the second-year celebration in September 2008, after KISS co-founders bassist Gene Simmons and guitarist Paul Stanley marked the grand opening in June 2006.

Singer and Thayer will take photos, meet fans and answer questions, before a KISS Army concert and after-party to round out the evening.

Thayer, who sports the spaceman makeup, took a few minutes Tuesday afternoon by phone to talk about the group and the coffeehouse.

Question | How does this extra interaction with fans, such as through the party this weekend in Myrtle Beach, remind you how the KISS name, concept, sound and look have remained a cultural touchstone for fans through the decades?

Answer | It just shows you the uniqueness of KISS and what it promotes. … It’s just a opportunity, now that we are off tour, to get together with some of out dearest and nearest fans, at a KISS Coffeehouse. What other bands can say something like that?

Q. | What’s your greatest memory as the guest of honor for the KISS Coffeehouse second anniversary celebration?

A. | There was a kid named Todd who won a contest to sing “Forever” with me on stage. We took submissions from hundreds of fans who emailed their version of them singing our song “Forever.” He won, and he had a great voice. It was a cool, interactive thing to do with fans.

Q. | Did you have a favorite KISS song before you joined the group, and what’s a tune you love performing on stage from almost a decade on stage with the group?

A. | I remember one of my first favorite KISS songs, from the first KISS album, in 1974. That was “Black Diamond.” It’s always been one of my favorite KISS songs. In live performance, I love “God Gave Rock ‘N’ Roll to You.” It’s actually more complex than other KISS songs. It’s a very guitar-driven anthem, which I love.

Q. | What extra publicity have the A&E series “Gene Simmons Family Jewels” and Simmons’ role on Donald Trump’s “Celebrity Apprentice” provided for the band’s continuing popularity?

A. | Gene and Paul together have continued the KISS legacy for 40 years. You have to really tip your hat to both of them. …Gene’s TV shows have been very popular, and I think that has brought some awareness, too. … Paul is producing the new KISS studio album. When it comes to … the mission of what KISS is, looks and sounds like, he’s more hands-on in that. Sometimes Paul doesn’t say as much, and he keeps a lower profile, but that shouldn’t conceal the fact that he’s more of the driving force behind KISS.

Q. | With KISS members entertaining frequently for U.S troops around the world, how humbling an experience do you bring home each time?

A. | It’s something we take a lot of pride in. The Wounded Warrior Project was something we got involved in a year ago. … My dad is a retired brigadier general who was in the Army. I’ve been around this stuff a long time. All the troops: They are the real heroes of the country.

'Kissology - Vol. 4' Due In November

Content will include:

1976 - Houston full "Destroyer" show
1977 - Cobo Hall
1980 – "Kids Are People Too" segment
1983 – U.S. Armed Forces segment on Lick It Up Tour
2002 - Winter Olympics
2007 - "VH1 Rock Honors"
2009 - Cobo Hall full Alive35 show
2009 - "Modern Day Delilah"
2010 - Wetten Dass Medley

KISS's "Kissology - Vol. 3 1992-2000" DVD box set was certified octuple platinum (platinum certification for a single-disc release is 100,000 copies) back in March 2008.

VH1 Classic Records released "Kissology - Vol. 3 1992-2000" on December 18, 2007. The set contains nearly 10 hours of KISS live on stage, including songs that didn't make it into the broadcast or CD version of the MTV "Unplugged" performance; and the much-heralded Queens, NY Coventry Show from December 1973 — the band's first-ever concert filmed in makeup in its entirety.

"Kissology - Vol. 3 1992-2000" has been super-expanded to four DVDs, featuring over 100 live performances, commentary from Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Bruce Kulick and Tommy Thayer as well as a 20-page full-color booklet.

One version of the release features a fifth bonus disc of KISS' performance at the KROQ Weenie Roast on June 15, 1996. Tracks include: "Deuce", "Love Gun", "Calling Dr. Love", "Firehouse", "Shock Me", "100,000 Years", "Detroit Rock City", "Black Diamond" and "Rock and Roll All Nite".

Original KISS Drummer PETER CRISS Talks Horror Movies

Paul Stanley of KISS Welcomes Fourth Child

The band's lead singer/guitarist Paul Stanley and his wife Erin, an attorney, welcomed daughter Emily Grace Stanley on Tuesday in Los Angeles, he tells PEOPLE.

Emily, who weighed in at 7 lbs., 10 oz, joins elder siblings Sarah Brianna, 2½, Colin Michael, 4½, and Evan Shane, 17, Stanley's son from a previous relationship.

"Erin and I are once again blessed with the addition of Emily Grace to our family," the rocker, 59, says. "I'm not sure she can sing but her first screams let me know she's definitely Daddy's girl."

Stanley – who's also a successful painter – just completed a series of sold-out KISS dates and is currently producing the band's next album.

As for having kids later in life, Stanley says his age doesn't slow him down.

"I may be 59," he told PEOPLE in February, "but the only rocking chair this rocker is getting ready for is the one for my new baby."

FIRST-EVER KISS URN

Eternal Image, Inc. (the "Company") (OTC PINK:ETNL), a public company engaged in the design, manufacturing and marketing of officially licensed, Brand-name memorial products, today announced that the first of its official KISS cremation urns is now available for purchase.

KISS is famous for its explosive live performances and outrageous rock and roll style. In their forty year career, the band has achieved record-breaking tours, album sales in excess of 100 million, a huge "KISS Army" fan base, and the most memorable look in all of rock history.

“We call this particular KISS urn our ‘Monument’ model,” said Donna Shatter, VP of Operations for the Company. “This urn offers fans a unique expression of their passion for the legendary rock band. It features full-color images of the band members and the KISS flame logo—all displayed against a striking black metallic finish.”

The Monument model KISS urn is eight inches tall. The Company plans to release three additional urn models later this year.

http://www.eternalimage.net/product/kiss.

METALLICA, IRON MAIDEN, AC/DC, GUNS N' ROSES Classics Among Top Songs Of All Time

AC/DC and KISS had the most entries in the top 666 — 28 and 23, respectively — with METALLICA appearing 21 times, including twice in the Top 10. GUNS N' ROSES had 18 and IRON MAIDEN had 14, with DEEP PURPLE coming in with 11 and BLACK SABBATH following closely behind with 10.

Top 10 songs of all time as voted by the listeners of Rockklassiker 106.7:

01. DEEP PURPLE – "Smoke On The Water"
02. METALLICA - "Enter Sandman"
03. GUNS N' ROSES - "November Rain"
04. AC/DC - "Back In Black"
05. METALLICA - "Nothing Else Matters"
06. IRON MAIDEN - "Run To The Hills"
07. KISS - "Lick It Up"
08. AEROSMITH - "Janie's Got A Gun"
09. JIMI HENDRIX - "Foxy Lady"
10. QUEEN - "Bohemian Rhapsody"

The entire Top 666 can be found at this location.

ACE FREHLEY On KISS: 'The Four Of Us Did Have A Chemistry That Was Unique To The Four Of Us'

The Morton Report: Did you feel your talent was undervalued when you were in KISS?

Ace: Well, it seemed like it. Paul [Stanley] and Gene [Simmons] never wanted to give me the credit that was due. It was like in a lot of instances they tried to bury the fact that I did A, B, C, and D. I can't remember Paul or Gene ever saying, "Wow, that was a great solo." On some of my classic guitar solos that were on their songs. But what goes around comes around. They have a new album coming out and I have a new album coming out, and you know what's going to happen. People are going to compare the two. That's all I'm going to say about that.

The Morton Report: I think the world is broken down by who is your favorite KISS member. There's even a Facebook quiz, "What KISS Member Are You?" You ask people and they always say that you're their favorite member of KISS.

Ace: Well, according to Paul and Gene, that's not true.

The Morton Report: No, I think you're the most beloved member.

Ace: I don't think Paul and Gene ever got that. If they did, but why would they have replaced me with Tommy Thayer? And it was profitable in the beginning, but that was because nobody knew it was Tommy Thayer. They were kind of were burying that fact.

The Morton Report: Who do you think it's worse for? Do you think it's worse for Tommy Thayer to have to be you, or for you to see Tommy be you? He didn't even get his own persona, you know?

Ace: Well, he didn't get his own makeup because of all the whole merchandising machine Gene has in place with Sony Signatures. To create a new face just would be a big problem. So it all comes down to dollars and cents, and not what's really the right thing to do.

The Morton Report: As for you, what do you think your greatest strength is?

Ace: I think probably my greatest strength is, because I grew up in the Bronx and was a street kid, I have the survival instinct. And there were plenty of times in my life where I didn't think I was going to make it. Or just mentally didn't think I was going to make it. But I was able to draw from my childhood, my street sense, and that always carried me through tough situations. And also my belief in God. I do believe there's a greater consciousness that everybody's part of, that if you can tap into that, you can get to a higher place. I've written songs that I felt I haven't written. I feel like the words just get beamed into my head.

The Morton Report: Do you still feel a loyalty to them, to KISS as an entity?

Ace: I don't know if loyalty's the right word. I feel a connection. The four of us did have a chemistry that was unique to the four of us, but I think it might be gone at this point, or impossible to recapture.

The Morton Report: If the circumstances were right, could you do something with everybody at the same place, same time?

Ace: I think it's probably passed. It came and went. But that's okay. I did the reunion tour. I feel I was there for them when they needed me.

Read the entire interview from The Morton Report.

PAUL RETURNING TO FANTASY CAMP

WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE: This Fantasy Meets Fantasy 14th Anniversary Camp, November 10th-13th featuring the Final Night Concert at the world famous Playboy Mansion where you will perform live on stage with Paul Stanley of KISS. This four-day camp or five-day recording experience in Hollywood, California features our best counselors, the option of a full day of recording and the final concert to be performed in front of a sold-out audience at the famous Playboy Mansion. I am personally inviting you to reconnect with your band, come as a group or treat yourself to this upcoming opportunity. With Father's Day and Graduation arriving in a few short weeks, Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp is the ultimate gift for your Grad, Dad or Other Half!

"It's a great thing, it's a way for me to say thank you to a lot of people, but, nobody should think that this is just a joy for those people,...For me to get up and play with people who have that exuberance and energy, it's really a gift to me as much as to anybody else," said Paul Stanley, the co-founder and frontman of KISS.

Our Playboy Mansion (four day) or Recording Package (five day) camp is ON SALE NOW. Sign up for Father's Day before June 19th and take advantage of our early bird specials. Bands of four or more, enjoy an additional 10% discount on top of your pre-sale price (group must sign-up at the same time). Additional Individual tickets for the final night can be purchased so that you can bring your friends to join this party or just come that night to get a taste of what Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp is all about. Tickets are limited and on sale now for $999 each. The evening features: Playmate Guided Tours of the Grounds, Personal Photos with Playmates, All-Night Long (top shelf) Open Bar, an Elegantly Catered Buffet Style Dinner, Swimming in the Grotto and the option of Renting Private Cabanas. This is a great night to bring your spouses and partners to celebrate the expereince of a lifetime.

'MAGICAL JAM SESSION' BRINGS DONORS OUT IN DROVES

Organizers of Pacific University's annual Legends Golf Classic charity tournament, which finished its fifth run Monday at Aloha's The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club, say its star-studded, rambunctious atmosphere has made it the university's most hyped yearly fundraiser.

"I've had phone calls and emails from people at Division I and Division II schools from all over the country, just asking how to put something like this on," Pacific Athletic Director Ken Schumann said at Monday's tournament.

Not bad for an event that began like many other small schools' charity golf outings: Just a couple of dozen Pacific sports supporters swinging clubs to support the athletic department.

Enter KISS lead guitarist Tommy Thayer, a Beaverton native who serves on Pacific's board of trustees, and the smalltime fundraiser became a place to see, be seen, and party like a rock star.

"It just kind of makes you feel special when you're going to spend money on a cause," said Marshal Burgess, 38, of Portland, who gushed about his dinner with actor Clint Howard the night before.

The backstory goes like this: Schumann invited Thayer, then a new trustee, to participate in that year's the golf outing. Thayer accepted, but on one condition.

"I said of course I would, but I want to make it a really top-notch event," Thayer said as he prepared to tee off Monday.

Luckily, Thayer's address book is filled with other celebrity musicians and pro golfers he's met through the pro-am circuit. He called up a few friends, asked them to join, and soon the small fundraiser earned the title of "celebrity golf outing."

Pacific earned $75,000 in Thayer's first year at the golf outing. This year, Schumann expects the event to net at least $180,000, with 160 people paying top dollar to hit balls with their music and sports idols.

For many, the tournament itself wasn't the highlight. It was the night before, when guests bid on auction items including a KISS-themed Mini Cooper or a long weekend at Thayer's vacation home on Cannon Beach.

Then, Thayer and his brigade of special guests such as Darius Rucker and Clint Black rocked out for hours in a private concert. Thayer called it a "magical jam session."

"It's a'happening," Pacific trustee Yvonne Katz said Monday. "We were rocking and rolling last night 'til after midnight."

It's no wonder the next day's golf outing didn't tee off until 1 p.m.

Thayer was there, dressed in golf gear with a studded black belt and long, shaggy hair for the appropriate rocker edge. So was Johnny Lee, covered in head-to-toe green with dollar bills on his pants. The Doors' guitarist Robby Krieger practiced his swing in psychedelic multicolored trousers that could have come straight out of the band's heyday.

Big names, loud outfits, killer guitar riffs -- Thayer said that's what makes Legends unique.

"It's known as a golf event, but really it's an entertainment event," he said. "The thing that's unique and special about what we do is our party and concert."

But it's not all about the party. The money earned at Legends will cover various expenses for Pacific's 21-sport athletic program. About $80,000 will pay to install a turf practice field inside the university's Stoller Center fieldhouse.

"It directly benefits over 500 student athletes," Schumann said. "That resonates with a lot of people."

GENE AND PAUL TO COLLOBORATE ON MEMOIR

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, two of the founders of legendary superband KISS, are collaborating with rock journalist Ken Sharp on Nothin’ To Lose, an oral history of the band’s early years, from its founding in 1973 to the 1975 release of its breakout concert album Alive! The book will include interviews with bandmates Peter Criss and Ace Frehley, other rock stars of the era, and the behind-the-scenes players. The book will feature never-before-published photographs. IT Books, an imprint of Harper Collins is scheduled to publish the book in Summer 2012. Drummer Peter Criss has his own memoir due in 2012.

IT Books Editor Denise Oswald exlusively talked to The Hollywood Reporter about the project. “KISS is one of the most beloved and influential hard rock bands of the last forty years. What is particularly fascinating about this project is about how the band got off the ground, how they came up with the concept of who they were that so defined them and captured the love and imagination of all of their fans.” Oswald says the book is about more than just the band. “Its also an amazing depiction of New York in the early seventies--its Manhattan, its Queens, you have members of the Ramones, members of Blue Oyster Cult, touring with and playing with Kiss. You really get this incredible portrait of a time.”

Simmons and Stanley founded KISS in 1973 after their previous band Wicked Lester broke up. They found drummer Peter Criss and lead guitarist Ace Frehley through advertisements in East Coast rock magazines. The band’s first few albums recorded so-so sales, but KISS gained a reputation as a sensational live act for their makeup and Simmon’s theatrics, which included spitting blood and breathing fire. They also cultivated an airy of mystery by not allowing themselves to be photographed out of makeup. Band members have also talked in interviews about the epic backstage partying that went on during its early years. Kiss’s big breakthrough came in 1975 with the release of ALIVE!, which featured the its first top-40 hit in the live version of "Rock and Roll All Nite."

KISS DRUMMER ERIC SINGER INTERVIEW PART 2

KISS drummer Eric Singer recently sat down with BraveWords.com scribe, Mitch Lafon, for an all-encompassing three-hour chat. Part I of the sit-down can be found here. In Part II, Eric discusses more of KISS' upcoming plans.

On the upcoming KISSology IV DVD Box set: “It should be out before Christmas. It’ll be about twelve hours of stuff. Tommy has been putting it all together, but I can’t tell you exactly what is on it because we still have to get the rights to some of the stuff. The band has to buy the rights even if it’s only one song like on David Letterman or Jay Leno. Even though it’s your performance, it’s their show and they own it. KISSology IV picks up where the last one left off. For the most part it runs chronologically, but there is some old vintage stuff on there that they had been trying to find. It’s all a matter of clearance and them getting permission to use certain stuff. There’s an A list of stuff we want, a B list of stuff we know we can use and C list of stuff we have to wait and see if we can use, but I do know there will be a Cobo Hall (Detroit) concert from 2009.”

On the topic of Paul Stanley: “Paul is the consummate pro. Paul never complains. He’s calm before the show, but when he walks out on stage he flips the switch, goes 100%, gives it all and never ever complains. This is a guy who has had both knees replaced, his hip (on the right side) replaced twice and torn both rotator cuffs (in his shoulders). He might say, ’I’m really sore, so I’ll need a massage or I’m staying in bed today, but still after all he’s had done he never complains.”

KISS maven, Gene Simmons: “Gene is the archivist in KISS. Anytime there’s an article about KISS, Gene tears it out nicely and he puts them in these big coffee table sized books. He used to have them stacked at home under the bed at his mom’s house, but I don’t know where he stores them now. He collects anything and everything KISS."

As for Gene’s love of money, Singer says: “I laugh when people say that all Gene Simmons cares about is money. Nobody really knows who Gene is. Nobody loves KISS more than Gene… NOBODY! Gene eats, breathes, and lives everything KISS. That’s what he does. Gene is a workaholic. We’re on a day off right now and I’m at home, but Gene’s in Vancouver doing demos with local musicians. He’s working on song ideas for the new record. He did it in Toronto last week on his day off too. Gene can’t sit still. He can’t just relax by the pool and get some sun. That’s just the way he is. He’s got work ethic like nobody’s business. There’s nobody more driven and with a better work ethic than Gene. Gene is 24/7 KISS. Everything he does is because of KISS.”

On KISS’ work ethic, Singer states: “These guys don’t fuck around. When we meet at rehearsal, they put on the guitars and gear and we run the set from front to back and it’s see you guys later. Let’s say the set takes two hours to run down, we’re there no more than three hours. Other bands goof around for hours, but these guys come in and ‘bam’ they run this shit down and get it done with. They do their work and leave. Still to this day (38 years or whatever later), they still do the work and whatever it takes that you are supposed to do to be in band. They will talk to Joe Fucks website. Whatever interview list they give us to do… we do it. In other words, we do the work. That’s why, for any of the naysayers out there, we get along and this line-up works. This is why Gene and Paul still want to play and enjoy it. We’re all completely different in our personalities, but when it comes to being in a band everybody treats KISS professionally and with respect. It’s about being respectful to it and being serious. Bottom line is that this band has given everybody a life style that is better than most people and that comes from them doing the due diligence, doing the work, treating it with professionalism, respect, and not running away from the work. It gets done. I’ve learned a lot from Gene and Paul about those things that are taken for granted by most musicians. Much smaller bands will sit there and have an attitude about doing interviews… ‘I don’t want to do this or I don’t want to do that,’ and you know Mitch – you hear it and see it all the time. Then you see a band like KISS, that will do whatever they have to do.”

On the new KISS album currently being recorded: “It will be completed in the next couple of months. The plan is to put it out at the beginning of the year and to do a tour with a new stage (new staging and new show) and maybe even new costumes. There’s no plan to sit around in 2012.”

When asked if the new album will be a Walmart exclusive (much like their last offering, Sonic Boom): “I don’t know. What’s changed more than anything, is in the old days you toured to support a record, but now you make a record so that you have a reason to tour. It’s exactly the opposite of what it used to be. The only way bands can make money anymore is by touring. People just don’t buy records when I was in BADLANDS in 1989, we sold almost 400 000 copies of our first record and that wasn’t enough. Atlantic records said that they’d kick in the real big money if we could get it to Gold (500,000 copies sold). We came so close to getting MÖTLEY CRÜE's Dr. Feelgood tour, but WARRANT got it because they had radio songs happening. Badlands did one more record. They went from selling almost 400,000 to selling 80,000 on the next one and then the band was over. If you sold 350,000 records today; that would be considered phenomenal.”

When asked if KISS will ever tour again without make-up Singer offers: “I don’t know. I’ve heard Gene mention something about maybe doing another KISS convention thing again in the future, but I don’t know if that’s ever going to happen. When we did it in 1995, it cost 100$, but that’s nothing compared to today’s prices. For the fan, that was a great experience, but Gene says a lot of things. He’s an idea man and in business if one or two of your ideas comes to fruition you’ve done pretty damn good. Do you know how many pilots and screenplays that get done, but never see the light of day and that nobody knows about? One of the things we plan on doing on the KISS Kruise, however, is to play unplugged with no make-up.”

Caught In The Act

PAUL STANLEY, PHIL COLLEN To Teach Punters How To Rock On 'Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp'

VH1 Classic and executive producer Mark Burnett are bringing back a new group of 'average Joes' for their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put their music skills to the ultimate test and find out if they have what it takes to be a true rock star on "Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp". Hosted by "American Idol" sweetheart and Vanguard recording artist Kimberly Caldwell, the show will feature 15 musicians from a variety of backgrounds and cities as they go through the unforgettable transformation of having to put it all on the line and find out if they have what it takes to make it in the cutthroat world of rock 'n' roll. Broken into three groups of five, each group of campers will create a band and be assigned a rock star camp counselor (Duff McKagan, Matt Sorum and Mark Hudson) who will give them pointers and guidance, transforming the 9-to-5'ers into center stage front men and women. For one week each group will have the opportunity to rehearse and learn the ropes from other special-guest rock gods who drop by including Paul Stanley of KISS, Phil Collen of DEF LEPPARD, Marky Ramone of the RAMONES and more. At the end of the week, each group should have the music know-how, fresh looks and rock-star swagger to give an unforgettable performance to a group of legitimate rock stars who are acting as judges.

Will they pass the test and be flocked with adoring fans or booed off the stage? The stakes are high as the band voted best by the fans will win the opportunity musicians can only dream about — a once-in-a-lifetime performance with legendary rock star Sammy Hagar.

Catch the complete first season at FantasyCamp.VH1.com. New episodes will launch online every Monday morning following the show's on-air premiere.

"Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp" is executive-produced by Mark Burnett, David Fishof and Lee Metzger for Mark Burnett Productions and by Lee Rolontz and Keshia Williams for VH1.

KISS-THEMED SUSHI ON THE MENU

KISS COFFEEHOUSE ANNIVERSARY SCHEDULE

Schedule Of Events*

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Professional Photographs @ KISS Coffeehouse
(Platinum & Double Platinum Packages Only)

12:30 PM – 5:00 PM Meet & Greet w/Eric & Tommy @ KISS Coffeehouse

7:00 PM – 7:30 PM Q&A Session w/Eric & Tommy @ Celebrity Square

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM KISS Army Concert @ Celebrity Square

10:30 PM – ??? After Party w/KISS Army @ KISS Coffeehouse

*Schedule is tentative, and all times are approximate, and subject to change.

ALL Kids 10 & Under Get In FREE With Paid Adult!

Visit www.KISSCoffeehouse.com for more information.

TOMMY THAYER RADIO INTERVIEW

KISS CRANKS IT UP IN HIGH-ENERGY SPECTACLE

The band that claims to be the hottest band in the world had the burners cranked up for Windsor.

Even lead singer Paul Stanley remarked at one point, "Never have two countries been closer in the spirit of rock 'n' roll than right here in Windsor and in Detroit Rock City."

Detroit Rock City, of course, is one of Kiss' enduring favourites and the crowd reacted with roars of approval.

The show is a spectacle from start to finish and the band doesn't leave you enough time to take a breath as it gears it up for 16 of its best-loved songs.

Gene Simmons, 61, the star of reality TV and the trademark of the Kiss phenomenon in his Demon makeup, continues to amaze with the energy of a 20-year-old.

Stanley, at 59, is no less amazing, as he takes charge from the time he hits the stage.

The much-younger and newer sidemen, Tommy Thayer on guitars and Eric Singer on drums, round out an act that never seems to age in terms of appeal and enthusiasm.

One longtime fan, Chatham's Rob Richardson, 34, saw his first Kiss show in 1986 with his older brother. Now he's passing the torch to his eight-year old daughter, who couldn't join dad on this night because of the age restriction at the Colosseum.

"But she just loves them," said Richardson. She even has a drumstick courtesy Simmons at one of Kiss' outdoor shows in London.

Highlights Wednesday included Love Gun, a surefired hit with any audience, that features a machine-gun attack on the drums by Singer and Stanley's lead vocals.

It led into the Simmons solo, God of Thunder, which includes the stage blood oozing from his mouth and prominent displays of his axe-shaped bass.

Shock Me provided a solo slot for lead guitarist, Thayer, who has taken over for Kiss original, Ace Frehley. The exploding guitar and fierce battle with the drummer remains as a reminder of the old days.

Kiss has no shame when it comes to laying the pyrotechnics and effects on thick. It's like baroque heavy metal.

There were nods to their rock ancestors. Stanley played the opening notes of Led Zeppelin's Stairway to Heaven in the intro to Black Diamond, while the encore performance of Lick It Up featured a middle section quote of The Who's Won't Get Fooled Again.

Gene Simmons' Marriage Proposal Sets Series High For 'Family Jewels'

Live Review: KISS at Casino Rama

The rocker proposed to longtime Canadian love Shannon Tweed on his A&E series, Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels in an episode that aired Tuesday night.

Then he donned seven-inch heels, black leather and studs, spandex, black-and-white face makeup and took to the stage for a sold out crowd at Casino Rama.

Simmons brought original singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, current lead guitarist Tommy Thayer (Ace Frehley left in 2002) and current drummer Eric Singer (Peter Criss left in 2003) along with him.

Slightly later in the evening, the marriage-phobic Simmons could be seen finally popping the question (it was actually filmed a couple of months ago) in Belize to Tweed, his girlfriend of 28 years and the mother of his two grown children, with her answer still up in the air.

But of course.

Simmons, now 61, is nothing if not a master marketer.

As for the Casino Rama concert, the band played on an impressive, if streamlined stage, with the giant white lights of the KISS logo looming large.

They were first seen approaching via backstage video while a giant black KISS flag unfurled on stage heralding their arrival with plenty of pyro, four video screens, and speakers putting a fine point on it for the opening song, Modern Day Delilah.

“So we couldn’t make it to Toronto,” said Stanley, 59. “But we wanted to get close. You all feel like family to us.”

I guess that meant Stanley could give the audience heck after a couple of songs, Let Me Go Rock N Roll and Firehouse, with Simmons doing his usual fire-eating routine at the end of the latter, and also entertaining mightily during Deuce.

“Y’all look like your sitting down and watching TV. If it’s rock n’ roll, standup!” he said. “Man, I don’t mind doing the work, but y’all gotta stick with us.”

Truthfully, the Hottest Show on Earth seemed a bit tired, at times, maybe without Frehley and Criss in the lineup, and given this is the second leg of the tour maybe Simmons and Stanley really are tired.

Thayer, who sang lead on Shock Me, and Singer both delivered impressive solos about midway through the show with Simmons and Stanley leaving the stage - possibly to lie down? - which included Thayer firing pyro out of his guitar and Singer doing likewise out of a bazooka looking device.

When Simmons and Stanley returned they seemed more energized on I Love It Loud, Love Gun, and God of Thunder with Simmons doing his usual schtick, spitting blood and looking like a deranged Japanese samurai.

Stanley had his moment in the spotlight too on Black Diamond playing a bit of Led Zeppelin’s Stairway To Heaven in the intro before saying: “You don’t want me to play that? Say no, Paul!” and then giving the crowd a hard time once again for not being responsive enough: “Can you do a little bit better than that?”

The group closed with plenty of pyro and Detroit Rock City and Singer’s drum kit rising into the air before returning with an encore that began with Singer coming out from behind his kit to sing lead on Beth.

It wasn’t his finest moment, let’s just say.

Then Stanley inexplicably began doing a bit of The Guess Who’s American Woman before forgetting some of the lyrics - “What are the words?” he said - before finally launching into the KISS anthem, Lick It Up, that also mysteriously ended with a bit of The Who’s Won’t Get Fooled Again right down to Moon’s drum rolls.

Pacing seemed to be an issue late in the game.

Much better were the last two songs of the night, Shout It Out Loud and Rock And Roll All Nite, with plenty of white confetti showering the audience amid fireworks and firebursts, and Simmons, Thayer and Singer rising up on platforms, during the latter tune.

SET LIST
Modern Day Delilah
Let Me Go, Rock ‘N’ Roll
Firehouse
Deuce
Do You Love Me
Calling Dr. Love
Shock Me
I Love It Loud
Love Gun
God of Thunder
Black Diamond
Detroit Rock City

ENCORE:
Beth
Lick It Up
Shout It Out Loud
Rock And Roll All Nite

ACE FREHLEY: 'No Regrets' Memoir Due In November; Cover Unveiled

"No Regrets" was co-written by New York Times journalist Joe Layden who also authored "The Last Great Fight" about what is considered by many to be the biggest upset in the history of boxing: James "Buster" Douglas' tenth-round knockout win over Mike Tyson in 1990.

Layden recently worked on MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine's autobiography, "Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir".

Jennifer Bergstrom, Vice President, Editor-in-Chief of Gallery Books, said "'No Regrets' is sure to be the next must-read rock-and-roll memoir."

Commented Frehley: "I think Sinatra said it best… 'Regrets I've had a few, but then again, too few to mention.'"

One of the most popular rock guitarists of the 1970s, Frehley became an inspiration to a generation of guitarists with his lead-guitar prowess and atmospheric Les Paul sound.

Frehley performed with KISS from its inception in 1973 until his first departure in 1982 before rejoining KISS in 1996 for a very successful reunion tour. Frehley's second stint lasted until 2002 as Ace went back to being a solo artist again, but the stories and memories still remain from touring in one of rock and roll's most successful acts of all time.

On the red carpet just before his performance with Slash at the at the sixth annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert on May 7, 2010 at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, Ace Frehley talked about putting his memoir together and how he got help remembering some of his old stories that he might have forgotten.

"It's gonna be memoirs, you know," he told the Artisan News Service.

"I just turned 59, [so] I think it's about time I start getting the stuff out and writing it down on paper before I forget it.

"It's hard for me to remember a lot of the stuff, so what I've been doing is getting together with people I used to work with, and they usually have better memories of situations than myself. Getting together with old bodyguards... They have the best stories about me... stuff I don't remember."

Gallery Books is an imprint dedicated to publishing a wide variety of must-read books on a wide array of topics. The imprint was designed to showcase established voices and to introduce emerging new ones — in both fiction and nonfiction, and across a variety of genres.

Gene Simmons Proposed 'Months Ago'

Turns out, the proposal scene in Tuesday night's finale of A&E's reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels was taped "several months ago," a source confirmed, and it's been a rocky road for the pair ever since.

Simmons, 61, and Tweed, 54, were vacationing in Belize when he proclaimed, "you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I love ... and you're the only one I ever will love," before getting down on one knee.

It remains to be seen whether Tweed will be saying "I do" and sticking with it. She did, however, tell PEOPLE in a recent interview that she had moved out of their home and that there was a "slim chance" of them getting back together. "You're seeing this happy family," Tweed said, "but in my heart, I am dying."

The couple, who once described themselves as happily unmarried, have been together for 28 years and have two grown children Nick, 22, and Sophie, 18.

This season of Family Jewels has documented their troubles and family therapy sessions stemming from Simmons's claim that he has slept with thousands of women. Last month, during a promotional tour, Tweed slammed Simmons for his infidelities and said their relationship had "pretty much unraveled."

"I need some sort of commitment," Tweed told PEOPLE, reiterating that their relationship is over if Simmons's behavior continues. "Something has to give."

On Monday, Tweed Tweeted that the proposal was "the most shocking moment" of her life.

Gene Simmons proposes to Tweed

The KISS frontman and the model are parents to 22-year-old son Nicholas and 18-year-old daughter Sophie, and have lived together since 1985.

They are currently starring in reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, on which their strained relationship has come under the spotlight - last month the couple fell out during the filming of the show after Simmons poked fun at his infamous womanising ways.

But now the star has pledged his love to the former Playboy model, getting on his knees to propose on the season finale of the programme.

In a clip of the show, he tells Tweed, "I come with so much baggage, but you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I've ever loved. You're the only one I love and you're the only one I ever will love, and I will say those words to anybody."

The rocker then drops to his knees, when Tweed bursts into tears and holds her hands over her mouth as he asks her, "Please marry me."

Tweed's answer will be shown when the episode airs on Tuesday.

KISS Frontman Gene Simmons Pops the Question to Shannon Tweed!

The rock legend who once vowed he wasn't the marrying kind has—after more than 25 years of living together and raising two kids—finally asked the ex-Playboy Playmate for her hand in marriage.

And wouldn't you know…the touching moment just happened to be caught on camera for their A&E reality series, Gene Simmons' Family Jewels!

Here's how it went down:

Simmons, 61, and Tweed, 54, were vacationing in Belize when the fire-breathing KISS bassist opened his heart and proclaimed that she was the one for him (it only took 28 years).

"I come with so much baggage, but you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I love...and you're the only one I ever will love," Simmons told Tweed. "I've never said those words to anybody. And I don't ever want to...funny, I used to watch movies where they say I can't live without you, but for me it's true."

Playing to the cameras? Most likely. But no matter. Not one to shy away from grand gestures, Gene gets down on bended knee and proposes, prompting tears from Shannon, though no word whether she says yes.

Simmons subsequently announced the about-face on Twitter, linking to a clip leaked to TMZ and writing, "Tomorrow night I put Shannon before everything."

Okay, so it was a shameless plug for the season finale, which airs tonight at 10 p.m. But will it produce ratings?

The couple have made their marital woes the central headline this season, kicking things off in June with the actress acting disgusted by Gene's ongoing flirtations with other women while the two were making the publicity rounds. The discord culminated in Tweed storming off the set of HLN's The Joy Behar Show during an interview and talk of the couple going their separate ways.

So tune in to see if they can put Humpty-Dumpty back together again.

CFL Gene Simmons and Family at the B.C. Lions game

Gene 'I'll Never Get Married' Simmons ... PROPOSES!!!!

(Video)

We don't know what her official answer is -- but based on her reaction, we can take a guess.

The proposal -- caught on camera for “Gene Simmons Family Jewels” -- airs tomorrow night at 10 on A&E. Gene and Shannon met 28 years ago ... and have two kids together.

The 5th Pacific Legends Golf Classic Brings Together Another Star-Studded Field Of Celebrities

The 2011 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic, hosted by the KISS lead guitarist and Pacific University trustee, takes place on Sun., July 31 and Mon., Aug. 1. Over the first four years of the event, the Legends Golf Classic has raised over $400,000 for Pacific's athletic program and the over 400 student-athletes who participate annually.

“Legends has been successful year after year thanks to the outpouring of support from celebrities from the worlds of sports, entertainment and music,” Thayer said. “I am so happy that so many of my friends are coming back out for another first-class golf event to support Pacific athletics.”

The Legends Golf Classic opens on Sunday with a dinner, auction and concert at the Tiger Woods Center at the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton. Emceed by Golf Channel host Holly Sonders, the evening will feature silent and live auctions featuring memorabilia from the music and sports worlds, trips, special concert opportunities as well a limited edition KISS Mini-Cooper automobile.

The evening concludes with a jam session by Thayer and some of his friends, including Don Felder, Robby Krieger, Danny Seraphine, Eric Singer, Clint Black, Darius Rucker and Johnny Lee.

The tournament continues on Monday at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club in Aloha, one of the premier courses in the Pacific Northwest. A professional golf clinic featuring PGA and LPGA professionals will precede the double-shotgun start.

Also among the featured celebrities expected to participate in this year's Legends Golf Classic include PGA professionals Notah Begay III, Tim Petrovic, Colt Knost, Brian Henninger, Jason Allred and Arron Olberholser; LPGA standouts Perry Swenson and Amber Prange, actors Clint Howard and David Anders, NFL stars Neil Lomax and Leroy Irvin, Major League Baseball stars Richie Sexson, Chuck Finley and Scott Erickson and former Oregon football coach and ESPN analyst Mike Bellotti.

The 2011 Pacific Legends Golf Classic is sold out. There is still a chance, however, to earn a playing spot. A total of six playing spots are being auctioned off this week by our media partners, News Radio 1190 KEX and 105.9 The Brew, with proceeds benefiting Pacific athletics. For more information on the auction, please visit www.1190kex.com or www.1059thebrew.com.

In addition, supporters can also participate in the tournament by purchasing a chance in our golf ball drop. For just $20 per ball, you could have a chance to win at least half of the money raised from golf ball sales up to $2,500. The golf ball drop takes places on Mon., Aug. 1, and you need not present to win.

For more information on the golf ball drop as well as details on this year's Pacific University Legends Golf Classic, including celebrity biographies and sponsorship details, please visit www.pacificlegendsgolf.com.

Kids steal the show with tribute Kiss bike

Thousands of fans left with a photograph of them with the famous family, but the Simmons’ clan walked away with a photo album of their own, documenting the six-week process of building a Chopper bicycle in their honour.

Sophia Harrington, 12, built the Jewel bike with the help of three other youth as part of the Angels Chopper Bicycle Club. The club gives youth an opportunity to keep busy, rather than taking to the streets.

“We are fans of the show,” Sophia said. But they also love bikes, including building them from scratch. “We make them and paint them,” she said.

Tony Harrington, 9, Gavin O’Driscoll, 11, and Thomas Haywood, 16, helped build the bike and design it in tribute to Kiss and the family.

The bike seat is shaped as Simmons’ famously-long tongue and has a guitar-shaped back-support.

“Go ahead dad, sit on your own tongue,” said Nick.

The white bike also has the names of Gene, Shannon, Sophie and Nick — and now their signatures, which the family added.

The youth group offered to ship the bike to the Simmons’ clan, but Shannon Tweed had another suggestion.

“Do you think it would be a good idea if we signed that bike and you auctioned it so you could make some money for your club?” she asked. “I think that would be a good idea.”

There were many children on site to see the stars of the Gene Simmons Family Jewels reality television show, and Simmons had some advice for youth looking to pursue their dreams.

“Whatever it is that you want to become, sometimes where you are from doesn’t have it all,” he said. “Be proud of who you are, but the mountain is never going to come to you.”

The ACBC group has built bikes as tribute to several famous groups, including the Ozzy bike and the Elton bike. They have also built a Canucks-themed bike.

New guitarist says there's no end in sight to the KISS phenomena

And it seems like that isn't going to be ending any time soon.

For the past three years, the band has performed more than 250 shows, in three dozen nations around the world, to an audience that is arguably getting younger and younger.

As part of a short mid-summer tour, Kiss, comprising original members Gene Simmons, 61, and Paul Stanley, 59, along with longtime drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer, will be shaking the foundations of Casino Rama outside Orillia, on Tuesday and then take to the stage at Caesar's Windsor the following evening.

Thayer, who has been working with the band in a background capacity since the early 1990s, and joined the band as a full-fledged member in 2002, told QMI Agency about what a ride it's been for the veteran rockers over the past number of years.

"It's been a whirlwind, and it keeps going because it's been going so well that we keep on adding shows here and there. This run we're on now is only about five or six weeks, but a lot of the shows are up in Canada, which has always been one of the greatest places for us to play. Some of the biggest turnouts, almost ever, have been at some of our Canadian shows. There's a lot of great fans there," Thayer said from Los Angeles, where the band had taken a short break from touring to do some work on their next album.

The band's previous album, Sonic Boom, was the first studio album for Kiss in more than a decade, and the first with Thayer.

It was a smash hit, in an era when record sales have been in decline thanks to the advent of downloading. On the strength of the singles Modern Day Deliliah and Say Yeah, the Sonic Boom world tour has, essentially never stopped. Thayer said all of the band members, but particularly stalwarts Simmons and Stanley, were very pleased with the album, and were heartened by the critical acclaim it received, as well as the overwhelming fan support.

Like their as-yet-untitled forthcoming album, Sonic Boom was recorded 'old-school', much like Kiss' first three albums — Kiss, Hotter than Hell and Dressed to Kill — in the early 1970s.

"We were super proud of how we wrote and recorded that album, and the way it sounded. From top to bottom, we were 100% happy with how it turned out. The whole design of it was something that we were going to do just between the four band members. We did all the writing and recording, we didn't get influenced, or have outside input on song selections or anything like that. We did it almost like a new band starting up would," Thayer explained.

"It reminded me of that feeling of going back to when you first got into a band, where you're in your garage or someone's basement, and you're writing songs and recording them. There was no real agenda with Sonic Boom. We wanted to keep it simple, and not over-think it."

Thayer said eight songs have been recorded for the new album, and there are still four or five more to go.

"This new record has the same approach, but I think we've even upped the ante as far as the writing, and I think we're just more comfortable now. We're coming up with even cooler ideas. And even the recording process is kind of a throwback. In the studio, everybody is playing together, it's not just building tracks up one instrument at a time. We all played together, and we recorded on analog tape ... to get the real straight-ahead rock sound," he said.

"When you hit that tape, with a hard punchy sound, there's a certain style and warmth that you don't get on a digital recording."

Thayer, who turns 51 in November, said he is heartened to hear that many fans, including an increasing number of young fans, are rediscovering vinyl LPs, and seeing music are more than just another disposable digital commodity.

"When we were younger, you'd buy an album, and you'd sit there for hours looking at the cover, and every little detail and all the liner notes and lyrics, while you played it over and over again. There really was a visual and interactive part to it. And it was an event to go buy records," he said.

"And then with cassettes and later CDs, you kind of lost a lot of that, because the packaging got so small. And it became less important, and now you're at the point where you do a digital download and that whole 'event' element to new music is go. It's no wonder that kids today don't want to collect music like we used to. What is to collecting a digital file? Who cares, right?"

But he said Kiss still thinks it's important to treat every new album as an event ... and apparently it's worked, as Sonic Boom entered the Billboard charts at No. 2 when it was released and topped the charts in many other countries.

Thayer's story is an interesting one. A life-long fan of Kiss, he's been able to live the dream of every kid who ever signed up for the Kiss Army fan club, or dressed up at Hallowe'en in the vaunted Kiss make-up as either the Demon, Starchild, Spaceman or Cat.

Originally from Portland, Ore., he formed a band called Black 'n Blue in his hometown in the early 1980s, and moved to Los Angeles to find fame and fortune.

After just six months on the circuit, the band was signed to Geffen Records and earned some slots opening up for some pretty big bands, including Kiss.

"That's when I met Paul and Gene. Not long after that, we asked Gene to produce our third and fourth albums for Black 'n Blue, which he did. So we kind of built a relationship and it started evolving, and soon thereafter, he asked me to come and write with he and Paul for a record they were working on. So I got more involved in their world. After Black 'n Blue ran its course (around 1989), they hired me to come and work for them, part time to begin with, just as a guy to help out with whatever project they were doing at the time," he said.

In 1996, Kiss donned the face paint again after 13 years without it. The band also reunited with the two other iconic original members, guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss.

Thayer was working behind the scenes, basically working with Frehley to help him re-learn his guitar parts on many of the classic songs which he hadn't played for many years.

"And it was partially managing their reunion tour, doing a lot behind the scenes. I was also editing and producing their long-form videos. And, at the end of the day, it all evolved to where they wanted to make a chance in 2002, and they asked me to step into the coveted role as the lead guitar player, and that was almost 10 years ago now," he said.

Thayer replaced Frehley, who wanted to go back to his solo career, and donned the Spaceman outfit and make-up.

Although there were some fans who resented both he and Singer donning the looks of Frehley and Criss respectively (back in the early 1980s, Criss' replacement Eric Carr was The Fox, and guitarist Vinnie Vincent had an ancient Egyptian design on his face paint), Thayer said the vast majority have no problem with it.

"Being in Kiss for the first time was almost an out-of-body experience. You can't ever imagine something like that happening. And I think 99 per cent of the fans are cool now with me, just because we have been touring for several years, and particularly for the last two or three years, the shows have been so huge, and it's a different kind of crowd now. There are a lot of new fans of all different ages, and lots of younger kids that are just discovering Kiss, and it's not a big deal to them," Thayer said.

"These days, people are going to see and experience Kiss — the extravaganza, see the performance, the spectacle and here the songs. It's more like the circus coming to town. People are coming to see a cultural icon. I think people need to get real with the fact that, as time goes on, the bands are going to change.

"And some purists say, 'they should just hang it up then.' Why? That's not reality. People still want to see these bands and hear the music, and if there are different people up there doing it, people have to get real to that fact it's going to happen. Look at Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Journey and Foreigner. But don't get me wrong, it's got to be done well, if not better than the original, and it's got to look and sound great. Rock and roll shows like ours are something that people are always going to want to see, and it's not going to just end all of a sudden."

And Thayer confirms that neither Stanley nor Simmons have given any indication that they want to stop any time soon.

Tickets for Tuesday's show at Casino Rama are available at the box office, or at www.ticketmaster.ca. Show time is 8 p.m. Visit www.casinorama.com/Entertainment.html. Tickets for the Colosseum show at Caesar's Windsor are available at the box office, and also through Ticketmaster. Visit www.caesarswindsor.com.

KISS ROCKS MONTREAL!

Two days and nights, 39 bands, enough volume and weight to shift a tectonic plate. Knobs at 11? 12. Heavy MTL.

And when KISS followed Motorhead’s customarily essential set, setting off their own Fireworks Competition display last night, one had to admit, this is the ideal one-stop-shopping outing to stock up on a year’s worth of metal.

Sunday night, Heavy MTL got the headliner it deserved and needed – not the purest of the death metalloids, but the showbizzers who prove more than any that the “bastard child of rock’n’roll” is multigenerational. When Paul Stanley screeched “Hold up your little ones!” between Firehouse and Deuce, and many parents hoisted kids in KISS make-up, you realized KISS reminds you of the pointlessness of Broadway. This is Broadway, the hard/real way: the demon/loverman/space-case/cat costumed finery, the spectacle, and a vilified songbook that still kills anything in Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark. A huge crowd, who’d shifted over after Motorhead’s irreducible Ace of Spades and Overkill to cram the left side of the park, roared at the fire-pillars, and throughout a comprehensive set that reminds even the least devoted in the audience that KISS has now been an entry point to rock’n’roll for 40 (!) years of wasted youth.

Video: Gene Simmons & Family in Victoria

Gene Simmons and family thrill Victoria fans

The Kiss bassist and star of Gene Simmons Family Jewels was accompanied by his wife Shannon Tweed, daughter Sophie and son Nick, for a meet and greet outside the View Royal Casino on Saturday.

“You know we aren’t doing anything, we are just going to stand here and talk. We’re not performing, you know that right,” Nick told the crowd of screaming fans. “Then hi, nice to see you. Why are you here?”

The event was a family affair, with many parents accompanied by their children, who are fans of the show.

Landon Shaw was just there to have his photo taken with the Simmons family and his own, but used his 15 seconds on stage to also play a few chords for the rock star.

Simmons stole the moment, however, when he reached around the 11-year-old’s shoulders to play a few chords on the boy’s electric guitar. “It is a milestone he will remember forever,” said his mother Tiina.

Landon plays one KISS song, I Was Made for Lovin’ You, as part of a busking set he does downtown. His parents are fans of the band, and “now we pass on the tradition,” said his father, Ken Shaw. They also share a love for the reality television show starring the famous family.

“It’s the life of the rock star family-style. They are so down to earth, though,” said Ken. “They go through the same trials and tribulations as we do, only they have got a lot more money.”

The money and fame is one side of the story, but the family portrayed through six seasons is just like many others. Sophie said her father is extremely strict. “There’s zero tolerance for drinking or partying or things like that. They encourage us to go out with our friends, but they encourage us to not be idiots.”

“I think the TV show is good for all of us. It is certainly good for me, because it gives me a chance to watch myself and realize that my perception of myself isn’t accurate. Sometimes I can be short, arrogant, selfish,” said Simmons.

As for the marriage rumours: “For the record, I have never been married. I have desperately loved Shannon for 28 years, and we have two great kids,” said Simmons.

Video: On planet Simmons

KISS Drummer Eric Singer Featured In Exclusive BW&BK Interview

Singer: "KISS has always been somewhat of a unifying and polarizing band. Just like buying a car buying a car or eating at a restaurant – you go by participation. If I don’t like something I don’t buy it. I don’t support it. You vote with your wallet, but KISS is about the show and about having a good time. Being in KISS is a lot of hard work. It’s not easy like everybody thinks. I’ve been in a lot of bands and nothing takes the amount of energy, effort and work as it does to play in KISS. I’ve seen Paul almost yawning before he goes on stage, but when the lights go down – BAM. He’s running around, jumping…What’s important is when you are on that stage. That’s when you have to give 100%..”

-- On the KISS audience: "We’ve seen how the audience has changed over the past few years. It’s now more of an all-ages show. I liken KISS to Disneyworld or Universal Studios – it’s one of these spectacle things that you’ve got to go see."

-- On Heavy MTL: "We love Montreal. It’s a beautiful city. I’m glad that we’re going back there to play the Heavy MTL festival. And we have a day off there, which is very cool."

-- On the new album: "We’ve done eight songs so far. Doing this summer run keeps it fresh, but mainly it gets you playing at a more intense level and that helps you bring that intensity back into the studio. Right now, the album doesn’t have a title because we’re not done, but this isn’t The Elder where we have a theme for the whole record. It’s a straight-ahead rock KISS record and I think this stuff so far is stronger better material (than Sonic Boom). It’s more riff-y which makes it more interesting."

"This album will have more production (than Sonic Boom), so in that sense it might be leaning more towards a Destroyer type approach. I’ve asked to have my drums put in a bigger room because I want to get a big sound… a more bombastic drum sound. We’ve taken more time to get better sounds on this recording."

-- On doing a vocal on the new album: "There’s been talk about it, but until we do it… The plan is to have me sing a song and to have Tommy do one, but we’ve never asked to sing a song. Paul is the producer and that was his choice and decision. It was him encouraging me to sing. He knows that I’m actually shy when it comes to that. I’m not a shy person for the most part, but I am when it comes to singing."

"A lot of people say, ‘I can play circles around that guy,’ but I realized a long time ago that you can’t let it be about you. You have to be smart enough to know your place in the band. You have to play for the song, play for the music and keep your own personal shit out of it. You have to have that attitude if you’re going to work for people. I’ve got to do the job that I’m hired to do."

-- On Vinnie Vincent: "I won’t make any comments about Vinnie, but I do think actions speak louder than words and his actions have spoken very loudly. There’s a saying, 'the whole world can’t be wrong.' It’s one thing to sit there and point the finger in a particular situation, but when that situation keeps happening again and again after a while you have to go, 'Well, wait a minute, maybe it’s not everybody else,' but that’s all I’ll say about Vinnie. I believe that in life you are supposed to pave the road smoother for those that travel the road after you, not make it harder… and some people have made the road harder (that were there before me)."

KISS COFFEEHOUSE GOING NEON!

KISS headline the two-day Heavy MTL Festival at Parc Jean Drapeau, July 23-24.

Rock’n’roll has always been about haircuts and shoes. And with KISS, throw in a little kabuki make-up and pyrotechnics, and you’ve got a genuine rock’n’roll circus.

The last time KISS headlined in Montreal, Gene Simmons told me, “There hasn’t been an important rock band to emerge in the last 25 years that will still mean something in 100 years. But from the end of the 1950s to 1980, there was Elvis, The Beatles, The Stones, Led Zep, ABBA – say what you will but they wrote great songs – KISS, there’s a hundred bands from that period. All the music from Elvis to KISS was born before MTV, cellphones and the Internet. KISS still trains hard and every emo band at 19 can shine our boot heels! They’re gonna get a lesson [from us]: You blow the god—- place up!”

There are few folks in show biz who give good quote like Gene. Say what you will about him, but the man is never boring. The critics may still hate Kiss, but the kids – even the 45-year-old ones – are still proud card-carrying members of the KISS Army. Says Gene about unrepentant rock critics, “You know, I discovered a band [over 30 years ago] called Van Halen, I signed them [to my record label] and produced their demo. Critics hated them. When singer David Lee Roth was asked why the critics hated Van Halen and loved Elvis Costello, Roth said, ‘Because they look like Costello.’ It’s still true.”

When KISS were the new kids on the block – they formed in NYC in January 1973 – they decided to out-do vaudevillain Alice Cooper, who told me himself many years ago, “We told Kiss where to buy their makeup. We were friends with those guys. We knew they were comic book characters and Alice was the Phantom of the Opera.”

Nearly four decades later, KISS still hasn’t been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. That probably bothers Simmons. But if it does, he’s not saying. After all, it’s still true that rock’n’roll is still just about haircuts and shoes.

And as anybody who has seen Simmons star in his slick reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, there is more to the man than the KISS machine and assembly line: Simmons is also a loving father. He’d do anything for his family. In fact, when I asked him about Chaz Bono, the trangendered son of his ex-girlfriend Cher who spent many difficult years transitioning from a woman to a man, Simmons replied without missing a beat, “I love Chaz. I was living with Cher when Chaz and [his brother] Elijah were kids and I was a substitute dad for a while. Life is short and we should all make up and be happy. And everybody else be damned if Chaz isn’t happy today, God bless. If Chaz is happy, then [he] will have found the secret of life.”

Duff Mckagan, Matt Sorum, Paul Stanley, Phil Collen Go To Camp for Vh1

The second season of the show is set to premiere Saturday, August 20 at 10 PM ET/PT. Here is the synopsis:

VH1 Classic and executive producer Mark Burnett are bringing back a new group of 'average Joes' for their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put their music skills to the ultimate test and find out if they have what it takes to be a true rock star on "Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp."

Hosted by American Idol sweetheart and Vanguard recording artist Kimberly Caldwell, 15 musicians from a variety of backgrounds and cities will go through the unforgettable transformation of having to put it all on the line and find out if they have what it takes to make it in the cutthroat world of Rock 'n' Roll. Broken into three groups of five, each group of campers will create a band and be assigned a rock star camp counselor (Duff Mckagan, Matt Sorum and Mark Hudson) who will give them pointers and guidance, transforming the 9-to-5'ers into center stage front men and women.

For one week each group will have the opportunity to rehearse and learn the ropes from other special-guest rock gods who drop by including Paul Stanley of KISS, Phil Collen of Def Leppard, Marky Ramone of The Ramones and more. At the end of the week, each group should have the music know-how, fresh looks and rock-star swagger to give an unforgettable performance to a group of legitimate rock stars who are acting as judges. Will they pass the test and be flocked with adoring fans or booed off the stage?

The stakes are high as the band voted best by the fans will win the opportunity musicians can only dream about – a once-in-a-lifetime performance with legendary rock star Sammy Hagar.

NEW COMIC BOOK SERIES: ARCHIE MEETS KISS

KISS is coming to town.

"It's the biggest band in rock history crossing paths with Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead and Sabrina," said Alex Segura, who's writing the four-issue story with art by Dan Parent. "Two major pieces of Americana joining forces for the first time."

It may seem like an odd pairing, to put the milkshake-sipping teens from Archie with a hard-rocking band like KISS. But the story, which begins in Archie #627, sees Riverdale invaded by monsters from another dimension. Their presence makes the town ripe for a visit by the KISS personas: Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and Catman.

"The Riverdale gang are looking to cast a protection spell to protect the town before Halloween," Segura said. "Of course, that means Sabrina is coordinating things. But when the spell goes awry and a cabal of dangerous monsters appear, who's going to stop them? Enter KISS. Can the Archies team up with the rock legends in time to save the town from the legion of monsters? Stay tuned. Oh, and zombies. There'll be zombies."

The story will also introduce a gang of four monsters that Segura said will "simultaneously frighten and amuse, and fans of pop culture stuffs will get a kick of them."

The Archie Meets KISS comic will coincide with another KISS comic from IDW, making this a rare situation where two major comic publishers are sharing a popular trademark license simultaneously. And this isn't the first time the on-stage personas from KISS are showing up in a comic, but it is a first for Archie and the gang.

"Most of my non-musical interaction with KISS has been through comics," Segura said, "whether it was the older stuff from Marvel or titles like Psycho Circus and the like. They're as close to real-life comic characters as you can get."

For Parent, getting to draw KISS has brought back a lot of memories. "I remember playing the 45's over and over of Rock and Roll All Nite and Christine Sixteen," he said. "I remember the first dance I ever went to, in eighth grade, I danced to Beth and I kid you not, the girl I danced with was named Beth too."

Segura said he's trying to give each of the KISS members a unique voice in the four-issue story, but he admitted that writing the mixture of the Archie teens with KISS has been a little odd.

"It's a treat to type out scenes like 'Demon spits fire next to Betty in the Chok'lit Shoppe,'" he said. "One of those 'huh, this is my life' moments."

KISS COFFEEHOUSE 5TH ANNIVERSARY RADIO SPOT

ACE FREHLEY Confirmed For 'Rock And Shock' Horror And Music Convention

Bringing together the best elements of horror films, music and culture, the event has grown exponentially over time, with this year's festivities promising to be the biggest yet.

For more information, visit www.rockandshock.com.

Time for Simmons clan to KISS and tell

But according to Kiss bassist Gene Simmons, the star of Gene Simmons Family Jewels, the familial strife that has dominated the program's highly successful sixth season is anything but fake. "What you see on TV is real," Simmons, 61, said in a recent interview with Postmedia News.

"Shannon is not very happy with me, and rightfully so."

One of the highest-rated and most popular shows on the A&E network, Gene Simmons Family Jewels sent the profile of Simmons, his common-law wife, Shannon Tweed, and the couple's two children, Nick, 22, and Sophie, 18, through the roof when it debuted in 2006. The lighthearted program is now broadcast to millions of viewers in 87 countries.

The current season is considerably more serious in tone, with much of the conflict falling directly at Simmons' feet. He faced the music on the show's Tuesday-night episode, which was billed The Kids Aren't All Right. And though his infamous antics appear to be genuinely hurting those around him, including his children, Simmons said it's important for the show to continue.

"I think it's good for me and good for the family," said Simmons, who shot recent Family Jewels episodes while on tour with Kiss.

"It forces myself and the family to confront issues that would normally be hidden. We've been together 28 years, and I don't know of a single highway you can drive on that doesn't have bumps in the road. Love is the answer, and if you care enough about somebody, you confront those issues."

The Simmons clan is attempting to put the drama — real or scripted — behind them, starting Friday, with a series of public appearances.

The patriarch promises full-throttle fun — especially for fans of his family.

"Everybody wants to meet them," he said. "Unlike me — the dark, brooding guy — the rest of the family is charming, and everybody wants to be around them."

Due to the nature of his show, and the likes of Twitter, Simmons' life is often laid bare for the public, more so than it ever was in the past. Simmons has played a huge role in that, having written or co-written four books that omitted nary a detail. He has also appeared in movies and on television for the better part of four decades, always with the intention of spreading the Kiss gospel far and wide.

Promotion took on new meaning when it was the real Gene Simmons being peddled, he said. And being at the helm of what he called "the longest-running celebrity reality show of them all" meant the stakes were even higher. These days, the man known in the Kiss universe as the Demon is required to play a more friendly game of ball.

Simmons has been very surprised by the outcome of his new approach. "The TV show, for me, is medicinal. I'm able to watch it and realize that I'm not aware how I come off. None of us are, really. If you can be a fly on the wall and watch yourself, sometimes (you'll find out)you're an a—hole. I can be short, I can be impolite and not be aware of it, and it certainly hurts people's feelings, especially those of Shannon and the kids. By watching the show, it's good for us. It's good for me, that's for sure."

What is good for Simmons has proven to be good, not only for his biological brood, but for his rock 'n' roll family, as well.

Kiss, has been drawing record concert crowds of late, while its last record, 2009's Sonic Boom, gave the band the highest chart debut of its 38-year career.

Not only is a new Kiss album halfway done, according to Simmons, a host of other ephemera is coming down the tube, too. Chief among those — which includes a joint venture between Kiss and Archie Comics, a Kiss Hello Kitty project set to launch in 250 countries, and a Kiss mini golf course in Las Vegas — are the speaking engagements in which Simmons alone instructs people on how to make more money.

Simmons, who is a partner in Cool Springs Life, a website which loans high net-worth individuals as much as $300 million, clearly loves this part of the job. "I make people money without ever writing a check to them."

His advice? "Stop spending stupid money. Stop going to the bars, stop smoking and drinking. I call it the Duh Syndrome which, when you think about it, covers a lot of stupid things."

He is living the life he's chosen for himself. Simmons, however, said he would give it all up in an instant if one day he stopped enjoying what pleases him to no end today.

"This is a privileged life. There are rewards. But at any time I could say, 'I don't want to do this, don't bother me,' and quit. I do it because I love it."

Gene Simmons to appear at B.C. Lions game

Gene Simmons, the long-time bassist with the rock band KISS and star of his own reality television series, will perform the ceremonial pre-game coin toss Friday night when the Lions face the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Empire Stadium.

The Lions (0-3) are one of two CFL teams still in search of their first win. The other is the Saskatchewan Roughriders (0-3).

Hamilton (1-2) is coming off a 33-3 home victory over Saskatchewan on Saturday.

"BLACK DIAMOND" LIVE IN OSHKOSH

SOUNDCHECK VIDEO FOOTAGE FROM SPRINGFIELD

CREW'S EYE VIEW: KISS EXITING CONCERT STAGE

Kiss/Archie Comics

10 Things: Simmons still rocking the KISS machine

The tongue-wagging, blood-spitting, fire-breathing bassist for KISS is among the world's biggest stars, in part because of his larger-than-life personality. His mantra? The bigger — and more expensive — the better.

Of late, he has been helped by Gene Simmons Family Jewels, the reality show that features Simmons and his family. It has become a huge hit, enough so that a tour featuring the cast is currently underway. Simmons and his clan will be at the View Royal Casino on Saturday (noon to 3 p.m.) for a public meet-and-greet that will most definitely be over the top.

While television has made him a celebrity, it's important to remember the role KISS has played in his life. The group is still out on the road gigging, and is playing with a voracity that hasn't ebbed in 35 years. Simmons — especially when he dons his makeup and calls himself the Demon — is a huge part of that.

Need proof? Here are 10 songs by KISS on which Simmons takes over on lead vocals.

1. Rock and Roll All Nite (1975). A by-the-book but rousing sing-along that does its business in under three minutes, Rock and Roll All Nite is perhaps KISS's finest song, if not its best-known. Taken from the band's third studio album, Dressed to Kill, the anthem benefits from a wicked lead vocal by Simmons. Rock and Roll All Nite still qualifies as the band's most fist-pumping moment, on record and in concert.

2. God of Thunder (1976). Following closely on the heels of its legendary live album, 1975's Alive!, the band issued Destroyer to keep the career momentum in motion. KISS's fourth full-length proved to be its commercial and critical breakthrough, thanks to singles Shout it Out Loud, Detroit Rock City and Beth, the band's first Top 10 hit. The album's other notable track, God of Thunder, was written by Paul Stanley for Simmons, who has since made the song his unofficial calling card.

3. Calling Dr. Love (1976). Written by Simmons from the standpoint of a "doctor" whose specialty is satisfying persons of the female variety, Calling Dr. Love fit in perfectly with the bassist's sexual reputation at the time, which didn't hurt the song's chart chances. It wasn't the biggest hit on Rock and Roll Over (that was the Peter Criss-sung Hard Luck Woman) but it certainly lives on in infamy as one the band's most notable.

4. Christine Sixteen (1977). There are no shortage of double entendres on Love Gun, a recording whose sexual innuendo starts with the album title and worms its way through each of the 10 songs included. The band's sixth studio album features not one but two salacious songs about girls turning the corner on their teen years, though Simmons's Christine Sixteen — which was sampled heavily on rapper Tone Loc's Funky Cold Medina — is considered the better of the pair.

5. Plaster Caster (1977). Simmons was inspired to write and sing one of the best songs in the KISS catalogue by Cynthia Plaster Caster, a groupie who gained fame for making plaster casts of the genitalia of male rock stars. While there is no evidence to suggest Simmons had ever participated in a casting session, KISS remains closely associated with the practice on account of Plaster Caster.

6. Radioactive (1978). Each member of KISS released a solo album in 1978; to the surprise of no one, Simmons's charted highest, narrowly missing the Top 20. Credit that to his roster of guests (Aerosmith's Joe Perry, Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen, and Bob Seger among them) but also his selection of material. Radioactive, with its rolling piano, was a big departure for Simmons, though fans responded to the radical departure.

7. I Love It Loud (1982). Kiss was at a crossroads during the recording of Creatures of the Night, its first without original guitarist Ace Frehley. His replacement, guitarist Vincent Cusano — a.k.a. Vinnie Vincent — turned out to be a nice fit, and is credited alongside Simmons with co-writing I Love it Loud, one of the band's most overlooked gems. I Love it Loud was the last certifiably "heavy" single from the band for nearly a decade.

8. Killer (1982). The duo of Simmons and Vinnie Vincent struck power-chord gold once more with Killer, the second single from the critically lauded but commercially unsuccessful Creatures of the Night. Another song by Simmons about the dangers of wild women, its most marked characteristic is an up-tempo beat and Vincent's inspired playing, elements of KISS which had been missing for years up to this point.

9. Domino (1993). The grunge years were tough on bands like KISS, yet through the greasy hair and cheap flannel the band adapted nicely to a harder-edged sound on 1993's Revenge, its highest-charting album since 1977's Love Gun. A big part of that was due to Domino, the bluesiest song in the Kiss catalogue about a topic — women — Simmons knows too well.

10. Goin' Blind (1996). Simmons proved during the band's return-to-form MTV Unplugged performance that he could still sing. After years of cartoonish behaviour from the group, 20-year-old songs like Goin' Blind (about an old man's relationship with a much younger woman) took on new musical shape. Goin' Blind comes off splendidly here, and played a big part in the massive reunion tour that followed.

Kiss and tell with rock royalty

“I know my place,” the Kiss frontman and founder said yesterday at the Boulevard 500 Show ‘N’ Shine in Coquitlam. “I know that I’m an invited guest and this is Shannon’s territory."

It was also heartwarming to see the continued support of Canadians after all these years to their hit TV show “Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels,” he added.

He gives credit to his longtime partner for raising their children. “The reason Sophie and Nick are who they are, it’s because of Shannon.”

Tweed, a former playmate from St. John’s, said their family dynamic works because their children are “intelligent and emotionally mature” under the spotlight.

“I think we’re more realistic than most normal families,” 19-year-old Sophie added, referring to how drinking is not tolerated in their home.

When asked about the best show he had in Canada, the God of Thunder said Kiss’s performance in Abbotsford last June 27 would probably be it as the Kiss Army turned out in full force to watch them.

TOMMY & ERIC SOLO FROM PRINCE GEORGE

New Prince George Footage Posted Online

VIDEO FROM ROCK USA FESTIVAL, OSHKOSH

LONGTIME KISS FANS PASSIONATE FOR YEARS

For Mike Austin, it was in St. Louis at the old Checkerdome.

“I had to sneak out of the house and lie to the parents to get to go,” he said. “I had to catch a ride with other people who had tickets.”

He was 14. It was the autumn of ’79. It was Kiss.

“After I saw them once, that was all it took,” he said.

Austin, who was living in Pawnee at the time, saw his first Springfield Kiss show in 1983.

He saw the band three times on that tour. Then he began seeing them more. A lot more.

He has driven up to eight hours to see Kiss.

Louisville. Peoria. Moline. Rockford. St. Louis. Chicago. Indianapolis.

And, of course, Springfield. Austin will be there at 7:30 p.m. Monday, when Kiss returns to the Prairie Capital Convention Center for the first time in nearly two decades.

“The July show will be my 63rd Kiss show,” Austin said.

Kiss inspires a remarkable degree of loyalty among its fans.

‘Family members’

The group, best known for hard-rock anthems like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” first performed in Springfield on Dec. 30, 1974, at the Illinois State Armory.

The band was less than two years old. Tickets cost $5 in advance, $6 at the door.

There were fairly regular appearances throughout the 1980s, but the band hasn’t been here since 1992. Yet they keep coming.

Can anything make a show really special when you’ve already seen it 62 times?

“People ask me, ‘Is it the same every time you go?’” Austin said.

From tour to tour, sometimes the songs change, or the costumes or the set. But things don’t vary much on a given tour. There will be makeup. There will be explosions.

“But it’s one of those things that I just don’t get tired of,” Austin said. “They’ve been in my life as long as family members.”

By the group’s Nov. 24, 1992, concert at the PCCC, the group had shed its makeup. But it was still working to put on a ridiculous show.

“We have a history and I want to see us live up to it,” founding member Paul Stanley told The State Journal-Register at the time. “We’ve set off more bombs in this show than anything we’ve ever done. Great lasers, too. Two hours a night. We’ll do loads of stuff from (1975’s) ‘Kiss Alive!’ right up to the latest stuff.”

To some, Kiss is the ultimate rock band.

“I’ve seen them 36 times,” Randy Bounds said. “This will be 37.”

Like Austin, that tally includes all the Springfield performances except the 1974 Armory show.

Bounds, 42, is the controller at E.L. Pruitt Co. in Springfield. His older cousins turned him on to the band.

“I saw them on ‘The Paul Lynde Halloween Special’ and ‘Midnight Special’ and that was it. They’ve been my favorite ever since,” Bounds said.

He has 474 Kiss songs on his iPod.

“A lot of people don’t give them credit for the music, but the music’s good,” he said. The band members have been nice when he’s met them, and they put on the kind of show they would want to see.

“It’s not just a bunch of guys in blue jeans coming out and singing,” he said. “It’s theatrics and the show — you get the best of both worlds.”

Austin is serious about the music, too. His parents bought him his first Kiss album at the old JR’s Music in White Oaks Mall.

He still has his copy of “Alive!” and says he buys new Kiss albums the day they come out — and he still prefers hard copies to digital downloads.

“All of my vinyls I’ve had through the years, I’ve gotten rid of all of them unless they were autographed — or unless they were Kiss vinyls,” he said.

Part of the machine

Kiss has sold millions of copies of its singles, albums and videos, but it’s much more than the weight of its platinum and gold discography.

Mark Kessler, co-owner of Recycled Records, sums up the group’s enduring popularity in two words: “marketing genius.”

The vintage vinyl/used furniture/you-want-it-we-got-it shop at 625 E. Adams St. has a wide range of Kiss products, old and new.

There’s a Starchild Christmas ornament from 2010 and an FM radio from 1998. There are toy cars and a mid-1990s concert program. And there’s a lot of vinyl.

You want an autographed copy of Ace Frehley’s ’78 solo album? A Japanese version of 1981’s “Music from ‘The Elder’” with gatefold cover? A red vinyl pressing of 1994’s “Kiss My Ass: Classic Kiss Regrooved” featuring a cover of “Rock and Roll All Nite” by Toad the Wet Sprocket? Got it, got it, got it.

Kessler recently sold a black terrycloth bathrobe with an embroidered Kiss logo. He even has a bottle of Kiss This, a “dealcoholized” wine, 1997 vintage, bottle No. 2,290 out of 60,000. That’ll set you back $100.

But all that pales in comparison to the showpiece item of Kiss memorabilia at Younger Than Yesterday in Peoria: a working, vintage Kiss pinball machine.

Owner Craig Moore said customers ask about the price several times a day.

“Not for sale,” he tells them. He’s owned several such machines over the years. Two were lost in fires. Others were sold. The one he still has was his first.

“Ten, 20 years ago, if somebody came in and offered me five grand for it, it’d be gone,” he said. “I don’t need the five grand to let go of it.”

“It’s just cool,” Moore said. “The band still exists and there’s all this mythology about Kiss, and Gene Simmons is still out there doing his best to continually reconstruct the mythology.”

All the merchandise in the world doesn’t do any good if you’re not selling something people want. Beyond the music and behind the merch, Kiss is just a band — and a brand — people can get behind.

For Simmons, the co-founder and frontman, it’s all been part of a lifelong ambition.

“Fame and riches are fine, but one can have both and still have no power,” he wrote in his autobiography, “Kiss and Make-up.” “Power is something I craved from the time I first set foot in America. I was made fun of because I couldn’t speak English, or because I was Jewish, but it really came down to not having power.”

Devil worship?

Kiss has had its share of detractors.

“Springfield has never seen anything quite like it,” Bob Mahlburg wrote in his SJ-R review of the group’s Feb. 25, 1983 show at the Prairie Capital Convention Center. The opening act was Wendy O. and the Plasmatics. “Both groups demonstrated their ability to wrench the crowd’s attention Friday — but showed painfully little musical ability.”

Mahlburg spent a hefty chunk of his review on the antics of Wendy O., then got around to the headliner: “Kiss showed a little more taste, but were guilty of an even more serious offense for a rock performance — they were just plain dull.

“Despite throwing in every gimmick — from torches to shooting six-foot spark showers and more explosions than a state fair fireworks finale — their heavy metal pounding was more plodding than rocking.”

And beyond the band’s musical merits, there were other types of controversy, stemming in part from the group’s odd appearance and live shows that included fire and fake blood.

There was no hint of it in coverage of the 1974 show, but by the time the band returned to Springfield in 1983, rock ’n’ roll paranoia was on the march.

Mahlburg noted that the band had “stirred controversy in some areas because of their alleged link to devil worship.”

Members of Trinity Lutheran Church distributed Christian literature outside the PCCC before the show.

“We understand Kiss is not a Christian group,” Paul Hartman told Mahlburg. “We believe you either worship Christ or worship something else.”

Stanley addressed the concerns in his 1983 interview with the SJ-R: “I feel bad for anybody who listens to a self-appointed expert on religion and rock ’n’ roll.”

“What’s real interesting is that most of these creatures, if you ask them what church they represent, they might as well be Al’s Church because they’re usually self-ordained ministers, who are only trying to make sure their names are spelled right in the newspaper,” he said.

The band’s dangerous image seems to have softened over the years.

In a scene from the A&E reality show “Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels,” Simmons was seen recording an audio children’s book.

“Every afternoon, as they were coming from school, the young fish used to go and swim in the giant octopus’ garden. ‘How happy we are,’ they cried to each other,” Simmons said.

“You know it’s really funny I’m doing an audiobook for kids when people in the ’70s used to think I ate them.”

Cannon fodder

Today’s Kiss concerts are family affairs.

Bounds’ son Forrest has accompanied his father to several concerts. One such father-son outing gave Bounds’ his favorite memory of a Kiss show.

Forrest’s first show was at the Riverport Amphitheater in St. Louis in 2004. He was 9 or 10, and as the show progressed, the pair snuck closer and closer to the stage.

The final song, as usual, was “Rock and Roll All Nite.” Bounds lifted his son onto his shoulders.

“They have these confetti cannons,” he said. We were right in front of it, and it was coming out so hard against us that I was having trouble holding him up.”

Afterward, Stanley told the concertgoers to lift their kids up so he could see the new Kiss Army.

As Stanley came by, he tossed Forrest a guitar pick.

“The last couple years we’ve gone over to Indianapolis for the Kiss conventions; the drummer Eric Singer has been there and he’s been very nice to us both times.”

It’s almost like a club, Bounds said, like being a Cardinals or Cubs fan.

Bounds and Forrest, now 15, will be in the second row Monday night.

Austin will be in the row in front of them. It’s the first time he’s had tickets with the coveted Row 1 designation. He, too, has a bond forged through Kiss.

“I met my best friend at a show in Springfield,” Austin said. “They played here in ’87, and I decided I was going to go down and hang out outside the convention center, take a couple albums, and try to see if I could get them autographed.”

That’s when Dave Fyke, who lives in Decatur, stopped by to do the same thing. They struck up a conversation, and eventually moved to the Renaissance bar, hoping the band would come to the hotel. They did, and Austin got autographs and pictures and a new best friend.

“Ever since that day — that was in December of ’87 — Dave’s been one of my best friends,” Austin said.

“He stood up with me in my wedding … I was best man in his wedding,” Austin said.

And in perhaps an even truer mark of friendship, Fyke will get Austin’s other front row ticket.

Want to go?:

Kiss will perform at 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Prairie Capital Convention Center. Tickets cost $51-$91 and are available at the PCCC box office and through Ticketmaster, (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

KISS ROCKS NEWFOUNDLAND!

The theatrical rock spectacle known as KISS, literally lit up Ford Festival Park in Oshkosh Saturday night, with a stage rig that made 4th of July look like a fountain with a wet wick.

Though Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are long gone from the band, Simmons and Paul Stanley hold down the original KISS lineup, while lead guitarist (Frehley fill-in) Tommy Thayer and drummer (Criss fill-in) Eric Singer have handled their respective duties since the early Millennium. And though some will always yearn for the original all-star lineup, Simmons and company let Oshkosh know that KISS is still alive in 2011.

When the lights came on, so did “Modern Day Delilah” from 2009’s “Sonic Boom,” something the crowd appeared to absorb well as an opener, though most didn’t seem to be singing along.

A few songs later, the band’s signature pyrotechnics picked up with “Firehouse,” and Simmons capped off the song by spitting fire from a flaming torch.

KISS then bulldozed into “Shock Me,” which eventually led to extended solo work by the new guys (Thayer and Singer) by song’s end. Thayer wielded off a circa five-minute guitar solo, while Singer followed with an approximate five-minute solo on the drums. Stanley worked the crowd well all night, as did Simmons in a lesser role, and the energy of the show stayed at a high level from then on out.

Songs such as “I Like it Loud,” “Love Gun” and “God of Thunder” seemed to be crowd favorites and Simmons’ signature spitting of the blood – which he performed under a full moon, right at midnight – was a performance highlight.

KISS ended their set at about 12:20 a.m. with “Detroit Rock City,” casting Singer’s entire drumkit into the air –with him still playing on it. The band then stopped playing for a brief moment, held their positions for dramatic effect, and then kicked back in for a couple musical punches before exiting the stage.

It was obvious the band would come back onstage for an encore, having not played ‘Rock and Roll All Nite,” but the length of the encore was a bit surprising – about 20 minutes.

For the first song, Singer came off the drumset to sing “Beth,” but as soon as the song ended, Stanley got back on the mic and said something along the likes of not wanting to end the night soft. He then began an A cappella sing-a-long chant to “Makin’ Love,” which the crowd ate up and gave full participation. The song eventually kicked in with the full band.

“Shout it Out Loud” was another sing-a-long smash before “Rock and Roll Nite” served as the band’s grand finale with confetti and swirling pyrotechnics, while Simmons, Thayer and Singer were all hoisted about 30 feet in the air on movable floors with their instruments.

The band ended with a bang, literally and not, before taking a bow and exiting the stage for the second time of the night. The big tron then read, “KISS loves Rock USA.”

As a whole, fans seemed satisfied with the performance and from a theatrical aspect, KISS did exactly what KISS always does: Simmons spits blood, band members are hoisted high into the air, confetti blows into the crowd, etc. However, when combined with solid music production, the novelty becomes more charming.

Musically, KISS’s harmonies were spot on, instrumental solos were well crafted and vocals easy to hear. KISS’s sound is so full – and loud – that it’s hard to believe there are just four people performing. Perhaps the dozens and dozens of woofers onstage help out with that.

As for the set list, a KISS tribute band probably would’ve played more hits – sorry Guitar Hero fans, no “Strutter” tonight – and it sometimes hurt that the crowd seemed unfamiliar with songs from “Sonic Boom.”

Overall, the theatrical elements were in place and exciting, the music was well performed and the mic work, as far as engaging the crowd, was arguably the peak at Rock USA.

At the end of the day, it’s supposed to be a rock “show,” and that’s exactly what KISS put on.

It was time for the real thing.

KISS tribute bands have been fluttering through Northeast Wisconsin this past year, but it was finally the right moment for Gene Simmons and the gang to show the boys how it’s done.

The theatrical rock spectacle known as KISS, literally lit up Ford Festival Park in Oshkosh Saturday night, with a stage rig that made 4th of July look like a fountain with a wet wick.

Though Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are long gone from the band, Simmons and Paul Stanley hold down the original KISS lineup, while lead guitarist (Frehley fill-in) Tommy Thayer and drummer (Criss fill-in) Eric Singer have handled their respective duties since the early Millennium. And though some will always yearn for the original all-star lineup, Simmons and company let Oshkosh know that KISS is still alive in 2011.

When the lights came on, so did “Modern Day Delilah” from 2009’s “Sonic Boom,” something the crowd appeared to absorb well as an opener, though most didn’t seem to be singing along.

A few songs later, the band’s signature pyrotechnics picked up with “Firehouse,” and Simmons capped off the song by spitting fire from a flaming torch.

KISS then bulldozed into “Shock Me,” which eventually led to extended solo work by the new guys (Thayer and Singer) by song’s end. Thayer wielded off a circa five-minute guitar solo, while Singer followed with an approximate five-minute solo on the drums. The two would then combine for a circa 10-minute guitar and drum session – a spot where the show’s energy appeared to suffer. Concertgoers seemed restless after about 15 minutes of speechlessness, beginning to go on their cellphones, talk to each other, leave for beer, etc.

However, the band recovered as soon as Stanley got back on the mic. Stanley worked the crowd well all night, as did Simmons in a lesser role, and the energy of the show stayed at a high level from then on out.

Songs such as “I Like it Loud,” “Love Gun” and “God of Thunder” seemed to be crowd favorites and Simmons’ signature spitting of the blood – which he performed under a full moon, right at midnight – was a performance highlight.

KISS ended their set at about 12:20 a.m. with “Detroit Rock City,” casting Singer’s entire drumkit into the air –with him still playing on it. The band then stopped playing for a brief moment, held their positions for dramatic effect, and then kicked back in for a couple musical punches before exiting the stage.

It was obvious the band would come back onstage for an encore, having not played ‘Rock and Roll All Nite,” but the length of the encore was a bit surprising – about 20 minutes.

For the first song, Singer came off the drumset to sing “Beth,” but as soon as the song ended, Stanley got back on the mic and said something along the likes of not wanting to end the night soft. He then began an A cappella sing-a-long chant to “Makin’ Love,” which the crowd ate up and gave full participation. The song eventually kicked in with the full band.

“Shout it Out Loud” was another sing-a-long smash before “Rock and Roll Nite” served as the band’s grand finale with confetti and swirling pyrotechnics, while Simmons, Thayer and Singer were all hoisted about 30 feet in the air on movable floors with their instruments.

The band ended with a bang, literally and not, before taking a bow and exiting the stage for the second time of the night. The big tron then read, “KISS loves Rock USA.”

As a whole, fans seemed satisfied with the performance and from a theatrical aspect, KISS did exactly what KISS always does: Simmons spits blood, band members are hoisted high into the air, confetti blows into the crowd, etc. However, when combined with solid music production, the novelty becomes more charming.

Musically, KISS’s harmonies were spot on, instrumental solos were well crafted and vocals easy to hear. KISS’s sound is so full – and loud – that it’s hard to believe there are just four people performing. Perhaps the dozens and dozens of woofers onstage help out with that.

As for the set list, a KISS tribute band probably would’ve played more hits – sorry Guitar Hero fans, no “Strutter” tonight – and it sometimes hurt that the crowd seemed unfamiliar with songs from “Sonic Boom.”

Overall, the theatrical elements were in place and exciting, the music was well performed and the mic work, as far as engaging the crowd, was arguably the peak at Rock USA.

At the end of the day, it’s supposed to be a rock “show,” and that’s exactly what KISS put on.

KISS ROCKS NEWFOUNDLAND!

Iconic rockers KISS played for a packed-solid crowd, with special guests Smash Mouth, Down With Webster, The Orchestra (featuring original members of ELO), and Fefe Dobson. Gene Simmons tweeted “The KISS conquest of Planet Earth… Here in Grand Falls-Windsor… population 15,000… concert attendance 25,000.” It was truly a monumental, unforgettable event.

The weather was sunny and gorgeous all day, right up ’til KISS took the stage… and then, as if on cue, the heavens opened up and the rain came down. And nobody cared, because not even nature can compete with the sheer energy and fire power of KISS. An almost electric “we’re all in this together” vibe coursed through everybody there, as we shook off the rain and partied on the grass while KISS blasted through hits including “Rock & Roll All Nite,” “Strutter,” “Cold Gin,” Shout It Out Loud,” and “Detroit Rock City.” There were explosions. There were huge columns of fire. There was spitting of blood. It was bombastic rock ‘n roll at it’s finest.

Paul Stanley declared onstage, “Tonight, I’m a Newfie!” (He also pronounces “Newfoundland” the correct way.) The whole band showed much love and appreciation for the audience, whose spirits could not be dampened by rain, and we loved KISS right back. As the show ended, Paul promised “We will see you again!”

KISS, at the Salmon Festival Mega Concert in Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland, was proudly presented by NTV, The Newfoundland Herald, and the Rock of the Rock, Newfoundland’s OZFM!

VIDEO FROM BUSHKILL CONCERT

KISS SOAR OVER NEW HAMPSHIRE

The band is taking a break from recording their next studio album to play a relatively brief series of concerts in smaller towns, the kind of places they haven’t played in several years, in what they’re dubbing the “Lost Cities” tour.

Their full arsenal of ramps, lights and flying rigs won’t fit in these venues, so the band had to rely a bit more on their music to entertain the crowd. Accordingly, Paul Stanley and company chose an 18-song set list heavy on classic rockers from their ’70s heyday, which they performed in a faithful, muscular and energetic manner.

Many fans criticize Stanley and co-founder Gene Simmons for hiring Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer to wear the makeup made famous by original guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss while filling their roles in the band.

But, it was pretty clear from the 2000 farewell tour that the original lineup’s chemistry was no longer intact. The energy and precision the new guys bring to the table seems to have re-invigorated the old guard, especially Stanley, who’s added a bit more of a knowing wink to his delivery of wonderfully adolescent songs like ‘Love Gun.’

A couple of recently absent Kiss classics made their return to the show for this tour, with Simmons once again spitting up blood before the Godzilla-like crawl of ‘God of Thunder,’ and the band’s oft-hidden Beatles love shining through in the surprisingly melodic instrumental coda of ‘Do You Love Me?’

The show proved that the music is, jokes aside, the most important factor in Kiss’ nearly forty-year career. That said, when we say it was a stripped-down show, of course that’s a relative term. The band still soared above the crowd on big hydraulic lifts, and set off more fireworks than my hometown did on the 4th of July. At one point Singer even blew up part of the stage with a bazooka.

In short, even at a small town show, Kiss delivered big for their audience.

SHOUT IT OUT LOUD & ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE

FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM MANCHESTER SHOW

Simmons To Keynote Entertainment Summit

"We couldn't be more excited to have international entertainment legend and serial entrepreneur Gene Simmons to keynote the L.A. Mobile Entertainment Summit," said John Golicz, CEO of Unicomm. "Gene is definitely in a league of his own when it comes to creating, marketing and monetizing an international entertainment brand globally."

The rocker has branched out into licensing and new media, and recently signed on as business partner and spokesperson for Intertainment Media's Ortsbo worldwide translation platform for social media. He and his family are in production on the seventh season of A&E's "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," in addition to his activities in merchandising, movies, publishing, TV and music.

The Mobile Entertainment Summit will cover the intersection of original content, mobile platforms and digital assets across the rapidly growing mobile entertainment business, with studios, startups, brands and manufacturers participating.

KISS ROCKS SALMON FESTIVAL CROWD

After opening acts Fefe Dobson, The Orchestra, Down With Webster and Smashmouth played under sunny skies, clouds moved in as if on cue, but the crowd’s enthusiasm shone through.

The headliners, known for their outlandish makeup and costumes and spectacular pyrotechnics, performed many of their hits, including “Shout It Out Loud,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “Beth”.

Grand Falls-Windsor Mayor Al Hawkins said the event was huge for the town.

“Grand Falls-Windsor is a concert centre,” he said. “We are pretty happy. When you look at the amount of money people will leave in the town, we are happy.”

Simmons’ partner, Newfoundland-born Shannon Tweed, with whom he stars in their reality television show, “Gene Simmons Family Jewels”, accompanied him to the event.

While official numbers are not yet known, estimates put the crowd in excess of 20,000. Visitors to the town more than doubled its population overnight, and hotel rooms in the central Newfoundland region have been sold out since the event was announced several months ago.

Police reported no major incidents as of the end of the concert, either at the Centennial Field venue or in Grand Falls-Windsor itself, however overwhelming demand for product in the beer garden at one point in the evening required intervention by security staff and RCMP.

More major acts are expected for Salmon Festivals in the coming years, as the town council in Grand Falls-Windsor recently signed a five-year contract with Moncton-based SRO Entertainment to co-ordinate the event.

KISS and tell

For someone who has spent most of his 38-year musical career covered in a demon costume and Kabuki makeup, Gene Simmons is exposing his innermost self an awful lot these days.

Not only is Simmons, the bassist for the rock group KISS, starring in a reality TV show chronicling his struggling relationship with longtime live-in Shannon Tweed and his coming to terms of the death of his father, but KISS is working on what will be its second studio album in two years, after an 11-year recording hiatus.

And after completing a 2 1/2-year world tour just last year, KISS is back out on a summer jaunt that brings it to Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center in Bushkill on July 13. The band kicks off a summer concert season for the venue that has been dormant for four years.

So why is rock's God of Thunder suddenly putting himself out there in so many ways?

"Why do it? Why do anything?" Simmons, now approaching 61, says in a telephone call from the road. "I mean, if you have enough money and enough anything, what are you going to do? Just sit on your thumb and wait to die?"

Perhaps the most surprising of Simmons' activities this summer is the sixth season of "Family Jewels," the A&E Networkl reality show that stars Simmons, Tweed and their children, Nick and Sophie.

The season premiered last month with an episode in which Tweed, after seeing a photo of the famously womanizing Simmons with two women on his arms, becomes fed up and leaves him. In later episodes (six of the eight have now aired), they reconcile and go through counseling.

Simmons swears the story wasn't created or enhanced for television— despite the fact that, with the added promotion of Tweed angrily walking out of an interview on CNN's "Joy Behar Show," it had one of its largest viewing audiences.

"Yeah, I don't care," Simmons says. "I mean, that's fine, but if you're gonna ruin your life to get ratings, that's not a good idea. I don't care about that."

He says his relationship with Tweed remains "touch and go."

"What happens when you cut yourself and it bleeds? Does it heal right away, or does it sometimes get infected and get worse?" Simmons says.

"Women are basically living with Jekyll and Hyde when it comes to men. Men are always on their best behavior for women, and they don't really get to see what's under the skin. 'Cause what's under the skin is testosterone. And the tendency of guys is to do all kinds of stuff that [ticks] off women. And so when they really peel off the outer skin of the snake, they get the snake. And that's not easy to take."

Asked how, now that he's back on tour, he deals with women approaching him sexually (Simmons has often claimed he's had sex with 5,000 women), he replies with a sign, "I try to be a good boy."

"It ain't easy," he says. "How about if you're on a strict diet, no sugar, no carbs, and every time you go to sleep, you go to sleep in a bakery? And you smell the cinnamon and the sugar and the chocolate – you smell it; it's all around you. Yeah – it's really tough. You're not even going out to clubs looking for it. It knocks on your door and scratches outside your door throughout the night."

The reality show this season also showed Simmons break down into tears at the grave of his father, whom Simmons hadn't seen since he left the family 54 years ago, when Simmons was a boy.

"It was actually good for me because, you know, guys aren't introspective," Simmons says of the episode. "You know, we get up, we're hungry, we eat. You don't really confront issues that are still with you. I mean, my father ran out on us when I was about 7 and I never looked back – never went back to Israel or anything. … But that doesn't mean it's not in there and it was good to confront that."

Easier these days is confronting work with KISS, Simmons says.

The band went through an unsettled decade that saw its fortunes wane. In 1997, Simmons and group co-founder/vocalist Paul Stanley reunited with original guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss and had a successful reunion tour. But then Frehley and Criss left again.

The current lineup that includes drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer has now been together seven years — the longest continuous lineup of KISS ever.

In 2009 KISS released "Sonic Boom," which gave the band its highest-charting disc ever (No. 2 on Billboard).

KISSing up to Gene Simmons: The demon discusses his relationships and his band

Not only is Simmons, the bassist for the rock group KISS, starring in a reality TV show chronicling his struggling relationship with longtime live-in Shannon Tweed and his coming to terms of the death of his father, but KISS is working on what will be its second studio album in two years, after an 11-year recording hiatus.

And after completing a 2 1/2-year world tour just last year, KISS is back out on a summer jaunt that brings it to Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center in Bushkill on July 13.

So why is rock’s God of Thunder suddenly putting himself so transparently out there in so many ways?

In a recent telephone interview from Prince George, Canada, on a stop in a tour that brings KISS to the Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center in Bushkill on Wednesday, Simmons spoke about the suddenly open aspects of his life and the future of his band.

Here’s a transcript of the call:

LEHIGH VALLY MUSIC: I want to talk a lot about KISS, but I have to tell you I saw the episode of your reality TV show ‘Gene Simmons Family Jewels’ in which you visited your father’s grave, and I have to tell you it was really compelling. It was very emotional stuff and I wondered how you felt about it being on TV?

GENE SIMMONS: “It was actually good for me because, you know, guys aren’t introspective. You know, we get up, we’re hungry, we eat. You don’t really confront issues that are still with you. I mean, my father ran out on us when I was about 7 and I never looked back – never went back to Israel or anything. Just do the stuff you do, get up, eat, sleep, do all that stuff. But that doesn’t mean it’s not in there and it was good to confront that.”

And the fact that it was shown to the world?

“Oh, I don’t care.”

[Laughs] OK. And since we’re on the personal subjects, I’ve got to ask you about your relationship with your longtime companion Shannon Tweed and where that stands these days. [The show has chronicled how Tweed, after seeing a photo of the famously womanizing Simmons with two women on his arms, becomes fed up and leaves him. In later episodes (six of the eight have now aired), they reconcile and go through counseling.]

“You know, it’s touch and go.”

Is it really? That wasn’t enhanced for TV?

“No. What happens when you cut yourself and it bleeds? Does it heal right away, or does it sometimes get infected and gets worse.”

But there’s been some time lapse since that was filmed. Are things getting better.

“That’s right, that’s right. Women are basically living with Jekyll and Hyde when it comes to men. Men are always on their best behavior for women, and they don’t really get to see what’s under the skin. ‘Cause what’s under the skin is testosterone.”

[Laughs]

“Yeah, and the tendency of guys is to do all kinds of stuff that [ticks] off women. And so when they really peel off the outer skin of the snake, they get the snake. And that’s not easy to take.”

Yeah, understandable. Well, you’re on tour again. How do you deal with women approaching you the way they do?

“[Sighs] I try to be a good boy. It ain’t easy. How about if you’re on a strict diet, no sugar, no carbs, and every time you go to sleep, you go to sleep in a bakery? And you smell the cinnamon and the sugar and the chocolate – you smell it; it’s all around you.”

[Laughs]

“ Yeah – it’s really tough. You’re not even going out to clubs looking for it. It knocks on your door and scratches outside your door throughout the night.”

The situation with you relationship didn’t hurt the ratings for the television show. It got 2 million people on its first episode this season.

“Yeah, I don’t care. I mean, that’s fine, but if you’re gonna ruin your life to get ratings, that’s not a good idea. I don’t care about that.”

So let me talk a little bit about KISS then. You’re back out on tour – 18 shows.

“A lengthy tour was 2 1/2 years, which we did a year ago.”

But why tour at all at this point? First of all, you don’t have a new album out – yet. But secondly …

“We promised we would do these shows. Something happened on the last 2 1/2-year go-around. We went around the world twice and we skipped these cities. Some of the cities I’ve never even heard of .. Prince George, Abbotsford (Canada), places like that. Where are we playing with you guys?”

It’s Bushkill, Pennsylvania. It’s a tiny little place, but we’ve got a fairly new Mountain Laurel Arts Center there.

“But I have a feeling we haven’t been there – or haven’t been there in a long, long time.”

No, you have not been there. You’re going to be the first concert for its reopening after being closed four years.

“And that’s the answer. But why do it? Why do anything? I mean, if you have enough money and enough anything, what are you going to do? Just sit on your thumb and wait to die?”

Tell me about the stage show. Anything different to look forward to?

“Yes – what you have to look forward to is KISS. And if that doesn’t say it all. I mean, we’re the ones who changed the live concert experience, period. So whether you see Gaga or McCartney or anybody else live, and they’re using pyro and effects, where do you think that comes from – The Oak Ridge Boys?”

[Laughs] I totally agree with you there – you’re 100 percent correct. KISS basically changed the paradigm of concerts.

“Absolutely. Basically we strapped out boot heels down — our platform boot heels down — and said, ‘You paid a lot of money for this concert, you deserve more than me sitting with an acoustic guitar on a Persian carpet and lighting incense.”

Recorded music now – what’s the status of the new album? Where are you at?

“We’re halfway through, we have about eight songs done – very exciting. Real meat-and-potatoes rock album, no ballads, no outside writers. And we should be done with that end of August.”

And released shortly after that, or wait?

“When release dates have to do with timing, when we decide to go back out on tour and all that. So we’ll figure all that out.”

I got to say, the time in which this album is being developed comes very quickly – in KISS terms – after “Sonic Boom.”

“Not really, because when we first started making records a million years ago, we recorded two albums a year.”

Right, but in latter years, there’s been …

“Well, in later years the marketplace changed. And the market dictated that you couldn’t release too many records at the same time cause it took too long to distribute them. The marketplace got bigger, you know, all that stuff.”

But is there a creative element to it, too? Is creativity back for you guys?

“Yeah, the creative element, it says, basically, ‘Shut up, turn off the TV and sit down and work. The idea that you’re sitting around waiting for inspiration to hit you is the lazy man’s way out. You know, people who write books do it like a 9-to-5. They get in front of their computer of their typewriter, whatever they use, and they sit there – put in the time. If nothing happens, that’s fine, but don’t do something else.”

The compilation album “KISSology 4” is about to come out, too.

“That’s right. We’re almost done with that. And we have a 50-pound – 52-pound – hardcover book that’s coming, as well. Like an art book. All kinds of other stuff. There’s going to be a KISS TV show for kids that’s going to be on The HUB. KISS at Archie and IDW, two different comic book companies, are going to be bringing out two different sets of comic books at the same time. The KISS golf course is opening in Las Vegas. You know, more stuff than you can imagine.”

And, I see, two weeks after you guys play Pennsylvania, you’re going to be doing a full-family stage show.

“That’s right. I do speaking engagements, usually for corporate entities and entrepreneurs, and there’s a lot of demand to meet Shannon, Nick and Sophie. So we’re going to be doing at least one big event over two weekends up in Vancouver.”

Speaking of Nick and Sophie, I got to tell you that – on your TV show I see it, but I also read a quote by you – basically you said that the secret of good parenting it to not give kids the option to be bad, and I 100 percent agree with you.

“Well, you can’t negotiate with kids. It’s just, ‘These are the rules – that’s it.’ Approach it the way Mother Nature does. Mother Nature basically looks at babies and says, ‘Look, I know you’re an amoeba and you don’t know anything, but if you put your hand in this fire, I’m still going to burn the s—t out of your hand. ‘But I’m a baby, I didn’t know.’ Oh well, tough. Now you do.”

And from every appearance, you’ve got two very great kids. You did a great job.

“Because they’re not allowed not to be. Their only job is to do well in school and be charming. That’s it.”

Congratulations. Last time we talked, I asked you about whether you see physical limitations slowing you down at all.

“No, not really. I’m in really good shape. We work hard. You know, it would be easier to be in The Stones, respectfully. Or U2 – both very successful bands – ‘cause all you have to do is strum your guitar. Try to be on 8-inch platform heels for two hours and fly through the air and spit fire and do all that stuff. It’s physically exhausting.”

I have no doubt it is. The companion question is that you seem to be speeding up – adding things, doing more things than ever, rather than slowing down.

“That’s what you should do in a race. Life is a marathon. Cruise, and then as you see the finish line, speed up. You don’t want to slow down.”

Autographed Gene Simmons guitar will keep giving

But buyer Bill Knight, of B&B Demolition, hopes it will eventually raise $100,000.

"I plan to give it to a charity that will auction it for a good price," he says. "I hope the buyer will enjoy it for a while and then pass it on to another charity.

"I'd like to think that after a number of changes of hands, the guitar might generate in the region of $100,000."

The guitar was acquired by Global TV's Gord Steinke and helped carry the total of funds raised at the Royal Glenora Club event to some $54,000.

The night was a wrap-up party for our Le Tour of Hope cyclists who pedalled back from Penticton in support of KWC. This year's campaign has generated some $460,000 to date.

"It's an incredible sum," says the KWC's Val Figliuzzi. "We set a goal of $225,000."

Flying high on the ground

Bill Knight also bought a dinner in Teresa Spinelli's south-side Italian Centre store with Bob Walker, KWC board chair, for $3,000. Then he rounded out the night by purchasing a party for 30 at Yianni Psalios's Koutouki restaurant for $4,000.

Bob Maclean, a keen pilot and cyclist, bought for $5,000 the opportunity to fly a WestJet Boeing 737 simulator. Bin 104 wine store owner Bill Tanasichuk will dine with friends at the Kids With Cancer House after spending $3,100. An autographed Lance Armstrong cycling jersey, with coaching classes from Alex Stieda, sold to Gary Fortier for $1,500.

Auctioneer Mark Scholz also sold a scenic trip over the Rockies for $3,000. But there was a paper mix up and we don't know who the lucky bidder was. Please e-mail me.

Big thanks to New Asian Village restaurateur Harmeet Kapur for laying on a feast.

For the third year in a row, Era Rowles and company donated an interesting array of original artwork and helped push the silent auction to $5,555. There were more Pinot Noir wines than most could sample in a single evening, but an offbeat new item was Jo-Ann Yewchuk's cupcake bar featuring Pinot Noir and strawberry toppings.

A pool full of laughs

They say the laughs out of the RGC's $6-million pool could be heard across the river at the U of A when Nick Danger's Water Babes synchro swim team walked out to take on the Nova Synchro team.

I was totally embarrassed when, after telling my squad that we'd have some fun, they totally overdid it.

David Martin, RGC assistant general manger, insisted in swimming in a full tuxedo. Ironman triathletes Cam MacKenzie donned a rearpointed cycling time-trial helmet and Farrell Shadlyn wore his lawyer gown.

Nova athletes, all aged eight to 16, were Ruth Maidens, Kristina Pappas, Morganne Stubbs, Naomi Grenke, Leah Magnan, Sarah Tostowaryk, Camryn Bergum, Abigail Grenke, Anna Embury and Aisling Elia-Kelly. Their split-second timing, and ability to disappear under the water, was superb.

But the judges, Nicola Crosbie, Lesley MacDonald, Gord Steinke and Rob Christie praised our team members for introducing strokes and unnatural moves the world had never seen before. The event was tied. But I'm afraid some of my team members let us down badly in a relay race to decide the winner.

Raj Sherman got about halfway down the pool before losing direction and swimming at a 45-degree angle into the side of the pool.

Former Edmonton Police Service superintendent Chris Braiden, who hadn't been in a pool for 35 years, made a comeback. But it wasn't very good. Nevertheless, it was better than most of my team could manage.

KISS 'changed the live concert experience,' Gene Simmons says

“What you have to look forward to is KISS,” Simmons said in a recent telephone interview. ”And if that doesn’t say it all. I mean, we’re the ones who changed the live concert experience, period.”

There’s little argument that, with the emergence of KISS in the mid 1970s, concerts expanded from exclusively musical to a show experience. With its members wearing painted faces and costumes, fire breathing and shooting, Simmons spitting blood and more, KISS clearly changed the concert paradigm.

“Absolutely,” Simmons says. “Basically we strapped our boot heels down — our platform boot heels down — and said, ‘You paid a lot of money for this concert, you deserve more than me sitting with an acoustic guitar on a Persian carpet and lighting incense.’

“ So whether you see Gaga or McCartney or anybody else live, and they’re using pyro and effects, where do you think that comes from – The Oak Ridge Boys?”

Simmons promises a similar experience when KISS hits the stage at Mountain Laurel.

Kiss guitarist Tommy Thayer discusses new album, replacing Ace Frehley and inaugural Kiss Kruise

"I've been so much involved with Kiss and (singer/guitarist) Paul (Stanley) and (singer/bassist) Gene (Simmons) so many years, we're talking 25 years, there's a repertoire there already. For me to start as the new lead guitarist was actually a kind of natural, easy transition because we knew each other so well," Thayer says over the phone. "It wasn't like there was a learning curve there."

Before replacing founding member Ace Frehley as the band's lead guitarist in 2002, Thayer co-wrote two songs for Kiss' 1989 studio album, "Hot in the Shade." He continued to work with the band behind-the-scenes until getting the go ahead to don the Spaceman regalia after Frehley's departure, although the decision was met with backlash by some longtime Kiss fans.

But Thayer isn't concerned with criticism. He says he's just doing his best to make the Spaceman character his own.

"The biggest step was replacing one of the great guitar players of our time who has influenced so many people. Those are big shoes to fill," Thayer says. "The biggest challenge walking into that situation and succeeding was that good things take time. Getting in there and trying to fill the role he played and play the parts as well or even try and do it better ... it slowly becomes a little more me and just being the Spaceman, it's been quite a process. There have been so many amazing fans who have been so supportive and honest about letting me know I'm doing a great job and to keep it up."

Kiss is currently on the final leg of their "Hottest Show on Earth Tour," before they return to the studio to complete their follow-up to 2009's "Sonic Boom." The group performs Wednesday night at Mountain Laurel Pocono Performing Arts Center in Bushkill, Pa.

"The band is good. The last several years, the last two or three years, we've been on fire out there," Thayer says.

Thayer says the songs on the next album, which he says should be in stores by early 2012, will be "more riff-oriented" and will be slightly heavier than those on "Sonic Boom."

"It's going phenomenally," Thayer says of the recording process. "We've been in the studio for several weeks. We've cut eight songs already. I've heard Paul and Gene. This is definitely some of the best stuff Kiss has ever recorded."

Thayer says recording the new album, officially his second as a member of the band, has allowed him to branch out and put his own spin on the vintage Kiss sound.

"The idea was to create a classic Kiss record going back to the roots of the early records and really try and capture that vibe. I think we did and then some," Thayer says of "Sonic Boom." "I slowly wanted to put a little Tommy Thayer in there. I think on this record, we're taking it to the next step."

He adds, "We're spending a lot of time making sure it sounds like a great Kiss record."

In addition to a new album and a fourth "KISSology" DVD set ("It's going to be an amazing package. It's hefty," Thayer says of the collection), Kiss is gearing up for its inaugural Kiss Kruise, which will set sail in October. The cruise will feature a full-blown Kiss performance, Thayer says, as well as acoustic renditions of the band's biggest hits.

"The battle plan is exactly the same: pummel and deafen and blow it up," Thayer says, with a laugh. "We're not going to sink the ship, but we're going to do some devastation ... This will be a great and very unique experience for the consummate KISS fan."

Thayer, who played the role of Spaceman in the Kiss tribute band Cold Gin before meeting Simmons and Stanley in the late 1980s, says it's still surreal to play the part on stage with his heroes.

"It was kind of an out of body experience," says of his first show with the band, a private performance in Jamaica. "It's something I might have dreamed about, you almost have to pinch yourself remind to you that it's really happening. The enormity of a band like Kiss, to be suddenly in that position, is a once in a lifetime (opportunity). I never imagined it would have happened, especially to someone like me, who grew up a fan of theirs ... it's an unbelievable experience."

KISS DRUM HEAD IN TORNADO RELIEF AUCTION

The Birmingham Barons are holding an online auction benefiting tornado victims. Fans can bid on various autographed memorabilia and collectibles as 100% of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham Tornado Relief Fund.

KISS donated an authentic KISS BASS Drum Head to the auction. The Drum Head is autographed by Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, Eric Singer, and Gene Simmons.

CLICK HERE to bid on the KISS Bass Drum Head, and other collectibles.

Frontman Paul Stanley chats about tour, iconic band image

KISS never soared to the top of music charts — it only had two songs, “Beth” and “Forever,” reach the top 10 in the U.S. singles chart. But the band made the most of its legendary stage show, and the Starchild, Demon, Spaceman and Catman, also known as Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, respectively, will bring that show to the Verizon Wireless Arena on Tuesday, July 12.

“We built our reputation as a live animal,” Stanley said during a phone interview while he was at a tour stop in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. “The beast is prowling and ready to pounce.”

The band’s lineup has shifted considerably since it was founded by Stanley and Simmons, who began as the group Wicked Lester in New York City in 1971. Stanley and Simmons have been the band’s only constant members.

According to the band’s biography on its website at kissonline.com, Stanley and Simmons saw an ad posted by drummer Peter Criss saying he’d be willing to do anything to be in a rock band. The three got together in late 1972 and then auditioned guitarist Ace Frehley. In January 1973, the band dropped the name Wicked Lester in favor of KISS, with Stanley coining the name and Frehley coming up with the band’s famous logo.

The band also played its first show that month at a nightclub called Popcorn, in Queens, N.Y.

Thirteen months later, the band’s eponymous debut album was released. It was the first of almost 40 records the prolific band released.

Despite lackluster sales of the band’s first few albums, KISS enjoyed successful tours as the group’s reputation for putting on exciting live shows featuring deafening music and fireballs — including one that burned Simmons’ hair — led to larger concerts and increased ticket sales.

And Stanley said the Manchester show would be no different.

“There will be lots of bombs and lots of bombast,” he said. “I can’t imagine that anybody is going to be disappointed.”

In 1976, KISS released “Destroyer,” the band’s most successful studio album.

He said the band enjoys playing its biggest hits and never believed it should only play its new or obscure works.

“We can’t disappoint fans and not play” big hits, such as “Shout It Out Loud,” “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Calling Doctor Love,” Stanley said. “As a band, we can’t always concern ourselves by pleasing only our diehard, hardcore fans. Some songs are obscure for a reason.”

KISS’s original band members, who enjoyed the band’s most successful run of album sales and concerts during the 1970s, stayed together until 1980, when Criss left the band and was replaced by drummer Eric Carr.

In 1982, Frehley left the band to pursue a solo career and was replaced by Vinnie Vincent, who was a member of the band when it “shocked the world” by appearing without makeup in 1983. Vincent lasted just two years before being replaced by Bruce Kulick in 1984. Seven years later, Carr died of cancer and was replaced by Singer.

In 1996, the band’s four original members reunited for a tour donning full costumes and makeup for the first time in 13 years.

Stanley said the band’s reunion was the perfect time for it to resurrect its iconic images.

“You can go anywhere in the world, show someone a picture of us and they know it’s KISS, even if they don’t know our music,” he said. “KISS is too recognizable and we’ve spent too much time building what we have to start messing with these iconic images.”

That doesn’t mean band members don’t have their own projects. Simmons tried his hand at acting, notably as the lead villain in two films: “Runaway” opposite Tom Selleck and “Wanted: Dead or Alive” opposite Rutger Hauer.

He also stars in an A&E reality TV show with Shannon Tweed and their children called “Gene Simmons: Family Jewels.”

Stanley, for his part, has become a successful artist, and unveiled his paintings at a show in 2006 to positive reviews.

His original works sell for as high as $70,000, according to a review at musicradar.com.

“I have to say that I’m pretty stunned by the embracing of the work,” he said of his art.

Since the original lineup got back together, Criss and Frehley again left the band and were replaced by Singer and Thayer.

The lineup has stayed the same since 2004 and the band has kept on rocking.

Indeed, even with Stanley at age 59 and Simmons at 61, the band continues to sell out large venues holding 10,000 fans or more.

“This juggernaut continues at full speed,” Stanley said. “There’s no end in sight, nor should there be.”

Tickets to the Queen City show, to be opened by The Envy and Bad City, range from $31.50 to $79.50.

For more information, log onto ticketmaster.com or call (800) 745-3000.

BAYFEST: FESTIVAL KICKS OFF WITH A BANG

Die-hard fans like Chris Buscema were in line since Tuesday evening for a chance to watch his all-time favourite band.

"I'm so pumped for tonight," said the 20-year-old Sarnia resident, who brought an authentic Gene Simmons Axe bass guitar with him, in hopes that "The Demon" himself will sign it.

Buscema scored a coveted backstage VIP Meet & Greet pass thanks to Bayfest organizers and his performance at The Observer's Superfan contest.

Meanwhile, the official tour bus for Gene Simmons' Family Jewels, the rocker's popular television show, arrived backstage shortly before the gates opened.

Sixteen-year-old Brian Maxwell, of Collingwood, bought $195 worth of KISS merchandise before the show to add to his bedroom shrine. He says his homage to the band contains more than $1,000 worth of band memorabilia.

"They're not just a band, they're superheros," he said.

The KISS Army was in full force as hundreds of the more than 15,000 at the park turned out with faces painted or dressed up like the flamboyant rockers.

KISS' popularity hasn't waned since the iconic band formed in New York City in 1973, led by original members Paul Stanley and Simmons.

Fans continue to flock to their shows, which are fueled by large amounts of pyrotechnics, flaming guitars and Simmons' signature fire breathing and blood-spitting.

Each band member puts on his own face makeup, which takes close to an hour.

Their headline show opening Bayfest marked their second visit to the Sarnia festival in three years.

Bayfest organizer Michele Stokley said the massive 5,700-square-foot stage required extra trussing to accommodate the band's thunderous show.

Even as Gene Simmons "Family Jewels" motor coach rolled, Bayfest security and backstage workers stopped to snap pics on their cameras and cell phones.

The waterfront festival, which began with in 1999 with more humble beginnings, has grown into one of Ontario's feature tourism events.

This year's Bayfest is expected to draw close to 100,000 people over the course of the seven-day music extravaganza, drawing fans from across the globe, including Tennessee, South America and across Canada.

For those wondering how the band kicked back before heading on stage, they sipped on coconut water and dined on seared salmon and steamed vegetables.

They also requested four copies of The Observer to read featuring stories on lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and the band's backstage wish list.

KISS ARMY MARCHES TO A DIFFERENT DRUMMER

"Everybody thinks I'm crazy," said the 16-year-old, who was decked out in Gene Simmons-esque 'Demon' makeup Wednesday.

Maxwell was among the first in line to see the iconic rockers take the stage opening night at Sarnia's Bayfest music festival.

"They're not just a band, they're superheroes," said Maxwell, shortly after buying another $195 worth of KISS swag — a shirt, sweater, signed photo, signed drumsticks, poster and a bandana to add to his collection.

"I think there's maybe about 200 KISS logos in my room," he said.

Many of the more than 15,000-member KISS Army that poured into Centennial Park sported makeup and other regalia in homage to the band.

Some arrived in the complete KISS costume, complete with six-inch platform shoes.

"For us, it's a family thing," said Tom Snyder, who came to Sarnia from Attica, New York to see the show with his sons Hunter, 7, and Zak, 20.

"This is what we do and we just love it," he said.

Hunter, decked out as frontman Gene Simmons, said he loves the songs, the fireworks, the flames and everything about the band's stage show.

He's already been to five KISS concerts in his young life.

"I don't think there's any(thing) better, with my kids, you know," said Tom, who's been a fan since the early '70s.

"I've been to one concert by myself and it's just not the same."

The band — Simmons, lead vocalist Paul Stanley, lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer — were making their second Bayfest performance after rocking a sold-out show in 2009.

"I just like their drums and I like Gene's guitar, the bass," said Snyder.

Arriving at the show from Niagara Falls was Gordon Taylor, with two sons, daughter, and a family friend. Taylor is a long-time fan who said he's seen shows in Atlanta, Detroit, Toronto, Kitchener, and Oshawa.

The family has a love affair with KISS, said Alexandra Taylor, 15.

"It started off with (my dad), then it wore off on us," she said.

There was no shortage of fans eager to show off their devotion.

Adam Taylor, 17, his brother Gavin, 19, and Michael Easson, 18, earned passes to meet and greet with the band backstage, courtesy of The Observer, after delivering a performance of KISS' Modern Day Delilah.

"It is the best day of my life right now," said Gavin, in a full 'Spaceman' costume.

Easson, who was attending his first KISS show, said he's come to love the group from New York, thanks to his friends.

"They got me introduced to the band and now I'm hooked."

KISS CHOWS DOWN ON...ORGANIC BEANS?

Just ask Marlon Alexander, chef to the stars, including KISS, who rolled through Sarnia Wednesday night to satisfy some big appetites.

"You never know how many people you're feeding," said Alexander, under his makeshift kitchen tent backstage at Centennial Park. "It could just be the four guys, or it could be 25."

That number morphed to about 100 people when KISS and its massive production crew arrived in Sarnia.

With the help of local chef and veteran Bayfest cook Alastair Mackay, Alexander prepared some staples from the group's strict organic diet — a far cry from their flamboyant onstage persona.

"Everything is always very organic and very healthy, so we try to stick with lots of vegetables, and lots of fish," he said, while preparing wild seared salmon on a bed of white beans and veggies, topped with a dill vinaigrette, with fresh fruit juice.

Dessert included a wild berry crumb with mango and crystalized brown sugar.

In 2009, during KISS's first Bayfest visit, a massive continental breakfast was prepared for crew members, while the band members dined on steamed veggies, chicken and fish.

The job certainly has its perks, said Alexander, who also works for big names like Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Jay-Z. He just returned from a tour with Britney Spears.

"It's a lot of travel, but these guys are my main clients," he said of KISS members Gene Simmons, Eric Singer, Tommy Thayer and Paul Stanley.

"Sometimes I'll think I'll be going out of town for like, a month, and it turns into seven months.

"So it's always changing, and it keeps things fresh. I do love the job, and I still love the cooking."

KISS PUCKERS UP FOR THE POCONOS

When concert venues began announcing their summer lineups earlier this year, one band that appeared on some of those lists was a pleasant surprise, particularly to its self-proclaimed "Army" of fans. KISS, which had toured throughout much of 2009-2010 and is in the midst of recording a new album, wasn't expected to be on the road this year. And yet on the road they are, including a stop at the Mt. Laurel Pocono Mountains Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, July 13.

KISS co-founder Paul Stanley, in an interview with the Weekender, says that at one point the band had conducted an online poll asking its fans where they'd like to see a show. And while it wasn't always possible for the group to get to some of those places on the 2009-2010 tours, some of the stops on this summer's road jaunt are now indeed in those regions.

"There were cities that we just didn't get to, and we felt an obligation to go there," says Stanley. "Quite a few of the cities we're hitting are not your major cities, but were cities we felt we owed a show."

Stanley says this is not the first time that KISS has briefly halted the recording of an album to return to the road. He says the band did the same thing circa 1975-76 while working on its classic "Destroyer" album. "We did 'Destroyer' in two segments," he says. "We recorded quite a bit of it and took a break. We were still touring on 'Alive' and then we went back and finished the album. Not to draw any parallels, but we have done it before."

Some KISS albums are viewed as sister-albums to one another in that they're similar in songwriting style and production. ("Rock and Roll Over" and "Love Gun," "Dynasty and Unmasked" and "Animalize" and "Asylum.") Stanley says the new KISS album, which will be released in 2012, is in some ways a continuation of 2009's "Sonic Boom," as it will be the second studio recording featuring the lineup of Stanley, bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer. This time, however, he says the band is on more solid footing.

"'Sonic Boom' was us coming to terms and exploring who we are today as a band," he says. "Everything we do is based on our past, and it was really time to see how that would manifest itself in the studio. We're proud of whom we've been and who we are, but it was a matter of, 'OK. How does that translate to new songs? How does that translate to the sound and the vibe?' 'Sonic Boom' was us, in a sense, on a path of discovery. This next album is not that, in a sense that we're very clear and very sure of who we are."

Five years ago, Stanley appeared to be equally self-assured when he released his second solo album, "Live To Win." And though it was a strong collection of melodic hard-rock and featured some of the best songs he'd ever written, Stanley says he has no plans to record another. He says that because of the great musical synergy found within the current lineup of KISS, he couldn't imagine holding back quality songs for a solo effort rather than contributing them to a KISS album.

"I was determined to explore some other paths and do things musically and sonically that I wouldn't do in KISS," he says. "That's really what the purpose of 'Live To Win' was - for me to stretch out and indulge myself. You have to remember that album came before 'Sonic Boom,' and I didn't want to get caught in the trap of making a one-man KISS album, because I've done that before. There had been some KISS albums that were basically me filling in the blanks (for other people's absence). But the chemistry of what's going on in the band is so far beyond that, in terms of the pleasantness and the creativity, that there's really no need at this point to do solo albums. We enjoy each other's company."

Stanley adds that at a recent sound check before a show, the band tore through songs such as "Watchin' You," "She," "Makin' Love" and "Got To Choose" - all tunes that aren't even being played on the current tour. Such camaraderie and energy, he says, has carried itself into the sessions for the new album.

"The band is at a peak," he says. "And the basic mantra of doing KISS albums now is really that we're all in it together."

Though some KISS fans may have been surprised when Stanley and Simmons decided to continue on with KISS following the band's "Farewell Tour" more than a decade ago, that sense of surprise has long since passed. In fact, the current lineup has now been together for more than seven years. And while Simmons has initially said that former members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss were always welcome to return, Stanley says that is no longer the case.

"Honestly, that door is long closed," he says. "All I can say is the band couldn't exist today without them having been in it, and the band couldn't exist today with them in it. It works both ways. The shows we're doing, the album we made, and the new album is only the work of the four of us, and the commitment we have and the fun we have. This is such a pleasure."

Still, Stanley says he wishes his former bandmates well. He is asked whether the deaths of former KISS members Eric Carr (1991) and Mark. St. John (2007), as well as Peter Criss' more recent cancer scare has caused him to take stock in such old friendships.

"Illness is never to be taken lightly," he says. "I wish everybody good health and long life. The one that was shattering was Eric Carr. That was so close to me. I had never lost anybody before. It was pretty emotional, shocking and devastating."

Looking ahead, Stanley says work has begun on "KISSOLOGY IV," the fourth in a series of DVDs that chronicle KISS' history. It will include live footage of the band's 2009 show at Cobo Hall in Detroit as well as classic footage from the KISS vaults. He agrees when it is suggested that chronology is no longer necessary for the series, and that should items missing from the first three discs be discovered - such as pro-shot shows from the "Lick It Up" and "Asylum" tours - they should be included.

"We're reached a point where we've really brought everybody up to date," he says. "Now, let's just unearth all of the nuggets."

Another recent development in the KISS camp is speculation - sometimes fueled by Stanley and Simmons - that KISS will someday carry on without them. It would seem that - as long as it wasn't actually called "KISS" - an "officially sanctioned" KISS tribute show in which Stanley and Simmons were involved behind the scenes and made sure the production was up to KISS' standards might someday be accepted by fans. Stanley, however, disagrees. He says he can "totally" see KISS going on without him and that he "believes it more now than ever." He affirms that such a band can and will still be called KISS.

"It's KISS now," he says. "And KISS today is not KISS of 10 years ago, or 20 years ago, or 30 years ago. I stand by the idea that KISS is a way of delivering a great show. It's a state of mind. It's a lifestyle. And it's more than any group of individuals."

Stanley is asked if he's actually not selling himself way short. He and Simmons have remained constants in the KISS lineup, are master showmen, and have always written most of the band's songs. And for a time in the '80s, while Simmons explored a film carrier, it seemed that Stanley carried the band.

"I don't sell myself short at all," he says. "I'm pretty damn terrific at what I do, but I also I don't believe that I'm the only person that can do this. I'm not talking about getting an impersonator. I love the KISS tribute bands, but that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about someone that has the same heart and soul in what they're dong that I do, and it doesn't mean mimicking. It means following a tradition and a path. Everybody in the band today is aware of their roots and how this band evolved. Somebody coming in to put on my boots would be the same. I think that any skepticism would go right out the window when somebody would see that band, because I'm not irreplaceable. I can't be replaced with a clone of me, but somebody else could certainly come in and 'wow' people.

"I'm not saying anything called KISS wouldn't have me behind it," he adds. "If and when that time comes, I'm not saying, 'Nice to know ya. Good luck with the band,' This is my baby. But once again, I'm very clear that the band can thrive without me. In the past, people said 'You can't go on without the original guys.' Nonsense. The the truth is, when somebody's heart and soul is no longer into being in this band, they're the impostors, not the people coming after them."

Today, Stanley's heart and soul remain with KISS, though his time is also dedicated to his growing family. He and his wife are expecting their third child next month and has also has a son from a previous marriage. He says the arrival of the new baby is one of the reasons this summer's tour will be a short one, but he adds that some things on the road feel the same as always. With a catalog of music dating back 37 years, he admits putting the set list together to accompany KISS' dazzling stage show can be a challenge.

"We're kind of between a rock and a hard place," he says. "Do we pepper the show with obscure songs to please a handful of rabid fans, or do you do a set list that pleases thousands? Clearly, we're going the route to please the masses. If somebody doesn't get to hear 'Two Timer' there's a reason. Because if we put in 'Two Timer' we might have to take out 'Shout It Out Loud.'"

Stanley says that, for a road veteran like himself, he's enjoyed playing in towns and at venues that are new to the band.

"So far, five shows in, and five of the places, I've never been to," he says. "It's surprising. This is the tour that we spoke about. We're going to a lot of places that wanted us to come, and we said we would, and we are."

KISS OPENS BAYFEST IN SARNIA TONIGHT

The iconic rock band played a sold-out show in 2009 that Bayfest organizer Michele Stokley has called the most memorable in the festival's 13-year-history.

"It's going to be just as much, if not more, this time," Thayer said in a recent interview with The Observer.

Crews are adding extra trussing to the $300,000 Bayfest stage to accommodate the band's performance, Stokley said.

The band — Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer — is known for explosive stage shows, said Thayer, promising the Sarnia performance will be a fiery extravaganza.

"The KISS show is actually very choreographed because of all of the effects and pyro ...," he said. "But we are mixing a few songs up."

The 50-year-old Portland-born man first donned former KISS guitarist, Ace Frehley's, "Spaceman" makeup in 2002.

Previously he'd spent years as an assistant with the band, producing and editing KISS' film and video productions, and contributing musically at KISS rehearsals, sound checks and in the recording studio.

"I've always been a huge KISS fan all my life," Thayer said. "I didn't necessarily grow up aspiring to be in KISS but I definitely had rock 'n' roll in my blood."

He picked up an electric guitar at age 13, around the time KISS formed.

Later he started the hard rock band Black 'N Blue, which toured as an opening act with KISS in 1985. It was there that Thayer befriended Gene Simmons.

"To be a fan and then grow up and, years later, enter the band, it's kind of mind-boggling," he said. "It's completely surreal."

Initially, adjusting to full KISS regalia was a challenge, Thayer said.

"You need to learn how to perform on stage and wear those boots and move around and do that."

But there's no going back.

"I can't imagine performing on stage not that way now," he said. "It's such a higher level of performance and attitude and approach. There's nothing like it."

Each band member does his own makeup before a show, he said, noting it now takes him an hour.

The band typically spend two hours before a show, he said, "doing makeup, listening to music and getting psyched."

When asked how the band maintains it's massive following after so many years, Thayer said the spectacle of a KISS show is a must-see experience.

"If it's going to the Grand Canyon or going to the Super Bowl or something like that, going to a KISS concert is one of those spectacles that everybody needs to do," he said. "It's like the circus is coming to town. You need to be there."

Ontario has one of the best KISS followings in the world, he added.

"We always really look forward to getting up there as much as we can."

VINNIE VINCENT Says He Plans To Re-Record 'All Systems Go' Album

"I am [releasing] this factual account of events pertaining to [Vinnie's post-KISS band VINNIE VINCENT INVASION] in order to correct Wikipedia's false rendition.

"After quitting KISS following the 'Lick It Up' tour, Vinnie Vincent recorded and produced a demo containing the songs 'Boyz Are Gonna Rock', 'Shoot U Full Of Love' and 'No Substitute'. Vincent played guitars and bass on all the tracks and Myron Grumbacker played drums. Vincent heard a demo of Robert Fleishman and knew he found the perfect vocalist for his music. Robert was asked to sing on the three-song demo Vinnie had recorded. Fleischman and Vincent's chemistry was unmatched. Chrysalis Records New York heard the demo and called Vincent in L.A. With Vincent's demo blaring in the background, Chrysalis asked Vincent to fly to New York immediately, stating they were anxious to sign Vincent as a solo artist. After months of negotiating, an eight-album, four-million deal was born.

"The common misconception was that a 'band' was signed to the label. However, it was Vincent who was signed exclusively to Chrysalis as a 'solo artist' off the power of his demo. Vincent began recording and the end result was 'Vinnie Vincent Invasion'. A virtual powerhouse of great songs, in-your-face, over-the-top guitar, great layered intricate harmonies and piercing vocals, 'Vinnie Vincent Invasion' exploded onto rock radio and became the fastest-selling debut album in the history of Chrysalis Records.

"The name VINNIE VINCENT INVASION was actually the name of the solo album which Vincent evolved into a band name. However, despite Vincent's enormous efforts to fit Robert into his contract, Chrysalis, failing to know a good thing when they saw it, destroyed the chemistry, letting Fleischman go unrewarded forcing him to resign. Vincent, disheartened, was forced under duress to tour in support of his explosive VINNIE VINCENT INVASION with a replacement singer who Vincent felt was woefully substandard to the quality which Vincent had not only strived for in his music, evidenced by the first VINNIE VINCENT INVASION album. Watching the quality of his music sinking, Vincent began losing interest in the teeny bopper image that began replacing his original heavy metal vision. Vincent nonetheless moved ahead in order to try and make it work, despite his loss of heart.

"Vincent began writing songs for the 'All Systems Go' album, the follow-up to 'Vinnie Vincent Invasion'. Once the recording sessions were underway, it became painfully evident the production, sound and lead vocals were simply poor, lackluster and pale in comparison to Vinnie's first VINNIE VINCENT INVASION. Vincent knew he should have aborted the entire project, which included the 'All Systems Go' recording sessions, fired all the salaried employees, and regrouped with Fleischman, following the same recording paths of his original demos, with Vinnie on guitars and bass, but it was too late. 'All Systems Go' was released to Vinnie's dismay. With a dramatic change in Chrysalis management, Vincent was saddled with a situation he had no belief in. Vincent made the conscious decision in 1988 to disband the 'group' after his disenchantment with 'All Systems Go' and with Chrysalis's new management decision to pander to the 'music fad.'

"In late 1988, Vincent, refused to extend Chrysalis the contractual option for a third VINNIE VINCENT INVASION record when Chrysalis accidentally breached their option deadline to renew Vincent's contract in late September 1989. Chrysalis's contract with Vincent had a leaving-member clause and option on the salaried employees Vincent used as bandmates. Left without Vinnie Vincent under contract, and attempting to capitalize on Vinnie Vincent and VINNIE VINCENT INVASION, Chrysalis picked up the option on two remaining employees.

"The rumors that Vincent was kicked out of his own band was baseless Internet gossip, rumor and hearsay, having absolutely no basis in fact.

"In 1991, British heavy metal magazine Kerrang! voted the first VINNIE VINCENT INVASION album #100 of the 100 best heavy metal albums of ALL TIME. The VINNIE VINCENT INVASION is now a YouTube favorite, whose Vinnie Vincent compositons include 'Boyz Are Gonna Rock', 'Shoot U Full Of Love', 'Animal', 'Love Kills', 'Ashes To Ashes' and many others which are now becoming discovered by a new generation of fans.

"In 1996 Vincent resurfaced to release a demo EP called 'Euphoria', reuniting with original VINNIE VINCENT INVASION vocalist Robert Fleischman and recorded the unreleased album 'Guitars From Hell'.

"Vincent has plans to re-record the 'All Systems Go' album the way it should have been recorded with the Vincent production, inclusive of all guitars, bass and vocals which would bring back the ferocious, over-the-top sound of the first VINNIE VINCENT INVASION album, with Robert Fleishman on vocals."

KISS FIRED UP FOR BAYFEST

The iconic rock band played a sold-out show in 2009 that Bayfest organizer Michele Stokley has called the most memorable in the festival's 13-year-history.

"It's going to be just as much, if not more, this time," Thayer said in a recent interview with The Observer.

Crews are adding extra trussing to the $300,000 Bayfest stage to accommodate the band's performance, Stokley said.

The band — Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer — is known for explosive stage shows, said Thayer, promising the Sarnia performance will be a fiery extravaganza.

"The KISS show is actually very choreographed because of all of the effects and pyro ...," he said. "But we are mixing a few songs up."

The 50-year-old Portland-born man first donned former KISS guitarist, Ace Frehley's, "Spaceman" makeup in 2002.

Previously he'd spent years as an assistant with the band, producing and editing KISS' film and video productions, and contributing musically at KISS rehearsals, sound checks and in the recording studio.

"I've always been a huge KISS fan all my life," Thayer said. "I didn't necessarily grow up aspiring to be in KISS but I definitely had rock 'n' roll in my blood."

He picked up an electric guitar at age 13, around the time KISS formed.

Later he started the hard rock band Black 'N Blue, which toured as an opening act with KISS in 1985. It was there that Thayer befriended Gene Simmons.

"To be a fan and then grow up and, years later, enter the band, it's kind of mind-boggling," he said. "It's completely surreal."

Initially, adjusting to full KISS regalia was a challenge, Thayer said.

"You need to learn how to perform on stage and wear those boots and move around and do that."

But there's no going back.

"I can't imagine performing on stage not that way now," he said. "It's such a higher level of performance and attitude and approach. There's nothing like it."

Each band member does his own makeup before a show, he said, noting it now takes him an hour.

The band typically spend two hours before a show, he said, "doing makeup, listening to music and getting psyched."

When asked how the band maintains it's massive following after so many years, Thayer said the spectacle of a KISS show is a must-see experience.

"If it's going to the Grand Canyon or going to the Super Bowl or something like that, going to a KISS concert is one of those spectacles that everybody needs to do," he said. "It's like the circus is coming to town. You need to be there."

Ontario has one of the best KISS followings in the world, he added.

"We always really look forward to getting up there as much as we can."

KISS SELLS OUT IN RECORD TIME

MacDonald Island Park announced Friday that tickets were sold out in just under 25 minutes, 30 minutes quicker than last year's Northern Classic.

VIP tickets cost $250 and general tickets cost $99. A total 9,000 tickets were sold.

Meanwhile, on sites like Kijiji, tickets are being sold at double the price ranging from $250 to $500.

One seller is putting up $500 for a premium seat, row 8 for a VIP ticket.

Another seller had 16 tickets, selling 12 in just one day at $250 each.

Scalping may not come as a surprise as Fort McMurray is KISS's only stop in Alberta.

FAN-FILMED CLIP FROM PRINCE GEORGE

Gene Simmons Family Jewels filmed in Abbotsford

Airing on A&E, the show follows the life of Simmons, his longtime partner Shannon Tweed and their two kids, Nick and Sophie.

Filming was done around the arena before the start of the concert.

While it's not been confirmed when it will air, an episode titled Mr. Tweed Goes to Canada will be shown on July 12.

Before KISS took to the stage on Monday evening, Tweed and her kids walked through the arena waving to the fans, drawing wild applause and cheers.

On Tuesday night, Simmons and his family were spotted leaving the Abbotsford Earls.

They spent the evening at the restaurant watching the latest episode of their TV show.

Tweed was live tweeting throughout the episode called Blood Is Thicker Than Hummus, where Simmons returns to Haifa, Israel, for the first time in more than 50 years to receive an award and see his family.

Gene Simmons weeps at his father's grave on 'Family Jewels'

Simmons was in his birthplace of Haifa, Israel to receive the Haifa Medal, awarded in recognition of his extraordinary success. It was his first visit home in 51 years, since he and his mother Florence - a concentration camp survivor - emigrated to America when he was nine. Simmons has often said that his father abandoned the family, and he never saw him again.

His father passed away in 2002, and Simmons' longtime girlfriend Shannon Tweed thought the time might be right for the rocker to confront elements of his complicated past, which she felt had overshadowed much of his life and contributed to his workaholic drive and fear of commitment.

"Okay, so I've been angry," Simmons admitted reluctantly to therapist Dr. Ann Wexler. "I remember being seven. My mother and father were about to split, and then it was just my mother and I. When you're abandoned and everything is black and dark . . . 'abandoned' isn't even the word. 'Emptiness,' that's it."

Tweed conspired with Simmons' mother, finding out the important sites of his childhood and mapping out a trip down memory lane that included visits to Simmons' childhood home and the restaurant where his mother once worked. The rocker appeared startled at his own emotions, saying upon receiving the Haifa Medal, "I would be nothing without my birthplace." He accepted the award under his birth name, proudly declaring, "My name is Chaim Weitz."

There were more surprises in store as Tweed arranged a family dinner for 19 that saw Simmons meet his half-brother, two half-sisters, and numerous neices and nephews for the first time. Particularly emotional was the strong family resemblance between some of the neices and nephews and Simmons' own children when they were younger. Talking to his newfound siblings, a different picture began to emerge of their father, who had married six other times after Simmons and his mother went to America.

"He wasn't a perfect father," Simmons' brother Kobi acknowledged, adding that even so, he had been an important part of their lives and the lives of their children and had always held out hope that he and Simmons might eventually reconcile.

Simmons had rejected all overtures to visit his father over the years, though he had felt honor-bound to support him financially when he fell ill toward the end of his life. "I didn't want to think about it, I didn't want to know," the rocker admitted. "It was easier just to keep moving forward without looking back."

The trip culminated with an emotional visit to his father's grave, where his brothers and sisters presented Simmons with a letter his father had written to him, but never sent. In the letter his father confessed his failings, saying, "The only thing I can be proud of is my children." He added that he had proudly kept tabs on his famous son's success from afar, saying, "I am happy that you are happy."

Simmons was left alone to pay his respects, lamenting the fact that he had let the opportunity to get to know his father get away forever. “I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry, I’m so f*cking stupid. I’m so stupid," he said. "I didn’t run away from my kids, I didn’t run away from the kids, I’m a good father . . . you would be proud.

"My mother is 85 years old, and she still loves you," Simmons added.

Upon reflection, the KISS star said he realized how much his anger at his father's abandonment had colored his workaholic ambition and need to be perceived as successful. “I’ve been arrogant about a lot of things, especially my father," he said. “I wanted to prove to myself and to everyone else and to my father that I didn’t need him. So once I proved it and became successful, I wanted to stand stubbornly on my pride and not move. Unfortunately, I never saw my father again until I stood over his grave."

BACKSTAGE WITH KISS

CRAZY KISS FAN READY FOR CONCERT

Kyle Sampson is a mega-fan who will be going on a KISS concert mini tour of his own as the band makes stops in Kamloops, Abbotsford, Prince George and Dawson Creek.

Sampson was the guy that set up a Bring KISS to Prince George Facebook page with more than 5,000 members in 2009. Through online voting KISS set up a contest to see which town would get a concert. Prince George ranked 11 out of more than 10,000 cities.

Close but no cigar.

That didn't kill Sampson's sizzling enthusiasm for the band ranked No. 10 on VH1's 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock, ninth on The Greatest Metal Bands list by MTV, No. 1 on Hit Paraders's Top 100 Live Bands, 56 on VH1's 100 Greatest Artists Of All Time and second on Digital Dream Door's Best Hair Metal Bands.

He just got more determined to get KISS to Prince George.

Sampson saw KISS Nov. 12, 2009 in Calgary and got to spend the day setting up lights, sound and pyro technics, along with a pre-concert backstage meet and greet with the band he loves.

He kept his connection with the band's touring manager, asking what it would take to get Kiss to come to P.G.

Well, Glen Mikkelsen, entertainment and marketing supervisor of CN Centre, was the answer. After years of trying to make it happen, Mikkelsen said it all just came together in 2011 and here comes KISS.

"One day I got a call from Glen and he said 'Guess what?'" Sampson said, who took a job in Kamloops but will soon be returning to Prince George, the town he loves.

Sampson said he's got his Gene Simmons look-alike costume ready and brand new make up is on its way from cyberspace.

"I won't have time to dress up the day of the concert because I will be at CN Centre all day helping rig the lights, sound and anything else I can do to help set up," said Sampson. "Then I can see KISS at the meet and greet and that's always exciting. Gene Simmons is my favourite. But you will see me around town dressed up the day before the concert."

Special guests at the sold-out Kiss concert will be The Envy and Bad City June 29 at CN Centre.

Opening bands start at 7:45 with The Envy up first, followed by Bad City.

Gene Simmons: Despite Our TV Spats, Shannon Tweed & I Are "Destined To Be Together"

But in an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife.com, the star of A&E’s “Gene Simmons Family Jewels” says re-watching such segments—they had a similarly tension-filled interview on The Today Show—and his show helps him realize he has work to do on the relationship front. “Watching these clips helps me be more effective, like ‘Gee, I really did come off like an asshole there. How come I didn’t see that?’”

Gene says he was taken off-guard by Shannon’s exit, and that making jokes about his sexual conquests on-air was in poor taste. “Oh, yes I was surprised,” he says. “I think you can safely say that—and rightfully so. Joy Behar is a comedian. And she asked a question, I thought ‘OK, it’s time to be funny.’ Well, maybe not funny for Shannon.”

Despite the roller-coaster nature of their relationship, Shannon remains devoted to Gene, and she in fact, was one of the masterminds of their recent trip to Israel (their son Nick also came along)—featured on Tuesday night’s episode of “Gene Simmons Family Jewels”—during which Israeli-born Gene meets his half-siblings, fathered by a dad who left him at young age. (See below for a preview of Tuesday’s episode)

“Shannon, the sneaky Newfie (a term for a native of Newfoundland, Canada) that she is, set all kinds of surprises up,” Gene tells HollywoodLife.com. “I didn’t know my father very well, he left us when I was six or seven. I found out that he was married at least six times, maybe more, and had any number of wives, lovers and other children. I thought I was the only child, and I met my half-brother [Kobi] and half-sisters [Sharon, Eugenia and Drora]. Two of them are twins—both over six-feet-tall!

Gene adds of the trip to Israel, “Shannon didn’t tell me anything. The whole premise was that [my children] Nick and Sophie had already seen where Shannon came from in Canada, so they should see where I come from. Sophie was busy in school, so Nick came with us. We went to the Sea of Galilee, Masada, and where I was born [Haifa].

Gene says the visit was life-changing. “I’ve already flown them out to L.A.,” he says.

During tomorrow night’s episode, filmed in Israel, Shannon says it’s obvious to her Gene has commitment issues like his dad did—which Gene agrees with to a certain degree. He admits to HollywoodLife.com, “All men have commitment issues. I’ve had loads of women. I’m not a dentist or plumber. Wherever I go, women throw themselves at me. It’s like trying to be on a diet, and you know carbs aren’t good for you, and you’re living in a bakery or you’re a baker. It’s really hard not to taste the goods.”

While Gene may have commitment issues like his dad—and like he says, most men—he didn’t inherit his lack of parenting skills. “I didn’t want to turn into my dad,” he says. “I didn’t want to abandon my kids—and I did not.”

And while Gene and Shannon may spar with each other, their union is as tight as ever, thanks to a—relatively—understanding Shannon. “Most other women wouldn’t put up with it,” he says. So why does she tolerate him? “You can uses words like ‘love,’ but you can also use a phrase like ‘destined to be together.’”

And when asked if he showers Shannon with lavish gifts, he says, laughing, “I do, I would say too much! Mostly diamonds. She’s a diamond girl!”

As for what Gene loves about Shannon, he says, “She’s an alpha-female. She’s six-feet-tall and comes from a family of seven, and it that way, she has a greater wisdom. You need somebody near you who’s good for you, and she’s good for me.”

Gene Simmons gets 'whipped' on 'Family Jewels'

But for Simmons (who remains with Tweed), it’s all in a day’s work on the show, now in its sixth season.

“I get a good a**-whipping every episode,” he told TODAY.com. “In a very real way, the show forces me to confront real issues that you may take for granted.”

He said seeing himself on the show has made him “more reflective” on his own behavior.

“It’s one thing to live through it, and another when you sit down and watch it,” he said. “This way I can see how (Shannon) feels about it, and how I come off. It’s like having a separate pair of eyes watching me. Usually we’re too busy being ourselves to see ourselves.”

In this week’s episode (“Blood Is Thicker Than Hummus," airing Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET on A&E) though, Simmons ended up looking not just inside himself, but at his history. In the episode, Simmons, Tweed and their son Nick return to Israel, where Simmons was born. The musician, 61, had not visited since he emigrated with his mother at age 8.

“I came from a small town outside Haifa, which you can’t even pronounce or spell, but now it’s a modern place,” he said. “I remember hills and dirt roads.”

It was all a surprise planned by Tweed. “I knew nothing. We just went with the TV show because she thought I should visit my homeland. She also thought it was important for Nick to get a sense of where one of his parents came from. Shannon planned the whole thing – she was sneaky.”

Sophie, the couple's daughter, was "stuck in school" and did not accompany them.

Tweed also engineered a family reunion: Simmons met a half-brother and half-sisters he never knew he had, and learned that his father, who left him and his mother when Simmons was around 7, had been married “as many as” six times.

“Who knows how many other kids he’s got?” said Simmons.

That’s all heavy stuff to show up on camera around the world, but the KISS leader takes it in stride.

“I don’t like it, but it’s necessary,” he said. “It’s important to get a sense of who came before you and why.”

Still, he added, “Celebrities – methinks they protest too much. When they don’t get attention, they complain. When they get too much attention, they complain. It’s just about complaining. I’m a lucky bastard, and anything’s OK with me. My hair’s all messed up in every episode, and I don’t care. I’m OK even if they visit me in the loo.”

Gene Simmons: 'Most Men Are Really Just 12-Year-Old Kids'

As the sixth season of the rocker’s reality series, Gene Simmons Family Jewels premiered; Tweed was sent over the edge by Simmons’ womanizing ways and famously stormed off the set during a recent interview with Joy Behar after Gene made jokes about the number of women he’s slept with.

Now, Simmons, 61, talks to Parade.com about his almost too real reality show, and gives a sneak peek into tonight’s dramatic episode, which sees the KISS frontman return to the city of his birth, Haifa, Israel for the first time in over 50 years.

On his unraveling relationship with his partner of 28 years, Shannon Tweed.
“Well, when you have a cut on your hand, it doesn’t heal overnight. It takes time, and if you don’t take care of it, it gets inflamed. We’re working on it. It’s not easy on the kids, Shannon, or myself.”

Men are from mars…
“Men are not reflective. What happened yesterday happened yesterday. We’re in the here and the now. Women are wiser. Women have a 30,000-foot viewpoint. They see the bigger picture, which is why they want to have kids and men don’t. Women want to get married and no man I ever met actually wants to. Women have the ‘Mr. Right’ image, men don’t. There are tons of brides’ magazines, I don’t know of a single husband magazine. We want to be left alone to do whatever we want to do whenever we want to do it without asking anybody. So the hair on our backs rise when the female species says, ‘Where have you been?’ That’s all part of being a kid and immature.”

On watching his life play out onscreen.
“It’s important for men. We don’t watch home movies and we don’t take them. We don’t sit around and show our male friends the family photo albums or any of that stuff. We’re just not reflective. So it's good for men to be reflective and open up and be more caring. It’s certainly good for me.”

He has no regrets when it comes to the show.
“No, it’s good for me. It’s good for us. I saw it as an opportunity to spread my brand. Little did I know that America and the rest of the world would fall in love with Shannon, Nick, and Sophie. People love them. And what’s not to love? All parents feel that way about their kids, but in our case, it happens to be true!”

Can fans count on future seasons?
“We’re talking about it. It’s probable.”

On returning to his birthplace in Israel in this week’s new episode.
“Shannon is sneaky. She set the whole trip up. Her point of view was that our kids should see where their parents came from. They already visited Canada, so it was time for them to visit Israel. I hadn’t been back there since I was eight years old, and I never even knew much about my dad, who I hadn’t seen since I was eight. He actually ran out on us when I was about seven. And I was shocked to learn my father had actually been married at least six times and had who knows how many other lovers and how many other kids. In fact, I met three sisters and a brother I didn’t know I had.”

Simmons makes a very emotional visit to his father's grave in Israel. Was he able to make peace with his feelings about his estranged father?
“I still have mixed feelings about it. As the way most men are, we’re really just 12-year-old kids. We don’t delve deep. He was a man who simply did whatever he wanted to do no matter what the repercussions were. On the surface, that seems OK, except when you’ve got kids and wives and people whose feelings get destroyed.”

He didn’t want to repeat his painful past.
“I didn’t want to become my father. I know what it felt like growing up without a father. I’ll be damned if I would have let that happen to Nick and Sophie.”

Parenting 101 with Gene Simmons.
“We’re very strict. You behave well because you’re not allowed not to. It’s as simple as that. There are no drugs, no booze, and no cigarettes because you’re not allowed to. You don’t talk potty talk because you’re not allowed to. The idea that kids slam the door to their rooms on these TV shows is the height of lunacy. All that dribble that Dr. Spock was mouthing — he was basically farting through his mouth. Negotiating with your children? Absolutely not.”

This season, Simmons also visits a place near and dear to his heart: Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas.
“I’m an immigrant from Israel and my mother is a concentration camp survivor from Nazi, Germany, and America in a very real way saved my mother and my people. Other countries in the world don’t want to hear this, but it’s true. America not only saved the world, but also continues to save the world. Yes, we have allies, but without America, you’d have chaos.”

GEORGE LYNCH, BRUCE KULICK, PHIL LEWIS To Perform With SIN CITY SINNERS"

July 04 - George Lynch of DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB
July 11 - Kip Winger of WINGER
July 18 - Bruce Kulick of KISS
July 25 - Phil Lewis of L.A. GUNS

Fans can print FREE tickets to any of these shows by going to this location.

KISS RAISES THE ROOF IN ABBOTSFORD

KISS singer and guitarist Paul Stanley declared the title at Monday night's concert at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre before the band played its famous song, Detroit Rock City.

It was one of the many hits performed by the famous rock group, also consisting of Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer.

After a performance by five-piece rock band Bad City, KISS took to the stage dressed head to toe in their famous flamboyant outfits, face paint and platform shoes.

They weren't the only ones in paint.

The KISS Army turned out in full force to watch the rockers relive their classics and share their most recent tunes from the album Sonic Boom.

The audience was on its feet most of the night, dancing in the aisles, strumming on air guitars and fist pumping to the beat.

An encore saw the band return for a few more tunes, ending with Rock and Roll all Nite as confetti fell from the ceiling and fire, smoke and flashing lights engulfed the stage.

FAN-FILMED CLIP OF "DEUCE"

Still not ready to KISS goodbye

“We’ll be ready with guns blazing when we hit Abbotsford,” Stanley said in an interview before a show Thursday in Everett, Wash.

He says the band — Stanley, original bassist-singer Gene Simmons, drummer (on and off for 20 years) Eric Singer and guitarist (for the past 10 years) Tommy Thayer — doesn’t do the punishing 200-show-a-year schedule anymore.

“We might go out for two or three months at a time and average about four shows a week,” he says.

“We can do 70, 80 shows a year . . . Quite honestly, as much as I love doing this, I don’t understand the people who forget that they have a home. It works terrifically, because it means that every time we do go out, we want to be there and we’re ready to do it.”

The 59-year-old Stanley has kept his voice and his lean physique as other rockers — including former KISS bandmates Peter Criss and Ace Frehley — fell prey to the backstage temptations of the road.

No “Cold Gin” for Stanley, despite the title of one of their more famous songs.

“Well you know, everything is available and then it’s a matter of what you want to do,” he says.

“Backstage is a buffet and you don’t have to indulge, or you certainly can. For me to do what I do at this point, it’s important that I’m ready to go out there and give people what they’re expecting, or more. That’s a big responsibility, and the longer the band’s been around the bigger the reputation is.”

Or, to put it bluntly: “Nobody wants to see a fat guy in tights. At least not in this band, or at least not me. There’s a certain discipline involved, and I’m as vain as the next guy.”

He laughs over the phone. “When you’re going to get up onstage and have spotlights on you, and you’re going to be wearing something that shows what you ate for dinner, you better make sure that the dinner they see was yesterday’s.”

Which means that the Beverly Hills house he shares with wife Erin and a brood of three children — a teenage son from a previous marriage, a younger boy and a girl, with a fourth child due this August — has one room full of gym equipment.

No need for the exercise gear on the road, Stanley says.

“The show is the ultimate workout, I can’t even replicate that in a regular workout,” he adds.

“What I do onstage is fuelled by adrenalin, you’ll do things in front of an audience you’d find impossible to do on your own or with a ­trainer.”

All that while strutting in five-inch platforms, a trick he’s mastered over the decades. “Once you get used to the thin air up where we are, it’s what I’ve done my whole life, it really is second nature.”

A KISS show involves loud, simple songs, big pyrotechnics and Simmons spewing blood and flying over the stage, ingredients that KISS crowds have come to expect over the years. If the show has changed, says Stanley, it’s in the craft applied to everything, particularly the pyro, which seems hot enough to roast marshmallows in the front row.

“We have the best people working with us,” Stanley says. “When we first started doing it, it was crude to say the least. There were no licensed pyrotechnicians, you had some guy who liked to blow stuff up and you put him on salary. It’s come a long way since then.”

Stanley says the band draws an all-ages crowd these days. Even entire families come to hear “Love Gun” and “Lick It Up.”

“The great thing about a KISS audience is it’s really more of a tribal thing than a rock concert. You have people of all ages. Most rock concerts are very age-specific, where you don’t want to see your little ­brother or your father there.

“I think it’s great. People want to share it with their children — it’s a rite of passage that they went through.”

The band is still coming up with new material, with the album Sonic Boom released in 2009 and another collection of songs ready for release in 2012. Some new songs make it into the show, but Stanley says it’s heavy on the crowd favourites.

“To a degree, we want to play things from the most recent album, but our show tends to be a consensus of what our audience wants to hear. It’s not self-indulgence that brings us to an arena.”

Outside of KISS, Stanley has starred in a Toronto stage production of The Phantom of the Opera, which doesn’t seem that far from a KISS show with the amps turned down.

He and longtime ­collaborator ­Simmons live near each other, although Stanley’s offstage life happens out of camera range.

“He literally lives down the street from me, but we give each other a lot of space,” Stanley says of Simmons, who stars in his own reality TV show. “We see each other and we have a great partnership and we don’t take it further than is realistic.”

And KISS fans can rest easy — Stanley says there’s no end in sight.

“When it’s no longer fun or I can’t do it, I won’t,” he says. “I don’t want to say the show evolves or progresses, it just mutates — it’s the same thing but bigger and better.

“Do we blow stuff up? Hell yeah. Do we play real loud? Hell yeah. That’s what we do, we entertain. We’re a killer rock band that prides itself on being entertainers.”

KISS RECORDS NEW ALBUM WITH CLASP

On their first collaboration, 2009’s Sonic Boom, music was recorded on analog tape and edited in Pro Tools, but the two processes were separate from each other, necessitating frequent extended pauses in recording for tape transfers. For the recording of the new LP, Endless Analog’s CLASP (Closed Loop Analog Signal Processor) system, which integrates analog tape machines into the digital audio production workflow, is allowing the band to use analog tape while tracking to Pro Tools in real time, opening up the sonic space of tape while providing the editing capabilities of the digital recording workspace.

Collins recalls, “I went to Endless Analog’s web site and saw Bryan Lenox giving a pretty thorough description, and this was right around the time we were making plans for the new KISS album. We had done a majority recording for Sonic Boom using tape, and we loved the sound, but punch-ins were challenging at times, and getting the tracks into Pro Tools for editing took a lot of time. But mainly, we enjoyed the process of using tape, and everyone enjoys the convenience that digital recording offers. If there had been a way with that first record to get the best of both worlds at the same time, we would have done it. And now there is that reality [with CLASP], so we had to give it a try.

“I sat down with Paul, who is once again producing, while I am co-producing, engineering and mixing. Paul really knows his way around a studio, but he lets me manage the gear side of things. He gave the go-ahead to use CLASP, so we went for it.”

Once they acquired CLASP, Endless Analog President/Founder and CLASP inventor Christopher Estes made a personal visit. Collins continues, “I got in touch with Chris, and he was good enough to come out and set us up on the first day in the studio, and he stuck with us through the first few days of tracking to make sure that it was all going smoothly, which it did. And it was such a good experience. For me, the tape sound, for a hard rock band, is the ideal sound. It deals with the transients in a way that’s really nice and easy on the ears. Drums for instance – it keeps them sounding punchy and powerful, but not ‘painful,’ like you might associate with a digitally recorded drum sound. Tape is an important part of the right sound, and CLASP makes it possible to not have to sacrifice any of the perks of digital.”

Collins also recalls how nice it was to keep things moving. “There was zero downtime needed for transferring the tracks into Pro Tools. The band is so tight and well-rehearsed, and it’s so great to just start a session and knock out a song in two or three takes. A few punch-ins and the track is pretty much there. It’s so efficient; it just keeps the creativity and performance going. And the band loves the sound. Honestly, every time the guys walked in the control room for playback, everybody was so impressed – they said, ‘It sounds even better than last time, and we loved what it sounded like last time.’”

CLASP, Endless Analog President/Founder and CLASP inventor Christopher Estes made a personal visit. Collins continues, “I got in touch with Chris, and he was good enough to come out and set us up on the first day in the studio, and he stuck with us through the first few days of tracking to make sure that it was all going smoothly, which it did. And it was such a good experience. For me, the tape sound, for a hard rock band, is the ideal sound. It deals with the transients in a way that’s really nice and easy on the ears. Drums for instance – it keeps them sounding punchy and powerful, but not ‘painful,’ like you might associate with a digitally recorded drum sound. Tape is an important part of the right sound, and CLASP makes it possible to not have to sacrifice any of the perks of digital.”

Collins also recalls how nice it was to keep things moving. “There was zero downtime needed for transferring the tracks into Pro Tools. The band is so tight and well-rehearsed, and it’s so great to just start a session and knock out a song in two or three takes. A few punch-ins and the track is pretty much there. It’s so efficient; it just keeps the creativity and performance going. And the band loves the sound. Honestly, every time the guys walked in the control room for playback, everybody was so impressed – they said, ‘It sounds even better than last time, and we loved what it sounded like last time.’”

FAN-FILMED CLIP OF "BETH"

Kiss rocker Gene Simmons spends sleepy night in Battle Ground

“The Demon” arrived in Battle Ground on Wednesday and stayed the night at Best Western Battle Ground Inn & Suites. By Thursday afternoon, Simmons and his crew were on the road again, heading to a Kiss show that night in Everett.

When hotel worker Garrett Harrison arrived at work Wednesday evening, he somehow missed the giant Gene Simmons tour bus, complete with a picture of Simmons’ painted face plastered on the side, in the parking lot.

When the hotel manager told him the founder of Kiss was staying the night in Battle Ground, Harrison was beside himself.

“My jaw dropped,” he said Thursday. “It was Gene Simmons at my hotel in Battle Ground, Washington. It was more than I was expecting when I came to work.”

“It was like, ‘No way, man, I’m gonna get to talk to Gene Simmons,’” Harrison added.

Harrison said he kept his eye on the door the entire evening, hoping to catch a glimpse of the rocker.

“I saw his roadies,” said Harrison, adding that one was wearing a Pink Floyd T-shirt. “He (Simmons) didn’t come out of his room the whole time I was here.”

By the time Harrison arrived at work Thursday, Simmons was gone.

Even though Simmons stayed in his room, his roadies did take the bus out for a spin in Battle Ground on Wednesday night. They headed down Main Street and had dinner at Galeotti’s Restaurant.

Several people sent Battle Ground Mayor Mike Ciraulo text messages after spotting the Kiss bus cruise through town.

Like Harrison, Ciraulo didn’t get a chance to meet the rocker.

“I’m a big Kiss fan from way back when,” Ciraulo said. “That would have been cool.”

Fans don makeup and air guitar along with iconic band

The crowd at Comcast Arena Everett roared with approval.

"We don't have to go to Seattle to rock out," said Paul Stanley, the rhythm guitarist.

Bassist Gene Simmons delighted the audience with his thundering bass and long, red tongue.

At the end of "Firehouse," Simmons spit fire from the stage, his signature move for nearly 40 years.

The crowd ate it up, and many fans played air guitar along with Stanley and Tommy Thayer. Some people played air drums in time with Eric Singer.

KISS played the guitar-heavy songs from their first album through to their latest, "Sonic Boom," the 2009 album that has inspired new life in the act.

The band wore its trademark outfits: platform shoes, black, silver-studded skin-tight outfits and, of course, painted faces.

Throughout the show, pyrotechnics lit the stage, smoke billowed out and the heat of the flames could be felt rows from the front.

Several fans painted their faces to match the comic-booklike characters on stage.

"It's Halloween in the middle of the summer," Michelle Russell, 40, said.

She came to the show with her best friend since grade school, Stephanie Walker, wearing matching vintage KISS T-shirts and faces like Stanley and Thayer.

"I just want to rock it," said Walker, also 40.

Rich Frien brought his daughters, Melissa, 10, and Fiona, 12, from Anacortes.

The girls, both metal heads, wore big black wigs and carefully painted faces.

"KISS is a family thing," he said.

Brian Thiel of Auburn first saw KISS in 1979, and hasn't stopped worshiping the band.

"As long as the band keeps playing, I want to keep seeing them," he said.

The Spandex and spikes of his outfit, a replica of Simmons' "Alive" costume from 1975, took him three weeks to put together.

Other fans posed for photos, as he towered high on platform shoes.

"It's an experience," Thiel said. "I can't really describe it in words."

Thursday night's show was the first rock concert for 11-year-old Bryce Carabello of Everett.

He came to the arena with his face painted like the characters in the band.

"They're great," he said. "And, they're really fun to watch."

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIP FROM EVERETT

WITH FIRE AND FLAIR, KISS WILL HIT THE STAGE

It takes two hours for each man to apply their own face paint and step into their elaborate costumes.

"It's a time of anticipation and preparation prior to the show," Thayer said in a telephone interview Wednesday. "It's a transition into KISS."

Rock 'n' roll, fake blood and a whole lot of black-and-white face paint. Add platform shoes, pyrotechnics, outrageous costumes and the result is the "Hottest Show on Earth."

KISS, the iconic '70s band, is scheduled to perform tonight at Comcast Arena Everett.

The show marks a return to touring after a six-month hiatus and kicks off an 18-night run across the western United States and Canada.

"I can guarantee the show will be bombastic and fiery, figurative and literally," Thayer said. "It's going to be everything that KISS is about."

Since 2002, Thayer has played lead guitar and filled the roll of Spaceman, taking original member Ace Frehley's spot.

Thayer, 50, bought the first KISS album when he was 13. He never imagined he'd one day be part of the show.

"It's hard to believe things like that actually happen," Thayer said. He filled in after Frehley went his own way.

The band has been at work on a new album, expected out at the beginning of 2012.

It'll be a follow up to the successful "Sonic Boom," released in 2009.

Tonight's concert is expected to include songs from the latest album, plus KISS classics.

Seeing a KISS show is a once-in-a-lifetime must, Thayer said.

In the early '70s, Simmons adapted the theatrics of Alice Cooper into a kind of comic-book style stage show. He added the face paint and codpieces. Simmons, who has been controversial for his political views and misogynistic comments, has been known to spit fire and once even lit his hair ablaze.

Today, Simmons, the Demon, is known for being the star of his reality TV show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels."

"When you see Gene on his TV show, that's who he is," Thayer said.

Tonight fans will be coming to see Simmons play the bass guitar and rock out.

The show is a carefully rehearsed and choreographed event, including computer precision tricks. A stage crew of 60 drives about a dozen semis from venue to venue.

"We don't cut any corners," Thayer said. "Nothing runs better than the KISS crew."

Thayer, who grew up outside Portland, said he enjoys playing in the Pacific Northwest.

"It's like coming home," he said.

Vinnie Vincent Ordered to Attend Anger Management Course

Cusano was scheduled to appear in Rutherford County Criminal Court tomorrow to answer aggravated domestic assault charges stemming from a May 21, 2011 incident in which the Ankh Warrior allegedly smacked his wife Diane in the face before dragging her by her hair through a pile of broken glass and throwing her to the ground repeatedly at the couple’s Smyrna home — where authorities subsequently found the entombed carcasses of four dogs. Animal cruelty charges were not pursued against the couple, effectively clearing them of any wrongdoing as far as that bizarre detail is concerned.

As for those domestic assault charges — well, it appears Cusano has struck a deal with the state, temporarily retiring the case for a year (or 11 months and 29 days, to be specific), eventually giving the guitarist an opportunity to “petition the Court to dismiss [the] case and expunge the pertinent records as provided by law,” in exchange for undergoing a whopping eight hours of anger management therapy.

Prosecutors have the option of pursuing the case against Cusano if he fails to honor what is the traffic school equivalent, in hours, he’d have to endure to clear, like, two moving violations. And he has until a Dec. 5, 2011 court date to make that happen.

This according to a pre-trial agreement obtained by the Scene, and filed (quietly) last Monday, June 13. Cusano has neither been tried nor convicted of any charges as of yet.

Simmons and Osbourne end bitter feud on US TV

Simmons and Ozzy Osbourne's manager/wife have been locked in a bitter war of words for years after he publicly criticised her husband and their two children, Kelly and Jack, over their drug problems.

So when Simmons appeared as a guest on Osbourne's US TV show The Talk on Monday, Osbourne took him to task for his remarks.

She said, "Many, many years ago when you first started (the reality TV show) Gene Simmons Family Jewels, it was reported that somebody said, 'Isn't it like The Osbournes?' And you said, 'No, because my kids aren't on drugs.'

"So I came back with a rebuttal. And then there was something printed in the Kiss magazine about (how) there should have been a disclaimer at the beginning of The Osbournes (TV show) that says, 'People shouldn't drink otherwise you'll end up like Ozzy Osbourne.'"

Fighting back angry tears, Osbourne added: "And you said he was sad. And I don't think my husband is sad. So there we go."

Simmons took the heat and responded, "Rightfully so. Any mother should defend her family. I don't remember saying those things. If I did, I was way out of line, your family is your business and no one has any right to say anything about them."

Osbourne accepted his apology on behalf of her family and said: "Thank you. Point taken."

Simmons speaks out on split rumours

Model Tweed stormed off the set of a U.S. TV interview with Simmons last week when the KISS rocker joked about his fabled philandering ways.

The couple bickered throughout a brief appearance together on The Joy Behar Show, with Tweed calling her partner "a pig" after he joked about his womanising, before walking off the live segment, announcing, "It's over. It's so rude of you to joke about it."

Simmons has now addressed the break-up rumours, revealing their relationship is rocky but he's committed to making things right.

During an appearance on U.S. show The Talk on Monday, he said, "Things are not all terrific between Shannon and myself but we're working on it... I'm not a plumber or a dentist. I'm surrounded by a lifestyle. And the problem is you're surrounded by beautiful women. You can be an ugly SOB (son of a b**ch) like me and women will still throw themselves at you.

"For the record I love Shannon Tweed. I want to work this out. There's no chance of me ever running out on my kids or Shannon. I will do anything I can to make sure I finally grow up and be a man.The bottom line is if you love somebody, you have to draw the line in the sand (and say) I can't cross this line."

And when asked by host Sharon Osbourne if his infidelities were to blame for the problems, Simmons answered: "Yes... (But) they're gone (now)."

Problems between Simmons and Tweed were sparked by a photo of the rocker posing with two young blondes outside a Los Angeles restaurant. Discussing the shot on the Today show last week, Tweed said, "I'm sick of hearing it, I'm sick of seeing it, and I'm sick of looking at it... Gene, please don't play me for a fool."

Simmons addressed reports of a bust-up in a series of tweets posted during the season premiere of his reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels last week.

He wrote, "Sometimes it takes stepping back and seeing yourself like this to see what missteps you might have made... I hate seeing her (Tweed) like this. Hurts twice as much when I am the reason."

On the show, the couple is seen working through problems with a therapist.

KISS To Team Up With HELLO KITTY

As Japanese company Sanrio's most recognizable character, Hello Kitty has already joined forces with the rock band X JAPAN to create Visual-Kei Kitty.

Although mainly aimed at the pre-adolescent female market, the Hello Kitty product range goes all the way from purses, stickers and pen sets to toasters, televisions, clothing, massagers, and computer equipment. It has a cult-like following among adults as well, especially in Asia, where Hello Kitty adorns cars, purses, jewelry and many other high-end consumer products.

Gene Simmons: 'I do rock-star stuff, I'm not a plumber'

In your season premiere, you and Shannon have a tense discussion about your faithfulness, or rather lack thereof.

Every relationship has one of those discussions, what can I say? I worship the ground she walks on. We have two kids who are by most estimates the most charming — certainly in Hollywood — most well behaved, well-liked young people. Nicholas just graduated from college with honors — Pitzer, Claremont. Sophie likewise is on her way — totally different, computer sciences. She's entering her second year.

By most estimates we have an idyllic life. We're very bizarre. I'm the weird guy who throws up and spits fire and sticks his tongue out and does lots of other business ventures, not cross-collateralized. And Shannon, a former Playboy playmate of the year and the alpha woman of all alpha women, we decide to get together 28 years ago. We meet at the Playboy Mansion on "Midsummer Night's Dream," the party where 300 playmates come with very little on and 100 men — producers and rock stars and so on — come with pajamas or underwear. It was not the most romantic setting, and yet we were immediately attracted to each other, and I was at the time in a relationship with Diana Ross and fell for Shannon, told Diana about it and within three weeks, I was shocked to find out that Shannon Tweed is in some ways Diana Ross' sister-in-law. Because unbeknownst to me, Shannon's sister, Tracy, was actually married to Chico Ross, Diana's brother. If God and the fates have a sense of humor, that's pretty bizarre.

Jung would call that synchronicity.

Yes, forever Jung. I do rock-star stuff, I'm not a plumber. And I'm always surrounded by beautiful women. I could be ugly as sin, they'd still be attracted to it. Power is the ultimate aphrodisiac. Nobody's perfect, and neither am I. And I'm not willing to passively stand by and let 28 years of happily unmarried bliss go by without fighting for it. We all need someone to hold our feet to the fire. When you reach the heights of Mount Olympus and you become one of the gods — and I have because I'm the living rock god himself — who do you answer to? You're surrounded by "yes" men. The masses adore you. We have 3,000 licensed products, everything from Kiss condoms to Kiss caskets, and I need Shannon in my life. Not just because of love and family but because she holds me accountable.

How are you being held accountable if you still do it?

I'm not saying I do. We've been going to see a therapist, and we film it and I get royally embarrassed, as well I should. We also visit Israel, the home of my birth, where I haven't been since I was 8 years old and discovered a brother and three sisters and then discovered my father had been married six times at least and has who knows how many other children running around.

Since you've been with Shannon for 28 years, what still bugs you about the idea of marrying her?

The problem isn't marriage; the problem is divorce. Marriage is relatively affordable. Divorce is unaffordable, emotionally, financially, it's going nuclear.

But when you're with somebody for 28 years, legally, is there really a difference if you don't have a piece of paper?

I have another Shannon question.

As many as you like. When I was growing up, I couldn't stand Rock Hudson-Doris Day movies, but even to this day, the only thing chick flicks seem to be concerned about is, does he love me, does he not? Will he marry me, will he not? It doesn't matter if the Earth is blowing up, aliens are landing, she does not care. I can't stand it. I can't stand "I Love Lucy." The whole show is about how she tortures Ricky. She talks too much. It's like, please, I just got home from work, be quiet. On the other hand, Shannon does none of that. She's the angel we all wish women were.

And I've been real clear that I'm not perfect. I'm delusional and think I am, of course, which helps me get onstage. The arrogance of being able to point to the audience and get away ... well, certainly in the past, with waking up with girls whose names you never bothered to learn. I need Shannon to keep me grounded. She knew the big picture. She took photos and videos of the kids in almost every second of their life, and I look back and I go, "Wow. You had all this planned out. How did you know about this?"

Were your kids a surprise?

Yes.

I mentioned to a couple of people I'd be interviewing you, and their reaction was, he's such an egotist.

It's true.

Isn't some of it shtick?

No. OK, that's fine, but what they're reacting to is they have small minds. When you're a small person and you meet somebody with big dreams and big accomplishments, it comes off as arrogant. I was just honored by Dallas with a street sign [Gene Simmons Boulevard], and for an immigrant to come to America and hear, "What are you, stupid? Can't you speak English?" To be allowed to climb the ladder of success, egotist? You bet I am.

Simmons honour ignites conflict in Winnipeg

One day after the 61-year-old KISS frontman and reality TV star was handed the key to the city, Coun. Grant Nordman spoke out against the move, revealing he advised the mayor's office against it because of Simmons' unabashed claims of having slept with thousands of women over the years.

"Initially when the press release came out I replied back to the mayor's office and said, 'Is this a joke?'" Nordman said. "I told them it's a big mistake for our city."

Nordman said he doesn't believe Simmons is a worthy recipient because of his womanizing.

"He's just not a role model," the city councillor said. "The morality of the guy and his lack of humility about it is just not a good fit for our city."

A spokesman for Mayor Sam Katz said the key was meant as a gesture of goodwill towards someone with a wide international audience.

"It's basically given as a gift to leave a positive impression of our city," the spokesman said, noting the honour has gone to many athletes, musicians, politicians and other dignitaries who have passed through the city over the years.

Nordman said he was a KISS fan in the 1970s and once dressed as Simmons at a Halloween party "when hardly anyone knew who KISS was."

He said he has no problem with Simmons coming to town or people enjoying his music, TV show and speaking engagements, but simply doesn't see how that qualifies him to receive an award from the City of Winnipeg.

Coun. Gord Steeves, who made the presentation to Simmons on Wednesday because Mayor Sam Katz was out of the country, said Simmons' "indiscretions" decades ago -- Simmons now has a longtime partner, with whom he has two children -- don't disqualify the good things he's done.

"He received the award for what he's accomplished in music and as an entrepreneur," Steeves said. "We're trying to accentuate the positives and the good things he's done. With people who are famous, there's always going to be some disagreement. Everyone you choose to give an award to, inevitably they have a side some people don't like."

Last January, Simmons was awarded the key to the city in Dallas, Texas, where he also had a street named after him.

KISS fan photo upsets Tweed

The couple fell out on TV earlier this week while promoting their reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels when Tweed criticized her boyfriend for the inappropriate picture, but refused to go into detail about why she was so upset.

She told The Today Show hosts Kathy Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb the relationship has "pretty much unravelled" over the snapshot, which created drama on their reality show.

In a promotional clip, Simmons attempts to explain that he had no idea who the women were, prompting Tweed to snap, "I'm sick of hearing it, I'm sick of seeing it, and I'm sick of looking at it... Gene, please don't play me for a fool."

Simmons appeared to be remorseful in a series of tweets he posted while watching the season premiere of the show on Tuesday, writing, "Sometimes it takes stepping back and seeing yourself like this to see what missteps you might have made.

"Nothing inappropriate went on at dinner, but I see now that wasn't the point... It was just a photo op. Innocent dinner company. But sometimes my actions have consequences."

And Simmons admitted he felt terrible about upsetting his partner: "I hate seeing her like this. Hurts twice as much when I am the reason."

The rocker even agreed to visit a counsellor to help him and Tweed work through their problems, adding, "I hate the idea of therapy but I will do it for Shannon...As much as I hated to admit it at the time, therapy actually made me ask myself some important questions. Maybe that is why I avoided going."

And he concluded his tweeting by confessing it was tough watching the episode: "This was one of the toughest moments of my life. Worst feeling ever. To have brought it on myself as well...foolish... That was tough to watch again."

It is still not clear what upset Tweed about the Simmons photograph.

Bill Weir Jams With Tommy Lee, Ace Frehley

Gene Simmons gets key to Winnipeg

Gene Simmons was presented with the key to the city Wednesday afternoon.

The Kiss frontman and reality TV star was at a ceremony at city hall Wednesday at noon.

Previous recipients of the key to the city include Milt Stegall, Sir Bob Geldof, Jon Montgomery and Henry Winkler.

Simmons is in Winnipeg as part of his "Rich and Famous" speaking tour, which comes to the Centennial Concert Hall Wednesday night at 8 p.m.

Tension on display in Simmons-Tweed TV appearances

The tension between the two that plays out on their reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels seemed real.

The dramatics happened the day after the couple appeared on Today with Hoda and Kathy Lee. There was visible conflict on that set, as well, with Hoda Kotbe remarking on the tension in the room.

Or it's possible they could be drumming up interest in their show.

The KISS star claims to have slept with about 5,000 women, and Tweed said after 28 years, she is tired of his philandering ways and is entering a new phase in her life.

TOMMY HOSTS LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC

PAUL STANLEY TO APPEAR ON CNN THIS WEEK

Paul Stanley, the front man, founder and driving force behind KISS, will have a strong presence on CNN this week, appearing a number of times on multiple CNN programs discussing his own personal journey with lifelong hearing loss. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent, recently came to Los Angeles to interview Paul about his inspirational story of overcoming being deaf in one ear to become one of the single most recognizable front men in the history of rock n’ roll.

Paul’s interview with Dr. Gupta is slated to air this week on the following dates and times below:

Tuesday, June 14

· Paul’s segment will debut on CNN’s national morning show, American Morning, on Tuesday, June 14 at 8:50 a.m. ET as well as debut online at CNN.com

Friday, June 17:

· CNN: 11a.m. & 3 p.m. ET

· HLN: 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. ET

Saturday, June 18:

· CNN: 5 p.m. ET

· HLN: 7 a.m. & 10 a.m. ET

Sunday, June 19:

· HLN: 7 a.m. & 10 a.m. ET

**Paul’s segment will also air on a future edition of Sanjay Gupta MD

GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS RETURNS TONIGHT

Legendary rock god and multi-hyphenate Gene Simmons returns with his unconventional family for an all-new season of A&E’s hit series “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” premiering with a special one-hour episode tonight, Tuesday, June 14 at 10:00 PM ET/PT. Season six continues the longest running celebrity family-based series on television.

KISS ROCKS RALEY FIELD

They may be to blame for the need to replace the dilapidated Power Balance Pavilion concert venue and Sacramento Kings home court.

"We've played there many times," Paul Stanley said of the arena once called Arco. He grinned. "We're probably one of the reasons that it needs renovating."

KISS, known for end-of-the-world pyrotechnics, toned it down a bit for its Sunday concert at Raley Field in West Sacramento, a special rock-and-dinner affair.

"We have families and tables and glass," bassist Gene Simmons said, sitting with bandmates backstage beyond left field. "We don't want people to have heart attacks and fall on their dinner."

The band lent its efforts to an event called "Walk 'N Rock for Kids." Sponsored by Hope Productions Foundation, a local nonprofit, the morning fundraiser walk and evening concert raised money for service groups helping children.

That amounts to a heavy-duty score for local nonprofits. Thirty-eight years after its launch, the group has become as much rock brand as it is rock band.

KISS still records albums and does tours for rabid fans. But Sunday offered evidence of a broad business approach that keeps the KISS name in lights.

At the entrance to Raley Field, roped off like rock stars, sat four Mini Cooper Countryman cars painted black and white, matching the band members' faces. The cars are up for auction on eBay as part of a UNICEF benefit for children in post-earthquake Japan.

Simultaneously, the group is selling tickets for a KISS

Simmons speaks out on success

So it only makes sense that the multi-tasking entertainer and businessman has recently added a new credit to his lengthy resumé: Motivational speaker.

"I love the sound of my own voice, as you can imagine," says Simmons of his Rich & Famous Speaking Engagements. "So part of it is about me. But it's also about my path to success.

"When I was growing up, I read the newspapers. I would watch television. I would see celebrities and successful people. But they were always mythical people. You never got a chance to sit in the room and listen to them talk about their path. And everybody's path is different. There's no secret to success. No magic bullet. There are only time-tested and true pieces of the puzzle that can impact and increase your chances of becoming more successful -- or, in my language, make more cash.

"I'm not here to talk about spiritual or relationship issues. I may not be the most qualified person in the world on that," admits Simmons, whose 28-year relationship with Canadian beauty Shannon Tweed seems to have "pretty much unraveled," if you believe what she said during a tense TV appearance the pair made earlier this week.

But cashing in is something at which the 61-year-old Israeli immigrant-turned-Beverly Hills resident is indisputably a master. Nearly 40 years after their formation, KISS remain one of rock's biggest bands and brands, with 3,000 licensed products from condoms to caskets ("We'll get you coming and going," Gene quips). He also stars in the longest-running celebrity reality-TV show Family Jewels, about to begin its latest season. Between those gigs, he presides over the Canadian-based Simmons Records, pitches a variety of products, and is preparing to launch a chain of theme restaurants and a TV talent show.

But he's still willing to make time to pick up $100,000 for talking about how he got rich enough to charge $100,000 for talking about how he got rich.

Before winging to Winnipeg to put his mouth where his money is, Gene shared his keys to success, told me what's wrong with Men Without Hats and explained why I should change my name.

What's been the key to success for you?

I'm completely dedicated to myself. I don't suffer fools. I don't surround myself with losers. And because I don't allow it, it often comes off as arrogant -- 'Who does he think he is?' But I just don't have time for that. But those people are vampires. They will suck the life out of you. You have to surround yourself with people who know more, people who are more successful. And this idea that money can't buy happiness? It's wrong. Not having money makes you unhappy. Having money actually does make you happy. Even if you're a miserable son of a bitch, you're still going to be happier being a rich miserable son of a bitch.

How much will a KISS fan get out of a Rich & Famous event?

Well, a KISS fan can show up and ask me when we're going on tour. But that's not what it's about. This is not the Charlie Sheen tour.

So, you take questions from the audience?

Yes. The real magic that happens at these events is that about half of the time is spent in the audience. I get off the stage, we get some microphones, and people ask specific questions. Somebody might say, 'I own a dry cleaning service, and I want to spread it as a brand.' And I will say, 'What's your name?' For instance, what's your last name?

Me? Sterdan.

Sterdan? Yeah, that's no good. If you want to get into the branding business, I would change that. But let's say your name was Wallace. I would ask: 'Why isn't Wallace the name of your company? Why isn't it your dotcom? How come your email address isn't so-and-so at wallace.com?' Even these simple things help because, everybody is really in the same business: The fame business. You have to make your name mean something and people have to recognize your name is synonymous with quality. Your name and your story should precede you.

Switching topics, what can you tell me about the new KISS album?

We have all the songs arranged and written and all that. Like Sonic Boom, all the songs were written by the band. Paul is producing this one too. The first day in the studio, we cut two songs. So we're steaming ahead, not thinking too much about it.

Are you aiming for the same late-'70s vibe as Sonic Boom?

It's not just late-'70s, it's the classic sound of all time. Styles come and go; the only thing that sticks is The Stones and AC/DC, meat and potatoes stuff. That stuff is forever. When was the last time you listened to Men Without Hats? I personally would like to find the guy who came up with the name of that band. It's the stupidest name. You will never get laid with a name like that. Men Without Hats. Oh my f---ing god. Kill me now. You might as well wear a T-shirt that says, 'Please beat me up.'

What's happening with Simmons Records?

We are busy launching The Envy in America. The road to success out of Canada is a big one. We're committed to signing the next generation of Canadian acts. The mantra and the mandate are two different things. The mandate is to sign Canadian acts for the rest of the world. The mantra is, 'Shut up about being Canadian, because the rest of the world doesn't give a s---.' The less you push your nationality, your religion or whatever in anybody's faces, the easier your message will go down. Once you're rich and famous, you can whip out the maple leaf.

Gene Simmons' Family Jewels Gets Real

Viewers will see how that conflict plays out as A&E launches the new season of Gene Simmons Family Jewels tonight at 10/9c. "I'm not perfect," Simmons told TV Guide Magazine earlier this month at Realscreen's Factual Entertainment Forum. "I've got lots of warts on me. The difference between our show and other shows is that we actually show them."

Adds Tweed: "Oh, we're going to show lots of warts this year." In the season opener, Tweed gets angry after Simmons is photographed with two young women while leaving a restaurant, having missed a family function. She played nice for the cameras while kids Nick and Sophie still lived at home, but Tweed says Sophie's departure for college gave her an opening to finally confront Simmons over his ways and their 28-year relationship.

"There were a lot of things that I kept to myself until they did go to college," Tweed says. "A lot of mothers do that. A lot of couples stay together for the children. I think it's an obligation that parents have... You made a commitment, you had children, you should see it through."

The family admits that they might have been more guarded in Season One had this happened back then. But now, "the longer the cameras are there, the more real stuff you get to deal with," Tweed says. "Familiarity brings out other issues and we don't hide them."

Executive producer Adam Freeman says he believes viewers will be even more invested in the family this season. "A&E likes to describe their programming as 'Real Life Drama.' I can't think of anything else on their air right now that will exemplify that more than this season of the show."

Simmons and Tweed appear to be working through their problems, although an appearance Monday on Today left many viewers wondering whether tensions had been resolved. Meanwhile, if there's one family member who's still unhappy about what has happened, it's Sophie.

"It was hard doing this the first year of college and then confronting all of this, with the show," she says. "I missed a lot of classes to come back and make sure everything was OK." Sophie, who is studying to become a computer engineer, says she "hates" the cameras, but admits that the show helped keep her out of trouble during her teenage years. Says Freeman: "I give [Sophie and Nick] credit for being open and continuing to be as charming as they are. Because I remember when I was 16, I was kind of an a--hole."

How long can Family Jewels last? The family says they're up for continuing with the show for the foreseeable future. "I like having a paying job, a guy who just graduated from college," Nick says. The whole family is regularly pitched other reality show ideas; Nick, for example, has turned down overtures to star in a dating series.

"It's kind of like therapy out in the open," Tweed says. "By the time you're done, you're pretty much over your problems." Simmons also says he's not finished with reality TV. "We love doing everything we do, as opposed to doing what? Flipping burgers?"

Simmons, Tweed romance on rocks?

The couple, parents to 22-year-old son Nicholas and 18-year-old daughter Sophie, has lived together since 1985. Simmons and Tweed currently star alongside each other on reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

But new footage from the sixth season of the program, which premieres on Tuesday, shows Tweed confronting Simmons about a photo of the rocker posing outside a Hollywood restaurant with two young blondes on his arm.

In the clip, Simmons is seen trying to explain that he had no idea who the women were, prompting Tweed to snap, "I'm sick of hearing it, I'm sick of seeing it, and I'm sick of looking at it... Gene, please don't play me for a fool."

The scenes were previewed on The Today Show on Monday morning, when Simmons and Tweed were due to promote the show, but the pair appeared to still be feuding, prompting presenter Kathy Lee Gifford to comment, "It's tense in the studio."

Gifford and co-host Hoda Kotb began quizzing Simmons about the photo in question, and after he denied knowing the women, Tweed snidely said, "What he means is he didn't know their names..."

The presenters went on to ask how their relationship was now, prompting Tweed to reply, "It's pretty much unravelled... He's had a fling with many girls."

The awkward interview ended with the couple still at odds as Simmons shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

Video: Gene Simmons on Chelsea Lately

GENE RECEIVES LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Lifetime Achievement award honors an individual who has a drive and passion for success. Through his long career, entrepreneur and famed musician Gene Simmons has been known for both his business acumen and creative ability. He is the force behind thousands of licensed KISS products, numerous ventures and brand marketing.

Click here to see photos from the event.

MONTEL WILLIAMS: STARCHILD IN WAITING?

Montel Williams, host of “The Montel Williams Show”, dressed and performed as the Starchild during a recent guest host stint on “Good Day Sacramento” prior to KISS’ stellar concert performance in California’s State Capitol.

The iconic founder and front man for KISS took a few moments backstage to critique Montel’s performance, advising the celebrated TV host to “keep up the good work. There’s a place in the band for you.”

No word yet if Montel has been fitted for his own custom Starchild boots: Video.

RAW VIDEO: KISS IN CONCERT

PAUL RETURNING TO FANTASY CAMP

WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE: This Fantasy Meets Fantasy 14th Anniversary Camp, November 10th-13th featuring the Final Night Concert at the world famous Playboy Mansion where you will perform live on stage with Paul Stanley of KISS. This four-day camp or five-day recording experience in Hollywood, California features our best counselors, the option of a full day of recording and the final concert to be performed in front of a sold-out audience at the famous Playboy Mansion. I am personally inviting you to reconnect with your band, come as a group or treat yourself to this upcoming opportunity. With Father's Day and Graduation arriving in a few short weeks, Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp is the ultimate gift for your Grad, Dad or Other Half!

"It's a great thing, it's a way for me to say thank you to a lot of people, but, nobody should think that this is just a joy for those people,...For me to get up and play with people who have that exuberance and energy, it's really a gift to me as much as to anybody else," said Paul Stanley, the co-founder and frontman of KISS.

Our Playboy Mansion (four day) or Recording Package (five day) camp is ON SALE NOW. Sign up for Father's Day before June 19th and take advantage of our early bird specials. Bands of four or more, enjoy an additional 10% discount on top of your pre-sale price (group must sign-up at the same time). Additional Individual tickets for the final night can be purchased so that you can bring your friends to join this party or just come that night to get a taste of what Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp is all about. Tickets are limited and on sale now for $999 each. The evening features: Playmate Guided Tours of the Grounds, Personal Photos with Playmates, All-Night Long (top shelf) Open Bar, an Elegantly Catered Buffet Style Dinner, Swimming in the Grotto and the option of Renting Private Cabanas. This is a great night to bring your spouses and partners to celebrate the experience of a lifetime.

REGISTER NOW!

PAUL STANLEY ON CBS TELEVISION

Gene Simmons Disappointed in Obama, But Predicts He Will Win 2012 Election

And the American rocker (with a very vocal passion for politics) was back to making predictions last week, telling FOX 411’s Pop Tarts that he is anticipating that there won’t be a prominent power shift in the 2012 presidential election.

“The next president will still be Barack Obama because the Republicans don’t have an alternative, there is not one single personality that has any qualification or is likeable. I wish there were actually, because I like the president’s heart but I don’t think he has the qualification,” Simmons told us at the KISS Live & Global Chat presented by Ortsbo, and powered by ThinkFactory Media, in Beverly Hills.

“I hope that with Hillary Clinton and the right people around him, and the right advisors, that he’ll make a terrific president, but [he’s just] saying ‘I’m the guy that killed Osama Bin Laden’ and all he’s got to do on the pollsters is put out his birth certificate.”

But if Simmons had his way, we’d have a strong business-oriented mind running the country instead.

“Obama’s economic philosophy, in my estimation, has been a disaster. I’m against being told what to do with my insurance policy; I want the government out of my life,” Simmons continued. “I don’t think they have a clue how to run the economy which is why America is now insolvent, we need some business men in power… but Barack is still going to be the next president.”

Speaking of business, Simmons was joined at the Ortsbo event by fellow KISS founder Paul Stanley, where together they interacted with their KISS ARMY in more than 90 different languages, setting a world record for “Most Nationalities in An Online Chat Room.”

“For years the big debate has been about what should be the international language to communicate around the world and link people together, and that was always the question about the future. But now the future has finally come and Ortsbo allows people to communicate in their own language, but instantaneously that message is translated to someone who speaks a different language,” Stanley explained, adding that the instant, real-time translation technology even includes colloquialisms and provides equivalent phrases that can’t directly be translated.

But Ortsbo aside, the KISS boys aren’t just busy working on another album and upcoming tour – they’re also building upon their multi-million dollar merchandising empire.

“We’ve got a KISS mini-golf golf course coming to Las Vegas, we just did a wonderful promotion with BMW for KISS mini coopers and there is going to be charity conduit through UNICEF for our friends in Japan affected by the recent disaster,” Simmons said. “And a new KISS comic book. Most bands would simply give their left nut to be us.”

And even after almost 40 years together, there is no indication that the not-so-modest Simmons, and the perhaps more mellow Stanley, will be parting ways anytime soon.

“On the surface of it, it looks like we agree on everything all the time but that’s not true. But intrinsically we have the same love and admiration for a certain genre. Stuff that’s classic – Beatles, Hendrix, the Stones. None of us really wants to learn how to rap correctly, we don’t want to know how to pronounce ‘wassup’ correctly because that’s not interesting,” Simmons added.

“We are who we are and try to stay honest to that, since we already have this love and agreement for the same thing it’s not that difficult. Plus if you have passion about what at you’re doing that is what people pick up on, and KISS has always been about something timeless, believing in yourself and believing that if you set a realistic goal for yourself the only thing standing between you and success is hard work. We are a product not of luck, but of hard work.”

VINNIE VINCENT Allowed To Return Home

Vincent, 58, was charged with one count of aggravated assault on May 22 after his wife Diane accused him of hitting her in the face, throwing her to the ground, and dragging her through broken glass following an argument.

In court earlier today (Thursday, June 2), both Vincent and his wife agreed that the guitarist can return to the family property but he will live in a separate home. The judge also allowed Vincent to visit the main house, but only if his wife is not there.

Vincent is scheduled to appear back in court later this month on aggravated domestic assault charges.

KISS COFFEEHOUSE 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

The KISS Coffeehouse’s 5th Year Anniversary Party is going to be a rock ‘n roll celebration – an all day, and all “nite”, rain or shine, rock ‘n roll party, with very special guests, KISS drummer “Eric Singer”, and KISS lead guitarist “Tommy Thayer”! “KISS Online” will also be at this very special, and historic event, and “KISS Army” – The Coolest Band In The World, will be performing a live “KISS” concert!

This is a very rare, and unique opportunity to meet both Eric & Tommy, together for the 1st time at the KISS Coffeehouse, to talk to, to take photos with, and to sign autographs, as well as to take part in an intimate Q&A session with them, again, together for the 1st time at the KISS Coffeehouse! All professional, hi-resolution photographs taken with Eric & Tommy will be e-mailed to all fans purchasing either the Platinum, or Double Platinum package, within 1-2 weeks of the event.

This will be our “LAST” Anniversary Party for the next 5 years! This very special, and historic event is sure to sell out quickly! Tickets are limited, so if you want to be a part of “KISSTORY”, and celebrate this very special, and historic milestone, purchase your tickets today! Tickets are available online, “ONLY” at www.KissCoffeehouse.com.

Hope to see you there!!!

Yours in KISS,
Johnny Rock
Owner, The KISS Coffeehouse
Myrtle Beach, SC

KISS Coffeehouse
5th Year Anniversary Party
Saturday, August 13th, 2011

Double Platinum Package: $150 (Best Value)
• Meet & Greet w/Eric & Tommy
• VIP Color Laminate & Lanyard
• Admittance To Q&A Session
• Admittance To Tribute Band Concert
• Professional Photograph
• Up To 6 Items Autographed
• 1st Group In Line
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary T-Shirt
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary Poster (18” X 24”) w/Poster Tube
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary Pin
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary Magnet
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary Postcard
• Collectible 5th Year AnniversaryGuitar Pick

Platinum Package: $100
• Meet & Greet w/Eric & Tommy
• Color Laminate & Lanyard
• Admittance To Q&A Session
• Admittance To Tribute Band Concert
• Professional Photograph
• Up To 3 Items Autographed
• 2nd Group In Line
• Collectible 5th Year Anniversary Guitar Pick

Gold Package: $50
• Meet & Greet w/Eric & Tommy
• B&W Laminate & Lanyard
• Admittance To Q&A Session
• Admittance To Tribute Band Concert
• No Photograph
• 1 Item Autographed
• Last Group In Line
• No Merchandise

ORDERING TICKETS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!!!

Tickets must be purchased in advance, and will not be available the day of the event. Tickets are only available online at www.KissCoffeehouse.com. When ordering your tickets, please do not order any merchandise. Nothing will be shipped to you prior to the day of the event. Your e-mail order confirmation will serve as your ticket. You will receive your laminate and lanyard (Gold & Platinum Packages) or VIP laminate and lanyard, as well as collectible merchandise (Double Platinum Package) at the KISS Coffeehouse, the day of the event. Also, when ordering your tickets, please be sure to select “5 Year Anniversary” as your shipping method, in order to avoid shipping charges. You will only be charged a $2.95 service charge.

PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR - GENE SIMMONS

Gene Simmons was born in Haifa, Israel in 1949, and is the only child of his mother, a German Nazi Concentration Camp survivor. Having graduated State University (NYSU), and City University (CUNY) with a Bachelor of Education degree, Simmons taught sixth grade in Spanish Harlem in New York City, became the Assistant to the Director of the Puerto Rican Inter Agency Council, a government-funded research and demonstration project, and also worked at Glamour and Vogue.

Having founded the legendary rock band KISS 36 years ago, Gene Simmons and his band mates have broken box office records set by The Beatles and Elvis Presley and continue stronger than ever. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), KISS is America's number one gold record-winning group of all time.

Simmons is "happily unmarried" to his partner of 25 years, Shannon Tweed. Their children are Nick and Sophie, and together, the family has starred in A&E's Gene Simmons Family Jewels, the longest-running celebrity reality show of all time.

Gene Simmons Family Jewels emerged the winner in the docusoap category at the 2010 edition of the Factual Entertainment Awards. In recognition of Simmons' contribution to the show's longevity and indeed to the "celebrity" genre, realscreen and the Factual Entertainment Forum are thrilled to give Gene Simmons, perhaps the ultimate multi-hyphenate, our inaugural Personality of the Year award.

Simmons family kick off third annual Factual Entertainment Forum

The family, stars of Gene Simmons Family Jewels since its launch in 2006, will discuss what makes a captivating docusoap, before Simmons is inducted into the Factual Entertainment Awards Hall of Fame as the “Personality of the Year” later in the day.

Following the opening session, DiGa founder Tony DiSanto will moderate the Non-Scripted Network Stars panel, which features Syfy’s senior VP of alternative programming Tim Krubsack; TLC’s senior VP of production and development Howard Lee; ABC Entertainment Group’s senior VP of alternative series, specials and late night programming John Saade; Cooking Channel’s senior VP of programming Bruce Seidel; and Lifetime Networks exec VP of programming Rob Sharenow.

With the lines between cable and broadcast titles becoming increasingly blurry, the session will look at the commitment to alternative and factual entertainment from broadcasters on both sides, and discuss whether unscripted producers could see themselves fighting for fewer slots as scripted titles take off.

The day then continues with the Factual Forward: Trends To Watch For In Factual Entertainment, Crossing Borders: Intel From International Buyers and Mining for Gold sessions, with a number of ’30 minutes with…’ sessions running concurrently, featuring Lifetime’s Gena McCarthy, MTV’s Chris Linn and A&E’s Elaine Frontain Bryant.

The first day closes with the anticipated second annual Factual Entertainment Awards at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, followed by cocktails and parties into the night.

VINNIE VINCENT Slams 'Irresponsible Reporting' Over His Arrest

"I want to thank the many people who sent their well wishes to me through this very hurting time.

"There is much to say to all of you but the most important thing for me to let you know is that what you have been reading is not true. Irresponsible reporting and fabrication of events that never happened destroys people's lives, and that is exactly what has happened.

"It's very unfortunate we live in times where you're guilty even if you're innocent, but it's the way of the world now. It's also sad to me that not only do the media get away with publishing unsubstantiated sensationalized reports that are then taken as 'the truth,' but people now routinely hide behind their computers and usernames to intentionally inflict enormous damage without consequence, all for their own amusement. What they don't know is the pain they cause will always be greater than their fabrication or exaggeration.

"About my precious dogs: My dogs and cat have been, are, and will always be the most important thing in my whole life. I love them more than my words can say. I look at dogs and cats as 'perfect little people' with loving and unconditional hearts that I believe God gifted to us to help comfort us through our lives, which always seems to be filled with pain in one way or another.

"I have 20 dogs that were rescued since 1999 from unspeakable and horrible abuse. I never turned my back or said no if a dog or cat needed a loving home. Each one of them is spoiled rotten; great food, love, comfort, care and shelter. They never leave my side and sit with me when I watch videos or when I play my guitar, the sound of which seems to fascinate them.

"Out of my twenty dogs, half of them are big dogs and the others are small. Fencing was put up to separate the big dogs from the little ones who could roam without any problem. One day, without my knowing, some of the big dogs accidently got loose somehow and killed three of my babies. When I found out, it was too late. I was shattered and just too devastated for words. I still am and always will be. I will never get over it and I will always live with a pain greater than that of anything I had ever known or ever will know. I wrapped them each in blankets and laid them to rest in 'caskets' where I made a cross and wrote the words to 'Danny Boy' on their casket.

"The weather had been pretty bad here for awhile and an excavator was planned to come the property to dig up the ground so I could give them a proper burial when this terrible thing happened.

"I only hope someday we'll be together and I can watch them once again run in the meadows under the deep blue skies.

"As for the despicable reports regarding my beloved dogs, those who know me know I would never harm any animal as they are God's most beautiful and innocent of creations. I'm a vegetarian because of my respect for all animals.

"For those of you who wrongfully accused and judged me based on these 'stories, I understand because I would feel the same way if it was the truth. But it's not the truth. So, to all who perpetuated these cruel and vicious lies may the truth bring you to your senses so you can stop these terrible and unfounded accusations.

"About the domestic situation: As you must know, this is a private matter that I cannot comment on at this time. Please don't believe everything you read. I would never hurt anyone — ever. What has been reported is an absolutely inaccurate depiction of the events that occurred that evening. When it's time, the truth will be known.

"In all, God gave me a silver lining to this terrible time by putting a long-lost family back together through this tragedy and for that, it was worth what I am going through. Unfortunately, this 'incident' caused my loved ones, who suffered through another emotionally devastating experience, to suffer a new burden they didn't need to bear. As much as they are hurting for me and from this, they're still there for me. I am a lucky person.

"I'm an immensely private person and these events have caused me great pain and emotional anguish.

"I am requesting that you respect my privacy and that of my family during this difficult time and not engage in harmful useless gossip posted on blogs and forums.

"My music: It has been my greatest desire to put out my new music, including remixed/remastered tracks that I am very proud of which many of you seem to enjoy, but I have experienced setbacks that hindered and delayed my plans. I am hoping to work through it all and get back on track. I would appreciate it if you could please bear with me.

"About the Vinnie Vincent model guitar: My website is in the process of being constructed. Keep watching YouTube for the link to the site and for the video catalog. The Vinnie website will be a fun place to visit with everything Vinnie Vincent: music, photos, and the Vinnie Vincent guitar in all its glory."

Vincent, 58, was charged with one count of aggravated assault on May 22 after his wife Diane accused him of hitting her in the face, throwing her to the ground, and dragging her through broken glass following an argument.

Vincent replaced lead guitarist Ace Frehley in 1982 and played with KISS for two years. He left the group on bad terms, and later claimed KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley owed him royalties for his work on KISS' 1983 album "Lick It Up", according to the Courthouse News Service. However, a federal judge in Los Angeles ruled against him and awarded the KISS defendants about $66,400 in attorney's fees and $15,400 in costs.

Last June, Vincent lost his 6th Circuit appeal of an order barring him from seeking bankruptcy protection from paying more than $81,000 to his former bandmates.

In January, Vincent, in association with Guitarmageddon Guitars, unveiled the official Vinnie Vincent model guitar at the NAMM convention.

"BETH" CLIP FROM SOUND CHECK

Interview with Eric Singer (drums, vocals)

Eric Singer: It's cool. I mean, everyone has to make a living, but when you can do what you love to do, make a living at it and also help people, it feels wonderful. I can do things that help people and I think that is really important. Then, when you add that it is for kids, it makes it even better. As you know, KISS does a lot of work with wounded soldiers and it is amazing being able to help them whenever we can.

MM: How does it feel to be a part of such an iconic band?

ES: Although I am not an original member, it really is an amazing feeling. This is a band that people recognize whether they know the music or not. The band is known world-wide; when we travel to Europe, it is just amazing how many people come out to see us. Being with people like Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, two original members, [makes you] realize that this band transcends generations and really touches people. Well, ultimately, your audience is what helps put you in a positive position. Without a fan base, you have nothing; however, you have to keep yourself there by delivering the music, the shows and the performances.

I always tell people, "You vote through participation in life."

If someone decides they don't like the product, service or the way they are treated, they will stop buying the product. Eventually, the company would have to redesign it or come up with a new product to keep their audience. This is true of anything, so your actions and your work need to be on target to keep you in business.

MM: Speaking of that, how does it feel now that the band is experiencing another reemergence in the music industry?

ES: Every band goes through their up and downs and their support comes in waves, so it is normal for us. It is nice though, seeing people still want to be around us and coming out to see this iconic band. Whenever you have people who support what you do, it feels good and we are just so supportive of that. Without our fans we would not be here, and knowing they support us is the ultimate compliment.

MM: KISS is known for their makeup most of all. How is it sitting there and actually having it applied - does it become a role you slip into or is it just one more thing that must be done?

ES: Yes, the makeup is something we are known more for than anything else. Some know the “monster” while others know the “star.” It is all a part of who we are. Because of that, the process is something that can not be explained. It takes a couple of hours to get ready and the makeup is a closely guarded secret. When I first started doing it, it felt strange to take on a role like that; becoming something so known, so iconic. Even after all this time, it is still the same. You become part of the character and you use that to entertain the fans.

Even with these interviews it is part of what we do. For this we flew in early so we could spend some time with the press. You know, Gene and Paul have been doing this since the beginning and they still go the extra mile and speak to people when asked. It is a part of what makes the band who they are. The work ethic is very high and an important part of what we do. Everyone does their part to keep things moving forward. Many bands of lesser levels do not put the time in and that is part of the reason why our fan base is as deep and supportive as it is.

MM: If there was one thing you would like to say to your fan base today, what would that be?

ES: I guess just keep doing what you are doing. It is a give and take, a mutual participation thing. One thing I learned in life is that you can't make everyone happy. You appeal to the majority by trying to find the ground that works for most. We thank the fans who come out and support us and continue to believe in this iconic band. Whether they have followed us for a day or 35 years, they are the reason we do what we do.

MM: Thank you for your time today and for supporting Walk ‘N Rock.

ES: Thank you and hopefully this will help the children of the community. We appreciate your time, and enjoy the concert.

Regretfully, the time came for Paul Stanley to attempt to say goodnight to the fans, who were simply not ready to let go. They chanted for an encore, and suddenly, KISS was back on stage to thrill the audience with “Black Diamond,” “Shout It Out Loud” and “Detroit Rock City.” Finally, an unbelievable night of charity for Hope Foundation finished with "Rock and Roll All Night."

Walk 'N Rock for Hope Productions with KISS

Opening bands Miles Schon and Big Boss Graffiti set the stage for the magnificent musical journey that was to come. Almost immediately following BBG’s last song, the crowd began chanting, "WE WANT KISS! WE WANT KISS! WE WANT KISS!"

Almost instantaneously after taking the stage, Paul Stanley sang out, "You said you wanted the best band, you got it- KISS!"

They masterfully took their diehard army of rock fans on a musical journey spanning 38 years. From the very first album, starting with “Modern Day Delilah” and culminating with “Let Me Go Rock N Roll,” they performed with the sort of music mastery, pyrotechnics, flames and fireworks that only they could deliver.

The only thing more astounding than their humility, compassion and generosity during meet and greets with fans is their philanthropy. KISS had four MINI Coopers customized to reflect each of their characters and put them up for auction on eBay, all proceeds going to Japan's relief effort.

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIP FROM SACRAMENTO

In what may be the ultimate attempt to keep the KISS brand alive in perpetuity, marketers are rereleasing the KISS Kasket, a black coffin made of 20-gauge steel. That's right, it's heavy metal.

It's part of the promotional machine Simmons calls Planet KISS. "That's trademarked," Simmons noted.

It's also why Stanley and Simmons, the group's tenured old-timers, say the band may not disappear even after they are too old to safely negotiate the stage in high heels and 30-plus pounds of costume.

"KISS is an idea that should rightfully be bigger than any one of us," Simmons said. He calls it Kisstianity. "To think that something can't exist without you, that you are indispensable, is delusional to the extreme."

But Stanley has no plans to go off quietly in a KISS Kasket. There's more work to be done, he said. That in mind, he leaned forward in his chair.

"I was just thinking," he said. "I am willing to go to Arco Arena with a bucket of plaster and try to fix all the cracks that we put in."

SACRAMENTO ROCK CITY

From Modern Day Delilah to Rock and Roll All Night, KISS filled the baseball stadium with guitars, drums, fire, and smoke. The Walk 'N Rock VIP fund raisers enjoyed up front tables, but everyone in the minor league venue had a great view.

The KISS Minis were parked at the venue's main gate, and later backstage. The stars of Family Jewels- Sophie, Nick, and Shannon- were also present, filming scenes and greeting fans down on the floor.

The show ended with a series of explosions ringing the Sacramento air. The KISS ARMY, especially the young ones present (and who the show was really about), will not forget the show anytime soon.

SETLIST:
Modern Day Delilah
Cold Gin
Let Me Go Rock N Roll
Firehouse
Say Yeah
Deuce
Calling Dr. Love
Shock Me
Tommy/ Eric Jam
Animal
100,000 Years
I Love It Loud
Love Gun
Black Diamond
Detroit Rock City
-----------------------------
Shout It Out Loud
Rock and Roll All Night

KISS Drummer ERIC SINGER Discusses Forthcoming Album

Kiss Army Australia: It's been a little over 18 months since the release of "Sonic Boom", an album which had the band much sounding much closer to its trademark '70s sound. How do you see that album now? From your perspective was there anything you though "maybe I should have done that differently" or "I didn't quite nail that?"

Eric: "Sonic Boom" was really good and was the first step in the right direction for KISS. The newest record we are now working on at this time will show a natural progression from "Sonic Boom" to KISS 2011 as you will all hear soon enough.

Kiss Army Australia: From the outside looking in it seems as though the band is quite early in the stages of preparing the follow up album. In going about the preparation of the album is there a focus on creating an album that follows in the vein of "Sonic Boom" or is it more of a case of seeing where the band ends up once tracks are "in the can?"

Eric: We are already knee deep into the new record as I write this... All I can say is you will all be very pleased. The material is stronger and more riff oriented and very hard/heavier style. Everyone that has heard material so far is raving about the stuff and we are, too.

Kiss Army Australia: Has your involvement on the new album been any different to "Sonic Boom", or earlier KISS albums?

Eric: As a band we are more comfortable and have more time together under our belts now that really shows in our writing, performances, etc. We work out all the material together in rehearsals as a band before we go into the studio. It really makes for better vibes and performance overall.

Read the entire interview from Kiss Army Australia.

Fanatic KISS memorabilia collector to auction items for a good cause

But he is willing to give it all up because of his love for his father-in-law, Ricardo Cruz, and what he did for his daughter.

A member of the KISS Army, the official band fan club, Medina has decided to auction and raffle off his several hundred KISS collectibles Sunday at Brewster Street Ice House to raise money for the Ricardo Cruz Foundation. The organization is helping pay for Cruz's cancer treatments.

Medina said he has had time to cherish these items, and it's now time for others to enjoy them.

"All of these things are replaceable, but my family isn't," Medina said.

In 2008, during Hurricane Ike, Medina and his wife, Kathy, took their three children to the doctor to get checked up before they evacuated. The doctor discovered that his youngest daughter, 3 at the time, had aplastic anemia. She was rushed to Driscoll Children's Hospital and immediately underwent blood transfusions.

A doctor later told the family that a bone marrow exam was inevitable because the transfusions were not working.

Medina said the family was in deep prayer during that week.

"At one point during prayer he (Cruz) embraced me and kept asking God not to take his baby girl, to take him instead," Medina said.

Three days later, the doctor told them the transfusions were working, and that she would get better. Three years later, she is healthy.

However, three months later Cruz, who according to Medina had never shown any signs of illness, was stricken with stage four throat cancer and has spent the past three years battling the disease.

Medina said his mother-in-law had to leave her job for six months to be by her husband's side and lost her full-time job.

"Starting the Ricardo Cruz Foundation and offering up my collection is the least thing we can do for a man that has paid the ultimate sacrifice," Medina said. "I don't even want a key chain left."

Not only does he have every record, but he has the original album inserts. Medina's collection also includes items like KISS 3-D head busts signed by all four original band members, special-edition posters, mint condition comics and signed guitars held by Gene Simmons.

Medina had his collection appraised and insured eight years ago when he also had his house appraised. The collection was worth $30,000 and he has added items since.

Medina has had a passion for KISS since he heard the song "Rock and Roll All Nite" when he was about 6 years old, and views co-founder Gene Simmons as a hero. He grew up as a Jehovah's Witness, and said his mother would forbid him to listen to the band.

Medina said if anything, the band's rebellious appeal drew him in more. He said when he was at Wynn Seale Middle School he and his friends saved up $15 for tickets to a KISS concert at the Memorial Coliseum. They didn't go home after school that day and walked to the show.

"When I finally saw Gene on stage, I froze like a zombie for an hour," Medina said. "I couldn't believe I was seeing them on stage, but man, my parents put a whooping on me when I showed up at home at 11:30 at night."

The foundation sent KISS an email through the KISS Army, and Simmons was so touched by the family's story he sent them a $1,000 check and two guitars he designed and autographed, along with backstage passes to any KISS concert in Texas to be auctioned. Simmons also will broadcast a message during the event.

"Whether we have a great turnout or not, nothing can get better than having Gene Simmons, my idol growing up, get involved," Medina said. "I was speechless."

The authorized KISS band Destroyer will play at the event and C-101's Rex Gabriel will emcee.

PAUL & GEORGE LOPEZ: HELP THOSE IN NEED

KISS founder Paul Stanley has teamed with television host and comedy great George Lopez to bring relief to the victims of the recent tornadoes.

Paul and George created this painting to “Help Those in Need” on the Lopez Tonight show that aired on May 26, 2011.

This 4'x3' acrylic on canvas is signed by both artists.

All proceeds will go to the American Red Cross to benefit victims of the recent tornadoes in the Southern United States.

To view the painting or bid on the auction, go to www.LopezTonight.com.

Give back and “Help Those in Need.”

And if you want to donate to the cause, You can text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief.

ACE FREHLEY To Play Free Show At ERIE COUNTY FAIR

TOMMY HOSTS LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC

The 2011 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic, hosted by Tommy Thayer, takes place on Sun., July 31 and Mon., Aug. 1. Sunday's dinner, auction and celebrity concert will take place at the Tiger Woods Center on the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Ore., with Monday's golf tournament teeing off at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club in Aloha.

Thayer, a member of the Pacific University Board of Trustees and the lead guitarist for the legendary rock group KISS, headlines the star-studded field of legends from the worlds of golf, sports, music and entertainment. Over the first four years of the tournament, Thayer and his friends have raised nearly $500,000 to support Pacific University's 21-sport intercollegiate athletics program.

Among those celebrities scheduled to join Thayer for the 2011 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic include:

• Robby Krieger, guitarist and songwriter from the legendary rock group, The Doors. Krieger penned some of the band's best known songs, including “Light My Fire,” “Touch Me” and “Love Her Madly.”

• Don Felder, lead guitarist of the legendary rock group, the Eagles. He wrote the group's best known hit, “Hotel California,” toured during the band's heyday and recorded on the group's biggest albums.

• Nick Simmons is the son of 2010 Legends Golf Classic participants Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed. Known for his work on the reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, he has also done voiceover work for the Cartoon Network's Robot Chicken and provided vocals for Bruce Kulick's single, “Hand Of The King.” Simmons is currently a student at another Division III institution, Pitzer College, in Claremont, Calif.

• Notah Begay III is the only full-blooded Native American on the PGA Tour and is one of just three players in the history of professional golf to shoot a 59. A four-time winner of PGA Tour tournaments, Begay was named one of Golf Magazine's Innovators of the Year in 2009 and was named one of the Top 100 Sports Educators in the world by the Institute for International Sport.

• Shaun Micheel returns for his fourth Legends Golf Classic. The 2003 PGA Championship champion, Micheel placed second at the 2006 PGA Championship and second at the 2006 HSBC World Match Play Tournament, where he beat Tiger Woods in the first round to end Tiger's five-victory win streak.

• Arron Olberholser is a major presence on the PGA Tour. Olberholser finished second on the 2002 Nationwide Tour money list and won the 2007 AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am and was second at the 2005 Wachovia Championship.

• Mike Bellotti is the winningest coach in the history of the University of Oregon football program. He led the Ducks to 13 winning seasons in his 14 years at the helm. In 2001, he led Oregon to an 11-1 record and a No. 2 final national ranking. Belotti was director of athletics at Oregon from 2009 to 2010 and now serves as a college football television analyst for ESPN.

The event opens on Sun., July 31, at Nike's Tiger Wood Center, with a dinner and silent and live auctions featuring memorabilia from the music and sports world, trips and special concert opportunities. The evening concludes with a concert by Tommy Thayer and friends, featuring many of the musicians playing in the tournament.

The double-shotgun tournament takes place on Mon, Aug. 1 at The Reserve, one of the premier courses in the Northwest, preceded by a professional golf clinic featuring PGA and LPGA tour professionals.

To reserve your place at the Pacific University Legends Golf Classic and for more information, including celebrity biographies and sponsorship details, please visit www.pacificlegendsgolf.com.

PAUL TO APPEAR ON LOPEZ TONIGHT THURSDAY

Paul is a huge fan of George and the show and might even join the band for a song. Don’t miss this appearance!

Lopez Tonight airs weeknights at 12/11c on TBS. Check your local listings and tune-in.

And…if you live in the Los Angeles area and wish to attend, a very limited number of tickets may still be available at www.lopeztonight.com/tickets.

Ex-KISS Guitarist -- No Punishment for Dog Corpses

A rep for the Pet Adoption Welfare Services (PAWS) tells TMZ ... Vinnie had kept all 4 animals in above-ground plastic storage bins, clearly marked as graves ... with little memorials written on them -- and even though it's really creepy ... it ain't illegal.

TMZ broke the story ... Vinnie was arrested for allegedly beating the crap out of his wife ... and while cops were at the home, they noticed the dead animals and called PAWS to investigate.

Vinnie's wife explained the dogs had been killed by ANOTHER one of the family's 9 still-living dogs. PAWS tells us they will test all of the living pets for rabies.

VINNIE VINCENT Arrest: Video Report From WKRN-TV Available

KISS SETS GUINNESS WORLD RECORD!

The event, called Kiss Live and Global, was presented and hosted by Ortsbo, the real-time social media language translation platform. Simmons also serves as an Ortsbo business partner and spokesperson.

Fans from all over the world who pre-registered at Ortsbo.com had the opportunity to interact with Simmons and Stanley in their native languages via a chat room. Questions and answers were instantly translated to and from up to 53 languages, allowing participants from all over the world to understand the entire event in their native tongues.

A ballroom at the Beverly Hills Hotel was transformed into a nightclub as Simmons and Stanley sat on stage by a computer, surrounded by KISS artifacts including guitars, a motorcycle, even the famed KISS Kasket.

Simmons manned the computer keyboard, demonstrating some truly impressive typing skills. The pair answered questions from around the world, dutifully talking up the Ortsbo technology and marveling at the power of being able to create a "one world" language on line.

Questions came in from over 100 countries and were translated into English for Simmons and Stanley, whose responses were then translated back into the native language of each chat participant.

The chat set an official Guinness World Record for Most Nationalities In An Online Chat Room, and a post-show ceremony was held in front of the small stage.

Gene Simmons told Noisecreep that Ortsbo is playing an important part in social history right now. "The Ortsbo technology is helping the world to come together. It's unifying planet Earth as we speak. Think about it. It's like a miracle. With what is happening in the Arab world today, now citizens can use Ortsbo to directly communicate with the world in their own language. It's the ultimate tool. Dictators can't stop it -- nothing can stop it."

Simmons added that technology plays a big part in his life, but it has to make sense.

"Technology can help, but you have to prioritize," he said. "When people call or text each other and say, 'What are you doing, nothing? Me either. I'm doing nothing," then that's a total waste of time and technology. You have to make it make sense."

Simmons also told Noisecreep that his daughter is doing fine after her recent car accident. "She was smart. She got the other person on video admitting it was their fault. Again, technology in action. Insurance companies have to love it."

Ortsbo CEO David Lucatch loves having Simmons aboard. "KISS is one of the largest global brands on the planet, and so who better to help break down language barriers around the world?" he told Noisecreep. "Gene in particular is so brilliant when it comes to communicating the heart and soul of a brand, so we have no doubt he'll be a big part in taking Ortsbo to the next level." Lucatch added that he has other celebrity events planned throughout the year to generate awareness, including one in June with NBA superstar Steve Nash.

As a partner in Ortsbo, Simmons says the company reminds him a bit of his band. "The core of KISS has always been to connect with fans on many levels. What Ortsbo does is the ultimate in connections: it makes it possible for all of us, instantly, to relate to each other in our own languages. It goes beyond just connecting fans. It's good for the world. Think of what it does for the military, even for the U.N. -- there's no more need for transporters. It's astonishing."

TOMMY'S STUDIO TOUR VIDEO

Ex-KISS Guitarist -- Blood, Cuts, and 4 Dead Dogs

The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office tells TMZ ... on May 22, Vincent's wife, Diane, arrived to the Sheriff's Office "covered in blood" and reeking of alcohol.

Cops say 44-year-old Diane told the officers how she had just escaped from the couple's Tennessee home ... after Vincent "smacked her in the face" following an argument about a "female subject [Vincent] was talking to." She says Vincent then "grabbed her by the hair and threw her down to the ground."

Diane says Vincent then "dragged her through a pile of glass from a broken plate that had been on the floor since before the argument had started."

Diane told police she tried to get away -- but 58-year-old Vincent threw her to the ground 4 more times. She eventually escaped and drove herself to the station.

Cops dispatched officers to the home -- where they found Vincent and "four sealed containers containing deceased dogs."

Diane told the cops .... the dogs had been "killed by one of their aggressive dogs."

Vincent was eventually arrested and booked for aggravated domestic assault -- and his bond was set at $10,000. TMZ obtained his mug shot, pictured above.

An animal service team was contacted to look into the dead dog situation.

Former KISS Guitarist Arrested on Assault Charges

Vincent (real name Vinnie Cusano) was busted by the Rutherford County Sheriff's Department in Tennessee and held on $10,000 bond. He posted and was released at 11:27 AM.

Vincent was known as the Ankh Warrior during his time with the band.

Video of Rock Star Gene Simmons: Obama Doesn't Have a Clue

Video

Jane Wells interviewed Simmons on CNBC and asked him what he thinks of President Obama, for whom Simmons voted and now regrets it. He answered, “If you have never been to the moon, you can’t issue policy about the moon. For the president to be sitting in Washington D.C. and saying, ‘Go back to your ‘67 borders in Israel' – how abut you live there and try to defend an indefensible border – nine miles wide?"

“On one side, you got hundreds of millions of people who hate your guts. On the other side you got the Mediterranean. Unless you control the Golan Heights, it is an indefensible position. it is a nice idea, [but] when you grow up, you find out that life is not the way you imagine it.

“President Obama means well - I think he actually is a good guy, He has no idea of what the world is like because he does not have to live there."

Simmons also told the interviewer that “women are much brighter than we are. You should have thousands of babies.”

He was born in Israel in 1949 as Chaim Witz and moved with his family to New York when at the age of eight. His Polish mother survived the Holocaust.

He has written about the United States, "I wasn't born here. But I have a love for this country and its people that knows no bounds. I will forever be grateful to America for going into World War II, when it had nothing to gain, in a country that was far away... and rescued my mother from the Nazi German concentration camps. She is alive and I am alive because of America. And, if you have a problem with America, you have a problem with me.”

Last March, he performed in a homecoming visit to Israel and said, "I'm Israeli. I'm a stranger in America.” He also said that artists who boycott Israel are "fools."

GUITAR WORLD HONORS DETROIT ROCK CITY

Paul Stanley-penned song honored by Guitar World Magazine

“Detroit Rock City”, the iconic song written by KISS frontman and founder Paul Stanley and Bob Ezrin from KISS’ legendary Destroyer album, has been named one of the 100 Greatest Classic Rock Guitar Songs of All Time by Guitar World Magazine.

Paul recently completed an interview with Guitar World’s Editor-in-Chief Brad Tolinski regarding the “Detroit Rock City” sessions that will be featured, along with the 100 Greatest Classic Rock Guitar Songs of All Time, in the August issue of Guitar World on newsstands June 27.

ANIMATED KISS STAGES

DYNASTY STAGE

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT STAGE

LOVE GUN STAGE

DESTROYER STAGE

Gene Simmons: Hard Work, Many Pursuits Are the Kiss of Success

"But I've never been high or drunk in my life," says Simmons, adding that he's been with his romantic partner, Shannon Tweed, for 28 years and has two children with her. "But I've never been married."

Simmons, in an interview with AOL Jobs, offered those insights as evidence of a life lived without adhering to someone else's rules, a trait that job seekers, entrepreneurs and others should heed if they, too, wish to achieve personal and career success.

At 61, the Israeli-born Simmons says that education is an important first step in striving for success.

Language and people skills also are important, he says, "because when you sit in front of someone [while] looking for a job, they're judging you as much as your resume: Who you are; how you act; what you look like; and so on and so forth."

Reputation, which in the world of show business translates into "fame," is also key. Just as in show business, fame also drives the business world, Simmons says.

"In other words, you want your name, your reputation and so on to precede you.... therefore, all businesses intrinsically, and all human beings intrinsically, are in the fame game," he says, adding that it's a disadvantage to appear anonymous.

"You want ... who you are, how you are, how you conduct yourself to precede you," Simmons says. "People should know about you."

Though celebrities and job seekers alike try to differentiate themselves by creating a unique image, it's also important not to focus your energies too narrowly. Simmons has had to re-brand himself to keep his image fresh and viable.

Among his many ventures are Gene Simmons Rich & Famous Expos, which is a motivational and informational lecture tour, and the TV show "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," which he says is the longest running celebrity reality show.

Meanwhile, Simmons and his Kiss bandmates are gearing up for a 20-show tour in advance of a new studio album due out in 2012.

Simmons also recently signed on as a spokesman for Ortsbo, an instant-message language translation "app" for mobile electronic devices. The technology allows users to chat with anyone, anywhere and anytime in their native language for free. The tool can aid in job hunting, Simmons says, allowing applicants to chat with potential employers, colleagues and others who can provide job leads via smart phones or similar technology.

"[Don't] do one thing," he says. "Never be the same rat that goes through the same maze to get the same cheese."

And always strive to challenge yourself, Simmons says. He points to former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who came to the United States to pursue a career as a bodybuilder, and went on to become a film star and politician.

Schwarzenegger's unwieldy name and thick Austrian accent didn't stop him from achieving big things, says Simmons, adding that he's a huge fan of "The Terminator" star. "And he of me."

Of Donald Trump, on whose "Celebrity Apprentice" program he appeared and was fired from, Simmons says the real estate magnate is "far more qualified" to be president than "almost anybody on Capitol Hill." Trump earlier this year said that he is considering challenging Barack Obama in the 2012 presidential election.

(Lawmakers in Washington mean well, Trump says, but they've never run a company. "They don't understand that the [United States] is actually a business. We have imports [and] we have exports, and unless you keep the right balance, you get deficits," he says, noting that the U.S. owes other nations about $14 trillion.)

Another insight that Simmons garnered from his appearance on "Celebrity Apprentice" was that the other contestants understood how to be a celebrity, but knew very little about business.

"Just because you're famous doesn't mean you know how things work."

AOL Jobs Asks Gene Simmons 5 Quick Questions

1. What was your first job? Rubbing the fat off a butcher's wood chop. We used to chop chickens' heads off.

2. What inspires you? My mother. If my mother can make it, anybody can. She's a survivor of the Nazi-German concentration camps of World War II. She went to work every day, [was] not highly educated, and she survived and lived well.

3. What is the most important trait needed to succeed? Belief in self on a delusional level. You really have to think you're better than you actually are. It'll make you do stupid things. It'll make you reach higher.

4. What is your biggest challenge? To take the public through a learning curve and make them realize what's good, what's bad.

5. What is the best career advice you ever received? To never put all your eggs in one basket has always been a good idea and a mantra of mine. Spread the risk. Have one job and do one thing and be able to do two or three other things in case one thing doesn't work out. Just don't be a master in one and a knucklehead in all others.

GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels Returns To A&E In June

Season six, which continues the longest running celebrity family-based series on television, begins with a shocking moment for America’s most traditional, non-traditional family. With both kids away at college and Gene’s rock star ego at an all time high, Shannon decides she needs to re-evaluate their relationship and leaves her longtime boyfriend.

ACE FREHLEY To Appear At 'Days Of The Dead' Horror Convention

Days Of The Dead 2011 will feature a full weekend's worth of events, film screenings, vendors, and other special guests, including Gary Busey, Edward Furlong, Zoe Bell, Heather Langenkamp, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, PJ Soles and more.

For more information, visit www.DaysoftheDead.net.

EDDIE VAN HALEN Photo Book Due In October

Book details:

The definitive visual history of early Eddie Van Halen, this hardcover photo book is jam-packed with classic and never-before-published photos. It is a must-have for VAN HALEN fans and guitarists alike!

One of the most revolutionary and influential players ever to pick up a guitar, Eddie Van Halen's music and technique continue to energize legions of fans and guitarists around the world. This book of photographs and text focuses on the innovative early years of the band VAN HALEN, when Eddie burst on the scene and changed the face of electric guitar-playing and melodic hard rock. More than 200 images of Eddie in action — both classic and never before seen — are complemented by text and testimony from famous guitarists, music writers, and many others. Also featuring a foreword by guitar legend Slash, this is the definitive visual history of classic Eddie Van Halen.

Famous guitarists who contributed text:

* Angus Young (AC/DC) * Jimmy Page (LED ZEPPELIN) * Joe Perry (AEROSMITH) * Les Paul * Steve Vai * Joe Satriani * Nuno Bettencourt (EXTREME) * Ritchie Blackmore (RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE) * Gilby Clarke (GUNS N' ROSES) * Phil Collen (DEF LEPPARD) * Billy Gibbons (ZZ TOP) * Peter Frampton * Paul Gilbert (RACER X, MR. BIG) * Allan Holdsworth * Scott Ian (ANTHRAX) * Tony Iommi (BLACK SABBATH) * Steve Lukather * Mick Mars (MÖTLEY CRÜE) * Ronnie Montrose * Gary Moore * Tom Morello (RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE) * Dave Navarro (JANE'S ADDICTION) * Rick Nielsen (CHEAP TRICK) * Ted Nugent * Paul Stanley (KISS) * Nancy Wilson (HEART) * Zakk Wylde (BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, OZZY OSBOURNE) * Dweezil Zappa

VAN HALEN insiders who contributed text: Eddie Anderson (director of security 1980-84), Pete Angelus (creative consultant, production/lighting designer), Marshall Berle (personal manager 1977-78), Bill Gazzarri (owner: Gazzarri's nighclub), Michael Karlin (VAN HALEN business manager, 1978-present), Jas Obrecht (editor: Guitar Player magazine), Patrick Whitley (production manager 1978-84) and Michael Anthony.

Neil Zlozower's rock photography spans more than 40 years and includes work with THE ROLLING STONES, Ted Nugent, AEROSMITH, AC/DC, MOTÖRHEAD, Tom Waits, SLIPKNOT, and many others. From 1978 to 1984, Zlozower was the "fifth member of VAN HALEN," touring with and capturing images of the band during the David Lee Roth era.

Hardcover, 176 pages, 8.5 x 11 inches, Over 200 color and black-and-white photographs.

PAUL ON CLEAR CHANNEL RADIO

One segment aired during the morning and one in the evening. Click to listen!

KISS Your Face

Needless to say… it is a very big deal. In honor of the show, we’ve launched a photo contest on our official Facebook page appropriately titled “KISS YOUR FACE.” You can view full details here.

The grand prize is a VIP package to see KISS, which includes backstage passes!

Simmons to be inducted into realscreen's Factual Entertainment Awards Hall of Fame

Along with his unconventional family, Simmons stars in Gene Simmons Family Jewels on A&E in the longest running, unscripted celebrity family-based series on television. “The show’s longevity, loyal fan base and consistently high ratings, coupled with Gene’s engaging onscreen presence and the wonderful family dynamic that makes the show ‘appointment’ television, all factor into this recognition,” said Claire Macdonald, VP & publisher of realscreen, creators of the Factual Entertainment Awards and Factual Entertainment Forum.

This is the second nod from the international non-fiction community, as Gene Simmons Family Jewels emerged the winner in the docusoap category at the 2010 edition of the Factual Entertainment Awards, which are judged by over 30 senior global non-fiction programming execs and producers. A&E’s Gene Simmons Family Jewels is produced by Thinkfactory Media and the Gene Simmons Company. Adam Freeman, Adam Reed, Gene Simmons, Moriah Muse, Erin Kelly and Leslie Greif are the series executive producers. David McKillop, Neil A. Cohen and Steve Harris are the A&E executive producers.

“I am who I am because of my family,” said Gene Simmons. “Shannon, Sophie and Nick make me a better man, and that’s factual. I’m honored to receive this award.”

“Gene Simmons has gone from entertaining millions of fans to becoming one of TV’s most recognizable faces globally reaching over 83 countries and we couldn’t be happier for him being named this year’s Personality of the Year,” said Leslie Greif, executive producer and Thinkfactory Media CEO. “A&E’s Gene Simmons Family Jewels continues to break records as the longest running celebrity docu-series on the air and we’d like to thank realscreen and the Factual Entertainment Awards for recognizing Gene and this ground-breaking series.”

The entire Simmons family including Gene, his long-time girlfriend Shannon Tweed and children Nick and Sophie, will also set the stage for the Factual Entertainment Forum. In a lively panel discussion delegates will hear from the quintessential first family of reality about how their on-air lives intertwine with real family life. The audience is promised an interesting, unusual and entertaining glimpse into their not-so-private lives and into the making of the hit show.

The Factual Entertainment Awards and the Factual Entertainment Forum take place at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel on June 1 & 2, 2011.

Video: Gene Simmons on KTLA

Gene Simmons' Daughter -- WRECKED in L.A.

Sources close to the family tell us -- Sophie Simmons was sitting in infamous L.A. traffic when the car behind her failed to stop and plowed into her ... causing her to smash into the car in front of her.

The accident caused a chain reaction that ended in a four-car wreck ... with Sophie right in the middle.

We're told Sophie was wearing her seat belt -- but the car's airbag didn't deploy -- and Sophie hit her head on the steering wheel.

She was taken to the hospital just to get checked out -- where she Tweeted a fun picture of her hospital bracelet and assured her fans that she was ok.

But her Dodge Charger wasn't as lucky ... we're told it's completely totaled.

Gene Simmons Believes His Online Haters Are Just Sad, Smart Young Folks

Gene Simmons: We're 'Tortured By Tech'

"All of us are tortured by tech," he told the Huffington Post. "I still cant get my flashing light on my video machine from the 1800s to stop flashing. I have one of the old ones that played videotape. I cannot turn it off."

Simmons, is the spokesperson for the real time social media translation platform Ortsbo, and acknowledges that technology has changed some things about how he lives his life.

"I hardly talk to my daughter unless I'm texting and chatting," he said. "We're too busy to do voicemail and shmoicemail and all that stuff."

But despite all that and some of the headaches of tech, Simmons says he appreciates the conveniences of a wired life.

"You know, I drive a truck, and I can get in and start that thing right away and it tells me when it's out of gas and when I want to go somewhere I know exactly: the GPS and the shmeePS and the IRA and all that," he said. "What's great about it is modern cars are automatic. When I was growing up they were stick shift, you wanted to hang yourself. Isn't it great to be able to get in your car and press your foot to go forward?"

WALK 'N ROCK FEATURING KISS

Help bring hope to our community's children's charities

Raley Field will host Walk 'N Rock For Kids featuring Kiss on May 29, 2011. Tickets are now on sale. Gates for the concert open at 7 p.m.

KISS is regarded as one of the most influential rock and roll bands of all-time. Their career milestones are staggering. KISS holds honors as one of America's top gold record champions, selling over 100 million albums worldwide.

The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation, transcending age, race and creed. The unparalleled devotion and loyalty of the KISS Army to the "Hottest Band in the World" is a striking testament to the band's unbreakable bond with its fans.

The event will kick off with a morning 5K walk involving families, local businesses, walk teams and supporters. Participants will walk and raise funds on behalf of our 2011 Nonprofit Partners and Nonprofit Affiliates. The morning will be filled with music at Raley Field and along the route. After the walk, enjoy entertainment, interactive booths, kids activities, more music, food and fun!

Once you have registered, all funds raised will go directly to the children's charity you register to walk in support of.

Later that evening, Hope Productions and our corporate partners will host an exclusive VIP reception and a benefit concert featuring legendary rock band KISS which is open to the general public. Concert tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.com and the Raley Field Box Office.

For more information visit www.walknrock.org.

ANNOUNCING THE FIRST EVER KISS KRUISE!

The KISS Kruise: Wet, Wild, & Rockin’
Sailing on the Carnival Destiny
October 13 – 17, 2011 from Miami to Half Moon Cay & Nassau, Bahamas

ARE YOU READY to INVADE the seas on the first ever KISS Kruise? KISS is partnering with cruise industry leaders, Sixthman for this sea-bound adventure.

On this outrageous ship, you’ll get to party with fist pounding hard rock all night, and live like a rock star all day. You’ll see a legendary show with KISS in an intimate indoor venue and an acoustic "Sail Away Concert" (no make-up!!) to keep the party going as the ship leaves port. It doesn’t stop there; we’ll have krazy on board activities, KISS-themed nights, badass costume contests and more!

KISS ARMY Fan Club members will be able to book first during the pre-sale, so if you've let your KISS Army Fan Club membership expire or you're thinking about joining for the first time, make sure to sign up by May 22nd!

The sooner you book, the better selection of cabins and seating for your main lounge show!

So, don’t wait - sign up now for the presale here: www.sixthman.net/KISS and make sure to become and ARMY member before May 22nd!

Here’s how it works:

STEP 1: Visit www.sixthman.net/KISS to register! Pre-sale sign ups end at 11:59PM EST on May 30th , 2011. (IF YOU JOIN THE FAN CLUB, SIGN UP FOR THE PRE-SALE BY MAY 22nd TO BE A PART OF THE KISS ARMY FAN CLUB PRE-SALE).

STEP 2: All those who are not Fan Club members will receive more detailed information by email from Sixthman on or around May 31st . The email will have your Earliest Booking Time - a randomly assigned date and time starting June 2nd.

STEP 3: On or after your Earliest Booking Time, visit www.theKISSKruise.com and click Book Now to reserve your cabin!

STEP 4: Start planning for the best vacation of your life!

The public on-sale date is June 7, 2011, at which time anyone who didn't join the pre-sale may book.

For more information on our ship, itinerary, and overall event, please visit The KISS Kruise: Wet, Wild, & Rockin’ website www.theKISSKruise.com when it launches on May 18, 2011.

If you have further questions before the website is launched, please contact Sixthman by email at KISSKRUISE@sixthman.net, or through Sixthman’s Live Chat feature (http://www.sixthman.net/util/chat) or by phone at 877-379-9183 (open M-F, 10am-6pm EST).

This is only for supreme KISS fans. Are you ready to rock & roll all night and party every day?

See you onboard!

Visit www.Kissonline.com/kruise for more information.

PAUL STANLEY ROCKS THE HOUSE

Paul Stanley, the legendary front man and founder of KISS, spoke to a packed audience at the Director’s Guild of America in Los Angeles Thursday. Paul was the headliner at the House Research Institute’s “Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration,” an event to bring increased awareness to noise-induced hearing loss amongst teens and foster good hearing health practices.

Stanley, who was born deaf in one ear and serves as Ambassador Spokesperson for the non-profit, spoke about his own inspirational struggle with hearing loss to a rapt audience of teens, parents, media and members of the KISS Army who turned-out in force.

In addition to meeting a true rock legend, attendees of the fun-filled event heard from world-renowned medical experts like Dr. John House, one of the country’s foremost authorities on hearing health, and earned the chance to win a myriad of cool prizes including VIP concert tickets and the Grand Prize: a Paul Stanley signed Washburn guitar.

Gene Simmons Family Jewels Continues To Be A Hit

How would you explain the success of Gene Simmons Family Jewels?

GENE SIMMONS: You can never quite put your finger on it. I suppose it’s human nature—when you meet somebody, you like them or you don’t. And just being famous or having lots of money, that doesn’t connect with people. Either you’re interesting or you’re not. And if we could all figure out what that thing is then we would all have hit TV shows, or we’d all have hit records, and we’d all be voted into power. At the end of the day all you can do is be yourself.

How do you think your family has handled the spotlight of a reality show in comparison to how a different family might?

GS: Well, we’re peculiar. I’ve been with Shannon Tweed, mother of my kids, for 27 years, but we’ve never been married. I’m in a rock band, we’ve been around, touring the world now for 37 years, but I’ve never been high or drunk in my life and never smoked cigarettes. So when you judge the book by the cover we seem to be different inside to what people might think the cover looks like. I think preconceived notions wind up being the opposite. My guilty pleasure: I like cookies and milk, and I put ice cubes in my milk all the way to the top because I like it ice cold.

You’re involved in many things: music, television, merchandising, your new record label Simmons Records. Is there one thing you’re most passionate about?

GS: Life. Life is the best thing to be passionate about. I look at it through my mother’s eyes. She wasn’t schooled and isn’t very sophisticated in the traditional way, [but] still has the wisdom of the ages when she speaks. She has this philosophy, with a very thick Hungarian accent: everything above ground is a good day. She survived WWII German Nazi concentration camps. At 14, her entire family [was] wiped out in front of her. So the fact that she treats every day as if it’s the only day she will ever live—that’s what I learned from my mother and that’s a good lesson for all of us.

The Envy is the first band to sign with Simmons Records. What do they bring to the table?

GS: Well, visually it worked. I saw charisma, a fearless gonna-look-you-right-in-the-eyes-and-tell-you-what-I-gotta-tell-you thing, which big artists have to have. And then you’ve gotta have some depth. The material’s gotta be good, the music’s gotta be good. You know it when you hear it—either it appeals to you or not. It’s difficult to say, “How do you make food tasty?” I taste it, and either I like it or I don’t.

Gene Simmons - KISS Vocalist filming on Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Today’s reporters were out to catch a picture of the famous artist and followed Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed and the camera crew as they filmed on the main streets of San Pedro. Gene and Shannon were filmed on Barrier Reef Drive as they visited local stores, Pretty Ethnic and Salty Dog.

Gene along with his film crew was in the company of Belize Police and even had several main roads blocked for their filming. Gene and Shannon then visited one of San Pedro’s famous restaurants – Elvi’s Kitchen.

Simmons and Tweed have been riding around town along with their film crew and will be filming at two of San Pedro’s top resorts. Stay tuned for video footage of Gene Simmons filming on Ambergris Caye.

Biography of Gene Simmons:

Gene Simmons was born in Haifa, Israel in 1949, and is the only child of his mother, a German Nazi Concentration Camp survivor. He went to America at eight and a half years of age. He has always attributed his ethics, morals and drive to his mother's notion's about life. "Every day above ground, is a good day," his mother is apt to say. Every day above ground, indeed.

He graduated State University (NYSU) and City University (CUNY) and got a Bachelor of Education degree. He taught sixth grade in Spanish Harlem in New York City. He then became the Assistant to the Director of the Puerto Rican InterAgency Council, a government funded research and demonstration project. He worked at Glamour and then at Vogue, as the assistant to the editor, Kate Lloyd.

Gene speaks a few languages: English, Hungarian, Hebrew, German and is getting better at Japanese every day. At present, he is becoming fascinated by Mandarin Chinese and has every intention of becoming fluent in it.

Gene Simmons has never been married. He has had live in relationships with Cher and Diana Ross. He has been happily unmarried for 25 years to Shannon Tweed, the mother of his two beautiful children, Nick and Sophie.

Gene Simmons Family Jewels - About the Show:

Dad is Gene Simmons -- the legendary, tongue wagging demon of KISS. Mom is Shannon Tweed -- former Playmate of the Year, actress and model. And their kids Nick and Sophie are dealing with the trials and tribulations of adolescence, even though Mom and Dad are truly like no one else's parents.

Gene and Shannon have been happily UNmarried for over 20 years and have no plans of getting married any time soon. Gene is a multi-millionaire rock star and a multi-media magnate. He is a renowned ladies man - but also the kind of dad who brings Gatorade to his daughter's soccer games and stands in the front row when his son's rock band plays gigs. Each episode of GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS™ reveals another layer of Gene's private self, a side that he has kept hidden until now, and shows how the most non-traditional, traditional family in America manages to make it all work under the strangest of circumstances.

Funny, loving, often at odds, this is a real life extraordinary family -- but one that we can all identify with. The Simmons-Tweed clan continues to prove, yet again, why they are the most non-traditional, traditional family in America.

ORTSBO.COM PRESENTS KISS LIVE & GLOBAL

In addition to the online chat, which will attempt a world record for the “Most Nationalities In An Online Chat Room”, the event, featuring a live, interactive studio audience will be broadcast around the world via live streaming to computers, iPhones and Android devices.

People from all over the world, the 4 Million KISS Facebook Fans and the global KISS ARMY who pre-register at Ortsbo.com will have the opportunity to interact with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley and present questions online in 53 languages.

The real time Ortsbo platform will instantly translate questions and answers in multiple languages, allowing viewers all over the world to review the online chat in their own native language - making this event a truly worldwide spectacle.

Paul Stanley comments, "For years people have debated on what language should be the common means of communication to connect people worldwide in the future. The future is now and the language is Ortsbo."

ORTSBO Presents KISS LIVE & GLOBAL
MAY 20TH, 2011
7:30 AM Pacific
Beverly Hills Hotel – Rodeo Ballroom
Beverly Hills, California

“Ortsbo.com is taking a sledgehammer to the tower of Babel, allowing people around the world regardless of their native language to be part of this event and the conversation,” said Gene Simmons “We are proud to have this opportunity to break down the language barriers and provide fans with the ability to chat with us in real time, as one people.”

Supporting Ortsbo.com presents, KISS Live & Global will be Live Nation, the world's leading live entertainment and online ecommerce company. Along with the global chat with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the event will provide people around the world with the ability to purchase a selection of entertainment merchandise and special promotions directly throughout the event. This event will provide a prototype for future global commercial events with Live Nation, their Artists and Ortsbo.com.

The event will also showcase the power of Cloud Computing, as the entire KISS Live & Global event will be managed through Microsoft’s Windows Azure platform.

The Ortsbo.com platform eliminates the need to cut/copy and paste text into a translator by automatically translating typed text into the specified language instantly unlike typical translation software. Users simply indicate the desired language for their intended recipient and Ortsbo does the rest. Ortsbo even lets users conduct multiple chat sessions simultaneously across multiple social networks in multiple languages in real time.

Free for consumers to use Ortsbo.com is ideal for both personal/social communications, allowing users to chat with friends and family around the world or around the neighborhood, and for business communications. Global colleagues can use Ortsbo to collaborate and chat about projects in their native language for faster and more efficient communication that reduces the risk of misunderstanding due to translation errors.

PAUL ON KLTA MORNING SHOW

KISS lead vocalist Paul Stanley has teamed-up with the non-profit House Research Institute on a major initiative called 'IT`S HOW YOU LISTEN THAT COUNTS' to educate millions of teens around the world on preventing noise-induced hearing loss.

MTV BRAZIL COMMERCIAL

Rubie's Costume Inks Deal to Create KISS-Themed Costumes and Accessories

Legendary KISS is famous for its explosive live performances and outrageous rock and roll style. In a career spanning nearly four decades, the band has achieved record-breaking tours, album sales in excess of 100 million, a huge "KISS Army" fan base, and the most memorable look in all of rock history.

"I've always said you may not be able to look like KISS, but you can always feel like KISS. We've finally changed that, and I'm jazzed to see all the Starchilds and other KISS members in full uniform this year!" said Paul Stanley of KISS.

"With your new KISS costumes, you will release the Demon within you. You are the God of Thunder!" said Gene Simmons of KISS.

"This line of KISS costumes and accessories offers something for the rock star in all of us," said Howard Beige, Executive Vice President of Rubie's. "The catalog will cover a variety of price points and include complete KISS costuming for fans of all ages. It's a great collection of must-have gear."

Retailers can preview KISS costumes and accessories now at www.Rubies.com. Orders will be accepted in Summer 2011. Merchandise will be screaming into retail stores everywhere and available at www.KISSonline.com in time for Halloween 2011.

Gene Simmons v. Anonymous

The October attack purportedly conducted by Anonymous – the same hacker group Sony claims crashed the Playstation Network – left the 61-year-old glam rocker’s websites down for about a week after he spoke at an anti-online piracy conference.

Now, an FBI cyber crime squad has traced the attack to a Gig Harbor home where agents seized computer equipment late last month.

In court documents filed with the U.S. District Court in Tacoma, a Los Angeles-based FBI special agent alleged the perpetrator of the attack was “most likely” someone living at the Gig Harbor residence.

Writing the court, though, the agent, a member of the Bureau cyber crime unit, stopped short of saying so with certainty.

“I believe that someone with access to the computer at the subject residence took part in the (denial of service) attacks,” the agent told the court.

“Alternatively, if the computer at the subject residence was compromised prior to the (denial of service) attacks, a forensic examination of the computer would reveal evidence relating to the activities of compromised computer use.”

In October, an attorney for Simmons reported to the FBI that several of his client’s websites had been knocked down by hackers. That cyber attack came 10 days after Simmons made comments against copyright infringement at an event in Cannes, France.

Described in court documents as a Distributed Denial of Service attack, hackers essentially flooded Simmons’ websites with requests for information. The barrage of requests caused the servers hosting the sites to shutdown the sites, which remained down for 36 hours.

Once the sites were restored, Simmons posted a message suggesting he would work with law enforcement to find those responsible. Days later, another set of servers were hammered by an identical attack lasting four days.

All told, the FBI agent said in court documents, the attacks cost $20,000 to $25,000 in downtime and associated costs.

Describing the type of attack made against Simmons, the agent said the hackers cause a network of computers to “flood” the target system with a large amount of data or commands. As a result the target computer becomes swamped with requests and legitimate users are denied access.

The attacks were claimed by a hacker group known as Anonymous, the FBI agent continued. The group dubbed the action “Operation Payback.”

Recently in the news after issuing repeated denials that it was behind the intrusion that pulled user data from the Sony Playstation Network, the group had previously taken responsibility for cyber attacks on the Motion Picture Association of America, the Recording Industry Association of American, the U.S. Copyright Office and several credit card companies.

For it’s part, Sony contends Anonymous was behind the Playstation Network intrusion.

“We discovered that the intruders had planted a file on one of our Sony Online Entertainment servers named ‘Anonymous’ with the words ‘We are Legion,’” a Sony spokesman said in a statement issued Wednesday through the company blog.

Reviewing information related to the October attacks against Simmons, the FBI was able to trace the source to several IP addresses. One of those, the agent told the court, tracked back to the Gig Harbor home.

Agents served the search warrant on the home on April 27 and took custody of a laptop computer. The search warrant and return were unsealed earlier this week.

Publically available court records do not show any new charges against the target of the search as a result of the investigation.

KISS VOCALIST URGES TEENS TO DOWN MUSIC

But what you may not know about him, that I think makes him even more remarkable, is that his rise to rock and roll fame was done with a hearing impairment that makes him virtually deaf in his right ear.

The condition is called microtia, and it's a deformity of the outer ear. In Stanley's case, he also lacks an ear canal. Without a canal, sound has no way of traveling to his inner ear.

Until about 10 years ago, there was no way of dealing with this condition, other than rebuilding an ear canal. Now, a device exists that is essentially a bone conduction unit, that allows sound waves to bypass the ear canal and be processed by the inner ear.

Stanley uses a bone conduction unit on a day-to-day basis, and is able to be turn it on and off at will.

Because he was born with this condition, he says he is extra vigilant when it comes to protecting his hearing in his left ear.

That's why he's recently gotten involved in the crusade to make teens aware of the dangers of hearing loss from exposure to excessive noise. He calls the astronomical rise in hearing problems among teenagers an "epidemic" - which isn't really an exaggeration.

Statistics show that adolescent hearing problems have risen 30 percent in the past 15 years. That's about 1 in every 5 teenagers who are suffering from some kind of hearing loss.

The rise is, in part, due to the popularity of loud activities teenagers take part in - going to concerts or cheering at football games, for example. And then, of course, there's always those ever-present iPod earbuds they're plugged into from morning to night.

Stanley recommends that people protect their hearing, like he did growing up, by putting in ear plugs at concerts or clubs for at least some of the time - even when listening to KISS songs! This cuts out the most harmful sound frequencies and lets the ears recuperate.

He also has a message that I think a lot of teenagers need to hear: Turn down your music. Keep the volume of personal music players down around 60 percent. And headphones, no matter how uncool you think they may look, are much better for you than the newer earbuds that go directly into the ear.

Hearing damage can have a lot of different symptoms. Some people might hear ringing or roaring in their ears. Some may lose the ability to hear certain frequencies, which could render them incapable of understanding speech.

"You can never get back what you lose," Stanley warned. "Especially with hearing."

"It's not uncool to protect your hearing," he added. "It's not uncool to protect your health."

Visit soundrules.org for more information and advice on how to protect your hearing.

'And Party Every Day' Audiobook Available Now

A sample can be heard at this location.

The "And Party Every Day" audiobook has been released in five different formats: 1) a single-disc MP3 format CD; 2) a nine-disc CD boxed set; 3) a plugin flashdrive/playaway version; and 4) an Audible digital download, and 5) a library-folder pressing on nine cassettes.

Now it can be told! The true story of Casablanca Records, from an eyewitness to the excess and insanity.

Casablanca was not a product of the 1970s, it was the 1970s. From 1974 to 1980, the landscape of American culture was a banquet of hedonism and self-indulgence, and no person or company in that era was more emblematic of the times than Casablanca Records and its magnetic founder, Neil Bogart. From his daring first signing of KISS, through the discovery and superstardom of DONNA SUMMER, VILLAGE PEOPLE, and funk master George Clinton and his circus of freaks — PARLIAMENT/FUNKADELIC — to the descent into the manic world of disco, this book charts Bogart's meteoric success and eventual collapse under the weight of uncontrolled ego and hype. It is a compelling tale of ambition, greed, excess, and some of the era's biggest music acts.

Gene Simmons whets fans appetites as he says their new album is a hybrid of Destroyer and Revenge

The Kiss main man says long-term fans of the band can expect their much anticipated follow up to 2009’s ‘Sonic Boom’ to sound like a cross between ‘Destroyer’ and ‘Revenge’ and he adds every single song was written entirely by the band themselves.

In an interview with Elliot In The Morning Simmons said: “Yes (we’ve been in the studio), we’re halfway through it. We got five tracks done in two days so it may be the fastest record we’ve ever done and it really sounds terrific and Paul’s really doing a great job.

“All the songs are band written, co-written together with no outside writers. I could describe it for those out there who are Kiss fans as a cross between ‘Destroyer’ and ‘Revenge’ – very similar.

“So there’s no rapping, no mixing, none of that stuff. Straight ahead meat and potatoes, guitars drums and some throat-wrenching vocals.

“We don’t know yet (if it will be out before the end of the year) but what we do know is, in the middle of the recording process in June, we’re going to be going out and doing 15-shows in cities we promised we’d get to that most people don’t get to like Fort McMurray in Canada – really small out of the way places.

“We had a contest about two-years back for people to vote in cities for us to play and we just never got a chance to play them but we keep our promises and we’ll be doing 15 of those shows.”

Listen to the most vaccuous interviewer on the planet here: Listen.

PAUL WARNS OF HEARING LOSS DANGER

But the KISS lead singer says he's joining forces with the non profit House Research Group precisely because some of his fans will listen to his warnings.

"I think what young people don't realize is that when you lose your hearing you don't get it back and there are easy ways of preventing that from happening," Stanley tells The News.

"If I want to listen to music loud, I slip in earplugs under my earphones," he says. "I can still turn my brain into a milkshake without melting my ears."

Stanley says he was especially jarred to learn that hearing loss has gone up 30% in just the last 15 years among teenagers. He thinks about it everytime he sees young fans walking down the street with earphones plugged in.

And most concerts, KISS' included, are amped to roughly 105 decibels, he says.

That's loud enough to damage hearing in just four minutes — the length of his band's hit, "God of Thunder."

It's a very personal issue for the 59-yearold Stanley. He was born deaf in his right ear.

"You never miss what you haven't had," says Stanley. But he quickly adds that the condition made him pay a heck of a lot attention to protecting his left ear.

Stanley headlines "Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration," 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. today at the Director's Guild of America Theatre, 110 W. 57th St. (Visit soundrules.org for information on free tickets.)

But it's not all work for the native New Yorker — he's also looking forward to wolfing down some real pizza and shopping for guitars on 48th St.

He worked as a taxi driver before breaking big with friend Gene Simmons and their band. "I remember driving people in my cab to see Elvis, and I thought to myself, ‘One of these days other people will be taking cabs to see me," he says.

Paul Stanley on Childhood Hearing Loss

NY/NJ KISS FAN EXPO

This year's guests include Lisa Jane Persky from KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park, J.R. Smalling - first KISS tour manager, and Victor Stabin - KISS Unmasked Album Cover Artist.

Wall to wall KISS merchandise for sale... Classic '70's KISS merchandise along with the new and current memorabilia. EVERY dealer will be a KISS dealer - no filler!

Bring the whole family, there will be many activities for the kids!

Saturday, May 14, 2011 12 pm - 8 pm
Crowne Plaza Hotel
110 Davidson Ave, Somerset NJ 0887
www.njkissexpo.com

The NY/NJ KISS Fan Expo is a fan produced event.

KISS MINI GOLF TO ROCK LAS VEGAS THIS FALL

KISS and Monster Mini Golf announced today the signing of a lease for the first KISS-themed Monster Mini Golf Course in the world: Monster Mini Golf presents KISS. Construction is underway at the indoor glow-in-the-dark course, located across from the Hard Rock Hotel, at the Shoppes at Harmon Square.

A KISS-raising rock and roll opening is set for early Fall 2011.

The custom-designed, frightfully fun course will feature animated KISS and monster props lurking in all 18 fairways. A live DJ will rock the raucous house with continuous KISS music, trivia, contests, and prizes. A gift shop will offer unique KISS and Monster souvenirs. And for party monsters, one-of-a-kind KISS themed event rooms will host KISS and monster-themed parties, events and wedding celebrations.

"At Monster Mini Golf presents KISS, rockers and golfers of all ages can enjoy a screamingly good time at affordable family-friendly prices," explains Christina Vitagliano, Monster Mini Golf Founder. "There's nothing like this venue anywhere else in Las Vegas or the world. So, it's beyond cool. It's KISS!"

Dell Furano, CEO of Live Nation Merchandise adds, "KISS and Monster Mini Golf will create a powerful and full entertainment mini golf experience, complete with amazing music, special effects, and monster-sized swagger. KISS continues to be the leader in great and unique entertainment products."

Live Nation Merchandise, the exclusive worldwide merchandise and licensing agent for KISS, brokered this KISS Monster Mini Golf deal.

About Monster Mini Golf: Monster Mini Golf is the leader in cutting-edge indoor glow-in-the-dark themed entertainment centers. Founded in 2004, the company boasts 25 (and counting) 18-hole miniature golf courses across the country. Each custom-designed course also features an arcade game area, private event rooms, an in-house DJ, and fantastic entertainment for the whole family. For additional information visit www.monsterminigolf.com.

About KISS: KISS, the legendary American rock band formed in New York City in 1972, is one of the most influential bands in the history of rock and roll. Their career milestones are staggering. KISS is one of America's top gold-record champions who recorded 37 albums over 36 years and has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. Over thirty years of record-breaking tours around the globe include high-profile appearances at Super Bowl XXXIII, the2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, the 2005 Rockin' The Corps concert dedicated to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and, most recently, the 2009 finale of American Idol that boasted 30 million viewers.

The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation. The unparalleled devotion and loyalty of the KISS Army to the "Hottest Band in the World" is a striking testament to the band's unbreakable bond with its fans. In 2009, KISS was nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

For updates on the Monster Mini Golf Presents KISS project see our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/MonsterMiniGolfKISS

Ty Stone, Ace Frehley join lineup for Mount Clemens' Stars and Stripes Festival

The free festival, entering its fifth year, will also boast performances by modern rockers Tonic and '80s heartthrob Rick Springfield. More acts are due to be announced prior to the festival.

Funfest Productions, which runs Stars and Stripes, has also announced initial lineups for another pair of Metro Detroit summer festivals.

Sponge, Gin Blossoms and the Tubes will perform at Woodhaven's Uncle Sam Jam, July 8-10, according to Funfest reps. The second annual festival will see more acts announced in the coming weeks.

Sponge will also take the reins at the St. Clair Riverfest in downtown St. Clair, July 29-31. Mitch Ryder and John Waite are also among the performers who will appear at the fest, organizers say.

ROCK 'N ROLL ALL NITE AND MINI EVERYDAY!

And to make it a truly epic event, MINI and the legendary rock band KISS have joined forces in suport of UNICEF to help children in Japan and emergency efforts around the world.

Four custom-pained, KISS-inspired MINI Countryman were designed as part of this epic collaboration. They will be auctioned off to benefit UNICEF on May 29th. Also, check out one of the KISS-inspired Countryman that will be on display at every tour stop.

The tour runs through June 7th with stops in 96 cities nationwide.

CLICK HERE FOR DEALER TOUR DATES

KISS ADDS TWO MORE SUMMER SHOWS

NEW KISS US & CANADIAN DATES ADDED!

KISS ADDS NEW HAMPSHIRE & ILLINOIS SHOWS

New KISS dates:
July 12 - Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, NH
July 18 - Prairie Capital Convention Center in Springfield, IL

General public tickets go on sale May 7th. Stay tuned to KOL for KISS Army pre-sale info.

TOKYO UNHOLY ROCKS WTH KISS!

Mountain Laurel arts center gets KISS for reopening

On July 13, the Pike County venue will host glam rockers KISS in its first show since 2007.

It's an all-star start for the troubled venue, which first opened in 2003 amid applause and a torrent of public money but could never stay afloat after several tries.

Now under the guidance of concert veteran David Rodriguez, it has a new tagline: "The music is back in the Pocono Mountains."

Unreleased KISS Classics Come To 'Rock Band 3'

As always, songs available as downloadable content for "Rock Band 3" feature five-button guitar and bass parts, drums, Pro Drums, and keys, Pro Keys and harmonies, where applicable. Some songs also feature Pro Guitar and Pro Bass upgrades available for an additional $0.99 upgrade download.

MINI USA AND KISS at NY AUTO SHOW

More Footage From The Studio Posted Online

A new one-minute video clip featuring footage from the studio can be viewed here.

KISS JOINS MINI USA AT THE NEW YORK AUTO SHOW

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., April 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MINI USA launches the "MINI Rocks the Rivals" competitive test-drive tour in the USA, and as part of the kickoff, MINI has partnered with legendary rock band KISS to raise money for UNICEF to help children in Japan and emergencies around the globe.

KISS band members made the announcement live as four MINI Countryman vehicles with KISS-inspired designs made their debut at the New York Auto Show, each representing one of the KISS band member's iconic faces. All four vehicles will be auctioned after being custom painted with the revealed design and signed by all four KISS members. Fans will be able to bid on the vehicles during a special Father's Day eBay charity auction opening May 29th and proceeds will be donated to UNICEF.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Japan in this time of great tragedy. We wanted to help and also to provide a real way for the KISS Army to get involved," said Gene Simmons of KISS. "UNICEF raises money to help children who are still coping with the effects of these disasters, and also supports other very important emergency relief efforts around the world. Join the KISS Army in giving."

In addition to the vehicle charity auction, MINI USA will sell MINI vehicle wraps of the KISS designs revealed at the New York Auto Show beginning April 21, 2011. MINI USA's proceeds from those sales will also be donated to UNICEF.

"MINI and its owners have long been dedicated to contributing to philanthropic and charitable efforts," said Jim McDowell, Vice President - MINI USA. "MINI USA had established a relationship with KISS as we kick off the 'MINI Rocks the Rivals' tour in the US, and these fundraising initiatives were an ideal way for us to incorporate a fun charitable component to the campaign with these original pieces of art."

For additional information, images and video please visit: www.miniusanews.com.

KISS RECREATES DETROIT ROCK CITY AT MINI STAND

Gene Simmons, the bassist and vocalist, stuck out his infamous tongue and raised his arms, while the guitarist Tommy Thayer and the drummer Eric Singer lunged for the photo opportunity. The fourth Kiss member, Paul Stanley, was unable to attend because of a family emergency, Mr. Simmons said. Mini USA President Jim McDowell wore Kiss-inspired makeup and introduced the band. In their tall heels, they towered over Mr. McDowell. “I seem a little short,” he said.

“You don’t seem short,” Mr. Simmons said in response.” You are short.”

The band gathered in the basement of the Javits for interviews with Mr. McDowell after the conference. Mr. McDowell used a makeup artist for the event, but the band said they always apply the makeup themselves.

The auction begins online May 29 and runs to June 19. “We don’t make it a habit of doing press conferences and trying to convince people that we care about the planet we live and we live on the planet,” Mr. Simmons said. They also work with the charity Wounded Warriors. “We’re very blessed to lead this life.”

They have 20 concerts scheduled for this summer. “Detroit’s got its wonderful qualities and New York does too. What a great way to see America in the Mini Cooper. Wouldn’t that be cool?” Mr. Simmons said. “I’m going to get me one. I want the Demon. Jim is going to get me the Demon Mini Cooper.”

Several of the band members collect cars. “We are car aficionados,” Mr. Singer said. “I have a couple vintage cars. I go to car shows on the weekend. Southern California is the car culture of America when it comes down to it.”

When it’s time to tour, they take to the skies “We have a Kiss jet,” Mr. Thayer said. “But we’re all into cars we can appreciate great cars. Mini Coopers have a rock and roll history. Back in the ’60s the Beatles used to drive Mini Coopers, Paul McCartney, John Lennon.”

None of the Kiss members drive Minis, but they each expressed an interest in driving Minis around Los Angeles. “Not as many cars would look good with your face wrapped on them,” Mr. McDowell said.

ACE FREHLEY To Perform Entire 1978 Solo Album At U.K.'s HARD ROCK HELL

Simmons sends Intertainment stock up the charts

Intertainment hit a 52-week intraday high of $3.35 a share Tuesday before sliding to close up 10 cents at $2.25 as more than 64 million shares changed hands on the TSX Venture Exchange. The company, which has reported no earnings and no significant revenue to date, has seen its stock gain a whopping 2,150 per cent this year.

“It’s getting a little crazy,” says Peter Hodson, a portfolio manager at Sprott Inc. who bought Intertainment shares between 50 and 70 cents a share in early February.

There is “chatter” on the Street that Mr. Simmons plans to soon do a demonstration with his fans around the world on Intertainment’s Ortsbo.com site so “that is perhaps what is driving the stock,” Mr. Hodson said. “ I am not a big KISS fan, but Gene has been very entrepreneurial. He has turned a mediocre rock band into a worldwide conglomerate.”

Intertainment has gained $1.58 a share over 11 sessions after Mr. Simmons agreed to become a shareholder and also a promoter for Ortsbo. The website says it enables users to hold online chats in more than 50 languages, with immediate translation of their text messages.

The stock has gained momentum after the company announced earlier this week that it had achieved a “major milestone,” reaching 12.2 million unique visitors in less than 10 months.

“There may be some very large buyers who want a piece of this social media opportunity before it’s too late,” Mr. Hodson suggested. “But it’s exceptionally hard to value, and you don’t know how much money is going to be ultimately made down the road.”

Intertainment chief executive officer David Lucatch said that he convinced Mr. Simmons to get onboard earlier this year after persuading the entertainer, who couldn’t speak English when he emigrated from Israel to the United States as a boy, to try the site.

“Gene typed a message to one of my staff in Hungarian,” Mr. Lucatch recalled. “My staff member received it in simplified Chinese over Ortsbo. She typed it back in Spanish, and he received it in English … We were using four different dialects in a single conversation, and he was blown away.”

Hedge fund manager Steven Palmer of AlphaNorth Asset Management Inc. began buying shares of Intertainment at 5 cents a share through private placements as early as 2009. “It remains to be seen whether it will continue to grow at a rate comparable to Facebook,” he said. “That is what is getting people excited.”

KISS TO ROCK NEWFOUNDLAND!

KISS will headline the Salmon Festival Mega Concert 2011 at Centennial Park in Newfoundland, Canada on Saturday, July 9th!

Tickets for KISS at the Festival go on sale to the general public on Thursday, April 28th.

A KISS ARMY Members-only ticket presale will begin on April 21st at 8AM (EDT) on KOL.

PAUL ON CNN'S DR. GUPTA SHOW NEXT WEEK

KISS front man to sit down with CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent to discuss hearing loss

Paul Stanley, the front man and driving force for KISS, will be interviewed in-studio by CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta on Tuesday, April 19 in Los Angeles.

Paul will discuss his own hearing loss and efforts to bring awareness to noise-induced hearing loss amongst teens through his work with the world-renowned House Research Institute.

Paul will be headlining the House Research Institute’s upcoming ITS HOW YOU LISTEN THAT COUNTS campaign in New York (May 4) and Los Angeles (May 12).

Be sure to check back for details regarding air dates for Paul’s interview with Dr. Sanjay Gupta.

For more information regarding attending Paul Stanley’s New York and Los Angeles appearances in May, go to www.soundrules.org.

CASTLE: To Love and Die in L.A. (5/2)

In the episode, Gene Simmons (legendary rock star of KISS) appears as himself, Dominic Purcell ("Prison Break") guests as a local businessman who may have a connection to the murder, D.B. Sweeney ("The Cutting Edge") plays a detective in Robbery Homicide who questions Castle and Beckett about their rogue investigation, and Jason George ("Off the Map") guests as an entrepreneur with a connection to the murder case.

"Castle" stars Nathan Fillion as Richard Castle, Stana Katic as NYPD Detective Kate Beckett, Susan Sullivan as Martha Rodgers, Molly Quinn as Alexis Castle, Ruben Santiago-Hudson as NYPD Captain Roy Montgomery, Tamala Jones as Medical Examiner Lanie Parish, Jon Huertas as NYPD Detective Javier Esposito, and Seamus Dever as NYPD Detective Kevin Ryan.

Guest Cast: Gene Simmons as himself, Dominic Purcell as Russell Ganz, D.B. Sweeney as Detective Kyle Seeger, Jason George as Charles Kelvin, Justice Gamble as Ochoa (Esposito in the movie), Ryan Deal as Raley (Ryan in the movie).

"To Love and Die in L.A." was written by Alexi Hawley and directed by John Terlesky.

KISS IN THE STUDIO DAY 2

PAUL STANLEY Talks About Hearing Loss On 'The Doctors'

You can now watch video footage of Stanley's appearance on "The Doctors" at this location. A web-exclusive clip in which Paul shares tips on how to protect your hearing is available here.

Did you know that Stanley was born deaf in his right ear?

Did you also know that 1 out of 5 teens has a hearing loss? That's a 30 percent increase just in the last 15 years.

Maybe that explains why the legendary front man who has sold over 100 million albums is so passionate about preventing hearing loss amongst teens.

Stanley, has teamed-up with the non-profit House Research Institute on a major initiative called "It's How You Listen That Counts" to educate millions of teens around the world on preventing noise-induced hearing loss.

Paul will be drawing the attention of teens in New York City and Los Angeles to hearing health issues through an after-school event called Sound Rules!

The event, free for teens, will take place at the Director's Guilds in New York City on May 4 and Los Angeles on May 12.

On Wednesday, May 4 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., the House Research Institute (HRI) will present "Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration" at the Director's Guild of America (DGA) Theatre located at 110 West 57th Street in Manhattan in New York City.

On Thursday, May 12 at 3:30 p.m., the House Research Institute will present "Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration" at the Director's Guild of America Theatre in Los Angeles, located at 7920 Sunset Boulevard.

Sound Rules! is a FREE hearing loss prevention education and entertainment event for teens that will feature Paul Stanley, lead singer/guitarist of KISS and hearing health experts from the House Research Institute, along with valuable contest prizes and giveaways. Space is limited; reservations are required.

For more information and registration, visit SoundRules.org.

PAUL STANLEY: New KISS Album Leaves 'Sonic Boom' In The Dust

A video message from KISS guitarist/vocalist Paul Stanley can be viewed here.

Said Stanley in the clip: "Wednesday, April 13. We are in the studio again doing the follow-up to 'Sonic Boom'. Today is the first day in the studio. All the gear got set up yesterday. Eric [Singer] is sitting behind the drums feverishly waiting to cut that first track. So history will be made. This album, I'm telling you, everybody agrees, leaves 'Sonic Boom' in the dust. So this is awesome, and you'll be hearing it soon."

KISS RETURNING TO ROGERS BAYFEST

For more info on the FEST visit www.sarniabayfest.com.

Tickets for KISS at Bayfest go on sale to the general public on Saturday, April 16.

KISS me once, KISS me twice

Rogers Bayfest is bringing back familiar faces for a four-day rock lineup this summer that include legendary rockers KISS and Canadian favourites the Tragically Hip, along with INXS, Theory of a Deadman and The Tea Party.

"We have some repeats, but they're the best of the best that we're bringing back," said Michele Stokley, the woman at the helm of the 13th annual summer music festival in Sarnia.

"I'm glad to finally be able to announce it. And I'm excited that we've got something for everyone."

The festival kicks of Wednesday July 6 with KISS — who performed to a sold out Centennial Park crowd in 2009.

"It was, for sure, the most memorable, most talked about show ever," said Stokley, noting it was the band's management that approached her about returning to Sarnia.

"Actually, Gene Simmons was doing a talk on marketing, and mentioned our venue and the size of the population and the number of people that we brought in.

"So, it was obviously a memorable one for them."

The concert series continues Friday July 8 with the previously announced headliner Steve Miller Band, and Canadian rockers The Trews.

Saturday's lineup features the Australian group INXS, and Canadian bands Theory of a Deadman and an all-original member reunion of The Tea Party.

"They've decided to tour again with J.D. (Fortune)," Stokley said of INXS and their Canadian frontman. "We wanted to put a whole package together. So adding Theory and The Tea Party reunion will just be one of those nights where you walk in the park and it's non-stop great entertainment."

Bayfest veterans The Tragically Hip will headline the Sunday, July 10 show, backed by Canadian acts Arkells and Joel Plaskett.

"They're a great Canadian band with a great following," Stokley said of the Hip, who first performed at Bayfest nearly ten years ago.

"I've always said that, in 2002, they're the band that made Bayfest grow," said Stokley. "They were our first big one; the first show we ever ever sold out."

The country lineup announced back in December features headliners Trace Adkins and Montgomery Gentry on Friday July 15 with special guests George Canyon and Dry Country, while Lady Antebellum, Rodney Atkins, Aaron Pritchett and Scott Manery and the Barnburners will perform Saturday July 16.

"We still have a date to add," said Stokley, pointing to a seventh date added this year thanks to a grant from a Celebrate Ontario.

The final show is still in the works, she added. It will not be included in either of the rock or country pass packages.

"It's going to be a different music genre, and it's going to be sold on its own."

Tickets for Rogers Bayfest go on sale Saturday at 10 a.m.

KISS To Appear On PAUL MCCARTNEY Covers Album?

THE BEATLES legend is reportedly putting together a compilation of his best-known tracks as performed by some of his favorite musicians, including Billy Joel. He has hand-picked the acts he wants to take part in the project and even reportedly arranged for his son James to duet on THE CURE's contribution to the record.

Read more from The Sun.

DESTROYER FANZINE POSTER SPECIAL

PAUL STANLEY TO APPEAR ON "THE DOCTORS"

Paul Stanley, the driving force behind KISS, the greatest rock band of all time, will appear on the nationally-syndicated television show The Doctors on Thursday, April 14. Paul will discuss his work with the non-profit House Research Institute, his own hearing loss and his efforts to prevent noise-induced hearing loss amongst teens.

Check your local listings for air times or go to www.thedoctorstv.com for further programming information.

'Castle': First look at L.A. episode, with guest star Gene Simmons

Rock star Gene Simmons pops up as himself and the owner of the Beverly Hills mansion where the victim was living — we’ve got your first look at his guest spot above. Other guest stars include Prison Break‘s Dominic Purcell as a local businessman who may have a connection to the murder, The Cutting Edge‘s D.B. Sweeney as a detective in Robbery Homicide who questions Castle and Beckett about their rogue investigation, and Off the Map‘s Jason George as an entrepreneur with a connection to the murder case. I’m guessing we’re supposed to be most intrigued by this line in ABC’s episode description, “As they get closer to apprehending their killer, Castle begins to wonder whether Beckett is out for justice…or revenge,” but really, I’m most excited to see faux Esposito and Ryan. You?

KISS Begins Rehearsing For New Album Sessions

KISS is scheduled to enter the studio this week to begin recording the follow-up to 2009's "Sonic Boom" for a late 2011 release. In a March 10, 2011 interview with DJ JC Green of Alfa Rock 105.7 FM and Metal Messiah Radio's "Heavy Metal Thunder" program, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons stated about the forthcoming CD, "The new record, which we already started working on, is gonna be the next step to 'Sonic Boom'. Very similar — straight rock songs, no ballads, no keyboards, no nothing, just rock. . . A lot of the songs [have been] written by the whole band together, so no outside writers, just the band doing what it did on the first three records — writing the songs ourselves." He added, "We have almost all the songs written. In fact, we have too many songs; we have about 20 to 25 things that look and sound good."

ACE FREHLEY Schedules Tour Dates

Jun. 18 - Slinger, WI - Slinger Rocks
Aug. 13 - Three Forks, MT - Rockin' the Rivers Festival
Aug. 28 - Auburn, MI - DET Energy Center (with ALICE COOPER)

KLASSIK KISS TRIBUTE PRESENTS DESTROYER

To celebrate the 35th Anniversary of KISS' 1976 studio masterpiece "DESTROYER", KLASSIK KISS will perform the “DESTROYER” album in its entirety, plus 10 more KISS classics.

This special KLASSIK KISS production includes the following:
• 1976 “DESTROYER” themed stage production & costumes, with additional album imagery
• all “DESTROYER” songs & sound effects performed in album sequence
• piano/strings (via live keyboardist) for each song on “DESTROYER” (as originally recorded)
• plus, an additional 10 song set of more classic 70’s KISS…and even more surprises

KLASSIK KISS will be presenting this production throughout the USA & Canada at select Theaters and Casinos.

Visit www.klassikkiss.com for show dates & info.

Gene Simmons to Pitch Social Media Translator

Toronto-based Intertainment said Simmons, who speaks five languages, including English, Hebrew, Hungarian, and German, has become a business partner and official spokesman for Ortsbo.

The tie-up is opportune: Intertainment recently received an unsolicited $30 million bid for the Ortsbo platform from a North American investment firm, which is now under review.

Ortsbo offers instant, real-time translation of conversations in over 50 languages on social media sites and chat rooms.

"LET ME GO, ROCK AND ROLL" LIVE IN HOLLYWOOD

Castle Scoop: Gene Simmons Ready to Rock

TVLine has exclusively learned that Simmons will appear as his badass self in Castle‘s Los Angeles-set murder-mystery episode, set to air in early May.

Per an ABC insider, Castle (Nathan Fillion) and Beckett (Stana Katic) follow a lead straight to their victim’s Beverly Hills home, which just so happens to be owned by the rock superstar. Turns out, said victim had been living in the pad’s guest house prior to the incident. After a quick chat with Simmons in his fictional Beverly Hills backyard, the crimefighting pair sets off to continue their trek through La-La Land.

Gene Simmons: Life Insurance Salesman

Gene Simmons has embraced many personas over the years: The demonic, fire-breathing bass player for legendary rockers KISS. A rabid merchandiser who oversees an empire built on his band's merchandise, ranging from T-shirts to designer coffins. The star of a reality series, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, gearing up for its seventh season on the A&E network.

His latest venture is helping sell life insurance to high-net-worth individuals.

Simmons spoke to TheStreet recently as he packed for a trip to Israel being filmed for his TV show. It is the first time he has returned to his homeland since -- as a young man named Chaim Witz, the son of an Auschwitz death camp survivor -- his family migrated to Queens, N.Y., in search of a better life.

The night before the trip to Israel, KISS played their usual set of hits, Detroit Rock City, Love Gun and Stutter among them, at Reliant Stadium in Houston. Once upon a time, backstage post-concert might have been a bacchanalia; that night it was a client meeting.

Simmons was schmoozing for Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy, a Franklin, Tenn.-based firm he helped found a year ago. The firm specializes in providing life insurance for the rich in, it claims, a very financially advantaged way.

Focusing on those with assets of $20 million or more, Cool Springs facilitates loans that allow clients to procure high-value life insurance policies with little or no money upfront. The loan, which covers premiums, can be paid incrementally or settled from the ultimate payout. The firm says this approach helps minimizes estate taxes.

Some in the industry cast a skeptical, if not critical, eye on the concept of premium financing, which other firms and insurance companies have offered over the years. Cool Springs says its strategy will succeed because the cost of borrowing and commissions are low for their affluent clients. The interest rate is flat, based upon the London Interbank Offered Rate. Clients have the option to fix the interest rate for a term ranging from one to 30 years or allow it to fluctuate as frequently as every week.

Among Simmons' partners in the venture are CEO Samuel Watson, a 29-year veteran of the life insurance industry, and David R. Carpenter, who retired in 1995 as chairman and CEO of Transamerica. Also aboard is Richard Abramson, who managed Paul Reubens' Pee-wee Herman character, co-created and produced the acclaimed children's show Pee-Wee's Playhouse and previously joined forces with Simmons for several business ventures, including a marketing firm that included the Indianapolis 500 as a client.

Simmons' involvement came after he and Abramson, having passed on a financial product they were working on, were introduced to Watson.

Simmons role is rainmaker, an evangelist for the new firm whose fame and connections can bring in clients from the world of entertainment and sports.

And Simmons has his patter down, stressing how even the most financially savvy can be either underinsured or choosing the wrong products.

"Life insurance is a must," he says. "It's the one thing in your life you are doing for everybody else. Once you are dead, you really don't care, but while you are alive it is the one big, selfless thing you should be doing. And you should try to maximize the amount of money that you leave behind to your family, your loved ones and whoever else you deem."

Simmons is blunt that, at his company, only the super-rich need apply.

"It is not for everybody," he says. "People of a certain economic level should be buying Volkswagens, and they shouldn't be getting a Rolls-Royce."

In keeping with assumptions you might make based on his public persona, it doesn't take much prompting for Simmons to veer away from the dry selling points of insurance.

The word "premium?" He hates it, considering it a "soft sell" that avoids calling it what it is -- "money, writing a check."

"I hate fine print," he adds, building a head of steam. "I hate it. You can't even go in and buy a car. The sticker price is $25,000. But, by the time you leave, it is $31,000. Why doesn't it just say $31,000 as the full price? Because they lie, that's why."

A mention of the estate tax, zeroed out last year and back at 35% for this year and next, propels him even more into invective.

On the national debt: "Between bailouts and schmeckle-outs and all the -outs that the government has gotten involved in, big government is now bigger than ever. You longer need mommy and daddy to wipe your butt, you've got the government to do that every time you do something wrong."

On tax policy: "They've got to get the money somehow, and they are going to get it, trust me. How are they going to do it? It's Robin Hood time. Somebody's going to take from the rich and give to the poor. The American Dream -- work as hard as you can and enjoy the fruits of your labors -- is not really true. Under the present administration, which I voted for, a more accurate description is, 'Work as hard as you can and when you finally gain the rewards of your hard work, we're going to make sure a lot of it goes back to everybody else.'"

On jobs: "If we don't leave the rich alone, and I'm talking as a poor person who worked his way up, they will move to Sweden or someplace else. Keep beating up the people who create jobs and watch them go offshore. Everybody is shocked when you pick up the phone to order a magazine subscription that the order fulfillment is in India. Everybody s shocked when that happens. well, keep beating people up who create jobs and see what happens."

On challenges entrepreneurs and small business face: "I want to start a business, so I go and I borrow and get myself deeply in debt. I'm going to make 'popcorn farts' -- that's going to be my product. I have to pay rent or buy a building. I'm on the hook for that. I have to hire people, I have to pay their salaries, worry about their retirement plans and, in case one gets pregnant, I have to worry about the pregnancy plan, I have to pay for their vacations and overtime. Then, I have to buy equipment and insure the place.

"Finally I make the first popcorn fart. It costs me a dollar to make, that's the cost of goods, and if I'm lucky I can get $1.40 to $1.50 for it. The store, the distributor and everybody else will make much more than I do, and all they do is sell it. Everybody else gets paid first, if there's a profit I get paid last. If the business goes under, I am fully on the hook for it. And, after I make my first dollar, I have to give 50% to the government if I'm lucky. After that, if I want to leave it to my heirs I get beaten up again. At what point do they just simply come clean and say, 'I have a gun to your head, give me your money.' The capitalist system is not in good shape. The American dream is not what it used to be, and that is why the people who become high-net-worth individuals have to be much more diligent that they ever have been before."

ROCK STAR PLAYS HARD ON STAGE & COURSE

ERIC SINGER PROJECT: Helsinki Interview, Performance Footage

ESP in 2006 released the "Live in Japan" CD. A DVD set filmed in Sydney, Australia, entitled "Live at the Marquee", was also issued.

ESP's setlist consists mainly of KISS hits and obscure KISS songs that have never before been played live, along with selections from MÖTLEY CRÜE, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, ALICE COOPER and other classic rock bands.

Interview: Video

Performance: Clip 1, Clip 2, Clip 3, Clip 4, Clip 5.

ACE FREHLEY On VH1 CLASSIC's 'That Metal Show'; Entire Episode Available

During his appearance on the program, Frehley told the story of the time KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons saved him from drowning.

Ace Frehley: "I didn't know Gene was a lifeguard. I actually drowned one day at a Holiday Inn." (laughs) I'm serious."

"That Metal Show" co-host Don Jamieson: "Was it after [fellow "That Metal Show" co-host] Eddie's [Trunk] wedding. That's where he got married." (laughs)

Ace Frehley: "No, this was before, this was in the Seventies. I actually drowned. Everyone else was fucked up, I was fucked up obviously, but everyone else was loaded and I went under. I'm thinking about the 'Bugs Bunny' cartoon where he puts up one finger, and he goes down (laughs) and he puts up two fingers and he goes down. I'm laughing hysterically (laughs) and the next thing you know I'm drowning. Gene pulls me out of the pool and pumps the water out of me. Only later I found out that he was a certified lifeguard when he used to go to college."

Eddie and Don: "Wow!"

Jim Florentine: "Did he charge you for saving his life?" (laughs)

Ace Frehley: "That's a good question." (laughs).

Check out the full episode here.

Gene Simmons' Family Jewels in Israel

Alright, it’s tabloid pop culture royalty, but anyone witnessing the scene last week at the swanky David Citadel Hotel would admit nonetheless that it’s royalty – even more so than the visit which ended the day before Simmons arrived of Sarah Palin who stayed next door at the Mamilla Hotel (after reservations were changed when news was leaked she’d be staying at the David Citadel).

The Israeli-born co-founder of rock giants Kiss and his Playboy playmate girlfriend indeed cut a glamorous cloth around the hotel as they arrived along with Nick, one of their two children, to film episodes of their US reality show “Gene Simmons Family Jewels.”

Simmons moves more slowly than the days when he was regularly breathing fire and spitting theatrical blood onstage as the front man and bassist for Kiss, rock’s biggest spectacle in the 1970s. But speaking respectable Hebrew from the nine years he lived as a youth in the small town of Tirat Carmel, Simmons takes over whatever space he’s in with a long mane of black hair, a dark sports coat and sunglasses. And he had a great story to tell.

His mother had been in Auschwitz and witnessed most of her family go to the gas chambers. Arriving in Israel after the Holocaust, she married and gave birth to Simmons (born Chaim Witz), but in 1960, left her husband and took her young son to a new life in Brooklyn. Witz became Gene Klein and eventually Simmons, now a household name.

Proclaiming to be ardently pro-Israel, Simmons never returned to his homeland until last week, and that was only after the Tourism Ministry helped to foot the bill for his entourage of producers, camera men and assistants who took up eight rooms at the hotel.

“As an American, there’s no choice but to be supportive of Israel,” he said. “This is the Holy Land, and it’s no secret that everybody in America perceives Israel as it’s only real friend in the Middle East – who else are you going to rely on?” said Simmons during a round of interviews at the beginning of his week-long visit which is taking him to Jewish and Christian holy sites around the country.

He told AP that he’s ridden a camel and enjoyed watching Tweed float in the Dead Sea.

Israel last week survived a terror attack in the capital, the Jerusalem Marathon and the sentencing of its former president for rape. Will we be able to survive Gene Simmons and his family jewels?

VIDEO OF "COLD GIN" LIVE IN HOLLYWOOD

Quality Video Footage Of 'Modern Day Delilah' From Hollywood, Florida

Kiss rocker Gene Simmons back in Israel after 51 years

“It’s amazing to be back here,” said the outspoken 61- year-old co-founder of rock legend Kiss on Tuesday in Jerusalem’s David Citadel Hotel, where his entourage has taken over eight rooms.

Simmons is here with his long-time companion Shannon Tweed and their son Nick to film episodes of their US reality show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

“One thing that’s striking is that I never remember seeing so many yarmulkes here. It’s all of a sudden teeming with hassidim – hassidim, but I don’t believe ’em,’ said Simmons, like a rapper. “I’m used to Israel as a secular place where people just are Israelis.

I much prefer it as a modern, not-so-archaic-looking place.”

Simmons is still adept at the Hebrew he learned as a child and responded in a broad American accent to a question of whether he still spoke the language, “Ken, aval shahachti hatzi hasafa (Yes, but I’ve forgotten half the language).”

An imposing figure with a mane of black hair, a dark sports coat and sunglasses, Simmons moves more slowly than in the days when he was regularly breathing fire and spitting theatrical blood onstage as the front man and bassist for Kiss, rock’s biggest spectacle in the 1970s.

But even without the sci-fi makeup, the exceptionally long tongue on display and the 10-inch platform shoes that undoubtedly created a superhuman effect onstage, he still possesses the magnetism that’s helped his group sell 100 million records, continue to draw sellout crowds and forge a multimillion-dollar business empire complete with Kiss video games, comics and even a credit card.

Simmons’ rags-to-riches story had a particularly difficult beginning as his father, a carpenter in Tirat Carmel, was barely able to eke out a living for his wife and son.

When Simmons’ Hungarian-born mother Flora left her husband and moved with the young Witz to Jackson Heights, Queens in 1960 in pursuit of the American dream, they were not far removed from the European nightmare the family had experienced in the Holocaust.

Imprisoned at Auschwitz at age 14, Flora saw her mother, grandmother and almost all of her family go the gas chambers, but it was a story that Simmons, who changed his name to Gene Klein in the US and eventually to Simmons, didn’t hear until much later.

“When I was growing up, my mother hardly ever talked to me about Nazi Germany and the concentration camps because she didn’t want to upset me, and I hardly ever asked her about it,” said Simmons.

“But over the years, I started to learn more about it and about how my entire family was killed and how my mother saw her mother go with her grandmother to the gas chambers.”

Even though he had never returned to Israel until this week, Simmons has always been an ardent supporter of the country, most recently sending a televised message to an IDF soldier (and Kiss fan) wounded during the 2006 war with Hezbollah, in which he called the soldier a “hero.”

Although Kiss has never appeared in Israel, Simmons dismissed other entertainers who have chosen to boycott the country as “idiots.”

“As an American, there’s no choice but to be supportive of Israel,” he said. “This is the Holy Land, and it’s no secret that everybody in America perceives Israel as its only real friend in the Middle East – who else are you going to rely on? “So when Israelis get touchy because – oops – somebody criticized them, they have to remember that Americans are used to criticizing everybody.

You need to develop a tough skin and remember, it’s not what someone says, it’s what they do.

“Do you ever doubt that if anything threatened Israel’s existence that the US would come to its defense with all of it nuclear capabilities? I don’t."

According to Simmons, Israel has been a source of pride for him ever since he left.

“There ain’t no place like it on planet Earth. It’s astonishing that it’s still here – stronger and prouder than ever,” he said, adding that the recent upheavals in the Muslim world have filled him with hope for the future of Israeli-Arab ties.

“We went from being slaves in Egypt to actually having a peace treaty with the same people who enslaved us. And now, seeing those people rise up and want the same kinds of things that other democracies in the world have is astonishing,” he said.

“I saw a CNN interview that was so telling. The interviewer asked one of the young, well-dressed demonstrators in a Cairo street if he would like to thank anybody for the popular uprising, and he said, ‘I would like to thank Mr. Zuckerberg.’ Here’s an Egyptian Muslim thanking an American Jew for inventing Facebook! “And I just saw in The Jerusalem Post today a photo of Moroccan women holding up the ‘f’ from Facebook as they were demonstrating. It’s amazing that Facebook, invented by a Jew, is actually helping Muslims be able to express themselves. That’s the story!”

The other story for Simmons, and what brought him to Israel this week as a guest of the Tourism Ministry, is Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels, broadcast since 2006 on the A&E Channel in the US. The setting suits Simmons’ outlandish personality, perpetuated by decades of stories and boasts about his sexual appetites, rock-star exploits and his long-term relationship with former Playboy playmate and actress Tweed.

The family, minus daughter Sophie, who, Tweed explained, wasn’t able to miss school, will be filmed for the show touring holy sites and modern locations in the country, including a visit to Tirat Carmel.

After sitting in the David Citadel lounge enjoying sushi and pizza while their paterfamilias was doing his “Gene Simmons” act for a line of eager media reps, as the Family Jewels crew scurried around filming every moment, Tweed and her son Nick eagerly went “on camera” to express mixed feelings about having their lives exposed in front of the camera every week.

“It was Gene’s decision to launch to show – he wanted to do it and he asked us if we would do it, but I get the feeling that he would have gone through with it anyway,” said the still-striking Tweed.

“I completely regret it,” she laughed. “But in retrospect it’s been a lot of fun. I get to do a lot of things I might not have ordinarily planned for myself, like seeing the world,” she added, in eyeshot of the Old City walls.

“I’m completely fine with [being on the show],” said Nick, who bears a striking resemblance to his father and is even taller. “I’m a college student and it’s a source of income, so I can’t complain.”

Lack of income was the reason the elder Simmons gave for explaining why Kiss has never appeared in Israel.

“It’s so difficult – if you take a week to transport 20 tractor trailers worth of equipment for one or two shows, it’s enormously expensive. We would need a corporate partner to step up,” he said.

And proving that his bravado is not a thing of the past, Simmons expressed confidence that had Kiss emerged on the music scene today, they would have blown the competition out of the water.

“Kiss would have been huge if they came out today – they would have been the saviors of all music!” Simmons said with evangelical fervor.

“But, of course, Lady Gaga would say we were copying her. But it’s really the other way around.”

Then, with the light and camera men trailing his every move, and the makeup person not far behind, Simmons strode through the hotel lobby – the master of his world, where the rest of us are merely guests.

Jersey City keyboardist rocks out with Paul Stanley, Alice Cooper, others on latest album

At least that’s the case with city native and current California resident Eric Ragno.

Ragno’s Jersey strength has helped him go from being a McNair Academic High School band geek to a hard-rocking keyboardist with 35 albums under his belt.

His latest album, “The World As We Love It,” is a collaboration with some of the biggest names from 1970s and 1980s like Paul Stanley from KISS and Alice Cooper. On the record, the rockers cover 19 songs by Russian band Pushking as part of a campaign to bring them more international recognition.

“I get paid to work with guys I grew up listening to,” said Ragno. “It’s a dream come true.”

The former Jersey Journal delivery boy grew up in the Heights playing various instruments under the direction of his parents, their band Equinox and the city’s public school music education program which Ragno says helped shape him as a musician.

“Most kids back then were jocks,” he said. “I just stuck with school orchestra and performing.”

Ragno, who was mugged on the day of his first show at the Hoboken Motorcycle Club when he was 16, said of Hudson County, “Back there, you really have to fight for what you want. You gotta stand tall.”

Despite the many challenges he has faced in Jersey City, Ragno still finds inspiration from his hometown.

“I love going to Mosquito Park on Kennedy Boulevard and watching the smoke stacks,” Ragno said.

The keyboardist even took a video of the smoke stacks and the lights which he put on a large screen in his in-home studio for inspiration.

“It’s so inspiring. It takes me back to that same spot. I look at those lights and dream of exploring more. It fuels me.”

Hear Eric Ragno on keyboards in "Troubled Love" from "The World As We Love It" featuring recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Alice Cooper on vocals.

Kiss bassist undeterred by Jerusalem bombing

The Israeli-born entertainer, on his first visit to his homeland since leaving as a child 52 years ago, said he was visiting Yad Vashem, the country's national Holocaust memorial, at the time of Wednesday's blast. The memorial is about two miles away from the site.

Simmons said the attack, which killed a female British tourist, was the work of extremists who can't cope with the move toward freedom and democracy sweeping through the Arab world. "We can't give these losers headlines," he told The Associated Press on Friday.

"There's one thing that unites Israelis, Arabs and all humanity. We all strive to be free," he said. "There's a new generation of Arabs who are doing astonishing things. ... We have to take a moment to honor Arabs for having the courage to stand up."

Simmons said that he has already begun arrangements for multiple Kiss concerts in Israel, and that the band would also love to perform in the Arab world as well. But he said the band, known for its makeup, flamboyant outfits and pyrotechnics, would steer clear of politics when they perform.

"It's the greatest show on earth," he said.

Simmons is in Israel with his longtime girlfriend, actress Shannon Tweed, filming material for his reality show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels." He said he's toured Jerusalem holy sites, ridden a camel and enjoyed watching Tweed, a statuesque former Playboy Playmate, float in the Dead Sea.

KISS VIDEO FOOTAGE OF PLEDGE IN HOUSTON

HEAVY METAL FILM FESTIVAL Announces KISS, AC/DC And DEATH ANGEL Shorts

The following four shorts will be a part of the first annual Heavy Metal Film Festival's inaugural short film program:

"Faces Of Budokan" - A short film by Mike Cassidy and Tim Sheridan (USA)

In March of 2003, "The Hottest Band in the World," KISS, embarked on a concert tour throughout Japan, stopping for three Crazy Nights at the legendary Budokan Hall in Tokyo. With consecutive sold-out shows bringing out over 14,200 Japanese super-fans each night, the Psycho Circus was as evident outside of the venue as it was inside. Dressed to Kill, the kabuki-faced fans from all walks of life joined en force to celebrate this much anticipated event. This KISS Army was more like a KISS family. With lavish costumes and elaborate face make-up, this spectacle was unrivaled by any modern day costume ball. In other words, it's Cold Gin time again! "Faces of Budokan" puts you front row for the "show" before the show. It's like "Heavy Metal Parking Lot" with an extra shot of sake and a spicy tuna roll!

"Beyond The Thunder" - Directors: Gregg Ferguson and Kurt Squiers (USA)

Finally, a documentary with balls. How did millions of fans connect with AC/DC? To find out... we asked them.

The mission: create a unique film about the fans of one of the greatest bands the world has ever known, AC/DC. The inaugural Heavy Metal Film Festival has been given the unique opportunity to screen 16 minutes of the film for its Los Angeles premiere, as directors Gregg Ferguson and Kurt Squiers are still battling time to complete the project.

"Death Angel: A Thrashumentary" (Trailer) - Director: Tommy Jones (USA)

This is an exclusive 12-minute trailer to the DVD that will be released in 2012. This film gives the viewer an in-depth look into the mighty DEATH ANGEL, one of the longest-running thrash metal acts from the San Francisco Bay Area known for turning out historic thrash bands such as METALLICA, TESTAMENT and EXODUS. With their classic debut album, "The Ultra-Violence", nearing its 25th anniversary, DEATH ANGEL has survived a span of 30 years of activity and now was the time to finally tell their story. Filmed on the "Relentless Retribution" world tour, the film shows the band on the road talking about their career, is cut with "fly-on-the-wall" documentary-style interview footage, and captures their trademarked, high-energy live performances that leaves their fans purged of sweat and adrenaline.

"Capital Metal" - Director: Mohammad Kabeer (India)

"Capital Metal" is a documentary about the local metal scene in New Delhi, India. It features big bands in the scene like THIRD SOVEREIGN and UNDYING INC., as well as little known yet extremely talented bands like PHOBIA and GUILLOTINE. The film focuses on various issues related to the scene, from handling their day jobs and playing metal to how they hold their own in a market dominated by Bollywood. Since no band in Delhi (no matter how popular they are) can play metal to support themselves, they all need a second job. The film was made in eight days with a meager budget of 200 dollars as part of a college project. It is the first metal documentary to be made in India and explores the passion to play music despite all odds and shows us that metal exists outside of Europe and America.

"Las Marimbas Del Infierno" (Marimbas From Hell) by Julio Hernández Cordón will be opening the festival on Thursday evening, March 31.

Advanced tickets to the Heavy Metal Film Festival are now available for purchase via the Downtown Independent Cinema Box Office. Ticket prices will be as follows:

* $9.00 per film
* $15.00 - opening night screening (includes after-party)
* $33.00 - day pass (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
* $66.60 - advanced purchase festival pass (ONLY 30 available at this special price; includes opening night)
* $99.00 – advanced purchase festival pass (ONLY 100 available; includes opening night)

For more information about volunteering for this event, please write in to heavymetalfilmfestival@gmail.com.

Visit the Heavy Metal Film Festival online at www.heavymetalff.com.

KISS CONFIRMS SUMMER SHOWS

KISS will headline the following festivals:

May 29 - Raley Field in West Sacramento, California
July 15 - Moondance Jam Festival in Walker, Minnesota
July 16 - Rock USA Festival in Oshkosh, Wisconsin
July 24 - Heavy MTL Festival in Montreal, Canada

Paul Stanley "On the Red Carpet"

Paul will discuss his highly-successful career as an artist and how he transformed KISS into one of the most iconic bands in the world with Emmy Award-winning host Chris Balish.

ABC's "On The Red Carpet" is a weekly national entertainment news show that highlights the best of the week in the world of celebrity and style.

Be sure to check your local listings for air times. To learn more, visit www.ontheredcarpet.com.

PAUL TEAMS UP WITH HOUSE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Did you know that rock icon Paul Stanley, the lead singer and founder of the ground breaking rock band KISS, was born deaf in his right ear?

Did you also know that 1 out of 5 teens has a hearing loss? That’s a 30 percent increase just in the last 15 years.

Maybe that explains why the legendary front man who has sold over 100 million albums is so passionate about preventing hearing loss amongst teens.

Stanley, has teamed-up with the non-profit House Research Institute on a major initiative called “IT’S HOW YOU LISTEN THAT COUNTS” to educate millions of teens around the world on preventing noise-induced hearing loss.

Paul will be drawing the attention of teens in NYC and LA to hearing health issues through an after-school event called SOUND RULES!

The event, free for teens, will take place at the Director’s Guilds in NYC on May 4 and Los Angeles on May 12.

On Wednesday, May 4th from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., the House Research Institute (HRI) will present "Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration" at the Director's Guild of America (DGA) Theatre located at 110 West 57th Street in Manhattan in New York City.

On Thursday, May 12th at 3:30PM Pacific, the House Research Institute will present "Sound Rules! A Sound & Hearing Celebration" at the Director's Guild of America Theatre in Los Angeles, located at 7920 Sunset Boulevard.

Sound Rules! is a FREE hearing loss prevention education and entertainment event for teens that will feature Paul Stanley, lead singer/guitarist of KISS and hearing health experts from the House Research Institute, along with valuable contest prizes and giveaways. Space is limited; reservations are required. For more information and registration, please visit http://soundrules.org.

STRYPER Performs KISS Classic In Nashville

KISS - Beth @ Soundcheck, Hollywood Florida 3-17-2011

Interview: Simmons blasts Israel boycotters

"They're fools," the legendary bassist told The Associated Press in an interview Tuesday, on his first return to Israel since leaving the country as a child more than 50 years ago.

Simmons described the visit as a "homecoming." He offered a description of himself that might shock his legions of fans who know him as an American icon prone to spitting blood and sticking out his exceptionally long tongue:

"I'm Israeli. I'm a stranger in America. I'm an outsider," he said, speaking in a hotel lobby across a valley from the walls of Jerusalem's historic Old City. "I was born here and I'm proud of it."

Simmons had harsh words for musicians like Elvis Costello and the Pixies who have recently canceled concerts to protest Israel's policies toward the Palestinians. Pink Floyd's Roger Waters has gone further, joining an organized movement dedicated to boycotting Israel and its exports, though he appeared in Israel in 2006.

"The countries they should be boycotting are the same countries that the populations are rebelling," he said. "People long to be free ... And they sure as hell don't want somebody who's a ruler who hasn't been elected by them."

Simmons, 61, is visiting Israel as part of his reality show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," which follows the adventures and musings of the rocker, his longtime girlfriend, Shannon Tweed, and their two children.

While situations on the show are generally lighthearted, he said his stop in Israel has deep personal significance. "Coming back to Israel is a homecoming," he said.

Simmons was born Chaim Witz and spent his childhood in northern Israel before moving to America. The normally extravagant musician, known for his extended tongue, demonic makeup and stage pyrotechnics, grew subdued as he described his early life in the hardscrabble town of Tirat Carmel.

He recalled his father, a carpenter, taking his assault rifle and heading off to military service on weekends. He said his mother, a survivor of the Nazi Holocaust, taught him that "every day above ground is a good day."

The family was "dirt poor," scraping by on meager bread and milk rations available in what was then an underdeveloped country. He earned money by selling fruits he collected from cactuses.

Simmons moved with his mother to the United States when he was eight. Although he has climbed to the highest levels of the entertainment world and lives with a former Playboy Playmate of the Year in Beverly Hills, he said he still considers Israel his home.

Over the years, Simmons cultivated an extravagant personality, often boasting of his sexual conquests and his fortune and fame. While he did not hide his immigrant roots, they were never emphasized — but this appears to be changing in recent years.

Simmons, wearing dark sunglasses and black pants, shirt and blazer, laced the interview with Hebrew phrases. "Where were you born?" he asked in somewhat halting but serviceable Hebrew.

He made local headlines during Israel's 2006 war against Lebanese guerrillas by sending a televised message to a wounded Israeli soldier, calling him a "hero."

Simmons co-founded Kiss in the 1970s and became famous for wearing white and black face makeup, spitting fire and coughing up fake blood at sold-out performances. The group has sold some 100 million records, and four decades later, it remains one of the best-selling concert draws.

Simmons also presides over a business empire that includes his reality show, TV, game show and movie appearances, video games, books, comics and a Kiss credit card. His net worth is estimated to be in the tens, perhaps hundreds, of millions of dollars.

Simmons insisted that his busy schedule has been the only reason he never made it back to Israel before.

"America allowed me to climb the highest levels of success, and I never wanted to stop. When you reach the top, you can rest," he said.

"I've reached the top."

1973 VARIETY KISS CONCERT REVIEW

From the plethora of Gotham glitter-rock acts, comes Kiss, who already outshine most of the others in clean, pulsating rock 'n' roll, high in volume and excitement. Facial makeup is more weird than fey. Set momentum is unrelenting and solid.

Although all tackle vocals, lead usually falls to bass guitarist Gene Simmons, most ghoulish in appearance. Heavy black makeup around his eyes and white on rest of face is bat-like. His mugging is a theatrical plus, as is his vocal ability. Paul Stanley, who shares lead guitar with Ace Frehley, also usually shares vocals, but all four aid in that department. Drummer Peter Criss even makes screaming fun for the outfit that formerly had Wicked Lester as their handle.

While Simmons is the most extreme visually, all have some kind of mask effect around their eyes and satiny garb. Simmons removes a lack jacket to reveal a black T-shirt with silvery skulls and cross-bones. But, it's in the music that Kiss catches hold and never lets go. They are the only headliners in the irregular show policy of this midtown hotel who have drawn good crowds, indicating Kiss is building a local following.

ERIC SINGS "BETH" FOR JAPAN

KISS ROCKS PUERTO RICO

The José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum filled up rapidly with hundreds of people arriving by the minute. There were many families from every generation with their faces painted like their favorite band member, as befits a show where Gene Simmons spits blood and breathes fire.

The crowd stared anxiously at a black curtain with the letters “KISS” in silver across the middle when, at 9:15, the lights went down and a clear voice addressed the crowd: “San Juan, you wanted the best? You got the best! The hottest band in the world … KISS!” The curtain rose and we were met with “Modern Day Delilah” — the band’s latest single — and a stage that put other bands’ presentations to shame with colorful lights and the pyrotechnic effects from the very beginning. The band immediately took control of their crowd, with Paul Stanley telling the “KISS Army” — a name they created for their fans — “Our heart is yours, San Juan! We’re from New York, as you know, and there is a big population of Puerto Ricans over there, so this is like being home for us.”

Playing their classics such as “Cold Gin,” “Calling Dr. Love,” “Crazy Crazy Nights” and “Deuce,” the army was in their hands and there was no going back. As expected, Gene Simmons spit fire during “Firehouse” and made blood pour from his mouth during a short interlude before “I Love It Loud,” telling the crowd, “Hell yeah, mucho gusto, San Juan,” which sent the crowd into a manic frenzy. Stanley also delivered multiple times, turning his back to crowd and setting his guitar on the floor, and kneeling and playing for minutes in this position — something many guitarists would not dream of attempting.

Drummer Eric Singer and Guitarist Tommy Thayer though not original members of the band had their time to shine when they performed riveting solos that made believers of everyone in the power and talent of these newer members. As the band concluded with “Detroit Rock City” they bid goodnight to the crowd and promptly left the stage. The lights dimmed but the band returned after two minutes, saying that Eric Singer wanted to sing something for their fans and then broke into a short acoustic version of “Beth”.

The band concluded their encore with “Lick It Up” and “Rock ‘N Roll All Night”, sparing no effects. Fire shot from the top of the stage, explosions went off, confetti filled the arena and the stage itself divided and sent both Simmons and Thayer flying high as they played. Stanley bid a final farewell to the crowd after breaking one of their guitars, and dropping his microphone as the rest of the band said goodbye as they left the stage.

Make no mistake; attending “The Hottest Show on Earth” could make a skeptical or casual fan want to be part of the Kiss Army. After more than 30 years in the business, KISS proved that they still hold the title of the best band on earth and that “hottest” fails to describe the show they give the awaiting crowd.

KISS AT HARD ROCK LIVE

The venue was transformed for the night into home base for the KISS Army and its aging leaders, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, who were in turn accompanied by a couple new recruits. Together, the 2011 version of KISS assaulted the small venue with a slew of hits, crazy stage maneuvers, and lots of fire balls, adding up to the total takeover of St. Patty's Day we predicted.

The energy leading up to the dropping of the giant KISS curtain was somewhere in between that of an NFL game, a comic book convention, and a strange, religious ceremony. Minutes before the lights went down the crowd roared as Shannon Tweed, Gene Simmons' longtime partner, appeared in the middle of the arena, just behind the sound board.

Soon after that moment faded, the crowd had a larger reason to react: "Alright Hollywood, you wanted the best, you got the best -- the hottest band in the world, KISS!" Down came the curtain, and out staggered Simmons and company, looking like living cartoons. The place went bananas as they opened with "Modern Day Delilah," a song off the band's new album, Sonic Boom.

After the first tune, Stanley, who acted as defacto MC all night, commented on the intimate nature of this particular show. "We don't usually get to play places this small, but it's cool and I'll tell you why," he said. "It makes us feel like we're back in the old days. We're gonna play some old classic stuff." And they did. The show featured several songs off their first couple of albums -- such as "Deuce", and "100,000 Years" -- amid an array of selections spanning their whole career.

One of the hottest burners were "Firehouse," during which Simmons brought out a flaming sword and spit huge fire from it before stabbing it into the stage. Then there was "Shock Me," during which Paul Stanley fondled his nipples and shook his tush giddily.

There was also "Black Diamond," for which the audience began the singing, at Stanley's request. "Hollywood and surrounding areas,"as he referred to the crowd the whole night, "it's time for the Kiss Army to represent!" His voice was shrill and incredibly loud, as loud and shrill as Simmon's tongue was long. They were both in great form. The tongue did not rest for a moment.

Simmons' biggest moment came in late in the show, when he was left alone on the darkened stage, which began filling with smoke. His bass droned, and eventually a light shone from above. He rose to meet it, and then began spewing blood from his mouth.

Every member had his own moment in the spotlight, even the newbies. For a while during the middle of the show, apparently when the old guys needed to sit down, Tommy Thayer (non-Ace Frehley) and Eric Singer (non-Peter Criss) rocked a duo jam which reached its peak when Thayer soloed with his guitar behind his head, then held it out to the side and let go of it, before it magically rose to the ceiling.

The band played for two solid hours. The grand finale, which concluded a four-song encore, was, of course "Rock and Roll All Nite," which filled the room with excitement, confetti, smoke, and fire. At the end, non-Frehley and real Simmons were lifted to the ceiling on hydraulic platforms, and Stanley smashed his guitar in the middle of the stage.

Not an Irish jig in sight, just a couple of ridiculous old, rich guys and a ton of worshipers, still doing their thing after all these years.

THE HOTTEST BAND ON STAGE: SAN JUAN

But, this is precisely the appeal of KISS, and those who saw them for the first time at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Jose Miguel Agrelot now know why most longtime fans continue to see the band year after year, wherever they tour throughout the world.

For nearly two hours last night, KISS controlled the public at will with songs ranging from the first album to the recent"Sonic Boom" and much of everything the band's recorded in between.

The first show of this year's 'The Hottest Show On Earth" tour started about 9:15pm with the now-requisite introduction "You wanted the best, you got the best. The hottest band in the world ... KISS."

The band's single "Modern Day Delilah" kicked off the night, along with explosions, flashes and light effects.

"San Juan! We do not come too often to see you, but you are like family, so we have new things and old things to play tonight, like this!" cried Paul Stanley, lead singer, before launching into "Cold Gin" which got the crowd off its feet and rocking.

From that point, the crowd (also known as the KISS Army), many of which who wore the makeup of favorite band members, was in Paul's hands.

Stanley kept his tight connection with the audience between songs, occasionally speaking Spanish and singing songs like 'Guantanamera' in an attempt to strengthen the bond with the fans.

"Let Me Go Rock And Roll" was up next, and after "Firehouse," Gene Simmons took the stage with his infamous flaming sword.

"Say Yeah," the classic "Deuce", "Crazy, Crazy Nights" and "Calling Dr. Love" followed, and during 'Shock Me,' drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer really displayed their talent. The band brought an evening of rock that simply wouldn't allow the audience to remain quietly in their chairs. Almost 40 years later, KISS still has what it takes to send any rock fan home with memories of a great night.

KISS ENERGIZED THE COLISEUM

KISS hadn't visited the island since its previous concert in 1998. The band, made up of Paul Stanley (guitar, vocals), Gene Simmons (bass), Eric Singer (drums) and Tommy Thayer (guitar), blew the stage of the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot with a setlist of their most famous hits, as well as some from their latest album, 2009's "Sonic Boom."

During the night, the band performed classics including "Love Gun," "Lick It Up" and "Rock and Roll All Night."

The concert began at 9:07 p.m. when the public heard that well-known phrase that ultimately marks the beginning of the each show: "You wanted the best, you got the best. The hottest band in the world, KISS!" This alone was enough to charge the rock show with adrenaline. Then, the curtain fell and the public witnessed the best stage show ever installed in the Coliseum for a concert, full of lights, fire, and the logo of the band that always shone through the night.

The band started with "Modern Day Delilah" from "Sonic Boom," which was well-received by the public. Then Paul Stanley said a few words in Spanish, noting that Puerto Rico was like a second home for them.

KISS continued the show with "Cold Gin," then delivering "Let Me Go Rock n Roll." As an introduction to the song "Firehouse", Gene Simmons pleased the crowd by blowing on a flaming torch and created a huge fireball that enraged the audience, which was full of fans with faces painted to look like members of the band.

The band continued with "Say Yeah", which kept the crowd screaming "yeah" throughout the chorus of the song. Classics followed, like "Deuce", "Crazy Nights", "Calling Dr. Love" and "Shock Me." After these, Eric (drums) and Tommy (guitar) came on stage for a duet.

The guitarist was shooting fireworks and Eric's drum platform rose. When Tommy finished his guitar solo, he lifted into the air, which created an effect that many had never seen. The drum solo from Eric was energetic and kept the audience wanting more.

After Gene and Paul returned, the band played "Animal", "100.00 Years," "I Love It Loud" and "Love Gun." During the latter, the audience joined in, singing loudly with the band.

When a disco ball lit up the Colosseum, the public began to hear the strains of the song "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin, followed by "Black Diamond," and later one of the most acclaimed of the night "Detroit Rock City."KISS took a short break of two or three minutes, and the public did not stop yelling until the band returned on stage to play the acoustic ballad "Beth," which Eric performed.

The concert ended with "Lick It Up" and its most famous song, "Rock n Roll All Night." As the show ended, the audience was wrapped by confetti, lights, fireworks and two band members high on a platform, rocking for all attendees at the Coliseum to see.

"I LOVE IT LOUD" VIDEO FROM FLORIDA

KISS BRINGS HARD ROCK FLAIR

The veteran, face-painted hard rock band scaled down its stage show a bit to fit its thunderous act into the 5,000-seat Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino near Hollywood Thursday night. Still, the volume of its music and the plentiful pyrotechnics packed enough wattage to delight an all-ages crowd.

In fact, one might have checked the calendar on their smart phone because Kiss drew so many pre-teens and their parents who dressed in Kiss face paint and, in many cases, full Kiss regalia, one might think it was 1979 again.

Given the already surreal manufactured reality of the colorful Seminole grounds, it almost felt like stepping onto the set of the Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park movie with hundreds of big and little Kiss extras.

“We don’t usually get to play places this small,” lead singer Paul Stanley screamed after Kiss opened its two-hour concert with a newer headbanger, Modern Day Delilah, from its return-to-form 2009 album, Sonic Boom.

“Makes us feel we’re back in the old days,” he continued, “so we’re going to play old classic stuff.”

Stanley, 59, then led his Kiss founding partner Gene Simmons and replacement members Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer into a set heavy on songs from the first eponymous Kiss album in early 1974 like Cold Gin, Black Diamond and Firehouse, a simple, but effective rocker that still ends with piercing fire alarms and spinning red lights.

Other oldies included Let Me Go, Rock and Roll, 100,000 Years, Detroit Rock City and the standard ‘70s bathroom break the guitar and drum solos following Thayer’s lead on Shock Me. However, Kiss always keeps these instrumental passages interesting given that the lead guitarist’s instrument belches fireworks and the drummer cues explosions in the rafters. The solos mercifully ended before they wore out their welcome.

The one sign that this wasn’t your parents’ Kiss could be found in Stanley’s voice which no longer is quite the pliable, effortlessly operatic instrument it once was in the 1970s and 1980s. Decades of screaming songs in their original high keys have worn Stanley’s voice to the nub on newer material like the anthemic Say Yeah, ‘80s numbers like Crazy, Crazy Nights (a surprise, and welcome addition to the setlist) and the 1977 Kiss classic, Love Gun. On that audience favorite, Stanley’s patchy vocals were nicely and wisely augmented with some helpful vocal fills from drummer Singer.

Curiously, though, as the show went on toward its exciting hit-heavy encore set, Stanley’s voice seemed to gain strength and smooth out a little. He sounded pretty good on the disco-era smash, I Was Made for Loving You, which actually requires vocal range and he nailed it quite well. Stanley, the group’s indefatigable cheerleader, also brought it home good and hard on the terrific Lick It Up, Shout It Out Loud and the closing Rock and Roll All Nite.

Simmons, 61, whose songs aren’t pitched so high, sounded remarkably well preserved on his growling signature tunes, Calling Dr. Love, Deuce and I Love It Loud.

Time, and the Kabuki demon makeup, have been kind to Simmons. He hasn’t lost a step. His fire breathing and blood spewing shtick still can make you feel 14 again.

The only difference with this venue’s show is that Simmons couldn’t do his usual God of Thunder fly up into the rafters act and the concert’s staging was flat and simple until the finale when he and Thayer rose on lifts as a confetti machine sent a blizzard over fans and Independence Day-worthy fireworks exploded all around the band.

Kiss could make better use of its other two characters, however. This is still the Paul and Gene Show, perhaps fair since they are the individuals who kept Kiss alive over the years as guitarists and drummers came and went, but Kiss have gems in Thayer and Singer. The latter, now in Peter Criss’ original cat makeup and a more muscular rock drummer than his ‘70s predecessor, nicely sang the group’s one ballad, the lovely Beth, in acoustic form and handled his leads on the driving Black Diamond with vigor.

Thayer only had the Shock Me set piece but he reproduced Ace Frehley’s leads on guitar throughout the night and should have been given more time in the lead vocal spotlight, perhaps on more of Frehley’s tunes or, better yet, his fine contribution to Sonic Boom, When Lightning Strikes.

Above all, given the theatrical limitations in a non-arena show, Kiss’ music had to carry the load and what this performance revealed is that the influential Kiss catalog has aged well, its energy and hooks can still excite young and old, and the snobbish bean counters at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame really are clueless and remiss for ignoring Kiss’ considerable contribution to rock and roll.

AN AVALANCHE OF HITS AND FIREWORKS

Although the concert offered a great variety of music from KISS's repertoire, the classic antics of bassist Gene Simmons largely cements the stage presence of KISS. As early as the fourth song, "Firehouse," Gene spit out a huge blaze of flames. Later, just before "I Love it Loud,"Gene vomited blood. And of course his legendary tongue-wiggling was ever-present throughout the concert.

Kiss is one of those rare rock bands (if not the only one) in which all members sing. Indeed, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons do sing most of the band's songs, but both the drummer Eric Singer, as well as lead guitarist Tommy Thayer, took the microphone too. Thayer sang "Shock Me," and Eric Singer lent his vocal stylings to "Black Diamond" and the only ballad of the night, "Beth."

Similarly, the four members of KISS also speak directly with the public. Contrary to the "rule" that only the lead singer interacts with the audience and other musicians are simply "there," the four members of KISS always interact with their fans. During the show, Paul Stanley spoke in Spanish that, although mixed with English, was perfectly clear.

""All right, San Juan! ¿Cómo está? No hablo en español muy bien. Comprendo tus sentimientos y mi corazón belongs to you" was the first thing Stanley said , with a roar of approval from the crowd.

As he spoke with the audience, Stanley also mentioned the long time that had passed since the last time KISS played in Puerto Rico (1999, in the Roberto Clemente Coliseum for the Psycho Circus tour) and even praised the Choliseo facilities. "I see you have this very nice new arena," he cried in the middle of the concert.

Stanley even joked with his Castilian. He caused laughter when very end, saying "Puerto Rico" emphasized the pronunciation of the letter "rrrr" as he sang a cappella "Guantanamera" and the "Cucurrucucú" portions of "Paloma."

This continued interaction makes the public feel that they are both close to and appreciated by the band. In other words, KISS proved again to be a very unusual group of superstars. They not only manage to captivate with their music, their long career and their complex and elaborate spectacle, but also by the attention that they give to their audience.

MORE VIDEO CLIPS FROM HOUSTON

Kiss star's gig: Financial planning for the rich

"At the end of the day, you need to think about three important things: mental health, physical health and financial health," Simmons said on Tuesday, speaking to the British American Business Council of Los Angeles (BABC LA) at Beverly Hills' Peninsula Hotel. "I'm in the highest tax bracket. What are my choices in life?"

Plenty of green behind the black-and-white makeup

Simmons was pitching Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy, a financial advisory group he joined last year to help broaden its client base and attract members of the well-heeled entertainment industry. The Franklin, Tenn.-based company, whose co-founders include former Transamerica executives David Carpenter and Simon Baitler, specializes in asset protection to individuals with a net worth of more than $20 million. More specifically, Cool Springs, among other things, secures large life insurance policies with little or no cash outlay by arranging for low-interest loans to pay the premiums.

It may seem like an odd fit for Simmons, who's far better known for his fake-blood-spitting, on-stage "Demon" alter ego than for his financial acumen. But Simmons has never made any bones about making sure there was plenty of green behind his group's the black-and-white face paint.

Kiss, which has sold more than 100 million CDs and DVDs, was hawking band-themed merchandise, ranging from lunch boxes to toy dolls, as far back as the 1970s. The group, which Simmons co-founded in 1973, holds merchandising licenses to more than 3,000 items.

A rock 'n' roll success story

"I didn't buy my first car until I was 34. … I didn't buy my first house until I was 36," Simmons said in an interview with DailyFinance. "Why do you need them when you're always on the road? I lived with my mother until I was about 20. You wanna go out and have some privacy? You go to a hotel."

His approach is a far cry from the dozens of well-known artists who have may have sold tens of millions of albums, yet found themselves in financially precarious situations because of questionable record deals, overspending or financial mismanagement. For every Paul McCartney — whose net worth was reported last year by U.K.'s Sunday Times to be almost three-quarters of a billion dollars — or Bruce Springsteen, who according to Forbes earned $70 million in 2009, almost three decades after his first album release, there's a Billy Joel or TLC — acts that declared bankruptcy in the midst of their popularity because of bad record deals or management. Then, there's Michael Jackson, who was reportedly about $400 million in debt when he died in 2009.

All of which made Simmons a natural choice for Samuel Watson. The Cool Springs CEO was looking for a partner famous enough to appeal to high-net-worth individuals in the entertainment industry — an industry Watson had little access to -- yet financially savvy enough to pitch Cool Springs' services with a sense of authority. Dressed in dark shades and a suit jacket, Simmons preached financial responsibility to the BABC audience for about an hour. He then gladly posed for pictures with many of the women in the audience after the presentation.

"I needed a marketing machine, and if you were to define 'marketing machine,' Gene Simmons's picture would be there," said Watson. "There's not a door he can't open."

LAST NIGHT: KISS AT RODEOHOUSTON

In Tom Snyder's 1979 interview with the original members of KISS, only two of which remain, he asked bassist Gene Simmons, "What would happen if you went out on stage for a concert and you didn't set off the fireworks, didn't break the guitar, and didn't have the smoke, fire, and blood?"

Simmons responded astutely, "It would still be a rip-roaring rock and roll show because...we don't stand still when we play our instruments. We run around and pretty much raise hell."

Over 30 years later, Aftermath wanted to test that theory, since we were aware of some of the stage restrictions at Reliant Stadium. There was no blood and not as much fire as we expected, but there were plenty of pyrotechnics for the group to put on a decadently distinctive KISS show, playing 12 songs in their entirety in just an hour.

?We were hot with expectancy before the lights even went off. We delightedly watched those little mutton-busters get scared out of their minds as a rodeo clown with full KISS makeup hoisted them up after the inevitable sheep trampling.

Imagine being five years old, strapped to a running sheep in front of 70,000 people, and then busting your ass just to be saved by an old man dressed like Gene Simmons. That's traumatizing stuff, man.

When the lights went out and the initial fireworks were over, we watched a video of the members "getting ready" and "approaching the stage." The band rode out to the stage on golf carts and the customary introduction boomed through the stadium: "You wanted the best, you got the best: the hottest band in the world, KISS!!"

Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Eric Singer, and Tommy Thayer then opened with "Modern Day Delilah" from their 2009 release, Sonic Boom and then went back to 1976's Destroyer with "Shout It Out Loud." Commence the Simmons guitar-licking and tongue exhibit, Stanley pick-spitting, and drawn-out Thayer solos.

Stanley warmed the Houstonians up quickly, mentioning our long history together. "We go back a long way," he said. "You people are some of the finest people we've ever played for... we would not miss being here."

The group then revisited their own KISStory by playing "Deuce" from their 1974 self-titled debut. Stanley skipped around a bit and played his guitar under his legs while Thayer concurrently performed his own solo, which was splendid.

(Side note: We know there are many KISS purists out there, and to most, Thayer could never replace original lead guitarist Ace Frehley. He bit his style and even his makeup; but in truth, he's a great musician and complements Simmons and Stanley well.)

Stanley prepared the stadium for some mandatory KISS heat, foreshadowing,"You're not tired, are you, Houston? I got a feeling if everyone loosens up a bit we're going to get this place so hot we're going to have to call out the firehouse!"

The band then played KISS' "Firehouse" while Simmons lit a sword on fire, blew even more flames, and then stabbed the fiery weapon into the ground. During the instrumental break, Stanley came out onto the ramp and knelt down, seductively putting his guitar pick on his tongue and then spitting it out before finishing the song.

KISS continued to play their older classics like "Calling Dr. Love," "Love Gun," "Detroit Rock City" and "I Love It Loud," not venturing past 1982 album Creatures of the Night. Stanley prefaced each song with a cappella teasers of the hits that he knew would be easily identified by even the newest of fans, whom he beckoned to join in.

They slowed the momentum down for the ballad "Beth," from Destroyer, which was originally performed by founding drummer Peter Criss. We heard a few grumbles in the crowd from fans who may have resented the (relatively) newcomer for adopting the song.

The group picked the speed of the show back up with "Lick It Up." As can be assumed by the title, Simmons' tongue movements came with a lot of drool. Aftermath has watched his reality show for a while, so seeing this signature move in person was almost disturbing.

We now know him as a father and an entrepreneur; we've seen him cry, laugh, learn, love, and make a killing off KISS merchandise. Expect that drool to be on eBay right now.

Like their Woodlands performance last year, KISS took a break to honor two soldiers onstage. Stanley urged the crowd to stand up and recite the Pledge of Allegiance for the two men in uniform and the rest of the soldiers who were not in attendance. He added, "they won't hear it, but they'll hear about it."

A dollar from every ticket sold at the Rodeo went to the Wounded Warriors Care Project. After the pledge was over, Stanley spoke briefly about the American soldiers overseas and foreign relations to cleverly segue into their final song. You know the one: "Pray that we all get together...to rock and roll all nite and party every day!"

After the international rock and roll hymn was over, Stanley swung his guitar around for about two minutes, building anticipation for the break. He finally kissed it before breaking it as the last of the fireworks went off.

All in all, these dudes might have accumulated some strained voices, hip problems, and damaged hair since the '70s, but they are still rocking and acquiring new fans every year. We'll see them again.

After all, every time a member of KISS gets a wrinkle, they get 5,000 new fans.

Personal Bias: There was a significant amount of young children dressed as KISS members. We wish that we could see their reactions when they get to middle school and look back at pictures. Also questionable: Why weren't their parents donned in similar ensembles?

Overheard In the Crowd: "I'm wearing my KISS shirt to jazzercise tomorrow." Also, when Stanley introduced "Detroit Rock City," he said, "Detroit is a city filled with good people." To which a concertgoer replied, "WHO ARE ALL LEAVING!"

Random Notebook Dump: On the way out the door, we saw two girls who appeared to be 13 or 14 with Demon and Starchild makeup on, singing "Rock and Roll All Nite." KISS is everlasting.

Gene Simmons' Lawsuit Against Make-Up Artist Is Dismissed

The dismissal was formally entered on March 1, 2011 and RadarOnline.com has exclusively obtained the documents.

DOCUMENTS: Gene Simmons Lawsuit Dismissed

Simmons had filed his suit, in which he was asking for $185,000, as a preemptive strike against Jackson, before she filed suit against him.

Jackson's lawsuit against Simmons, for sexual assault, is still active.

Jackson alleges that that she was sexually assaulted by Simmons when he appeared on ESPN's Sports Center last May.

Jackson stated at a deposition that Simmons ground his groin into her and she feels "like I was raped with my clothes on." Jackson went on to say in that deposition:"Emotionally, an overwhelming sense of sadness, nervousness, anxiety, a lot of shame and - just I feel like - I feel like I was raped with my clothes on."

Gene Simmons, Lil Wayne and Raekwon on New Limp Bizkit

The announcement came via Twitter: “Oh, excuse me, 16th song mixed is, ‘Ready to Go,’ featuring Lil Wayne! I love it,” Durst tweeted.

Durst also used Twitter to hint that Limp Bizkit is working on not one, but two albums: “Obviously we have two albums here, in case you didn’t pick up on that. First one is Gold Cobra. Due soon,” he proclaimed, after announcing the 17th song is mixed and will be titled, “Tell to Tale.”

Other guest appearances on Gold Cobra include Wu-Tang Clan rapper Raekwon and KISS bass player Gene Simmons, who has laid down the voiceover for the CD’s intro.

Gold Cobra does not have a release date yet, but NME.com reports Durst hopes it will come out by the end of the summer. The album will be the first the group have recorded with guitarist Wes Borland back on board.

TEXAS: YOU HAVE BEEN ENTERTAINED!

On March 15th, KISS invaded RodeoHouston. A crowd of 75,000 screaming fans packed the Reliant Stadium to witness KISS rocking on the arena's 360-degree rotating stage.

Playing an hour-long setlist filled with KISS classics, the band brought their signature sound, songs, and stage show to Houston... with a few differences from the "traditional" KISS concert fans may have expected.

-KISS arrived at the stage in a caravan of golf carts, to thunderous applause from the audience.

-Because of the rotating stage's setup, there was no giant KISS logo sign present.

-There were no pyrotechnics on the stage either. (Instead, pyro was set up throughout the arena on the stadium floor.)

-Eric sang "Beth" while standing behind the drum kit.

-The guys played "Beth" on electric guitars with the distortion turned off, instead of acoustics.

- There was no confetti during "Rock and Roll All Night." (Confetti and the rodeo's dirt floor do not mix.)

- Despite being an indoor arena, an enormous indoor fireworks display followed the show, including many deafening aerial displays that filled the room with sound, smoke, and explosions.

And yet, this show was one of the most memorable and unique KISS concerts in memory. KISS looked great, sounded phenomenal, and did what they do best -- entertained an enormous crowd of fans who rocked, sang along, and immersed themselves in the KISS experience. Near the end of the show, Paul Stanley led the massive audience in saying the Pledge of Allegiance, giving a heartfelt salute to the U.S. troops.

Even before KISS's show began, RodeoHouston was filled with surprises. During the rodeo itself, many of the rodeo clowns in the ring wore KISS makeup. Celebrities in the audience included Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz of the History Channel's "American Pickers," who were seen rocking out near the stage.

And the crowd? Absolutely deafening. 75,000 people singing in unison are LOUD!

As the concert ended, we overheard many in the audience saying that this was the first KISS show they attended... and it certainly wouldn't be their last.

While the crowd headed toward the exits, the arena's announcer boomed, "Texas... you have been entertained! If there is one person in here whose heart rate has not doubled... you missed it. Ladies and gentlemen, the tribute from KISS to America, to the armed forces, to the United States flag, to the Pledge of Allegiance, is priceless. Now tell them about your love for this band!"

And the cheers erupted into thunderous applause.

KISS at the rodeo? So much fun!

"MODERN DAY DELILAH" FROM RODEOHOUSTON

"ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE" FROM RODEOHOUSTON

KISS To Rock Hard Rock

Why did you decide to do only three shows, one in South Florida?

We are really not on tour. We had a few shows booked quite awhile ago, and rather than cancel them we decided to get out there and do a few. It is what we love doing, and we are in pre-production on the next album, and so it only makes us want to go out and play that much more.

How much rehearsal do you do?

We are certainly professional enough to go out and do it, but there is a difference between being about to do it and do it best. We rehearse not because we don’t know the songs but to shake out the rust.

Can you explain the power of the makeup?

There is no denying that not much can compete with those four iconic characters, as good looking as I may be. They are — and we are — the embodiment of superheroes, athletes, rock stars. It is so multi layered. Once we put the makeup back on, we were very clear that we would never take it off again. It is who we are and what we worked our butts off to be. To dilute it or change it wouldn’t be fair to the fans.

When did you know KISS had made it?

I remember being on stage at Hara Arena in Dayton, Ohio, around the time of Kiss Alive! [1975]. The curtain was closed, and I was looking out seeing the place packed. It suddenly hit me that it really was happening, being on the verge of the precipice of this huge domination of the rock world. It was great and yet it was very overwhelming, intimidating and humbling. It was scary as it was suddenly out of your control. It had gained a momentum of its own. And all you can do at this point is hold on as the ride is about to begin.

Did you have any idea in 1975 that you would be playing in 2011?

I couldn’t have dreamed it. The truth is I was hoping for five good years and that would have been incredible. Nobody had gone that much longer than that. It’s really about doing what you love doing and having that being contagious and tapping it what other people love and celebrating. It becomes the common thread between you and your audience that you can maintain.

Showtime is 8 p.m.. One Seminole Way, Hollywood. Tickets, $169, $129, $99 and $79; all seats available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or ticketmaster.com.

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM SAN JUAN SHOW

KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley Rocks the Forum in Tampa

An evening of Hockey plus Rock & Roll equals euphoria. The St Pete Times Forum’s idea of mixing the both for one gratifying evening was pure genius. A-Rod and Cameron Diaz even watched from one of the suites.

When the near capacity crowd exited the arena, Ex-Kiss rock and roll hero ‘Space Ace’ Frehley electrified the audience with several big- league guitar solos on his Gibson Les Paul.

Ace wore his favorite number 27 on a Tampa Bay Lightning jersey with his name embedded on the back and wore dark shades throughout the concert. While Ace played and sang he consistently bombarded the crowd with his Guitar Picks.

Frehley astonished the huge Tampa Bay Lightning crowd with his own musical triumphs and songs that he recorded with his old band mates. It was great to see Ace! Kiss will never be the same band without him. It was always Ace Frehley’s guitar solos and stage presence that made KISS a credible band and not just a visual rock extravaganza. And I’ve witnessed KISS shows since 1975 when Rush supported them and ticket prices were only $5.50.

Some of the heavy driven rock tunes belted out by Ace and his band Friday evening were “Snowblind” and “New York Groove” from his first solo album in 1978. All the Kiss members released solo efforts that year but Frehley’s album outsold- his three band mates.

Ace played “Sister” from his latest venture- Anomaly and “Rock Soldiers” from his second album -Frehley’s Comet.

Ace Frehley reminded the Tampa crowd that he was almost electrocuted in Lakeland at the Civic Center in 1976, then immediately jumped into his tune “Shock Me” a song both written and sung by Ace on the Kiss- Love Gun album in 1977.

The ‘Spaceman’ launched his old bag of tricks when his electric guitar discharged flames and smoke. The haze encircled the ‘rocketeer rocker’ during one of many impressive guitar solos.

Ace banged out KISS favorites “Love Gun,” along with “Deuce” featuring the choreographed- head bobbing- guitar swaying strut that KISS fans always anticipated during the peak of the song. The concert concluded with “Cold Gin” from the inaugural- KISS album.

Ace Frehley’s show was action-packed and he left you standing there wanting more…

ACE! ACE! ACE!

Frehley turns 60 on April 27th.

Ace Frehley will be featured on VH1’s Classic’s “That Metal Show” on March 26th.

Ace Trivia- When asked who is biggest influence was Frehley remarked that it was his fellow-Bronx neighbor Peppy Castro. Castro was a founding member of the psychedelic rock group the Blues Magoos. (We Ain’t Got Nothin’ Yet) Castro taught Ace how to play the guitar.

Clip 1, Clip 2, Clip 3, Clip 4.

KISS TO ROCK SAN JUAN TONIGHT

The band, formed in New York in December 1972 and known for his outlandish makeup and dark, black costumes, will bring their show to the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José M. Agrelot in San Juan.

It will be the first time that KISS has played in Puerto Rico since 1998.

The group quickly became famous for its elaborate concert appearances, which incorporate bold stage elements such as impressive pyrotechnics, explosions and fire.

The original members of the group were Paul Stanley (vocals and guitar), Gene Simmons (vocals, bass), Ace Frehley (lead guitar and vocals) and Peter Criss (drums, percussion and vocals.)

Their makeup and costumes are reminiscent of cartoon characters such as "The Demon," "Starchild," Spaceman," and" Catman."

In 1982, due to creative differences in criteria, Criss and Frehley left the band.

A year later, the band abandoned the use of makeup and was revived during the rest of the eighties.

Driven by the nostalgia of its fans, KISS announced a reunion tour in 1996. Back in their trademark makeup, KISS launched "Kiss Alive / Worldwide," "Lost Cities" and "Reunion" tours.

At the conclusion of these tours, Criss and Frehley KISS did not return and was replaced by Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. The band continues to perform wearing the makeup that made them famous, with founding members Stanley and Simmons.

KISS has recorded 36 albums in its career, 24 of which have been certified gold, and album sales exceed 85 million copies.

Some of the most recognized KISS songs include "Modern Day Delilah," "Cold Gin," "Let Me Go, Rock 'n Roll," "Firehouse," "Say Yeah," and "Deuce."

During KISS' career, they have performed at events like the championship of the Football League, better known as the Super Bowl, the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City in Utah and the American Idol finale in 2009.

GENE SIMMONS On Original KISS Reunion: 'There Will Be One More Time When We Play Together'

On "Sonic Boom" and its planned follow-up:

"The best thing about 'Sonic Boom' is that we did it honestly without worrying about it — not worrying what kind of music is popular now; we just did what we did, which was to be in KISS.

"The new record, which we already started working on — we start recording in three weeks — is gonna be the next step to 'Sonic Boom'. Very similar — straight rock songs, no ballads, no keyboards, no nothing, just rock.

"We have brand new songs that we've been writing. We've been writing a lot. There's a lot of very good material and that's what we're gonna record. A lot of the songs [have been] written by the whole band together, so no outside writers, just the band doing what it did on the first three records — writing the songs ourselves.

"Once you know who you are and how you breathe — because every song is like an animal; you try to bring life to the song so it becomes real — but once you know who you are, it's easy to do, you just have to do what [comes naturally], without thinking too much about it, without thinking what's popular, without thinking what a producer would do; you just do it the way you naturally do it."

"We have almost all the songs written. In fact, we have too many songs; we have about 20 to 25 things that look and sound good. And we're gonna get into the studio in about three weeks, and then we start recording. At the same time, I have to do the TV show ['Gene Simmons Family Jewels']… I mean, it's a very busy time, but the album is gonna take precedence, that's the most important thing."

On drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer donning the "Catman" and "Spaceman" make-up, which many fans consider sacrilegious:

"Because it's classic, and because the world doesn't care who's in the band. If you were a KISS a long time ago, then you know who Ace [Frehley] and Peter [Criss] are. But we play stadiums around the world who have never heard of Ace and Peter. When you go see THE [ROLLING] STONES, you see THE STONES. Nobody's even heard of Brian Jones [except for] very old fans. And if you go see AC/DC or any kinds of bands that get up there, the original members is not even the point; it's who you are right now. And you're only gonna be as good as the team that [makes up the current] band. If you go see KISS in a stadium some place, most of the people have never heard of Ace or Peter; they don't know who that is."

On the possibility of a reunion with Peter Criss and Ace Frehley:

"There will be one more time when we play together. Sometime in the future there's going to be a last show. Sometime in the future we'll be in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. There will be one more time when we do it together to honor the beginning. But, you know, when you run a long-distance race, not everybody can run a long race. Some people are only good for the beginning of the race and they don't have the passion and the will, and the endurance. Not everybody can run a long-distance race."

Gene Simmons Plants a KISS on Estate Planning for the Rich

"At the end of the day, you need to think about three important things: mental health, physical health and financial health," Simmons said on Tuesday, speaking to the British American Business Council of Los Angeles (BABC LA) at Beverly Hills' Peninsula Hotel. "I'm in the highest tax bracket. What are my choices in life?"

Plenty of Green Behind the Black-and-White Makeup

Simmons was pitching Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy, a financial advisory group he joined last year to help broaden their client base and attract members of the well-heeled entertainment industry. The Franklin, Tenn.-based company, whose co-founders include former Transamerica executives David Carpenter and Simon Baitler, specializes in asset protection to individuals with a net worth of more than $20 million. More specifically, Cool Springs, among other things, secures large life insurance policies with little or no cash outlay by arranging for low-interest loans to pay the premiums.

It may seem like an odd fit for Simmons, who's far better known for his fake-blood-spitting, on-stage "Demon" alter ego than for his financial acumen. But Simmons has never made any bones about making sure there was plenty of green behind his group's the black-and-white face paint.

KISS, which has sold more than 100 million CDs and DVDs, was hawking band-themed merchandise, ranging from lunch boxes to toy dolls, as far back as the 1970s. The group, which Simmons co-founded in 1973, holds merchandising licenses to more than 3,000 items.

A Rock-and-Roll Success Story

"I didn't buy my first car until I was 34. . . . I didn't buy my first house until I was 36," Simmons said in an interview with DailyFinance. "Why do you need them when you're always on the road? I lived with my mother until I was about 20. You wanna go out and have some privacy? You go to a hotel."

His approach is a far cry from the dozens of well-known artists who have may have sold tens of millions of albums, yet found themselves in financially precarious situations because of questionable record deals, overspending or financial mismanagement. For every Paul McCartney -- whose net worth was reported last year by U.K.'s Sunday Times to be almost three-quarters of a billion dollars -- or Bruce Springsteen, who according to Forbes earned $70 million in 2009, almost three decades after his first album release, there's a Billy Joel or TLC -- acts that declared bankruptcy in the midst of their popularity because of bad record deals or management. Then, there's Michael Jackson, who was reportedly about $400 million in debt when he died in 2009.

All of which made Simmons a natural choice for Samuel Watson. The Cool Springs CEO was looking for a partner famous enough to appeal to high-net-worth individuals in the entertainment industry -- an industry Watson had little access to -- yet financially savvy enough to pitch Cool Springs' services with a sense of authority. Dressed in dark shades and a suit jacket, Simmons preached financial responsibility to the BABC audience for about an hour Tuesday morning. He then gladly posed for pictures with many of the women in the audience after the presentation.

"I needed a marketing machine, and if you were to define 'marketing machine,' Gene Simmons's picture would be there," said Watson. "There's not a door he can't open."

GENE PLANNING RETURN TO ISRAEL

The KISS star, born Chaim Witz, emigrated to America with his mother Flora, a Holocaust survivor, at the age of eight after his parents divorced, and he has never returned.

But the 61 year old is now planning a trip with his wife, former Playboy model Shannon Tweed, as part of his reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, according to the New York Post.

The bass player will visit the hospital where he was born, in Haifa, and he hopes to be reunited with long-lost relatives, and meet the half-siblings and cousins he has never known.

He will also tour Tel Aviv and Jerusalem during the trip.

NO KISS REUNION

Meanwhile the current KISS lineup that also includes original singer-bassist Gene Simmons, will enter the studio next month to begin record the band's 20 th studio album, the follow-up to its 2009 "Sonic Boom" album. "Sonic Boom" was its first album in 11 years. The band is also expected to embark on a major tour this fall.

In other KISS news, original lead guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss are each writing their memoirs in order to present their side of the story of the band's history.

KISS Confirmed For MOONDANCE JAM

(July 14 to 16 - Walker, MN)

There are a lot more bands to come, but this is shaping up to be the biggest Moondance Jam ever!

For more information, visit www.moondancejam.com.

KISS COVER BAND ROCKS GLASS CITY

The Cleveland-based cover band played for an audience of more than 200 Friday. The band came with thousand-dollar costumes and a miniature replica of KISS' stage, said Omni promoter Troy Michaels.

"(The band) really, really goes all out," Michaels said. "They are entertainers, self-promoters and people come to see the show."

Mr. Speed formed in 1994 with the current lineup and had a passion for KISS.

"We started the band because we are all fans of [Kiss] and grew up listening to the band. They were a major influence on our lives, not only musically, but socially," said Rich Kosak, who portrays guitarist Paul Stanley. "It just seemed like a natural thing that we wanted to do."

The metal quartet strives to be like the original KISS, not just in presentation but in sound.

"We always want people to be able to close their eyes and it sound like the record," Kosak said. "When people open their eyes to remind you of a time when you saw KISS, whether you saw them on television or you saw them in concert."

According to the band, there are four on-stage members and four superstars. Each member has his share of the spotlight.

Mr. Speed performs songs from almost every KISS album and tries to have a variety of songs written by different members.

"There's nothing we won't do," said Andrew Sgambati, who impersonates drummer Peter Criss.

"I think it shows the diversity of the band," said Danny Ayala, who performs as bassist Gene Simmons. "It shows that everybody's got the ability to sing, play [and] be the frontman in the band for a little while and not put that responsibility on one or two guys."

Each member has a 40-hour-a-week job, and they rehearse at least once a week. They use the weekends to perform and play between 25 and 35 shows a year.

"The music is definitely the most important thing as far as us paying attention to detail," Sgambati said. "As far as the costumes, we do everything we can financially within our means to make the best costumes we can."

The band has toured the country and has met the original KISS. On one occasion, the authentic Ace Frehley went onstage with the band and played a few songs.

"Every year we make more memories," Sgambati said. "It's always hard for me to pick just one (memory) because everything is a good memory."

Simmons Coming to Winnipeg

Kiss bassist Gene Simmons will visit the Centennial Concert Hall on June 15 as part of his Rich & Famous speaking tour. Tickets for the show go on sale March 11 for $39 to $119 at Ticketmaster.

The Icons Uncensored event will feature a speech by the rock star and a Q&A session. There will also be a meet and greet and a surprise guest, according to the press release.

Simmons, 61, was one of the founding members of hard rock legends Kiss and is known as the Demon. He and his family are featured on the A&E reality series Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

10 Lessons I Learned For The Gene Simmons Marketing School

2. Love me or hate me just spell my name right. – This lesson is closely associated to lesson #1. Make sure they spell your name right, even in bad press. Today you want to make sure they have your URL correct.

3. Wait for the right time. – Don’t rush things. When the time is right for something… a song, a tour, a album, a interview, it will happen. KISS waited for their reunion tour and the results were stellar, selling out nearly 40,000 tickets in 47 minutes to the first show on the tour. The tour lasted for 192 shows over eleven months and earned $43.6 million, making Kiss the top-drawing concert act of 1996.

4. It’s all branding. – Gene Simmons this and Gene Simmons that. – Even I have at times had issues with how KISS has become more of a brand than a band, but that brand is what it is all about. And Gene Simmons knows that. Ask Gene Simmons about his TV show, Family Jewels and he will act like he has never heard of it, replying “you mean Gene Simmons Family Jewels.” Gene Simmons and KISS are associated with everything they do. Make sure you are always thinking about how your band is represented, as a brand. Make sure you are referred to by your band name.

5. Everything you do will not succeed. – Gene Simmons understands that everything he does will not succeed, that does not stop him. He keeps putting out business ventures, KISS product, tours, and albums. He knows that over time some of these will succeed and they will be remembered. Our attention spans are so short today that we will quickly forget the failures. Don’t stress them, learn what you can and move onto the next idea.

Got a content idea for your website, try it. If your fans don’t get excited by it move onto something else. That last contest didn’t work, try a different contest.

6. Treat the media with respect. – You need to love the media! Radio, TV, magazines, newspapers, websites, bloggers, photographers…. all of them! They can make you look like kings or they can make you look like has beens. At every single show KISS performs they give the photographers pose after pose for perfect photos, so they look great in the paper the next day. I have seen them stop and give a reporter or photographer backstage a extra two minutes of undivided attention so they get the cover. Treat the media like the gatekeepers, because they are!

7. The fan is the most important thing, listen to them you work for them. – Never forget who you work for, the fans! You are doing this for them. Everyone would kill to have a Army of devoted, sometimes blindly, fans. Listen to what the fans want, not what the critics want. Critics don’t buy your music your tickets, they often get it for free. Those with the wallet speak the loudest.

8. The secret to success is offend the greatest number of people. – I love this saying. Think about it, if you have a ton of people who are offended by what you are doing you are doing something right to get attention. In the 70s KISS offended many parents, looking like demons, spitting blood and breathing fire. Alice Cooper before KISS was doing the same. KISS were never the darlings of reviewers, and the critics. That didn’t stop them, they believed in what they were doing. Don’t be afraid to offend someone with your passion. Just make sure you believe in what you are doing.,P>9. If you don’t ask for it, you won’t get it. – If you don’t ask to be on the cover, it is not going to be given to you. If you don’t ask for the headliner slot, it won’t just be volunteered to you. Somebody else will ask for it. If you don’t ask for $1000 a show, it is not just going to be freely offered. If you want your fans to repost something on their Facebook wall, ask them to do it. Ask and you shall receive.

I actually used this lesson the very first time I worked for Gene. He had hired me to manage the online marketing efforts for the book Kisstory II. I had negotiated my pay and then said to myself, I want a leather KISS Army jacket. So I asked, and Gene said yes. I know in the scope of things the cost of the jacket was nothing to Gene and KISS. He was not offering the jacket to me, I had to ask. Ask for what you want.

10. Separate business and pleasure. – This means you do business with someone that you might not like personally. And just the opposite, don’t do business with someone just because they are a friend. It is all about the deal. If it is a great deal don’t sweat it that the person doesn’t like the same things you do, or that they don’t even really like your music.

Here is one bonus lesson…

They Aren’t Afraid to Change Their Minds. – In the pursuit of business KISS is not afraid to change their minds and do something that years ago they claimed to be against. Example, marketing to kids. In the late 70s around the Dynasty tour KISS had become “Disney” with colorful costumes, toys, etc. In a TV program they even said they had become something they weren’t. They were a rock n roll band, but they were seeing young children at their shows. Today the band is directly marketing to and encouraging young kids to become fans. They have realized that if they can grab the kids today they have a new generation of fans growing up with them. On their last tour of the US they offered free tickets to kids, they now have merchandise for kids and even babies. I remember a number of years ago when I pushed for the very first KISS baby bottle and bib to be sold, it was a hit. The fans of the 70s have now grown up and have their own kids who are now growing up with KISS in their family.

My takeaway from KISS was don’t get caught up in everyone’s else opinions and advice… everyone has them and often they aren’t really qualified. Stick to your guns and do what you believe in. And, it is called the music “business.”

KISS JAPANESE TOUR POSTPONED

KISS TO HEADLINE ROCK USA FESTIVAL

“We definitely designed the lineup to shake a few heads and break the thinking mold of what a rock festival should be,” said Dan Liebhauser, part owner and promoter of the event.

Rock USA tickets sales begin on Saturday, March 26th at 9:00 a.m, with tickets starting at $59. For more information, visit www.rockusaoshkosh.com.

NEW KISS KONDOMS

Originally introduced in 2003 by Condomania, KISS Kondoms were the first condoms to display a color photographic image of a licensed property on both the condom wrapper and box. The innovation continues now on a whole new level, featuring an image of Gene Simmons’ iconic fully extended tongue running down the length of the lubricated latex condom.

A Paul Stanley version of the KISS Kondoms, will be released later this year.

Graphic Armor’s KISS Kondom, licensed globally by Live Nation, will be touring store shelves worldwide starting in March 2011. Pre-orders can be placed immediately at http://secure.condomania.com/prodinfo.asp?number=C-KPK. KISS Kondoms will also be available in KISSOnline's KISS Shop soon.

LADY GAGA LOVES PAUL STANLEY & KISS

During part of her show, Lady Gaga bites the heads off of Barbie dolls.

In the middle of her head-biting routine, someone throws a Paul Stanley doll on stage..!

BRUCE KULICK, JOHN CORABI Schedule 'Unplugged' Performance In Italy

Kiss banners stir controversy

But to fans of the legendary rock band, it's sacrilegious — so wrong that some are calling for lawsuits and the firings of those responsible.

Here's what happened: The Tampa Bay Lightning, as part of this season's outdoor concert series, signed former Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley to perform March 11 after the Ottawa Senators game. To promote the show, the marketing team hung banners of Frehley around the St. Pete Times Forum.

What they didn't realize was that the person on the banner wasn't Frehley but Tommy Thayer, his Kiss replacement. Frehley was an original band member who left to start a solo career, then came back for a reunion tour in the mid '90s.

Thayer joined the band in 2002 as the new Frehley, complete with Frehley's "Spaceman" nickname, performance antics and signature makeup of big stars around his eyes.

Not everyone approved. Two camps formed: fans of the old Kiss and fans of the new Kiss.

So imagine the horror when Thayer appeared on a poster advertising Frehley's solo concert. Unofficial Kiss websites lit up. Old wounds reopened.

"It's kind of gone viral among Kiss fans," said Peter Arquette, owner of the Kiss Asylum website. "The fact that it's Tommy Thayer is just ridiculous."

The news hit the virtual world over the weekend when a fan posted a photo of the poster online. Reaction was swift, with many fans hissing.

"I'd be so p----ed off," wrote one fan on blabbermouth.net, a site devoted to hard rock news and reviews. "There's only one Spaceman!!"

"This is sad," said another. "Ace deserves more respect then that."

Other Frehley fans had nasty words for the Lightning's marketing team.

"(Ace) should sue the Tampa Bay Lightning and NHL for defamation of character."

"Marketing dept for this should be fired!"

On Monday, Lightning officials acknowledged the error. After discovering it last week, they immediately ordered 15 new banners.

"We regret the mistake, and proper banners will be in place soon," said Lightning spokesman Bill Wickett.

The error happened when the in-house creative services department pulled a photo from a past Kiss concert without verifying it was of Frehley, Wickett said. They hung the banners Feb. 12 as part of a new "All In" campaign, not knowing Frehley was no longer with the band.

The explanation did little to douse tempers.

Mistaking Frehley for Thayer shouldn't happen, said Arquette, whose Kiss website gets 7,000 hits a day. Frehley has facial hair now and doesn't wear makeup when he performs solo.

Arquette compared Kiss fans to fans of Star Trek, a show with several incarnations. Some prefer one version, others another.

"They are people who like the old Kiss and people who like the new Kiss," he said. "Sometimes there's friction. They all fight about it."

KISS INSPIRED NEW SONG

Wrong 'Spaceman' Used On Banner

According to KissAsylum.com, a banner advertising Frehley's post-game performance features a photo of Tommy Thayer — not Ace — as the "Spaceman." Check out the banner here.

Ace Frehley, who was better known as "Space Ace," was the lead guitarist for legendary rock band KISS from 1973 to 1982. He would continue to lead a successful solo career selling millions of albums with his new band, FREHLEY'S COMET, as well as other albums under his own name. However, in 1996 he rejoined his former band members as the official KISS reunion tour would emerge and soon become the largest grossing tour of '96-'97. He provided his musical talents for the 1998 "Psycho Circus" album and would end his time as a member of KISS in 2001 on the "Farewell Tour". His last solo album, "Anomaly", was released in September of 2009.

To score the best seats for any Lightning home game, call 813.301.6600. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or call 800.745.3000 or visit the St. Pete Times Forum box office.

For more information, visit TampaBayLightning.com.

KISS RETURNING TO JAPAN

4/13 - Nagoya at Aichi Prefecture Gymnasium
4/14 - Yokohama at Pacifico Yokohama
4/17 - Saitama at Saitama Super Arena
4/18 - Kobe at World Hall
4/20 - Tokyo at Nippon Budokan
4/21 - Tokyo at Budokan
4/23 - Sapporo at Makomanai Sekisui Heim Ice Arena

Public ticket on-sale will take place on March 12.

Baby Girl On the Way for KISS' Paul Stanley

The lead singer of the rock group and Erin, an attorney, will welcome their third child together — a baby girl — in August, the couple confirm to PEOPLE exclusively.

“There is nothing greater in life than family, and my accomplishments as a father rank at the top of my successes,” he says.

“Erin and I are blessed with our expectation of the addition of another princess to our family and a new member of the KISS army.”

The new baby will join Sarah Brianna, 2, Colin Michael, 4, and Evan Shane, 16, Stanley’s son from a previous relationship.

Fully enjoying fatherhood later in life, Stanley jokes his age doesn’t affect his dedication to daddy duty in the least. “I may be 59,” he says, “but the only rocking chair this rocker is getting ready for is the one for my new baby.”

ERIC SINGER PROJECT Schedules European Tour Dates

Mar. 26 - Honefoss-Oslo, Norway - Alfred
Mar. 27 - Helsinki, Finland - Nosturi
Mar. 30 - Pratteln-Basel, Switzerland - Z7
Mar. 31 - Prague, Czeck Republic - Exit Chmelnice
Apr. 01 - Zlin, Czeck Republic - Master of Rock Cafe
Apr. 02 - Tefls, Austria - Rathaussaal Tefls

Fan-filmed video footage of ESP (ERIC SINGER PROJECT) performing on February 16, 2009 at Route 66 in Verviers, Belgium can be viewed below.

ESP in 2006 released the "Live in Japan" CD. A DVD set filmed in Sydney, Australia, entitled "Live at the Marquee", was also issued.

ESP's setlist consists mainly of KISS hits and obscure KISS songs that have never before been played live, along with selections from MÖTLEY CRÜE, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, ALICE COOPER and other classic rock bands.

Clip 1, Clip 2.

2011 INDIANAPOLIS KISS FAN EXPO

KISS drummer Eric Singer will be signing autographs and taking photos with fans throughout the day at the KISSOnline booth.

Former Motley Crue / Union lead singer John Corabi will perform an acoustic set. John will also be available for autographs and photos.

7 year-old drumming sensation Logan Robot Gladden (seen on KISSOnline) will make his first Expo appearance.

Boogie Street Guitars will be showing some of their custom Paul Stanley Washburn guitars.

KISS Pick World will be unveiling some new products for 2011.

KISSOnline will have specially priced merchandise.

KISS merchandise & collectibles dealers will be selling everything KISS.

Come celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Destroyer! Trivia contest will be based on Destroyer! There will also be a grand prize raffle.

Children 12 and under get in free!

Location:
Indianapolis Marriott East
7202 East 21st Street
Indianapolis, IN 46219

For rooms reservactions call 1-800-627-7468 and ask for the KISS Expo Rate of $74 a night.

Click here for more info on the Fan Expo.

2011 NORWEGIAN KISS FAN EXPO

Event: 2011 KISS FAN EXPO
Date: Saturday, March 26 / Doors open at 1 PM
Where: Ringerike Kultursenter - Honefoss, Norway (1 Hour from Oslo by bus,train or car)

The Expo will feature Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick, a live performance by the Eric Singer Project, and classic rock music & videos all day long! KISS dealers from the USA, Sweden and Norway, including KISSOnline and KISS Army Sweden will attend.

The Expo will be a two part event.

Daytime Expo will be open to ALL AGES. Everyone will be able to meet Eric Singer and/or Bruce Kulick during the day.

The ESP concert in the evening will be 18 years+.

www.billettservice.no.

For more information email: ckristia@yahoo.no

PAUL STANLEY's 'Connect The World' Appearance Available

"Connect the World" airs internationally and addresses the stories and newsmakers that are changing the world. Becky Anderson is one of CNN's highest profile anchors and correspondents, based in London.

Paul's interview is slated aired yesterday (Wednesday, February 16) on CNN and can now be viewed here.

Prior to the taping, CNN accepted questions for Paul from viewers. Click here to read them.

1978 Chevrolet Corvette Once Owned By ACE FREHLEY Being Auctioned

A description of the car from the seller reads as follows: "This 1978 25th anniversary limited edition Indy Pace car has been given a whole lot of family love! The original owner is my brother-in-law Ace Frehley, former lead guitarist of KISS. Ace purchased this car new in 1978 in the likeness of his spaceman makeup. Two years later, Ace gave me the car as a gift for my high school graduation. So this car is not only gorgeous, it has a really cool history for any Ace fan or collector. The car is in excellent condition and has always been garaged and gently driven. Also included is one of Ace Frehley's personalized autographed Epiphone guitars. A photo of Ace with the car will be given to the winning bidder."

KISS SIGHTING IN SLOVAKIAN COMMERCIAL

BOB DAISLEY, ERIC SINGER Featured On 'Glory Is Noise' GARY MOORE Tribute

"Glory Is Noise" is a bi-weekly show on Radio Free Satan. Each episode, host Joel Gausten offers an eclectic mix of music and exclusive interviews with mainstream and underground recording artists.

PAUL STANLEY's 2005 Mercedes-Benz Being Auctioned On eBay

For more information and to place a bid, go to this location.

KISS CASKETS NOW AVAILABLE

"Our KISS caskets offer fans a unique expression of their love for this iconic rock band,"� said Nick Popravsky, VP of Sales & Marketing, Eternal Image. "KISS fans worldwide have been awaiting these products, and we've even received product inquiries from as far away as The Netherlands recently."

These burial caskets are made of 20-gauge steel and feature iconic KISS images with a striking black interior fabric. Both head panels display classic KISS logos.

The Premium Design model was revealed in a previous announcement. Its exterior is entirely encased in deluxe KISS graphics.

The Standard Design model is being revealed for the first time today. Its graphic layout is more subtle compared to the Premium Design.

The new KISS Caskets are now available in KISSonline's KISS SHOP. (KISS Premium Casket, KISS Standard (Solo Faces) Casket )

PETER CRISS Is Working On 'Bitchin' Rock And Roll' Album, Says RICHIE SCARLET

RockMusicStar.com: One project you worked on in 2010 was the [upcoming] Peter Criss [KISS] "rock" album. Could you tell us about that project and when we may be able to expect to see it released?

Richie: I did that record quite awhile back. I had a blast doing it with Peter. I love Peter Criss. We've been friends for a long, long time. I really wanted to play guitar on it, but all of the guitars were already done by his guitar player, Angel, who's been with him forever. So I ended up playing bass. I did 8 or 9 tracks on the record. This record is a rock and roll record, and it's not like his previously released one ("One For All"), which was a ballad/crooner kinda thing. This is back to bitchin' rock and roll. There's some really good tracks on this record, though I haven't heard it since I cut the tracks. It's due out sometime this year on Sony Records. I don't know when the (exact) release date is, as I'm actually surprised it hasn't been released yet.

RockMusicStar.com: Many music fans/KISS fans remember you from all of the years you worked with Ace Frehley, so to hear you working with another member of KISS will undoubtedly make many people happy.

Richie: I went from one rebel of KISS, to another rebel of KISS. It was always "in the cards" with Peter Criss and I, because we've jammed many times before. When you play with someone and the vibe is right, you usually end up recording with them. And that's exactly what happened. I was very happy to do it, though I would have loved to play some guitar on it. I think it's going to be a really good record and I'm not just saying that because I played on it, and trying to make Peter look good. There's some actually well-written songs on it.

RockMusicStar.com: And most people know, you're very straightforward with your opinions. You don't just blow smoke up people's asses.

Richie: If I didn't dig it, I would tell ya, "Yeah, it's OK," ya know? I even told Peter that I didn't think that, as far as KISS fans go, that most fans weren't really knocked out by his last album ("One For All"). But it was something that Peter just wanted to get out of his system.

Read the entire interview from RockMusicStar.com.

KISS Guitarist TOMMY THAYER Performs With STEEL PANTHER In Las Vegas

Featuring Michael Starr (real name Ralph Saenz; ex-L.A. GUNS), drummer Stix Zadinia, bassist Lexxi Foxxx, and guitarist Satchel (real name Russ Parrish; ex-FIGHT), STEEL PANTHER (formerly known as METAL SKOOL) is a parody heavy metal band from Los Angeles, known for its profane and humorous lyrics. The group's over-the-top live performances have attracted celebrities and fans alike, and in February 2009 the band succeeded in becoming one of the most popular cover bands in California, winning the contest of "Best Tribute Band in the Universe"." The band's first album, entitled "Feel the Steel", was released in 2009.

Video 1, Video 2.

Rock Out and Read

"They're all quite frightened," high school English teacher Sarah Boulard said, laughing, about her students in reference to her Friday costume -- a black wig, spiked foam shoulder pads and silver leggings, reminiscent of an outfit worn by Simmons, a member of the band Kiss.

The school has had a music theme all week, with different classrooms highlighting different decades in music. For every 10 pages a student read during the week, he or she received a guitar pick to put on a lanyard.

Boulard's class focused on the 1980s all week -- prompting Friday's Kiss outfit and other '80s-themed outfits throughout the week.

Gene Simmons: Fire-Breathing, Bass-Playing Life Insurance Salesman

The outfit's flagship product is something called the Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy. It utilizes a proprietary financing program which "enables you to finance an amount sufficient to fund all your life insurance premiums and all interest payments and other costs associated with this transaction at extremely low interest rates not generally available to individuals. This low-cost financing means you can achieve the security you desire without the need to liquidate any of your assets."

Reading further, I came across the Cool Springs executive bios:

There's Samuel Watson, chairman, president, and CEO; David Carpenter, co-founder; William Randolph, co-founder; Simon Baitler, co-founder, Gene Simmons, co-found--OKAY, HOLD THE PHONE...

Gene Simmons? As in, Gene Simmons of KISS?

Yep. It's him--the man/myth/legend behind "Christine Sixteen," "Detroit Rock City," and "Lick it Up" is part of the team hoping to-- according to the Wall Street Journal--"tap into a lucrative demographic: entertainers, sports stars and other people with a net worth of $20 million or more who need a life-insurance policy of $10 million or greater."

Simmons evidently came on board to act as a rainmaker who could open doors to the entertainers and celebrities Cool Springs is going after.

"I've been in the business my whole career, and life-insurance executives do not have audiences," co-founder David Carpenter told the Journal. "Gene has audiences. Gene has the reputation [as] a genius merchandiser and marketer. He has great ways of conceptualizing products."

Guy's got a point. Who else but a marketing and merchandising genius would be able to pull off something like this:

As Gene himself said, "I love livin', but this makes the alternative look pretty damn good."

Business tips from "The Demon" Gene Simmons

In the business world, as in music, Simmons boasts an impressive record. A classic immigrant rags-to-riches tale, he’s worked tirelessly over the last 36 years to turn the KISS brand into an empire. His former blood-spitting “Demon” alter ego now graces more than 2,500 different products such as ketchup, condoms, coffins and credit cards.

In addition to KISS album sales (over 100 million units sold), Simmons earns $100,000 per speaking engagement, and has more than half a dozen booked for 2011 already. Among his other non-musical ventures are estate planning (he is a co-founder of Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy), books, magazines and a handful of television projects.

Reuters sat down with him recently in Toronto just before his keynote speech at Canada’s Advertising Week 2011. Here are some tips from Simmons on how to excel in business.

Q: Beside yourself, who else has it right in business today?

A: If you take a look at Warren Buffett, Carlos Slim — they don’t use computers and they don’t text. They don’t even talk on the cell. Impersonal social networking is fine for information. But you’re not judged like that. You’re not going to get a job that way.

Q: When it comes to pitching business ventures or new ideas, what’s the best way of making your case?

A: When you sit there to talk to somebody (in a pitch), you better learn the two most important things: learn how to speak English correctly – it’s the language of money – and learn good people skills. Learn to communicate as well as you can so people give you more money. It’s actually a profoundly simple idea.

Q: What are some rookie mistakes you’ve seen?

A: A lack of due diligence. In plain speak, you don’t find out who the people are. It’s your responsibility to look both ways before you cross the street. It’s your responsibility to make sure the light’s green. It’s your responsibility to learn, to educate and find out if you’re dealing with crooks.

(He mentions the idea again during his speech, noting that the victims of Bernard Madoff failed in due diligence to ensure their investments were legit.)

Q: And what about failure? How do successful entrepreneurs bounce back?

A: There is no failure. Take a cue from the best athletes in the word. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is actually a really good phrase. If you’re alive, you’re in the game. Every time you fail you learn something and next time you won’t make that mistake again.

Before rushing off to his next engagement, he offers one last piece of advice he said has proven the test of time.

“Never listen to any one particular piece of business advice. What that really means is you have to take successful peoples’ lives and experiences into consideration, but then you have to apply your own situation to that. Because there are no ‘10 rules’ for success.”

PAUL TO 'CONNECT TO THE WORLD' FRIDAY

Paul Stanley will appear on CNN’s Connect the World on CNN International this Friday, February 11 at 1:00 p.m. Pacific (4:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 p.m. London).

Tune-in and hear Paul discuss the continued, phenomenal success of KISS, his highly-acclaimed art, and the exciting developments fans can expect from the band in 2011.

CNN also received an overwhelming response to their request for questions for the KISS frontman that Paul will address on-air.

For more information, or to become a fan of the CNN show, go to Connect the World’s facebook page at www.facebook.com/CNNconnect where there will be a video of Paul’s interview.

ACE FREHLEY To Perform At 'Lightning Concert Series Presented By Volkswagen'

Ace Frehley, who was better known as "Space Ace," was the lead guitarist for legendary rock band KISS from 1973 to 1982. He would continue to lead a successful solo career selling millions of albums with his new band, FREHLEY'S COMET, as well as other albums under his own name. However, in 1996 he rejoined his former band members as the official KISS reunion tour would emerge and soon become the largest grossing tour of '96-'97. He provided his musical talents for the 1998 "Psycho Circus" album and would end his time as a member of KISS in 2001 on the "Farewell Tour". His last solo album, "Anomaly", was released in September of 2009.

To score the best seats for any Lightning home game, call 813.301.6600. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or call 800.745.3000 or visit the St. Pete Times Forum box office.

For more information, visit TampaBayLightning.com.

ERIC SINGER: GARY MOORE 'Played Every Note Like It Was The Last Time He Would Ever Play It'

"I had the pleasure to play drums with Gary on his 1987 'Wild Frontier' tour.

"I joined Gary's band via Bob Daisley. We had recorded together with BLACK SABBATH on the 'Eternal Idol' album. Bob arranged the audition in London in January of 1987. We soon began rehearsals for what would become one of Gary's most successful tours ever.

"I remember we would practice everyday at John Henry Studios in London. Bob and Neil Carter lived in Brighton and would have to leave in time to make their train home. Gary and I would sometimes stay on and jam. Just drums and guitar. We would play THIN LIZZY tunes or just jam endlessly as Gary never ran out of ideas when it came to soloing! He would also play those legendary guitars back then. The 'Peter Green' 1958 Les Paul and his 'Pink Salmon' 1962 Fender Stratocaster. He, of course, did not take those on tour anymore as they had become much too rare and valuable.

"I have to say the one thing that always stood out to me about Gary was his absolute passion and intensity as a guitarist. This man played every song and note like it was the last time he would ever play it. And therefore demanded and expected the same from his band.

"I have to admit he could be a bit tough on drummers. But he only asked for and expected what he himself gave to music. And that was complete commitment every time you played with him. He inspired me to want to play up to his level every night.

"I will always thank him for the opportunity he gave me to play with him. He really was a brilliant musician. And I always felt like he helped take me to another level as a drummer and musician. It was an experience and an education I will never forget and take with me everywhere I go.

"God bless you, Gary Moore."

According to Mirror.co.uk, Moore died of a suspected heart attack, a postmortem revealed on Monday (February 7).

Moore died in his sleep Sunday morning, hours after checking into the five-star Kempinski Hotel in Estepona on the Costa del Sol, Spain with an unnamed female friend. He was 58 years old.

While forensic experts are satisfied Moore died from natural causes, they requested further tests on tissue samples taken from his body ahead of a final report.

PAUL TO APPEAR ON CNN'S CONNECT THE WORLD

‘Connect the World’ airs internationally and addresses the stories and newsmakers that are changing the world. Becky Anderson is one of CNN's highest profile anchors and correspondents, based in London.

Paul’s interview is slated to air within the next couple of weeks. Be sure to check your local listings and here for scheduling updates.

BRUCE KULICK Announces Appearances In Argentina, Chile

"I am excited to announce some new information regarding my upcoming trip in March to Argentina, as well as an appearance in Chile. Along with my friend Sebastian Gava, I will be performing two confirmed shows in Argentina. March 11th will be a huge night in Buenos Aires, as it has been TOO long since I returned to that great city. Then on March 12th I will be in Rosario. You can check Kiss Army Argentina for more info. I will then be flying to Santiago, Chile to do a show at Club 334 on March 16th. Further info on the Chile show will be posted on the Kiss Army Chile site.

"I am really looking forward to seeing my fans in Argentina and Chile, and please remember I will be looking to visit some other South American countries as well this year.

"I sense some 'Crazy Crazy Nights' in South America coming in March!" (Video)

ACE FREHLEY To Appear At MONSTER-MANIA CON 17

Monster-Mania Con provides horror film fans the best opportunity to meet the biggest names in all of horror history. It offers fans the chance to get autographs, participate in question-and-answer sessions with the stars, shop the large dealers area and watch films until 2:00 a.m.

For more information, go to this location.

PREDICTIONS FOR KISS' ST. PATRICK'S DAY SHOW

Kiss is currently working on a new album, which means we may be treated to a few new songs. Of course, we're thinking that the songs will not be the big news at this show, which is obviously an attempt by Kiss to overthrow the leprechaun. Here are a few predictions for the upcoming green-versus-black battle of St. Patrick.

Kiss of Death Beats Luck of the Irish.

Though the question of how to best kill a leprechaun is hotly debated, we're pretty sure that death by tongue and flames will be Kiss' approach. Simmons and company are no dummies, so they are no doubt anticipating an ambush at the Hard Rock from the little green buggers in an attempt to defend their sacred holiday from the invading Kiss Army. As evil and sneaky as the leprechauns are, we're putting our money on the giant tongue and pyrotechnic attack of the invaders. Simmons is gonna lick 'em up like green beer from a pub gutter.

Simmons will get sick from the lepre-germs and the money we put on his tongue.

But the show will go on, because he's a professional, damn it. Germs are no match for the demon/entrepreneur/reality-TV star that is Gene Simmons.

Lots of Kiss fans will have green Kiss face paint.

There will be plenty who will attempt to downplay the obvious invasive nature of this show by pretending it's just the Kiss version of a St. Patty's Day parade. These folks will be the first out the door when the Lucky Charms start flying, and their backs will be stained with green blood to match their silly faces.

New gold-coin-compatible slot machines in the casino.

After the show/massacre, the members of the Kiss Army will have more loot than they will know what to do with, and they'll be passing right by the casino on the way to their cars. We're sure the masterminds at the Seminole Hard Rock have thought of this and will make necessary adjustments to ensure that the gold that originated at the end of the rainbow will wind up in their machines.

Kiss limerick souvenirs.

Over the years, Kiss has consistently rolled out new, mostly absurd, merch, which gets gobbled up by the suckers... I mean Kiss Army. After this epic event, there will definitely be St. Patty's themed memorabilia. We think a T-shirt with the following limerick would be popular among fans and would be salt in the wounds of the defeated leprechauns.

Kiss wipes their ass with your clovers
Your jig happy party is over
We came on your day
And blew you away
And none of us left the place sober

KISS. 8 p.m. Thursday, March 17, at Hard Rock Live, 5747 Seminole Way, Hollywood. Tickets cost $75 to $165.

KISS Rocker Shows Us How to Shout it Loud for Our Troops

Gene Simmons Party Scores With Troops

After taking a three-hour bus ride up from Killeen, the soldiers were treated to an evening with hosts Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed and live music from Little Texas, Five for Fighting and The Rascals.

“I love the Rascals. No question they are on their way up,” said long time country star Rudy Gatlin, who sported a golf cap and looked like he longed for a clear day and a 300-plus drive off the tee. The Rascals are a “flatlander” group that tricks up mainstream songs and puts a bluegrass spin on them. They unfortunately drew the straw to play when Gene and Shannon was on the red carpet.

Former Bears quarterback Jim McMahon also was able to sneak his way around the VIP section to take in the Rascals. McMahon looked like he was just off a construction crew with his beanie cap, jeans and “wolverine” style boots. “Yea it’s cold as S*&t,” he said. “I’m just waiting for my son to get here.” McMahon’s 23-year-old son had not arrived yet and it was no wonder. He had to go from Chicago to Minneapolis to Boston to Phoenix and finally to Austin to get to Dallas. “Then his luggage got lost and so he’s stopping at a store to get some clothes,” said Jimbo. Note to his son…you will never see that luggage again.

McMahon and Gatlin sprung out of their VIP chairs to welcome local actors Burton Gilliam and Kerry Graves. Gilliam, who is best known for his role as Lyle in Blazing Saddles is a favorite among other celebrities and a regular on the charity golf circuit. “This is what it’s all about. I love attending this stuff to honor the troops.” Graves, who lists Walker Texas Ranger and other television shows to his credit, was most excited about meeting Greggo and Fiona Gorostiza from Fox 4. “She’s as good as it gets on local TV, and Greggo is…well just Greggo. He’s my favorite at the station other than you, but I know you.” Thanks Kerry?

Country star Randy Travis also showed up on the red carpet and admitted going to a rock and roll show in his youth. “Yea I saw KISS once. It was one of two rock-n-roll shows that I attended growing up.”

The list of celebrities was a little short, obviously because of weather concerns. Sam Hurd and Tashard Choice of the Cowboys were at the charity poker tables. Hurd was hooked to the “yo” on the craps table and hit it a couple of times in his first seven throws. “Why not play it every time?” said Hurd. Let’s hope he keeps hitting the 11 if the player lockout looms into the fall. Because he’s going to need it.

Big Ticket Discounts on Super Bowl Party Aces and Angels

The Aces & Angels Salute to the Troops , hosted by Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed, and featuring an array of celebrities including Kim Kardashian, takes place tonight at Centennial Hall in Fair Park.

Fearing a low turnout because of temperatures in the teens and wind-chill factor of zero, organizers said they have discounted the cheapest tickets from $475 to just $100.

The deal applies to the first 1,000 people to arrive between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., they said.

Tickets include open bar, buffet, casino games, concerts by Five for Fighting and Little Texas, and much more.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to appear on Simmons' reality show "Gene Simmons Family Jewels."

Additional information, including details on VIP parking, is still available online at www.aces-angels.org .

Peter Criss of KISS to publish memoir

Criss will write the book with the help of Larry "Ratso" Sloman. Scribner's press release promises, "From sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll to multiple brushes with death, 'Makeup to Breakup' will be Peter Criss' unvarnished and eye-opening life story."

While bandmate Gene Simmons has taken his outsize personality to reality television, Criss has had a quieter public persona. He is a breast cancer survivor. "I am so blessed that I am finally going to write my autobiography, and I hope you enjoy the ride," Criss said in the release. "The best of all is I get to share my true feelings of my love for God, family, friends and fame. It's been a wonderful life."

In addition to playing drums in KISS, Criss provided some of the vocals. In fact, he wrote and sang the band's biggest hit, the ballad "Beth."

Calling Dr. Love: Dallas Giving Key to City to Kiss' Gene Simmons

But when the rocker and reality show celebrity comes to Dallas today to be honored by city officials, it will be for activities that are more in keeping with his other nickname: Dr. Love.

On Wednesday, during Super Bowl week, Simmons will be showing his love and continued support for American troops by throwing a fundraising party for them at Centennial Hall in Fair Park. As a show of appreciation, Dallas officials will toss him a key to the city.

"We all know that Mr. Simmons is a talented artist and a famous rock star," said Dallas City Councilman Steve Salazar, who will make the presentation during a ceremony at 4 p.m. today at Dallas City Hall. "But the key is to honor his humanitarian work in supporting our men and women, many of [whom] have been wounded."

Simmons, who is on a speaking and performing tour in Canada, will fly in to Dallas for a day to receive the award. He will return next week to host the event along with his longtime partner, Shannon Tweed. The couple will host more than 500 Texas soldiers from Fort Hood at the Aces & Angels Salute to the Troops on Wednesday. Proceeds of the party will support the USO and the Wounded Warrior Project.

The party will be filmed for viewers of Simmons' A&E TV show, "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels."

This is the fifth year that Simmons is hosting the event, which has generated millions of dollars to support wounded troops, according to Michael Eakman, executive producer of the annual event.

Eakman said he spoke with Dallas city officials about exploring a way to honor Simmons, and they came up with offering him a key to the city.

"His commitment and passion to the troops is more than lip service," he said.

New KISS Studio Album - coming soon

KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer has confirmed that the legendary rockers are heading back into the studio and plan to release a new album before the end of the year. And he reveals it will follow much the same format as 2009’s Sonic Boom which was a massive success on both sides of the Atlantic.

In an interview with BackstageAxxess Thayer says: “The great news is that we are going in the studio again in the next month or two. We are starting to work on writing some songs, approach it just like we did with Sonic Boom and keep it all in the band in terms of the writing, with no agenda besides writing great rock n’ roll songs that we love, then rehearsing them before then recording them. It really felt good to us so we’ll go the same way this time.”

The new record will be the bands 20th studio album and Thayer reveals KISS co-leader Paul Stanley will produce it, after the success he had at the helm on Sonic Boom He adds: “Paul knows more what a KISS record should sound like than anybody, to be honest with you, so he is going to lead the charge and produce it again and we are all really excited about it.

“I know we are going to start working on it really soon in terms of the writing and rehearsing and we’ll probably be in the studio by March, so sometime this year I’m sure you’ll see a spanking new KISS album that’s gonna kick some butt!”

KISS RETURNING TO PUERTO RICO

A KISS Army Fan Club Presale will begin this Friday.

Pre-sale Start: Friday, January 28th, 2011 from 10AM local time
Pre-sale End: Saturday, January 29th, 2011 from 9AM local time

General public tickets will go on sale Saturday, January 29th, 2011@ 10AM local time.

The Simmons Formula for Success

Just a casually dressed Gene Simmons, the entrepreneur, offering his simple pearls of wisdom on how anyone can become successful and/or rich.

Simmons, the 61-year-old rock star, told about 400 curious onlookers at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts that they needed to listen, save, diversify, conduct proper due diligence and spend other people’s money to make it to the top.

Appearing as an Advertising Week event sponsored by the Toronto Star, he said they may not make it big like him as the architect of the worldwide KISS marketing and merchandising juggernaut but his tips might help.

“Everyone here is a brand,” said Simmons, who received $100,000 plus expenses for his 1-hour package of thoughts and answers to questions.

The entrepreneur and entertainer has leveraged the KISS rock music band into a money making marketing and merchandising machine with more than 2,500 licensed products during the last two decades.

They range from calendars and condoms to cups and coffins. There are KISS Visa platinum credit cards, comic books, a coffee house, video game, action figures, fragrances, footballs and pinball machines.

He is a partner in Simmons Abraham Marketing and Simmons Records with auto parts heiress Belinda Stronach and a co-founder of CoolSprings Life.com which provides estate planning for people with a net worth of more than $20 million.

“It’s the Rolls-Royce of estate planning,” he boasted.

Simmons said it’s important to listen to people and customers, noting that Hollywood film director and producer Stephen Spielberg speaks to people everywhere in all walks of life in search of advice.

He told them they should save and it’s not even a bad idea for young people to stay at home and use their money pursuing other opportunities.

“Jesus lived with his mom until he was 33,” he said strolling around the stage in white shoes. “I was 22.”

He added most people that strike it rich didn’t come from big cities or corporate cultures. They came from places like Liverpool (the Beatles) and Kitty Hawk (the Wright brothers.)

“You can come from anywhere and conquer the world,” Simmons said after showing a brief film clip of the KISS success story.

Simmons also urged the crowd not to “put all their eggs in one basket” and diversify into different interests by holding one job or two while still pursuing something they really enjoy.

Borrowing a strategy of many famous entrepreneurs, he told them to never spend their own money, if they can get it from somewhere else.

“I use other people’s money to make money for others,” he said.

Simmons said he also listens to his mother who told him to look beyond accomplishments of today and to the future and partner Shannon Tweed, who advises him regularly to conduct proper due diligence before teaming up with someone on a business deal.

He noted that the victims of New York fraudster Bernie Madoff never did enough homework before losing billions of dollars in his Ponzi schemes.

Among participants posing questions, one budding entrepreneur presented a pillow to Simmons with a picture of the rock star embroidered on it. She asked him for his advice.

Simmons smiled and joked that she would still have to pay a licensing fee to sell it.

Simmons Rocks Advertising Week

And if anyone knows the power of a brand it’s Simmons, a founding member of the rock-n-roll dynasty KISS and now an entrepreneur and marketing guru.

Simmons, 61, addressed a crowd at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto Tuesday during the Institute of Communication Agencies’ annual Advertising Week.

An hour and two video presentations later, Simmons walked down into the crowd and invited audience members to seek his business advice.

Simmons spoke with Evan, an aspiring musician who had traveled overnight by bus from New York City, CD in hand. Simmons examined the CD and wondered why Evan’s contact information wasn’t on cover.

“It’s inside,” Evan pointed out.

Simmons asked how Evan was currently paying his bills. Evan said he continues to “push his wares” and thankfully doesn’t have many bills because he still lives at home.

“Smart,” said Simmons, who earlier said he’d lived at home until he was 22. It’s a good idea for young people to stay at home and save as much money as possible, said Simmons.

After several minutes of back and forth with Evan, Simmons said, “watch this,” and passed the CD to a man sitting behind Evan–the president of Universal Canada.

Simmons then made his way over to the other side of the auditorium where a female university student with a green Mohawk handed him a black and red pillow adorned with his image.

The pillows cost around $8 to make and sell for $15 through the girl’s Facebook page. She asked what her next steps should be.

Simmons playfully asked how much she had paid him to use his image, and told her about that little thing called a licensing fee.

The scene quickly tuned into what could only be described as an episode of Dragon’s Den on crack. One woman presented her children’s book about a family called “The Farties” based on flatulence. She even performed a jingle… with her mouth. (Video)

B.C. girl's Kiss video goes viral

Gene Simmons admires Schwarzenegger

ROCK & ROLL ICONS KISS COMING TO HARD ROCK

Regarded as one of the most influential rock and roll bands of all-time, KISS holds honors as one of America’s top gold record champions, recording 37 albums over 36 years and selling over 100 million albums worldwide. Record-breaking tours around the globe include high-profile appearances at Super Bowl XXXIII, the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, the 2005 Rockin’ The Corps concert dedicated to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and most recently, the 2009 American Idol Finale before thirty million viewers.

The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation. The unparalleled devotion and loyalty of the KISS Army to the “Hottest Band in the World” is a striking testament to the band’s unbreakable bond with its fans.

All seats are available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office, open Tuesday – Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and on Sunday & Monday – only open on event days at noon. Tickets also are available at all Ticketmaster outlets online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open one-hour prior to show start time.

MADRID KISS FAN FEST

Aces & Angels With Gene Simmons

Aces & Angels is getting a jump on the festivities by taking place on Wednesday, February 2nd. The party kicks off at 6pm in the The Centennial Building at Fair Park.

In addition to the national media outlets that will be covering this event, there will also be an A&E production crew filming Gene Simmons’ reality show Family Jewels. Partygoers will enjoy five hours of live music with performances by Five for Fighting, Little Texas, The Grascals, Rival Sons, and 4Troops (a quartet of military veterans).

Aces & Angels supports the Wounded Warrior Project and the USO. Gene Simmons will personally be escorting a group of 1,000 Texas soldiers from Ft. Hood and he’ll take a few injured troops to the Sunday game.

Many famous actors, comedians, rock stars and professional athletes will be playing the Vegas-style casino games and partaking in the gourmet food. Celebrities at past Aces & Angels parties include Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian, Shannon Elizabeth, Dane Cook, and Derek Hough.

There will also be a cigar lounge, VIP cabanas, and silent & live auctions. For the first-time ever, a special-edition Gene Simmons “Salute to the Troops” custom motorcycle will be unveiled at the event. Plus, someone will win a seat in the 2011 World Series of Poker by playing in the Aces & Angels poker tournament.

Tickets are still available, and you can get discounted rates by mentioning “RAGE” for individual tickets and “RAGEVIP” for cabanas. The Richie & Greggo Extravaganza will be broadcasting live from 2-7pm followed by Jagger & Jasmine from 7-11pm. Spread the buzz.

KULICK JAMS IN SCHOOL OF ROCK KISS TRIBUTE

Inside the mind behind Kondoms, Kaskets and Kiss Slurpees

I do not want to ask Gene Simmons about his hair — all-black and hard-looking and seemingly friable — nor its possible reconstruction or remedies.

Nor do I care to ask about the rocker’s lasciviously long tongue and its presumed calisthenic capabilities.

Discomfiting sexual conquests and the exploration of possible inflationary claims? Are we going to go there? Please, no.

Nevertheless, here we are, twinned and travelling through the vastness of the 16,500-square-foot Benedict Canyon home where the Kiss bassist resides with erstwhile Playboy Playmate Shannon Tweed, their two adult children, Nick and Sophie, and their two dogs, Snippy and Lucky, all of them stars in the Simmons publicity orbit, except for Lucky, a camera-shy Dalmatian.

Question: Why are the corners of the enormous Oriental carpets covered with small, white rugs? “So the dogs can pee,” says the rock star. “Those are their spots.”

Ah.

In a matter of weeks the film crews will descend here for season seven of the rock-star-at-home reality show that — here’s a tip — should never be referred to as Family Jewels.

“You mean Gene Simmons Family Jewels?” Gene Simmons corrects. Never missing a moment to market his name brand, Simmons, as unlikely as it sounds, is still marching 37 years later into the minds of young people via Halloween Kiss makeup and through the aging hearts of diehard fans who recall the bare-chested, studded-codpiece days when Simmons would breathe fire into the stadium air.

Question: “Does it seem incongruous that one day you’re on stage in your Demon persona and the next you’re in a red onesie crawling into bed with Shannon doing a scene for Family Jewels?”

“Nope,” Simmons replies, possibly irritated that I have failed, again, to acknowledge the full name of the eponymous A&E hit show. Despite the warnings and protestations of others, Simmons forged ahead with the television series because, simply, “in life you get to make your own rules.” The result? “The brand is bigger than ever.”

This is a fact. “Kiss is the most successful merch band ever,” says Jordan Jacobs, an entertainment lawyer who manages the Canadian band Down with Webster, which Simmons attempted to sign, and serves as legal counsel for the Toronto-based group The Envy, which Simmons did sign and is now meticulously moulding to his precise marketing specifications. “I wanted them to stop writing things like, ‘I miss you. I can’t live without you,’” says Simmons, who calls The Envy a “cutesy” band. “I wanted them to write a song called Fingers Crossed.” Simmons says he then created and trademarked The Envy’s crossed fingers logo, which is meant to be adopted by young adoring fans in the manner of the Demon’s own infamous horns hand gesture (pinkie and index finger up; second and third digits down).

There’s plenty of evidence of Kiss’s merch sovereignty in the locked lair within Simmons’ home, a wall-to-wall Smithsonian of possibly 3,000 items of Kiss stuff, from Kiss M&Ms to Kiss silicone “bandz” bracelets (very popular with young girls) to Kiss credit cards. Along the back wall observe the Kiss Kasket, resting peacefully, awaiting. In a display case you will note the “tongue-lubricated” Kiss Kondoms.

The contrast of those last two items is a spoon-fed opening for a shop-worn one-liner. “We’ll get you coming and we’ll get you going,” says Simmons on cue, motioning to have that bon mot — condoms to caskets — written down.

“I’ve read it too many times,” I respond, declining.

“Of course, and I’ll keep saying it.”

This gets to the heart of the matter.

According to the relentless pitch, the Kiss bassist is marketing gold, both at home in Beverly Hills and on the road, including Toronto where on Tuesday he will address Advertising Week in a presentation sponsored by the Star. Simmons says his base rate for such talks is $100,000, plus first-class airfare, plus hotel. If he takes the kids and “Miss Shannon Tweed” along as part of the presentation team, the fee rises sharply.

Last week, Mr. Midas did Moncton.

Winnipeg is slated for April.

Vancouver, en famille, is scheduled for July.

In between there are Kiss concerts booked and another Kiss record in the offing, to be produced by bandmate Paul Stanley, who has been partnered with Simmons since their pre-Kiss days in Wicked Lester. The band is on the verge of a Hello Kitty “lifestyle” alliance, says Simmons. From bedsheets to clothing. And — wait. The phone’s ringing. CAA is on the line, the Hollywood talent agency wanting to pitch Simmons on yet another self-branded TV show.

“What didn’t exist were notions of bands becoming brands,” says Simmons, focusing his attention on the early days, rejecting the frail argument that the Seventies-era Monkees lunch pail is proof to the contrary. “The bands didn’t take an interest in it. They just didn’t.”

Twenty-eight years ago Simmons sliced two clear lines through the first “S” in his surname, transforming it into a dollar sign. “Then we brought out jewelry of our signatures, so our names became trademarked,” he says. The debut Kiss tchotchke was a necklace to be worn, presumably, by young lovelies.

All these years later and the licensing of Kiss memorabilia appears unstoppable — the Demon Slurpee cup sold 13 million units, he says. Total sales? More than $500 million. And what about the margins on the merch? Fifteen per cent on the little stuff, he says. But he says he nets $4,700 on those signed-by-Simmons Axe guitars. Even with Simmons at 61, and no longer baring his chest in his on-stage outfits but rather trying to lose weight and pointing with amusement to one of those food-catching landing sites on the protuberance of his shirt, the band brand reigns.

But auditing the Simmons success beyond the Kiss moniker proves far trickier.

Simmons is partnered in Simmons Abramson Marketing with Rich Abramson, the L.A.-based marketer who produced Pee-Wee Herman’s Big Adventure and financed other Pee-Wee fare. In an interview with George Stroumboulopoulos on the CBC’s The Hour two years ago, Simmons described the marketing company as “fast becoming the most famous one on planet Earth.”

How do you measure that?

Abstractly, accomplishing this appears to involve creating “heat,” which in turn involves fuelling the marketplace and spurring momentum.

Simmons chooses a shark metaphor.

“The world and pop culture in general is like sharks that circle around a small, itty-bitty piece of meat,” he explains from behind an expansive desk piled with such Simmons entrepreneurial endeavours as Tongue magazine, which lasted for five issues. “Sharks are well fed. Nothing feeds on them. They can eat anything they want. And yet they will circle around one piece of meat. By they way, they’re full. And they’re not really interested in that piece of meat. What they’re interested in is what the other sharks are interested in. It’s like women.”

He pauses.

“You didn’t even look up,” he says.

“No.”

“So they circle around this piece of meat. As soon as the shark takes a first bite out of that piece of meat. . . all the other sharks will risk their lives to try to kill that shark to get that piece of mea. . .. It’s the sharks themselves that create the value of that meat.”

This doesn’t always work, of course.

How many big ideas are executed? “Two out of 10 happen,” he says. “It’s like playing baseball. You swing the bat. . . .You don’t always hit a home run but you make a living.”

So let’s ask. Where has Gene Simmons experienced failure?

“NGTV.”

“What was that? No Good TV?” I ask, jokingly.

“Yes.”

“That’s what it was called?”

“Yeah. I created the brand. It was massive. We raised $30 million right away.”

NGTV, formerly NetGroupie, was an online-only station for spicy movie star interviews and uncensored boob shots. Branding mandate: “Putting the F-U back into fun” for the 18-34 set.

Simmons was chairman of the board. Abramson was briefly co-chief executive officer and later director.

NGTV may ring some bells for certain Torontonians.

“There was a Canadian component,” says Andy De Francesco, who, in 2004, was a managing partner at Standard Securities Corp., which brokered at least one round of financing for NGTV, a sum that in De Francesco’s recollection rose above $10 million. “We handled the Canadian component institutionally and through some high net worth people and Gene came and did the pitch himself with his team.”

Simmons was presented not only as the marquee chairman but the conduit to the high-wattage celebrities the show needed to feature as guests. De Francesco’s group visited Simmons in L.A. “You go to his office and there’s everything from lunch boxes to blankets to you name it. The list goes on and on. There’s no question the man knows how to sell the band and knows how to sell the brand.” Simmons has frequently said his aim is simple: “To be Disney without the overhead.”

Today NGTV is making its collapsed way through the California bankruptcy courts. The list of unsecured Canadian creditors include Frank Mersch’s Front Street Investment Management, which acquired a modest $150,000 worth of NGTV debentures in 2005 (the investment was disposed of two years ago, says Front Street president Gary Selke); and Can Gap Capital Corp. for $444,700 (“Well, there’s a lot more,” says Can Gap’s Emlyn David, who will not specify the full amount of his exposure). Simmons’ own claim is $1.9 million.

“I have to be careful what I say,” Simmons says of the venture. “When you let the creative element control the budget, you’re doomed to failure. And we simply could not control the creative people. It’s unfortunate.”

It was the partnership of Simmons and Abramson that got behind the launch of Frank’s Energy Drink, the “Keeps you yodeling all night long” beverage that emerged from the eclectic ideas stable of auto parts entrepreneur Frank Stronach. This, Simmons wants to make clear, was not a failure in his eyes. “Frank’s energy drink didn’t go forward not because it wasn’t successfully marketed. . . but because Frank decided to get out of the energy drink business. It could have been a monster.”

Then there was find.com, an Internet search site that went nowhere. “I was going to create a scavenger hunt,” Simmons says of the aborted marketing relationship between find.com and Simmons Abramson. “They still owe us millions of dollars.”

As Simmons says, even Warren Buffett suffers losses. “Everybody wants the 10 simple steps of success. They don’t see that there are a thousand steps of failure along with that.”

So let’s talk success. Where are the winners in the Simmons Abramson Marketing stable? Here Simmons offers one name, Cool Springs Life Equity Strategy. Launched last spring, Cool Springs is marketing what Simmons describes as ultra low rate insurance policy financing to under-insured, ultra high net worth individuals. That’s right. The blood-spitting bassist is pitching life insurance, in this instance predicated on a model wherein the interest rate spread covers the financing of the premiums.

“It’s a behemoth,” he says of Cool Springs, though the company has yet to close with any clients. The company says it has “secured” more than $7 billion in funding, though it won’t name any of the partner institutions, and that the first policies will be finalized in a matter of days. Simmons and Abramson are co-founders, along with three insurance industry executives. When they all lined up for a Wall Street Journal photograph along with their in-house legal counsel last April, only Simmons’ name made it into the photo caption.

Cool Springs, he predicts of the thus-far-unproved venture, will be even bigger than the Kiss brand. “At the snap of a finger Cool Springs can leave that behind in a popcorn fart,” he says.

“A popcorn fart?”

“A New York minute.”

This has been a long conversation. Son Nick ambles in, speaking briefly about the band he’s forming. Mantis is the name. Cream is one of the influences.

Nick is 6-foot-7. Miss Shannon Tweed annually marked the heights of her kids in pencil on the door jamb in the kitchen, just like any other mother. “The world is theirs,” Simmons says of his children. “And it’s only going to be about choices and hard work.”

Simmons’ own key influence was his mother, Flora, who remains spry at 85. His father walked out on them when Simmons was 7, a story he has told many times. Feri Witz was, in Simmons’ description, a carpenter, an idealist and a business failure. In later years Chaim Witz, a.k.a. Gene Simmons, would buy him a home. Pay his bills. But he never saw his father again.

Why not seek him out?

“I thought he made the choice,” Simmons says. “It’s an interesting article. You’re going from business to shrink, but that’s okay.”

In one corner of the locked lair is a pile of the small datebooks that Simmons lives his life by. They go back 30 years. He pulls the latest out of his cowboy boot, which is where he keeps the current version. In meticulous capital letters is a note of every appointment, from hair colouring (Shannon Tweed colours his hair) to meetings with Hollywood bigwigs. I flip through 1997.

“What if I found some really interesting secret in here?”

“I don’t care.”

“You don’t care?”

“Nah. What secret could you find? I’ve been very clear about 5,000 women or so. What else is there? Oh, I forgot. Farm animals.”

“Yeah.”

And why keep them?

“Well, eventually I’m going to sell myself of course.”

Gene Simmons speaks Tuesday at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts as part of Advertising Week. For more information: www.advertisingweek.ca.

KISS VIDEO CLIP FROM FRONTIER DAYS

Moncton has 'all the goods:' Simmons

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed loved the warm welcome they received in Metro Moncton this weekend while in town for Simmons to serve as keynote speaker at the Atlantic Brand Confabulation on Friday.

The power couple, he a rock star for nearly 40 years in KISS and she a Newfoundland-born former Playboy Playmate of the Year, mixed and mingled with a crowd of roughly 100 people at Moncton Chrysler on Mountain Road Saturday afternoon at a private meet and greet.

Saturday's meet and greet was attended by sponsors and partners of the Confabulation and a few invited guests. Some members of the public purchased special meet-and-greet passes to attend.

Simmons described the Brand Confabulation and related festivities, all presented by The Momentum Group and presenting sponsor Moncton Chrysler, as "very professional."

"This is an A-level presentation, as good as anywhere in the world, and it's time for Moncton to stop feeling like second-class citizens," he said in an interview with the Times & Transcript. "You have all the goods. The people that were involved in the event were A-level people."

For more than two hours, Simmons and Tweed signed anything attendees wished, took hundreds of photos and chatted at length without rushing anyone away.

Darlene Duguay of Riverview, whose five-year-old daughter Olivia was high-fived by Simmons and got a huge hug and cuddle from Tweed, described both celebrities as "down-to-earth" and "very cool."

Luc Robichaud, 17, of Moncton, had the chance to ask Simmons at Friday's Confabulation at Casino New Brunswick for advice on starting a skateboard company. At the time, Simmons told the young man he should have walked up to Simmons confidently and looked him straight in the eye.

On Saturday, Robichaud took those words to heart, approaching Simmons just as the rocker had suggested.

"He remembered me," Robichaud said.

The "big fan" had an axe-shaped bass just like Simmons uses. The legendary musician noted that Robichaud's bass had an original 1980s Kramer neck. Robichaud couldn't believe Simmons noticed it right away, and he was thrilled to have his idol sign it.

Tweed, sporting a purple top, black pants and tall black boots, told the Times & Transcript that having the Hollywood spotlights shone on her family for three decades doesn't bother her in the least.

"Yeah, I hate when people tell me how much they like me," she said with a laugh. "No, I think it's time to worry when people start ignoring you, so we never look a gift horse in the mouth and we're always grateful when anybody asks us to go anywhere."

Between photos, autographs and chatting with fans, Tweed said she doesn't understand celebrities who let stardom go to their heads.

"I spent nine years slinging beer, and it doesn't take much to think back to when you did what you did and where you came from and when you were eating beans out of a can because that's all you could afford," she said. "So, you just think back a little bit and you'll realize we're all pulling up our pants one leg at a time, so it's good to stay there."

The former Playmate, 53, hasn't been back to her birthplace of Newfoundland since she was in her 20s, she says, though she has family there. She still considers herself a "Canadian girl."

Simmons, 61, dressed in jeans, a black shirt and black sports coat, sang along to some of the classic rock songs playing in the background at the meet and greet. He goofed around, dancing and playing air guitar between poses with fans and had nothing but good things to say about Moncton and the Atlantic Brand Confabulation.

"I make a living. I don't have to sugar-coat anything," he said. "This was an A-level presentation. And if anybody was taking notes in the audience (at the Confabulation), they actually would have learned something. Forget about Gene Simmons for a second, there were some very astute observations about how anybody can be making more money by paying attention to the details and stepping up, doing what they need to do to improve their brand, including trademarking and owning their underlying rights. So these are not impossible tasks ..."

At the Brand Confabulation, Simmons spoke of the importance of education and being confident and passionate in everything you do.

"Most of the most powerful people on the face of the planet still do the same thing as when they were starting out. Trust me, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett do the same thing. They get up every day and they go to work. And they do the best they can, like a champion - to win. And you've got to have the same approach."

Asked what happens when things don't work out or one fails, Simmons said we live in a country and society where you "can't fail."

"Hockey players - don't they fail more often than they win? Who cares? You wait for that goal. When you get a goal, everything erupts. You won't be judged by your failures. You'll be judged by your wins. You cannot fail."

One of the more humourous moments on Saturday was when Simmons took a black marker and started drawing on The Momentum Group's logo, showing company head Brad LeBlanc how to improve his brand.

"We got our money's worth," LeBlanc said afterwards. "Gene is one of the top branding experts in the world. The first thing he said was, 'I like your logo.' The second thing he said is, 'I could make it better.' So we handed him a Sharpie and let him ruin our photo wall."

Simmons did the same thing to a Moncton Chrysler sign.

Dealer principal Trevor Carson was happy to accept the advice from the rocker and businessman.

"He's incredibly intelligent," Carson said of Simmons. "He taught me a little more about the history of Jeep, where Jeep came from, where the name came from."

Carson said he perhaps should have felt a little ashamed to be learning the history of one of his brands from Simmons, but "the man is brilliant. It's been great."

The car dealer was impressed with how Simmons took his time with everyone eager to meet him.

"He's done that with everybody," Carson said. "He's taking time to give everybody that five minutes of his time, whether it's just random questions or whether it's business questions."

Craig Norris, who runs Craig Norris Photography and teaches a photography course at McKenzie College, was on hand Saturday shooting the event. He did the same thing Friday, and he brought 15 of his students, who served as the event's "paparazzi."

"The students, they had a blast because it's not every day in Moncton that you can get into a press pit with Gene Simmons four inches away from your nose," Norris said. "We shot the event from beginning to end and had a blast doing it."

Brad LeBlanc said the Brand Confabulation was just the "beginning of a lot of work" he and Simmons will do together. That night, LeBlanc was spotted with Simmons, Tweed and company at a downtown Moncton restaurant before the celebrities left the city.

Asked for any final words for Moncton, Tweed said, "Love you, and thank you so much for the warm welcome. We really appreciate it."

'The Demon' dines in Oromocto

When you get a chance to give rock 'n' roll icon Gene (The Demon) Simmons a taste of New Brunswick, you've got to relish your good fortune.

At least that's what Rivers Corbett, entrepreneur and founder of the Relish Gourmet Burgers chain, believes.

The man behind the expanding burger chain welcomed Simmons - the legendary blood-spewing, tongue-wagging bass player from Kiss - and his longtime partner, Newfoundland-born actress and former Playboy Playmate of the Year Shannon Tweed, to his Oromocto franchise with a couple of tasty burgers Thursday evening after their plane was diverted to Fredericton.

Simmons and Tweed, who attended the Atlantic Brand Confabulation in Moncton on Friday night, were originally expected to fly into the hub city.

When alternate arrangements had to be made, Corbett received a phone call from event organizer Brad LeBlanc asking if it would be possible to keep the Oromocto restaurant open a little later than usual to accommodate the two celebrities after their plane arrived.

For Corbett, it was a no-brainer.

"I pulled the team together pretty quickly," he said.

"Brad didn't think they were going to stay, that they'd have to head off to Moncton pretty soon. But, no, Gene and Shannon wanted to come in, pick their own burgers out and experience the brand, the whole Relish scene. So they came in and enjoyed themselves."

What was on the menu?

Simmons tried out the Greek Tycoon - a burger that features crumbled feta cheese, marinated bell peppers and onions, kalamata olives and tzatziki sauce.

Tweed tackled the Cabo Diablo, a sandwich that includes tomato/jalapeno salsa, guacamole, sour cream and hot sauce.

Corbett, who wasn't at the restaurant during the visit, said the couple seemed to enjoy its meals. He spoke to Simmons and Tweed by phone as they chowed down.

"They were saying, 'This is great. This is great,' " he said.

"They're having a ton of fun (in New Brunswick). They were cracking jokes. They're really down-to-earth people."

And, most importantly, the buzz about the visit seems to have given the company a little sales bump Friday.

"Business today has just been booming. I laugh because everyone says you have to run a two-for-one special or something to get the hordes in (to the restaurant)," he said. "But really you just have to create a buzz."

VINNIE VINCENT Model Guitar At NAMM; First Photos Posted Online

KISS co-founder to speak at Moncton event

But that's just his day job - or, rather, his night job. Simmons is also a natural entrepreneur with a nose for whatever will capture the public mind. His gifts in this line obviously emerged early, with the creation of KISS in the early 1970s. The group came in loaded for bear, their shows featuring fire breathing and blood spitting, some terrifying pyrotechnics and facial makeup never seen outside a Kabuki theatre.

KISS, which is still rolling strong, was no slouch in the hard-rock lineup, selling more than 100 million albums worldwide and earning huge sums on stadium tours.

Simmons himself, who has spent decades branding over 3,000 products with the KISS name, has done superbly well, by some estimates having a net worth of US$300 million.

KISS was always all about branding, Simmons clearly believes. As he wrote in KISS: The Early Years: "We had our show, we had our levitating platform, we had our bombs, we had our costumes and we had our KISS logo."

The band was always going to become known for a more subtle form of branding as well - a dedication to approaching its own public in a responsible manner. As Simmons wrote, "KISS would always perform on time, period, and we would always deliver the goods."

With 37 years of success in the bag, no one can argue.

But if KISS stopped recording and touring tomorrow, the money taps would still be spewing. Their 3,000 licensed products cover everything from action figures to pinball machines to diaper bags. There are KISS Kondoms and KISS Koffins. (The Koffins, by the way, are known to make fine coolers, for those who believe a lot of fun can be had before their purchase is put to its intended use.)

Simmons' branding legerdemain may begin with KISS but doesn't end there. He has his own line of products - the Moneybag clothing line, releases from his recording company Simmons Records, Simmons Books, the Simmons Comics Group and the TV show Gene Simmons: Family Jewels on A&E, to name a few.

Not that there should be any question of his understanding and commitment to branding, but Simmons also has a marketing firm, Simmons Abramson Marketing.

At a music conference in Montreal, Simmons once said, "What we all want to recognize is that a name means something. It doesn't matter what it is: Whether it has music, whether it's a religious symbol, a political symbol, or a politician - everything should be a brand."

He apparently has always wanted, before anything else, to make money. As he once told Bloomberg Business Week, "The real difference between being an entrepreneur and everyone else in the world is the ability to monetize. I am an entrepreneur in the classic mould. No matter what I do - outside of sticking my tongue out - I tend to make money."

Knowing how to be an entrepreneur is an instinctive thing, he believes. He identifies opportunities "by using my gut - I have to have an emotional connection to what I am ultimately selling," a credo that may not fully explain why he sells diaper bags.

One should defend one's brand with full force, he once said during a panel discussion. "Make sure your brand is protected. Make sure there are no incursions. Be litigious. Sue everybody. Take their homes, their cars. Don't let anybody cross that line."

KISS may have been the foundation of the eventual business empire he has built, but Simmons will disabuse anyone of the notion that he was ever a deeply committed musician. "I just wanted to get rich and famous," he has said several times.

And fame holds no candle to having money in the bank, he says. If he were choosing between being wealthy and being famous, the fat chequebook would win every time. "You can be famous and be poor. But if you're rich, who cares. And if money can't buy you happiness ... well, if you're going to be ... miserable ... it's still better to be ... rich ..."

Simmons loves to say the outrageous, the things that no one is supposed to say. He's known as an entertaining speaker as well as an entrepreneur and builder of brands whose record speaks for itself.

Simmons will be the keynote speaker at the Atlantic Brand Confabulation, but also on the stage will be Dave Carroll, a singer-songwriter known for his music video series, United Breaks Guitars. Gair Maxwell, a local branding expert and author of Nuts, Bolts and a Few Loose Screws, plans to explain branding in a way that will allow a business audience to get maximum value from the evening.

The event takes place at Moncton's Casino New Brunswick on Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.

KISS ARMY FAN CLUB MEMBER OFFER

KISS ARMY Fan Club members can start their new year off right with access to a very limited quantity of hand-signed Sonic Boom vinyl. The album, pressed on 180 gram black vinyl, was hand signed in white by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer! Only 60 are available.

KISSONLINE held back 150 Sonic Boom black vinyl LPs from last winter's limited edition pressing for two special projects. First, this offering of 60 autographed LPs, and secondly, a special edition framed commemorative piece coming to KISSONLINE soon.

When KISSONLINE released the KISS Sonic Boom vinyl earlier this year, all 4850 copies offered for sale, sold out within days. Unsigned individual LPs are now going for $150-250 each on Ebay!

The album is packaged in a full color gatefold jacket and includes lyrics on the inner sleeve and an exclusive 22" x 33" color poster! Only 1000 of each color were pressed!!

Two (2) item limit per person.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This offer is only available to KISS Army Fan Club members in good standing. Members can ONLY access this product by logging in to KISSONLINE.com and clicking on the "Store" link at the top right of the navigation. You will not see this product in the store if you are not logged in to KISSONLINE as a paid member.

KISS AT RodeoHouston: EXPECT LOTS OF FIREWORKS

I know, KISS is the first act that comes to mind when you think rodeo. But neither was Julio Iglesias in 1986 or Larry the Cable Guy in 2006. How can you make the ladies swoon, or do comedy, in a football stadium? But hearts were fluttering and bellies were jiggling, all right. The rodeo likes to keep things interesting.

KISS is going to be incredible in Reliant Stadium March 15. Rodeo clowns, fried Twinkies, barrel racing, turkey legs, bumper cars, tight jeans and Gene Simmons spitting up blood ... for an $18 ticket? This is the greatest entertainment event in the history of the world.

"We actually made a hard run at them last year, but they had already booked the Toyota Center," said Leroy Shafer, chief operating officer of the rodeo. "So we said, 'Hey, we want to keep you on the hook for next year.' What sealed the deal for us was when they played the rodeo in Cheyenne (Cheyenne Frontier Days) last year, and they were the hottest act. Once we saw that, we knew, gosh, we've got to get them on our stage."

What sealed the deal for KISS was assurance they could shoot off all the fireworks they want.

"The head pyrotechnics guy for KISS also works for the company that's been doing our pyro for years. So he's extremely familiar with the KISS show, and he'll be here for the entire run of the rodeo," Shafer said. "He can work with Gene Simmons and the rest of the guys and figure out how to make it work on our stage. He told them, 'It's going to be great. You'll play in front of 72,000 people. You've got to do this.' That's when it finally came together.

?"It will be a pyro spectacular."

Shafer expects Reliant Stadium to be packed with KISS Army fans ranging from "young grandpas and grandmas to Mom and Dad to their kids. There probably will be 10,000 kids with their faces painted here that night."

He saw a similar crowd, maybe less face paint, when Chicago played the rodeo in 1990.

"We literally had 50-year-olds who went to Chicago concerts when they were in college. We saw their grandkids with them. We're seeing the same kind of phenomenon happen now with KISS."

Shafer is also seeing signs that the 2011 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo could be the biggest ever.

"It's going to be fantastic. Looking at ticket counters and sales of season tickets, we're up over last year, when we shattered all of our attendance records. The one variable we always have is the weather. The last 100,000 to 150,000 tickets we sell are during the actual show, and that's impacted by the weather. Last year, we had only one half-day of rain during the whole rodeo. That was the best weather for a rodeo I've seen in the 37 years I've been here. If we get good weather this year, we've got a shot at the record."

For a list of other performers and ticket information for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, click on www.hlsr.com.

VINNIE VINCENT Model Guitar To Be Unveiled At NAMM; More Details Revealed

After years in the making, all the elements came together to make possible the availability of this truly spectacular creation to all who have dreamed of owning this work of art. Not only is the Vinnie Vincent model fully authorized, but each Vinnie Vincent model guitar will be consecutively numbered and will come with a certificate of authenticity signed by Vinnie Vincent.

For ordering information, pricing and availability, send an e-mail to order1@vinnievincentmodelguitar.com.

To commemorate the very special NAMM event unveiling of the Vinnie Vincent model guitar, TM1 is making available its special limited edition collectors catalog for a limited time to fans worldwide. This eight-page, state of the art, full color catalog will feature the exotic and beautiful Vinnie Vincent model guitar and a rare never-before-seen, full-page color classic photo of Vinnie Vincent. TM1 is also making available for a limited time only to fans worldwide, the special limited edition collectors catalog, hand signed by Vinnie Vincent.

A trailer for the guitar can be viewed at this location.

The NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show is being held January 13-16, 2011 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

Last year's NAMM drew 85,000 registrants from 100 countries and attracted 1,400-plus exhibitors.

The NAMM show is one of the largest music product trade shows in the world.

NAMM show is **NOT** open to the public. The only attendees are NAMM member companies and their invited guests.

Vincent replaced lead guitarist Ace Frehley in 1982 and played with KISS for two years. He left the group on bad terms, and later claimed KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley owed him royalties for his work on KISS' 1983 album "Lick It Up", according to the Courthouse News Service. However, a federal judge in Los Angeles ruled against him and awarded the KISS defendants about $66,400 in attorney's fees and $15,400 in costs.

Last June, Vincent lost his 6th Circuit appeal of an order barring him from seeking bankruptcy protection from paying more than $81,000 to his former bandmates.

KISS TO ROCK RODEOHOUSTON AT RELIANT STADIUM!

RodeoHouston is the world's largest Rodeo event! This year's event kicks off March 1st and runs through March 21st, and last year set an all time attendance record of 2,144,077 visitors!

Tickets go on sale this Saturday, Jan. 15 at rodeohouston.com and all Ticketmaster outlets.

VINNIE VINCENT Model Guitar To Be Unveiled At NAMM

A trailer for the guitar can be viewed at this location.

The NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show is being held January 13-16, 2011 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

Last year's NAMM drew 85,000 registrants from 100 countries and attracted 1,400-plus exhibitors.

The NAMM show is one of the largest music product trade shows in the world.

NAMM show is **NOT** open to the public. The only attendees are NAMM member companies and their invited guests.

Vincent replaced lead guitarist Ace Frehley in 1982 and played with KISS for two years. He left the group on bad terms, and later claimed KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley owed him royalties for his work on KISS' 1983 album "Lick It Up", according to the Courthouse News Service. However, a federal judge in Los Angeles ruled against him and awarded the KISS defendants about $66,400 in attorney's fees and $15,400 in costs.

Last June, Vincent lost his 6th Circuit appeal of an order barring him from seeking bankruptcy protection from paying more than $81,000 to his former bandmates.

Vintage Video Clip

KISS BACKSTAGE CLIP FROM DUTCH TV

PAUL STANLEY Helps Unveil New LOTUS Range Of Cars At LA AUTO SHOW

Video footage from the event, including an interview with Stanley about the new Lotus range of cars, can be seen above.

"It's amazing because when you have something that's as legendary and iconic as Lotus, you have to go through a period where perhaps you have to reinvent yourself or rediscover yourself," Stanley said. "And that's what makes something iconic. There cars are breathtaking because they're pieces of art. I think the Elite is spectacular. The Eterne... I think the two of those are breathtaking. But it's like looking at a beauty contest and saying who's the most beautiful. Hard to say. I think Lotus has really come out swinging this time; it's very impressive. Especially at the Paris Auto Show, people were expecting one car and this is beyond what anyone could have expected, and they're all home runs, they're all spectacular."

The new Lotus line will range in price from $53,000 to nearly $190,000.

PAUL STANLEY TO APPEAR ON FOX BUSINESS NETWORK

Thursday, December 30 at 7:30 a.m. Pacific (10:30 a.m. Eastern)

KISS FEATURED IN ROCK AM RING FILM

Best music quotes of 2010

KISS TAKE OVER ROCK RADIO!

KISS IN GULLIVER'S TRAVEL MOVIE

MERRY KISSMAS FROM GUITAR HERO

ACE FREHLEY Talks About New Gibson Firebird X Guitar

In the clip below, Electronic Design Components editor Mat Dirjish takes a look at the instrument while getting some insights about it from legendary KISS guitarist and solo artist Ace Frehley: Video.

PAUL STANLEY TO APPEAR ON KNBC 4 LA

On Sunday, December 19th, Paul will also appear on KNBC TV "Prime Time LA" with host Colleen Williams on Sunday in the 9:00pm hour.

Both segments will focus on his art, philanthropy and family.

KISS Interviewed By Spain's MSN / ROCK METAL TV

KISS has been rocking out arenas for the last four decades and has become one of the most renowned rock bands in the history of music, with popular songs like "Rock And Roll All Nite" and "Calling Dr. Love". They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide and have continued their incredible success with the release of their latest album, "Sonic Boom", just last year.

"Sonic Boom" sold 108,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 2 on The Billboard 200 chart. This marked the band's highest-charting LP ever.

KISS has notched eight Top 10 albums, according to Billboard.com. Its previous highest-charting set was 1998's "Psycho Circus", which debuted and peaked at No. 3 with 110,000 copies in its first week, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The group's other high-charting sets include 1975's "Alive!" (No. 9), 1977's "Love Gun" (No. 4) and 1992's "Revenge" (No. 6).

"Sonic Boom" was released in Europe on October 5, 2009 via Loud & Proud/Roadrunner Records. The CD was made available in the U.S. and Canada on October 6, 2009 exclusively via Wal-Mart, Walmart.com and Sam's Club retail locations.

Kulick on 'Tears Are Falling' video

From the book "MTV Ruled The World: The Early Years Of Music Video". The book is 427 pages long and priced at $24.99 (ISBN # 978-0-578-07197-8).

For ordering information and to view samples from the book before purchasing, go to this location.

TOMMY FEATURED ON GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS

On Sunday, December 19, A&E's critically acclaimed reality TV series Gene Simmons Family Jewels will feature the 2010 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic, hosted by Tommy Thayer. The event was held this past August at The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club in Aloha, Oregon.

Thayer, the lead guitarist for legendary rock band KISS and member of Pacific's Board of Trustees, persuaded band-mate and KISS co-founder Gene Simmons to participate in the auction-concert-golf fundraiser that benefits the University's intercollegiate student-athletes.

Behar chews out Simmons

"CRAZY, CRAZY NIGHTS" ON X FACTOR FINALE

TOMMY THAYER TO PLAY IN BOB HOPE CLASSIC

Joining the athletes and the actor as expected celebrity participants at the annual affair, a desert tradition since 1960, are many actors and musicians, including Tommy Thayer of KISS.

The $5 million event begins with the pro-am on Jan. 19 and concludes Jan. 23 at the Palmer Private Course at PGA WEST in La Quinta.

The celebrities will be scattered about Coachella Valley courses, including the SilverRock Resort, La Quinta Country Club and PGA WEST.

Separately, it was announced that Franklin, Tenn.-based Franklin American Mortgage Co. will pay $1.5 million to sponsor some of the tournament's events over the next three years, following last year's initial involvement.

The money will buy the mortgage company access to the pro-am, tickets, hospitality and some signage on the courses, and on the bibs for celebrities' caddies. It also will be named an official sponsor of the classic's Celebrity Jam Session event, and will underwrite a celebrity dinner.

Gene Simmons on 'Idol': "I Don't Think Jennifer Lopez is Going to Mean a Thing"

Gene told OK! exclusively, “In terms of qualifications I’m the governor. I’ve written songs, been in a band for 37 years, toured the world, blah blah, discovered Van Halen, and managed Liza Minnelli, Simmons Records. Done it, been there, 3,000 licensed products. Who else has that qualification?”

One person who he thinks will do a good job on the upcoming season of Idol is chosen judge Steven Tyler. “Steven is going to be great. He is going to be the only interesting one there because obviously he’s going to be qualified to know what he is talking about.”

Someone who doesn’t have his support? Jennifer Lopez.

Gene shared with OK!, “I don’t think Jennifer Lopez is going to mean a thing. Because you can dance and stuff, you don’t write songs, your own records. You’re a performer. I don’t take respectfully I don’t take her seriously as being able to spot new talent. So, you can sing, you can dance, that’s nice. But Tyler’s the real deal. He’s not shy. What you really want to do is to have somebody get up there because most people are delusional because they go up there and they’re like I’m as good as Ethel Murman.”

Will still people watch Idol?

“It always comes down to people. Television is a people medium and I’m not trying to blow smoke or whatever. If you’re not a news junkie, and if someone is interesting on the news you’ll stop because you’re interested in the people,” he explained. “It’s people and without Simon Cowell there’s nothing.”

Gene was approached for the Idol gig telling OK!, “We talked for a short time, but I didn’t want to break A&E’s heart. But we did speak.”

You can watch Gene on the new season of Gene Simmon’s Family Jewels on A&E Sunday’s at 9 p.m. ET, and for more on Gene and his family check out this week’s issue of OK!.

PAUL STANLEY FEATURED IN NOH8 PSA

Paul Stanley recently lent his support to The NOH8 Campaign, a photographic silent protest created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and partner Jeff Parshley in direct response to the passage of Proposition 8.

Photos feature subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation around the world, with "NOH8" painted on one cheek in protest.

According to co-founder Jeff Parshley, NOH8 was thrilled about "Paul Stanley lending his iconic face to the campaign."

Paul Stanley also recorded a number of public service announcements which will begin airing nationally over the next few weeks.

For more information on The NOH8 Campaign or to pledge your support, visit www.noh8campaign.com.

'The Eric Carr Story' Book Now Available

"The Eric Carr Story" is the first-ever book to tell the life story of KISS drummer Eric Carr. Comprised of all-new interviews, the book also doubles as a study of 1980s-era KISS. You'll find insight into all of KISS' albums that featured Carr (from producers Bob Ezrin, Michael James Jackson, and Ron Nevison), as well as those closest to him (sister Loretta Caravello, girlfriend Carrie Stevens, KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick), and music-related friends (Eddie Trunk, DREAM THEATER's Mike Portnoy, ANTHRAX's Charlie Benante). Also included is one of the last-ever interviews conducted with KISS' original manager, Bill Aucoin, and for the first time ever, KISS fans will be able to learn what the real story line to KISS' controversial release "(Music From) The Elder" was all about (thanks to an explanation from Ezrin).

With the 20-year anniversary of Eric Carr's passing (November 24, 1991) approaching in 2011, what better way to celebrate the subjects than with all-new book? The book is set up in an "oral history" format (in other words, you're getting the story straight from the source) and is chock-full of rarely seen (or, in many cases, never-before-seen) photographs.

The Eric Carr book is 256 pages long and priced at $19.99 (ISBN # 978-0-578-07424-5).

For ordering information and to view samples from the book before purchasing, go to this location.

BAND ROCKS OUT A TRIBUTE TO KISS

"We're probably the four biggest KISS fans that live in this area," said Skip Dixxon, an Ocean Pines resident and founder of Rock Bottom, a KISS tribute band. "Everybody lives and breathes it."

And now, on the strength a killer set played recently at Dover Downs, Rock Bottom just signed with a national promoter. It could give them the opportunity to take their homage to their rock 'n' roll heroes on a potential worldwide tour -- if they're willing to quit their day jobs.

"That is a decision we have to make very soon," said guitarist Jon Joines. "The opportunities to play overseas and out at bigger venues is very exciting for all four of us."

When not performing, Dixxon is a DJ and music director for radio station Ocean 98. Joines works as a manager with Aflac insurance. Doug Bowers is a salesperson for Comcast. Roger Hillis is a freelance writer.

They take to the stage in expensive custom-sewn costumes -- replicas of what KISS wore on the cover of the 1976 "Destroyer" album, for the initiated -- and wear the band's famed painted faces. They play the very same instruments KISS does. Other exacting replicas include 7-inch platform boots and a 16-by-7 light-up "KISS" sign hanging behind the drum set.

"It's got to be perfect," Dixxon said, "or people are going to go away unsatisfied. It's their word of mouth that's going to make or break us."

Each member of Rock Bottom inhabits the character of an original KISS musician. Dixxon is drummer Peter Criss; Joines is guitarist Paul Stanley; lead guitarist Bowers is Ace Frehley; and bassist Hillis is famed rocker Gene Simmons, he of the iconic outstretched tongue.

"And coincidentally," said Hillis, "I've got a long tongue. The other day, somebody's like, 'Is the only reason they hired you is because you have a long tongue?'"

The band did not have this sort of runaway success in its first incarnation. The group Dixxon started in 1998 fell apart by 2006, he said, partly because he was the lone superfan, while the others were just good musicians.

"I didn't really see us going anywhere with it anymore," he said. "It's just so much work, and the costumes were really battered and beaten; they were homemade. I was getting discouraged. Without officially ending the band, I just never called another rehearsal."

A year later, Dixxon heard Joines sing a KISS song live with his band, Double Exposure. Dixxon begged Joines -- a friend he'd known from another band they were in -- to learn guitar and join him in a reincarnated Rock Bottom, named for the fifth track on the 1975 album "Dressed to Kill."

Joines didn't agree to it right away, but he came around. He took guitar lessons for nearly two years as the quartet came together with Bowers and Hillis.

"We all so much take pride in everything that we do with Rock Bottom and the whole KISS persona that we may be a notch above the other tribute bands," Joines said. "I think that's one reason that it's working. It's not a bunch of guys putting on the makeup trying to make a couple of bucks. We're all huge KISS fans and have been for well over 30 years."

Bowers called KISS his greatest musical influence since the age of 12. He jumped at the chance to portray his musical idol Ace Frehley.

"It's really fun," he said. "The people treat you like you're actually the character you're portraying. You get the makeup on, the costume -- your whole focus kind of changes. You get that whole alter ego thing going on. It's a blast."

Dixxon calls their show "the mid-70s KISS experience to a tee" with a set list that includes 1970s KISS standards like "Rock and Roll All Nite," "Shout It Out Loud," "Detroit Rock City," and "I Was Made For Lovin' You." All four are singing lead or harmonies for every song, like the real KISS.

Road manager Jeff Binnix of Bethany Beach is essentially the band's fifth member. He and the rest of the roadies assemble the risers, ramps, confetti cannons, and giant flashing KISS logo for their elaborate stage show.

Rock Bottom plays next at a stripped-down charity show Dec. 3. After that, they will headline a New Year's Eve show for a Baltimore radio station. Dover Downs also wants them back for shows in February and June.

In another noteworthy appearance, Dixxon in August earned a spot in a television commercial for the Swedish lottery featuring the real KISS. He was the drummer's body double in a wide shot and met the real band, which he called "surreal." The ad can be seen on the official KISS website, kissonline.com.

ERIC CARR's 'Crazy Nights' KISS Drum Kit For Sale

Eric Carr (real name Paul Charles Caravello) was selected as the new KISS drummer after Peter Criss left the band in 1980. He remained a band member until he became ill with heart cancer and died on November 24, 1991.

GIVE THE ROCK & ROLL HALL A GREAT BIG KISS

Obviously, it fried my mind...in a positive way, though. I remember thinking that here, finally, was a band capable of reaching Beatlesque popularity. What a great show!

The concert featured most of the material on their debut album, which I purchased soon after and began wearing out immediately. From the opening riff of "Strutter" to the last pounding chord of a fading "Black Diamond" this wax was - and remains - one of my favorite albums, each cut a classic.

That Kiss never came close to duplicating that musical effort doesn't matter. What the group did do has made it one of the most popular bands in the history of Rock & Roll. Popular with the masses, but, evidently, not with those who decide who should be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For Kiss has been all but ignored, though eligible since 1999.

The band did finally get nominated in 2009. Didn't make it, but at least the nomination was there. Alas, they are missing from this year's ballot.

An ad placed by Peter Criss in "Rolling Stone" captures just what makes Kiss so despicable to so many of the powers that be in the music industry. The ad read simply, "Drummer willing to do anything to make it." Naturally, he got the job. For Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the group's founders, never have been shy about their goal to do anything to make as much money as possible. At least they're honest about it.

And money the group did make, selling millions of records, selling out concert after concert and even appearing in comic books, on lunch boxes, pinball machines, you name it. Their Kiss Army - the group's fan club - quickly swelled to six figures, one of those being my wife, though I didn't know her at the time. She was just another pre-teen with a dollar, and if it could make a dollar, Kiss was there. But - and it's a big but, if you'll pardon the expression - Kiss was capable of backing up everything it did with talent befitting a supergroup.

Though never much of a factor on the singles' charts, Kiss did manage three major hits, all rather strange considering the source. "Beth," was the violin-soaked ballad sung by Criss, which reached No. 7 on the Hot 100 in 1976. It was the antithesis of their sound and image. Naturally, it became their biggest hit. Their only other Top 10 effort was "Forever," No. 8 in 1990. This was co-written by Paul Stanley and ...Michael Bolton?

In 1979, the group just missed the top 10 with "I Was Made For Loving You," which stopped at No. 11. This effort saw Kiss doing what most everyone was at the time - dabbling in disco. The Stones hit with "Miss You," the Kinks with "Superman" and ELO even released an album titled "Discovery," which, of course, can be read "Disco Very." That effort included several disco-flavored hits. So for those who refuse to count disco as what it is - a branch of Rock & Roll - consider the above. And also for those too young to have seen it, keep in mind Dick Clark's "American Bandstand" record review, one of "Bandstand's" most popular segments which let the teens on the show rate new records heard for the first time. The most common explanation for a good rating, a response that became one of Rock & Roll's earliest catch-phrases, was "It's got a good beat and you can dance to it."

A good beat and you can dance to it. Kids - that's a BIG part of the definition of Rock & Roll. And it sounds just like a definition of disco.

Kiss did offer a steady stream of best-selling long players, each usually containing at least one or two instant classics. From the amazing debut all the way to last year's "Sonic Boom," Kiss has been a force on the album charts. In fact, "Sonic Boom" was their highest-charting effort, reaching No. 2 35 years after their breakthrough and 11 years after their No. 3 "Psycho Circus." It upped the group's total of top 10 LPs to eight with two stopping at No. 11.

Can you hear the "William Tell Overture" without thinking of the Lone Ranger? Even the biggest musical snob would be hard-pressed to hear someone say, "I Want to Rock & Roll All Nite" without thinking "and party every day."

Intellectual, no. Rock & Roll, yup.

While the HOF has inducted almost every punk group that never sold 10 albums, it ignores many of the most successful bands in the history of recorded music. Of that rejected class, Kiss may be the most successful of all, at least with the public.

Outlandish, bombastic, original, intelligent, successful and ... gasp ... even talented, Kiss remains one of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's most notorious omissions.

Original KISS Drummer Interviewed On 'The Real Radio Show'

While some men feel embarrassed because of "this macho crap," Criss told CNN surviving breast cancer was actually a blessing. He was treated before the tumor could spread and said he was speaking about male breast cancer to raise the profile of this rare disease.

Criss, who played drums for KISS and was known as "Catman," offered this advice to men who spot lumps in their breast: "Don't sit around playing Mr. Tough Guy. Don't say 'It's going to go away.' It might not and you might not see life anymore and how beautiful that is."

Criss, who is currently working on an autobiography as well as a new rock album, told Reuters his bout with cancer had affected his songwriting.

"My lyrics are not so deep and dismal," he said. One of the tracks on the album, expected next year, is called "Hard Rock Knockers".

Simmons wants Cowell's job

The Kiss rocker has joined a string of stars, including Sir Elton John and The Who's Roger Daltrey, who have taken aim at Cowell and his hit TV competitions.

Simmons insists he is "more qualified than anybody" to dole out advice on the program, which he claims will never discover any new music legends like Jimi Hendrix or Robert Plant.

He tells Britain's Daily Star, "I think I could be the sole judge on The X Factor, I'm more qualified than anybody on the show. Nobody on the show has written songs, then been on stage, or had record companies and managed Liza Minnelli. Nobody can shine my shoes.

"Maybe Simon should talk to me, although he is the only one on television that tells the truth. Everybody is nice, but that's not how life is. Life is: 'You suck, get off the stage.' Realistic is good.

"Part of the reason we like watching these shows is because there are people up there and you're like, 'Are you on crack? Do you actually believe that you belong on stage?' The biggest superstars of all time would have never made it on The X Factor.

"Imagine if Jimi Hendrix or Mick Jagger or Robert Plant came out. I wouldn't make it, and neither would they. We're peculiar and that's what makes stars interesting, not the fact that you can sing well. Broadway and pop is the place where people really sing correctly."

Gene Simmons Family Jewels Promo

KISS ARMY CHILE CELEBRATION

KISS tribute band Revenge will kick off the night with a rockin' show with full makeup, costumes and effects.

Teatro La Cupula of the Paque O'higgin
December 11, 2010 - 20:30
Santiago, Chile

For more info visit www.kissarmychile.cl.

GENE DISCUSSES KISS, GUITAR HERO

What are your thoughts on what they can do with videogames nowadays compared to what they did 10 years ago when you released KISS: Psycho Circus: The Nightmare Child?

The technology, while it's always impressive, is always going to depend on what the technology is used for. The idea that something can do all kinds of tricks and stand on its head and go back through time, if the stuff that's happening in the technology isn't cool, the entire thing is a waste of time. At the end of the day it is about content. Guitar Hero is cool whether it was a card game or a trivia game between you, but the idea that it uses the most modern technology is really the thing that enables you to kind of crawl into it. It's that unleashing the inner rock star inside of you. It's a feeling. That's what it's about. You can't create emotion with technology. It's got to be the essence of what it's about. It's got to touch something inside of you.

If you were to make another videogame with today's technology, what direction would you like to go?

If I were to try to use that I would tell you that I would start with Guitar Hero first and foremost because the mixture of fantasy and this kind of evolution from musician to demigod is sort of like what happens to me talking to you glibly and parlaying a different languages and when I get up on stage and become the demon. I can talk about it now, but when you unleash the inner demon, if you will, inside of you you'll understand it. I do.

Bands like Aerosmith and The Beatles have their own music games. Will we ever see a stand-alone KISS Guitar Hero game?

Well, we don't do things for pennies. They made the wrong deals. Never do anything, never sell yourself short. There's no hurry. We have 3,000 licenses, everything. Go into any 7-11, you?ll see what I mean any where in the world, 37,000 stores. We have KISS ice boxes. We have KISS caskets. KISS condoms. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. Nobody touches us. We outsell the Beatles and Elvis together.

How does Guitar Hero translate the bass experience you're so familiar with in videogame form?

The feeling of playing Guitar Hero is very much like being on stage. For one thing you see yourself. And then because the technology has grown by leagues, the angles go behind the band so you can actually see the audience and you?ve got music going on. And you physically have to stay on top of the music because you've got to play your Guitar Hero instrument and check where the chords are and so on and so forth. So it's sort of a multi-hyphenate kind of experience. It's visual. It?s audio, and it's full bodied. It's a full-body experience.

How have you seen Guitar Hero impact the music industry over the past few years?

Technology has impacted the music industry in more ways than even it understands. People think it's about Internet, but it's usually a cold experience. You're just watching it. The more you get involved, the more it connects with you and the more you're doing it and the more you control the music and the visuals, the more it becomes important. It becomes a part of you. Guitar Hero is pretty addictive. Once you play it, it's going to be tough not to want to get up in the middle of the night either alone when nobody is looking, or with your friends.

What are your thoughts on Guitar Hero returning to its rock and roll roots with Warriors of Rock?

Guitar Hero is about time. You know in the English language rock is a verb; you rock, let's rock. You can't say let's country and let's folk rock and let's rap. It doesn't mean anything. Rock is integral to us and it's become iconic. Whether or not you're a fighter pilot going let's rock or let's rock and roll, that's what it's about and there is nothing that takes the place of a guitar hanging around your neck or a pair of drums between your legs, banging that stuff away. This is all rock. Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock takes you through the full spectrum of the different versions of rock that are out there. All rock. 100 percent.

New anti-bullying NOH8 Campaign

NEW KISS SWEDISH LOTTERY COMMERCIAL

ACE FREHLEY Signs On For ROCK 'N' ROLL FANTASY CAMP in Bahamas

Over the four-day camp, counselors will kick-start campers' hearts — and rock skills — transforming them from rock hobbyists into arena maestros. In addition to guest counselors Lee, Frehley and Ford, Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp at Atlantis will feature several of the rock star counselors from the Mark Burnett-produced VH1 Classic show, including Rudy Sarzo of QUIET RIOT, Kip Winger of WINGER, and renowned singer/songwriter Mark Hudson (AEROSMITH), plus Alan White of YES, George Lynch of DOKKEN, and many others.

"The Bahamas is going to rock like never before when Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp invades Atlantis Resort with an unprecedented lineup of some of the most celebrated rockers on the planet, all there for one reason: to make rock 'n' roll magic by transforming amateurs into rock stars," says Rock Camp founder/CEO David Fishof. "Where else can someone with a passion for music spend four days playing with and learning from rock icons like Tommy Lee, Ace Frehley and Lita Ford? Our Bahamas camp will be one of our most life-changing events ever produced."

From the minute campers arrive in the Bahamas, their rock 'n' roll adventure begins. Campers will form their own bands; meet, jam with and receive intensive and ongoing instruction from the rock star counselors; spend over 10 hours a day in-studio jamming and creating original music under the guidance of a famous rock musician; take a variety of specialized master classes conducted by rock icons; break bread with industry insiders; and play live before a jam packed crowd at Atlantis, Paradise Island.

There are three packages — the four-day Rock Star package, and six-day Headliner and the Groupie packages — allowing campers a variety of options to tap into their inner Robert Plant.

"Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp premiered as the most watched show in VH1 Classic history for a reason," added Fishof. "Our Atlantis camp this February will be one of our most star-studded camps ever."

Prior to the Bahamas camp, Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp takes New York City by storm January 12 to January 17 with help from special guest counselor Roger Daltrey of THE WHO, one of the most iconic front men in rock history. Additionally, this fall, in conjunction with the VH1 Classic series, Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp is criss-crossing the nation, bringing a series of "Weekend Warrior" Camps to several cities. The tour, which kicked off in Philadelphia on October 22, is led by ALLMAN BROTHERS legend Dickey Betts and ends in Chicago (Nov. 19-21). Spots are still available in Chicago.

Learn more about Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp, tour dates and pricing at www.rockcamp.com.

About Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp: Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp was founded by David Fishof in 1997 as the ultimate music experience for the amateur or aficionado, pairing music lovers of all levels together with rock icons for a first-hand immersion in the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Camp attendees move from spectator to band member, sharing the stage — and limelight — with rock icons for an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

ACE FREHLEY Rocks Out On Finale Of 'Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp'

In the finale of "Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp", the three bands will get put to the test to see if their blood, sweat and tears have paid off. With only a few hours to rehearse, Bret Michaels steps in to help each group during their rehearsals with last-minute tweaks to their final, and most important, performance. After rehearsal, each group must take the stage at the Key Club and channel its inner rock star but will pre-show jitters get to the campers and just how confident are they taking the stage in front of a live audience? Counselors Kip Winger, Mark Hudson and Rudy Sarzo (OZZY OSBOURNE, QUIET RIOT, DIO) offer last-minute advice to their groups, but will it be enough?

After each group performs its set, the live studio audience votes on which group rocked out the hardest and will perform KISS' "Rock And Roll All Nite" in an encore, ultimate rock 'n' roll fantasy jam performance with rock icons Michael Anthony, Matt Sorum (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES) and Ace Frehley. Will it be Firecracker Institute, Proton Saints or tugboat Circus? Tune in to see which group has become transformed into true rock stars and survived "Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp".

GENE TO HOST 2011 SALUTE TO THE TROOPS

Aces and Angels will feature live performances in part by multi-platinum Grammy-nominated artist Five for Fighting, ACM Vocal Group of the Year Little Texas, and many others. Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops will also play host the $100,000 Texas State Poker Championships where the winner will advance to represent the State of Texas at the World Series of Poker. The first 100 ticket purchasers will receive $100 off general admission. For more information or to purchase tickets, log on to www.aces-angels.org or call 214-440-3936.

"There is one man who will blow the roof off Dallas and that man is Gene Simmons. This is absolutely the one event that you definitely don't want to miss," said Executive Producer Michael Eakman.

Simmons will be personally escorting a select group of servicemen from Ft. Hood to Dallas for the Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops via caravan and hosting a small group of injured troops at the big game. His Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops Dallas visit will be documented for his A&E reality series Gene Simmons? Family Jewels, and Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops attendees will experience the live filming of the one of the episodes.

Also performing are the 2010 Bluegrass Artist of the Year The Grascals and 4Troops, a quartet made up of military veterans featured on Good Morning America, CNN, and Game 4 of the 2010 World Series. The event, which will also feature top celebrities from Hollywood and Nashville, top professional athletes, comedians, and celebrity poker players, includes a red carpet arrival, Vegas-style casino games, hosted bar, four and five-star gourmet food, VIP lounge, cigar lounge, VIP cabanas, and silent & live auctions.

Celebrities at past Aces and Angels Events include Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney Kardashian, Shannon Elizabeth, Derek Hough, Dane Cook, Annie Duke, Hal Sparks, and more. In the coming weeks, more celebrities will be added and a surprise superstar will be added to the existing concert line-up. This year for the first-time ever, Aces and Angels will be unveiling a one-of-a-kind Gene Simmons Salute to the Troops Custom Chopper at the event.

The Texas State Poker Tournament, including a prize package worth $100,000, will be hosted this year by Jamie Gold, Scotty Nguyen, and Kenna James. Six hundred Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops ticketholders may enter the Texas State Tournament, which starts at 11 a.m. on February 2, 2011 at Centennial Hall, at no charge. The Texas Shoot-Out style tournament is designed so that if you win your table you will advance and have the chance to play the championship round with Gene Simmons and Phil Hellmuth and celebrity players like Shannon Elizabeth, Jennifer Leigh, Tiffany Michelle, Liz Liu, Trishelle Cannatella, Kim Kardashian, Dane Cook, and more during the Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops Event. The winner of the championship round will represent the State of Texas at the World Series of Poker.

Aces and Angels began in 2007 and to date has raised more than $427,000 for various non-profit organizations including the Wounded Warrior Project (WPP) and the USO. The mission of Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors.

WIN A WASHBURN GUITAR SIGNED BY KISS!

And now, KISS Pick World is giving away a guitar autographed by all four members of KISS!

This beautiful Paul Stanley Washburn guitar was autographed by Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, Eric Singer, and Gene Simmons backstage in St. Paul, Minnesota during the Hottest Show on Earth tour, and the guitar also features picks from KISS' 2010 European and North American tours.

To enter to win the guitar, or other great prizes, visit www.KISSPickWorld.com and register to win through December 31st! No purchase is necessary to win. But, for each KISS Pick World order you place from the between now and the end of the year, you'll also receive an additional entry into the contest!

First Prize: Band-signed autographed Washburn guitar signed by Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, Eric Singer and Gene Simmons, featuring official KISS guitar picks from the Sonic Boom Over Europe and Hottest Show On Earth tours!

Second Prize: Complete Sonic Boom Over Europe official guitar pick set, featuring Paul, Tommy, Eric and Gene picks from each of the stops on the European tour, plus a bonus pick from each night!

Third Prize: Complete Hottest Show On Earth official guitar pick set, featuring Paul, Tommy, Eric and Gene picks from each of the stops on the European tour, plus a bonus pick from each night!

SONIC BOOM AVAILABLE DIGITALLY IN JAPAN

PAUL STANLEY AT FREEDOM AWARDS 2010

More than 27 million people are trapped in slavery throughout the world today. But there are heroes - many of them escaped slaves themselves - who risk their lives to free others from brothels, sweatshops and horrific mistreatment in modern slavery. These heroes are the Frederick Douglasses and Harriet Tubmans of our time.

Each year, the non-profit organization Free the Slaves honors the best of the best with the anti-slavery movement's highest honor: The Freedom Award.

About Free the Slaves: Free the Slaves liberates slaves around the world and helps them rebuild their lives. With its main offices in Washington and Los Angeles -- and field offices in Ghana, India and Nepal -- Free the Slaves works with grassroots groups on the frontlines of slavery today. Free the Slaves builds awareness, influences policy, and researches real-world solutions to eradicate slavery in our lifetime.

GENE TO DON GOALIE GEAR WITH SASKATOON BLADES

The KISS bassist and reality TV star plans to play puckstopper during an intermission shootout next Friday when the Saskatoon Blades face the Portland Winterhawks at Credit Union Centre.

"He'll be dressing up in goalie gear from head to toe," said Brittany Loraas, the Blades' manager of game-day operations, "and during the second intermission, we'll have three guys take shots at him."

Simmons is bringing his reality show, Family Jewels, to Saskatoon where his actress wife, Shannon Tweed, attended Mount Royal Collegiate. The show's producers confirmed Friday they'll be shooting an episode here from Nov. 12-15.

"A lot of it is just going to be a walk down memory lane," said Natalie Gecht, part of the show's production team.

Producers have put out a call for anyone who attended Mount Royal while Tweed was there. Alumni from 1972 to 1975 are encouraged to contact the show. You don't have to have been a close friend of Tweed to take part -- if you sat beside her in science, that's good enough, Gecht said. You're asked to send your name and phone number to the following e-mail address: tweedclassmate@gmail.com. Deadline is Nov. 11.

The episode will air on A&E as part of the show's sixth season, due to start in early spring of 2011.

The Blades couldn't confirm whether the hockey game would be part of the show but they have invited Tweed to perform a ceremonial faceoff. The CUC atmosphere promises to be a little bit country and a little bit rock 'n' roll because the Blades were already planning to wear denim-look jerseys to promote the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Canadian Finals. The PBR event comes to town Nov. 19-20, and Asquith bull rider Aaron Roy is also taking part in Friday's pre-game festivities.

"With it being PBR Night, we're already expecting a big crowd," said Loraas, "but having Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed in the building will hopefully fill it up."

News of their visit came as a surprise to the Blades' staff earlier this week. Team president Jack Brodsky got a phone call from local tourism officials and promptly began planning to host the celebrities.

"It's an honour for us to be a part of that," said Brodsky. "We're excited about it and we know that the citizens of Saskatoon will be excited about it, too."

Simmons returns to CUC almost exactly a year after he and KISS played a sold-out show at the venue. Last year's Nov. 10 concert drew 13,000-plus fans. The Blades likely won't get those kind of numbers, but the team is expecting Friday's crowd to far exceed their season average of 4,000.

TOMMY THAYER INTERVIEW

YOUNG SCOTTISH ROCKER IDOLIZES PAUL STANLEY

Many children idolise Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber, but not so many would name Paul Stanley, the anti-drugs rhythm guitarist of glam-rock super group Kiss, as their hero. Yet this is who 12-year-old Kieran Robertson wants to be.

"Kiss put on a great show and that's definitely the thing I'd like to do," said Kieran. "They have fireworks and jump about. Paul Stanley, my idol, doesn't do drugs, doesn't drink, he flies into the audience because he believes the audience and the band should be one, which is also what I think.

"A lot of people find it nervous to jump about on stage but I'm the opposite - I find it nervous to just stand still. A few people will think you're an idiot but the other five hundred think: 'This kid's pretty cool'. Once you've got a few of the girls pointing at people, you know, it pays off later."

Kieran's road to rock stardom began at an Iron Maiden concert when he sat atop his dad's shoulders in the centre of a mosh-pit. The band's guitarist pointed right at him and he knew then what his future held. His band, Juniors Wailing, have now played in front of 3,400.

"I got my first ever guitar when I was about five," he told The Hour. "I started playing when I was about seven and at first I was thinking I'll never be able to do this, it was taking for ages, but I had a lot of patience and my dad taught me up until whatever he knew.

"First I just strummed and made noise until I could play a few chords, then you pick up a lot of stuff after you know a wee bit. You can't be a rock star without learning to play guitar."

Saskatoon Blades: Guest Appearances from Shannon Tweed and Gene Simmons Next Friday

On top of all this we have just confirmed that Shannon Tweed and Gene Simmons, from the band KISS and TV show 'Gene Simmons, Family Jewels', will also be attending our game and we will be building some promotions around that as well. Shannon Tweed will be performing a second ceremonial puck drop, following Aaron Roy, and we may even have a special intermission show for fans in attendance.

"GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS" RETURNS WITH TEN NEW EPISODES

Legendary rock god and multi-hyphenate Gene Simmons returns to A&E with brand new episodes of his hit award-winning unscripted series “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” premiering with a special one-hour episode on Sunday, December 5 at 9:00 PM ET/PT. The first episode captures a highly personal moment for Gene as he is forced to finally face his childhood demons, and his mother’s tragic past when visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.

Gene’s life is an open book, but the one thing he keeps close to the vest is his mother’s harsh survival as a Jewish girl in Europe during WWII. His mother and Anne Frank were approximately the same age when they went into concentration camps, and seeing how Anne lived strikes an emotional chord with Gene. No one is more important to Gene than his mother, and it’s a raw and telling look at Gene’s family history and childhood that fans have never had access to before now.

Over the course of ten new episodes, fans will continue to get the behind the scenes access to the family’s many adventures and milestone moments that make them the most interesting and enduring family on television.

KISS IN GULLIVER'S TRAVELS MOVIE TRAILER

Doors Song

'I Was Raped With My Clothes On,' Says Woman Suing KISS Rocker Gene Simmons For Dry Hump

Read Deposition Here

Simmons filed a preemptive lawsuit against Victoria Jackson in May, insisting he couldn't have sexually assaulted her at ESPN's Los Angeles studios after appearing on "Sportscenter" because he was wearing his KISS costume - "the equivalent of a suit of armor" - at the time.

Read Court Document Here

But Jackson has herself sued Simmons.

And asked in an August 10 deposition to describe the emotional injuries she's alleging, the woman replied: "Emotionally, an overwhelming sense of sadness, nervousness, anxiety, a lot of shame and - just I feel like - I feel like I was raped with my clothes on."

Under questioning by Simmons's lawyer, Jackson also said the alleged November 24, 2009 assault affected her sleep.

"I had a sense of somebody just taking something from me," she continued.

"Just a violation, a complete and utter violation, a disrespect for me and my body, myself as a - as a human being."

Excerpts from the deposition were attached as an exhibit to a motion in which Simmons has asked a judge to compel Jackson to be examined by a psychologist.

His lawyer argues that she has made her mental health a relevant issue by claiming damages for emotional distress.

In court papers, Jackson says nothing in her allegations requires a mental health examination by an expert and that Simmons's request is a "cynical tactic" and "simply one more attempt to be [as] intrusive as possible in order to harass and intimidate [her]."

She testified in her deposition that she saw a psychotherapist in 2007 but "It wasn't anything that serious."

Simmons has accused Jackson of "shakedown tactics" but Jackson alleged in her assault suit that he approached her, said "I like you" in "a lecherous and inappropriate manner," and then "humped Plaintiff to the extent that she could feel his groin grinding into her. When he was done, Klein said[,] 'Aw, that's better! Now you can go.'"

According to a recent court filing by Jackson, another ESPN employee has confirmed her allegations, testifying in a deposition that Simmons "entered the room in which Jackson was working, made a bee line straight for her and then started humping her."

Simmons said in his deposition, the court document states, that he does not recall "hugging or even meeting Ms. Jackson ... Simmons['] only defense is that 'I would never do such a thing.'"

A hearing on the motion to compel the mental health exam is set for Nov. 3 in Los Angeles Superior Court.

Simmons collapses, hospitalized

The rocker is believed to have hit his head after fainting at Los Angeles International Airport on Sunday. He suffered a cut to his forehead in the fall, reports TMZ.com.

Simmons was then taken to Centinela Hospital in Inglewood, California, where tests revealed he was dehydrated.

The 61 year old appears to be on the mend - he was released from hospital on Monday.

ARMED FORCES NETWORK KISS RADIO SPECIAL

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley speak from their hearts about love for the troops and patriotism for America. Hear about hospital visits with wounded warriors and find out why Gene treasures one particular U.S. flag above all others. Of course, KISS music keeps the show rocking along.

Overseas members of the KISS Army can hear "Radio Recon: KISS...Warriors for the Wounded," on Friday, Saturday and Sunday(29-31 Oct) at 1pm Pacific Time on AFN Radio. Stateside KISS Army members, don't worry. AFN Radio will provide a link to the show during the first week of November on their Facebook site.

KISS FATHEADs

Unusually Good Parents

With so many children of celebrities having gotten themselves into a variety of pickles over the years actors, rock stars and models are probably not the first people you’d go to get good advice about your kids. That’s why I was very surprised and delighted to learn that two of the best parents I’ve ever seen are Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed. Who in the world would ever expect a rock demon and Playmate centerfold to have two of the nicest kids you could imagine?

To begin with I rarely watch TV and especially reality shows. I was never a big Kiss fan because I was into Disco when they reigned. My son is almost 20 so I really don’t need parenting tips. But while channel surfing one day I caught a commercial for The Gene Simmons Family Jewels reality show. It was one that featured Nick Simmons and never mind that he’s just adorable, the 20 something seemed genuine and well…just nice.

So I tried the show and got hooked. This couple’s two children Sophie and Nickolas seem like the most well adjusted, polite, unpretentious kids ever.

Watch a clip of Gene in full Kiss costume spitting blood all over the stage and “father of the year” doesn’t exactly come to mind. But both Gene and Shannon have raised intelligent, reasonable kids with ethics. They appear to be kind, considerate and respectful, and both seem proud and unabashed to show that they love their parents.

The family exhibits consistent open communication and no one is ever judgmental. They support each others endeavors and are always there for each other.

Gene’s great work ethic and Shannon’s optimistic attitude have produced a couple of incredibly grounded kids that anyone would love to have their child bring home with them.

Many of us could learn a little something from them. Bravo Gene & Shannon.

SAMANTHA FOX On Her 'Love Affair' With PAUL STANLEY

RockConfidential.com: Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure I read somewhere that you said you wanted Lemmy from MOTÖRHEAD to give you away at your wedding!

Samantha Fox: That's really rock 'n roll! We met when I was 17. He read in the newspaper that before I was a model I was in a band and that I loved MOTÖRHEAD and AC/DC and VAN HALEN and KISS. He was quite surprised because my image at the time was very girly. I don't think a lot of people realized I was into rock 'n' roll so much. He was a fan of my pictures. It's so funny that he's a fan of mine! He came up to me at a charity event we were doing together. We started talking and he said we should do a song together. This was way before "Touch Me". I went to his house and walked into his living room. I couldn't believe that his back wall was full of my pictures from newspapers and magazines. He said, "OK, let's get some inspiration. What kind of song you want to do as a duet?" We started laughing about doing a heavy metal Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. He wanted to put on some music for inspiration and I couldn't believe he put ABBA on! Lemmy loves ABBA? He told me he gets a lot of his melody ideas from bands like ABBA. We wrote a song and called it "Beauty and the Beast". It was fantastic. Unfortunately, Lemmy and MOTÖRHEAD got involved in a litigation with the record label and wasn't able to release new music for about three or four years. We couldn't release that track, which was a shame. We became friends over the years. We always meet up for dinner if we pass while gigging around. He's always been a mentor of mine since I've known him from such a young age. What can I say? Lemmy is one of the gods of rock music. He knows the ins and outs of the business and if I ever needed advice he's always been there for me. Unfortunately, my dad passed away 11 years ago I thought Lemmy would be great to give me away. It would be fantastic! He's such a nice fella. He's got a lot of character and lot of wisdom. I could sit and listen to his stories all day long. This guy tours constantly — his whole life. He's never home. I think he's one of the hardest-working people in the business.

RockConfidential.com: Except for when he's at the Rainbow playing those touch screen games…

Samantha Fox: I know! I've met Lemmy a few times in L.A. We'd go out and have a drink together and he'd leave me to go play one of those machines! You're not very good at conversation tonight, are ya Lemmy? He'd say, "Put some money in and rub me for luck!" If anyone can drag him away from those machines, I can!

RockConfidential.com: I've got to ask about your relationship with Paul Stanley. You dated him for a while. What do you remember about that time?

Samantha Fox: It was a wonderful time. I remember moving to New York. Every week I was flying back and forth to New York. I was constantly jet-lagged and burnt out. All I thought about New York was guns, gangs, rapes and drugs! That what I saw on TV, ya know? My bass player had moved to Albany. I knew him very well. I moved out my best friend and PA so it wasn't like I moved out all on my own. I had friends at the record company. I was recording one day with Full Force. We were working on the "Just One Night" record, I think. Paul was doing some solo stuff away from KISS. He really liked the "Naughty Girls" song I did. He got in touch with Full Force to work on a track. I was recording and he heard I was in the studio because he was working with Full Force at that time. I don't think anything ever came about with that track. I think he wanted to meet me because he just happened to turn up the day I was singing. Full Force introduced me to Paul. I was a big KISS fan anyway. Ten minutes after he left he called me from his limousine and asked me out on a date. I was new in the States and up for meeting new people. I wasn't thinking about a love affair at that time. I said "OK," and he said, "Well, how about tonight?" We went out for a great meal and he ended up showing me the America I didn't know. While I was recording the album Paul was doing a short tour of the States. In between the album I went on tour with him and saw how he did things — the rock 'n roll. way. I had a great time with Paul and learned a lot from him. He's a very talented guy. We had a great love affair. I went on tour for six months on a bus with a band. Me and Paul tried to see each other when we could. He was then on tour with KISS. After that tour I became a tax exile because I was paying so much tax and all of my money was basically going to managers and the tax man. I went to live in Spain for a year and our love affair just kind of fizzled out. There were no arguments or bad feelings. It was just a case of being apart. I have great memories of Paul. He's a really nice guy. He's a bit older than me but what can I say? I'm sure he lied about his age then! KISS is still a fantastic band and in 1989 they'd done far more than I'd done. Listening to their stories and his wisdom was fantastic.

RockConfidential.com: With Lemmy and Paul, that's definitely good company to be around in the music biz.

Samantha Fox: When I lived in Spain I became great friends with Glenn Tipton from JUDAS PRIEST. He lived just down the road. He was a tax exile as well. I wanted to still carry on writing while I lived there. Someone introduced me to Glenn in a bar. The next thing you know I'm at this beautiful, big house in his studio. I wrote some songs with him, too. Nothing ever came about. The record company wasn't keen on those songs but he got to play on one of our tracks called "Spirit of America". He recorded a fantastic solo for me. It was cool during that year in Spain to be working with him.

Read the entire interview from RockConfidential.com.

KISS Classic Receives Big-Band Treatement

Commented Ahola: "The album is a cool mixture of mostly old heavy and hard rock songs arranged for a big band — a jazzy one. It's bravely mixed thinking today's standards of sound: no tuning, no effects, no super polishing — just the band and the vocals."

OULU ALL STAR BIG BAND & J. AHOLA - "Big Band Goes Heavy" track listing:

01. Easy Livin' (URIAH HEEP cover)
Arranged by: Vellu Halkosalmi

2. Stand Up And Shout (DIO cover)
Arranged by: Håkan Broström

03. Heart Of Steel (MANOWAR cover)
Arranged by: Peter Dahlgren

04. Show Must Go On (QUEEN cover)
Arranged by: Peter Dahlgren

05. Heaven And Hell (BLACK SABBATH cover)
Arranged by: Anders Niska

06. Long Live Rock'n'Roll (RAINBOW cover)
Arranged by: Esa Virkkula

07. Burn (DEEP PURPLE cover)
Arranged by: Håkan Broström

08. I Was Made For Lovin' You (KISS cover)
Arranged by: Sven Seebeck

09. Run To The Hills (IRON MAIDEN cover)
Arranged by: Tapio Maunuvaara

10. Vaadimme Metallia (TERÄSBETONI)
Arranged by: Vellu Halkosalmi

The track "Easy Livin'" is now available for streaming at this location.

The idea to make big-band versions of heavy metal and hard rock classics came from OULU ALL STAR BIG BAND and its artistic director, Tapio Maunuvaara. After inviting Ahola to take part in the project, they then selected a set of melodic songs and OULU ALL STAR BIG BAND hired various people to make the new arrangements of the songs for the big band.

The "Big Band Goes Heavy" repertoire has so far been performed live twice — on November 7, 2009 in Oulu, Finland; and on March 13, 2010 at the Oulu Music Festival. Video footage from last year's performance can be viewed below.

KISS TRIBUTE NIGHT AT BOGOTA HARD ROCK CAFE

KISS tribute band KISZ will play a Halloween show at the Hard Rock Cafe in Bogota, Colombia South America, on Wednesday, October 27, 2010. Doors open at 8PM. KISZ will have KISZ guitar picks and break a guitar in "Rock and Roll All Night" to celebrate KISS!

Fernando, the "Gene Simmons" of the band, was the official translator for interviews with KISS and the media when KISS arrived in Columbia in 2009.

KISS star to sue hackers?

The Kiss rocker was left fuming when members of internet campaign group Anonymous targeted SimmonsRecords.com and GeneSimmons.com, forcing him to shut down the online portals.

The digital attack is said to been a protest against Simmons' recent comments made in support of prosecuting illegal file-sharers.

But Simmons was less than impressed with the stunt and he has contacted U.S. federal authorities to help track down the offenders.

A post on Simmons' official website reads, "Some of you may have heard a few popcorn farts re: our sites being threatened by hackers. Our legal team and the FBI have been on the case and we have found a few, shall we say 'adventurous' young people, who feel they are above the law... We will sue their pants off.

"First, they will be punished. Second, they might find their little butts in jail, right next to someone who's been there for years and is looking for a new girlfriend. We will soon be printing their names and pictures. We will find you. You cannot hide. Stay tuned."

ACE FREHLEY Performs 'New York Groove' At Madison Square Garden

WIN GENE SIMMONS FANGORIA SIGNED PRINT

In order to win, simply log on to www.Fangoria.com and follow the contest rules.

Contest closes November 12th, 2010.

And keep logging on to www.Fangoria.com for all your horror, dark fantasy and twisted pop culture needs!

NOTE: This contest goes live on Sunday, October 17th at Midnight at www.Fangoria.com

WALK FOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY WITH PETER CRISS

ACE FREHLEY To Perform At NEW YORK RANGERS Home Opener

During the first intermission, Food Network will introduce their very own "Ace of Cakes". Beloved baker, chef Duff Goldman, has created a special 85th-anniversary cake to commemorate the team's history and celebrate the Rangers' longest-running season ticket holder who has been a loyal fan at the Garden for 60 years. Duff will be filming an episode of "Ace of Cakes" in the arena throughout the Rangers game and will be joined by Rangers greats Rod Gilbert, Adam Graves, and children from the Garden of Dreams Foundation to unveil his latest confectionary creation on the ice. The cake will also be presented to honor the Rangers longest-running season ticket holder. Duff has included cupcakes in his cake design, which will be made available for a select number of fans to enjoy at the concourse during the game.

The New York Rangers take on the Toronto Maple Leafs at 7 p.m. at Madison Square Garden.

Simmons' Websites Shut After Hack Attack

The bassist's online portals, Simmonsrecords.com and Genesimmons.com, were forced offline by members of internet campaign group Anonymous, who have targeted a number of sites linked to copyright-protection organisations in recent weeks.

The attack on Simmons' websites allegedly comes in retaliation after the musician spoke out about illicit internet downloads on Tuesday (12Oct10), urging other artists to protect their "brand", according to Guardian.co.uk.

He told an industry panel, "Make sure your brand is protected. Make sure there are no incursions. Be litigious. Sue everybody. Take their homes, their cars. Don't let anybody cross that line.

"The music industry was asleep at the wheel, and didn't have the balls to sue every fresh-faced, freckle-faced college kid who downloaded material. And so now we're left with hundreds of thousands of people without jobs. There's no industry."

Other sites to have been targeted by the group include the Motion Picture Association of America, the Recording Industry Association of America and the Copyright Alliance.

'Detroit Metal City' Movie Coming To DVD

To celebrate the release, VIZ Pictures has scheduled a special one-night-only screening of "Detroit Metal City" at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4 at VIZ Cinema, located inside New People in the heart of San Francisco's Japantown (1746 Post St., San Francisco CA 94115).

Deluxe tickets to the screening are $25.00 and include a pass to the film, a copy of the new DVD, a poster and stickers, and entry into a raffle for several fun "Detroit Metal City" premiums. Prizes will be awarded and attendees are invited to also enjoy complementary beverages before the show. Regular admission tickets are $10.00 (for film only). Please visit www.viz-pictures.com or www.vizcinema.com for complete details.

"Detroit Metal City" takes the zany rock antics inspired by films like "Spinal Tap" to hilarious new extremes in this story, based on a popular manga comic created by Kiminori Wakasugi that has sold more than 4.5 million copies in Japan (and published in North America by VIZ Media). It features notable appearances by Gene Simmons from the legendary band KISS, and Marty Friedman of MEGADETH, and stars Kenichi Matsuyama, one of the most adored actors in Japan today and known widely for his role as "L" in the "Death Note" films (also available from VIZ Pictures).

"'Detroit Metal City' is a delightfully funny film that is a must-see for any rock fan," says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. "Actor Kenichi Matsuyama brings the character of Johannes Krauser II to life in an inventive slapstick performance takes hints from Jim Carrey, Johnny Rotten and Alice Cooper. We look forward to audiences discovering this hilarious comedy that shows how fame isn't all it's cracked up to be when you're the most diabolical, foul — and popular — heavy metal singer in Japan."

In the film, Soichi Negishi (played by Kenichi Matsuyama) is a sweet and shy young man who dreams of becoming a trendy singer songwriter. But for some reason, he is forced into joining the devil-worshiping death metal band "DETROIT METAL CITY" (DMC). In full stage make-up and costume, he transforms into Johannes Krauser II the vulgar-mouthed lead vocalist of the band. But he must keep this a secret from his crush, Yuri Aikawa, who despises death metal. What would she think if she found out? But against Negishi's will, DMC rises to stardom. Things get even more complicated when the legendary king of death metal, Jack IL Dark (played by Gene Simmons), challenges DMC to a duel in the film's climatic finale. What will be the fate of innocent Negishi as he climbs to the top of the death metal world?

Check out the movie trailer here.

For more information, visit www.viz-pictures.com.

Simmons to Students: "Be a Rockstar"

Simmons explained that he and his mother immigrated to the United States from Israel at the age of eight, and that he didn’t know a word of English at the time. Over the next fifty years, he went on to found one of the most successful musical acts in history as well as a merchandising empire worth more than $500 million annually. As Simmons joked “We have everything from KISS condoms to KISS caskets. We get you coming and going.” While so many performers and music fans seem to be concerned with the concept of “selling out,” he proudly pointed out the myriad of products that have borne the KISS logo over the past thirty years and explained that there is no shame in utilizing one’s economic assets to their fullest extent.

However, Simmons focused on the students in the crowd far more than himself or his success. Walking up and down the aisles, he frequently stopped suddenly and warmly introduced himself to audience members, emphasizing the importance of eye contact and a firm handshake to making a strong impression. He explained that, in order to find success, one must “command attention” from the room. Needless to say, this is far easier said than done in the presence of a man who can easily be called one of the most famous musicians of the 20th century.

Another major message of the event seemed to be the importance of utilizing one’s assets to one’s advantage. Simmons explained his personal philosophy towards the importance of obtaining marketable skills. When discussing this concept in relation to the music business, he pointed out “Hey look, I have this pretty song. That’s great. Now how can I buy a house with it?”

Simmons wrapped up his presentation by saying simply “be a rockstar,” explaining that the best way to succeed, whether that means starting a rock band or a mutual fund, is to have the confidence to believe it’s possible and the drive to get it done.

Still, many members of the audience seemed to take issue with Simmons’s unapologetic embrace of monetary success as both a goal and measure of achievement in life. As a result, the question period following the event increased in hostility with every student query. Some accused him of sacrificing time with his family in the name of business success, despite the fact that both his children, both Pitzer students, were present at the talk. Another student’s particularly biting and lengthy question regarding online file sharing began with the phrase “given that the idea of property ownership is such a Western concept…”. Although it was impossible to see from my seat, I hope that he spoke those words into a Sony microphone. Eventually, it seemed as if members of the audience were intentionally baiting Simmons, asking questions about his personal life, including his relationship with his long time girlfriend, Shannon Tweed.

It was both embarrassing and confusing to see several 5C students act so disrespectfully towards a speaker who had chosen to speak free of charge in order to help raise funds for Pitzer College. Regardless of one’s own personal viewpoints, it seems foolish to so rudely attack a man of such achievement for petty differences in personal philosophy. I will note happily, however, that CMC students seemed to be some of the most supportive in the crowd.

Ignoring some asinine behavior, the event was pleasant and enlightening. Simmons captivated the crowd, proving that he is just as enjoyable without makeup on his face and a bass in his hands. His inspirational success story provides one image of the American Dream, and I can certainly say I walked away feeling empowered and energized. So take the advice of Gene Simmons, whether you’re an econ major or one of our Stag athletes, go out and be a rockstar today.

AC/DC Sold Nearly Two Million Concert Tickets In First Nine Months Of The Year

The following hard rock/heavy metal artists appear on the Top 100 "Third-Quarter Year-To-Date Worldwide Ticket Sales" list for 2010:

01. AC/DC - 1,820,962
02. BON JOVI - 1,368,734
18. METALLICA - 540,637
33. RUSH - 350,342
38. GUNS N' ROSES - 319,302
45. IRON MAIDEN - 285,146
50. KISS - 210,082
61. FOREIGNER / STYX - 173,395
71. TOOL - 147,025
77. AEROSMITH - 137,417
87. TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA - 118,429
89. ALICE IN CHAINS - 114,883
92. SCORPIONS - 106,081

Note: All figures are for tickets sold worldwide as reported to Pollstar for shows played between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2010.

The entire list can be found at this location.

PETER CRISS Talks About Upcoming Solo Album, Autobiography

Regarding his next rock solo album, Criss stated, "I did finish 13 tracks. 10 of them are pretty much done, although now I have to go put vocals on them. [It's] up in the air.... I've been shying away from it because I won't do it if I don't really feel it. And I'm going to put everything I've got and own into it. This October month is killing me because I am doing all of this cancer stuff.... Every time I do go down [to the studio] and listen to it, I go, 'Jesus Christ, this is so damn good. I have to finish this.'"

On the topic of his upcoming autobiography, he said, "The book will happen when it happens. I work on it; I don't. I work on it; I don't. But I know I'll do it...I'm just right now really wrapped into this."

Interview Part 1, Part 2.

While some men feel embarrassed because of "this macho crap," Criss told CNN surviving breast cancer was actually a blessing. He was treated before the tumor could spread and said he was speaking about male breast cancer to raise the profile of this rare disease.

Criss, who played drums for KISS and was known as "Catman," offered this advice to men who spot lumps in their breast: "Don't sit around playing Mr. Tough Guy. Don't say 'It's going to go away.' It might not and you might not see life anymore and how beautiful that is."

Criss, who is currently working on an autobiography as well as a new rock album, told Reuters his bout with cancer had affected his songwriting.

"My lyrics are not so deep and dismal," he said. One of the tracks on the album, expected next year, is called "Hard Rock Knockers".

Regarding the fact that his old KISS bandmates, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, are currently on a North American tour of arenas with two new band members, one in the make-up of Criss' "Catman" character and the other as ex-guitarist Ace Frehley's "Spaceman," Peter told Reuters, "You want to put two clones up there in our makeup, that's great. Must I keep putting spandex and makeup on at 70 — I don't think I really want to do that."

KISS' Gene Simmons' role in video games

When it comes to rock n roll, Gene Simmons has been living the life of a rock star for decades. KISS is as popular today as it was during its '70s heydays. Now Simmons is delving into the video game space for the first time since Gathering of Developers' KISS: Psycho Circus – The Nightmare Child in 2000. After releasing multiple KISS songs for MTV Games' Rock Band franchise and Activision's Guitar Hero titles over the years, Simmons has jumped into the new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock game as the narrator and "demigod" of the new Quest mode.

The star of Family Jewels still keeps busy with KISS world tours, licensing new KISS merchandise (12 generations of KISS action figures exist), and exploring new digital opportunities, including video games. Although Simmons was too busy playing a real rock star to get into video games in the '70s and '80s, he has kept up with the technology through his kids. He talks about working on this new Guitar Hero game, KISS Psycho Circus, and why it may be a while before gamers get their hands on a stand-alone KISS music experience in this exclusive interview.

GamePro: What are your thoughts on what they can do with video games nowadays compared to what they did 10 years ago when you released KISS: Psycho Circus: The Nightmare Child?

Gene Simmons: The technology, while it's always impressive, is always going to depend on what the technology is used for. The idea that something can do all kinds of tricks and stand on its head and go back through time, if the stuff that's happening in the technology isn't cool, the entire thing is a waste of time. At the end of the day it is about content. Guitar Hero is cool whether it was a card game or a trivia game, but the idea that it uses the most modern technology is really the thing that enables you to kind of crawl into it. It's that unleashing the inner rock star inside of you. It's a feeling. That's what it's about. You can't create emotion with technology. It's got to be the essence of what it's about. It's got to touch something inside of you.

GP: If you were to make another video game with today's technology, what direction would you like to go?

GS: If I were to try to use that I would tell you that I would start with Guitar Hero first and foremost because the mixture of fantasy and this kind of evolution from musician to demigod is sort of like what happens to me talking to you glibly and parlaying a different languages and when I get up on stage and become the demon. I can talk about it now, but when you unleash the inner demon, if you will, inside of you you'll understand it. I do.

GP: Bands like Aerosmith and The Beatles have their own music games: Guitar Hero: Aerosmith and Beetles: Rock Band. Will we ever see a stand-alone KISS Guitar Hero game?

GS: Well, we don't do things for pennies. They made the wrong deals. Never do anything, never sell yourself short. There's no hurry. We have 3,000 licenses, everything. Go into any 7-11, you'll see what I mean any where in the world, 37,000 stores. We have KISS ice boxes. We have KISS caskets. KISS condoms. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. Nobody touches us. We outsell the Beatles and Elvis together.

GP: How does Guitar Hero translate the bass experience you're so familiar with in video game form?

GS: The feeling of playing Guitar Hero is very much like being on stage. For one thing you see yourself. And then because the technology has grown by leagues, the angles go behind the band so you can actually see the audience and you've got music going on. You physically have to stay on top of the music because you've got to play your Guitar Hero instrument and check where the chords are and so on and so forth. So it's a multi-hyphenate kind of experience. It's visual, it's audio, and it's a full-body experience.

GP: How have you seen Guitar Hero impact the music industry over the past few years?

GS: Technology's impacted the music industry in more ways than even it understands. People think it's about the Internet, but it's usually a cold experience. You're just watching it. The more you get involved, the more it connects with you and the more you're doing it and the more you control the music and the visuals, the more it becomes important. It becomes a part of you. Guitar Hero is pretty addictive. Once you play it, it's going to be tough not to want to get up in the middle of the night either alone when nobody is looking, or with your friends.

GP: What are your thoughts on Guitar Hero returning to its rock and roll roots with Warriors of Rock?

GS: Guitar Hero is about time. You know in the English language rock is a verb; you rock, let's rock. You can't say let's country and let's folk rock and let's rap. It doesn't mean anything. Rock is integral to us and it's become iconic. Whether or not you're a fighter pilot going let's rock or let's rock and roll, that's what it's about and there is nothing that takes the place of a guitar hanging around your neck or a pair of drums between your legs, banging that stuff away. This is all rock. Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock takes you through the full spectrum of the different versions of rock that are out there. All rock. 100 percent.

A KISS THAT SPANS DECADES

So it's probably a good thing it happened just last month - 33 years later on the San Antonio River Walk.

I'll be turning 46 on Saturday, and getting to spend a few minutes with Simmons and his main squeeze, former Playboy supermodel Shannon Tweed, was like an early birthday present.

A few minutes after leaving the Hard Rock Cafe last month, my girlfriend, Amy, and I were walking along the River Walk when she spotted Gene and Shannon having a bite at another restaurant.

Amy and I are big fans of the TV show "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," a reality show about Gene and Shannon and their two children, Nick and Sophie.

When Amy turned around and told me Gene and Shannon were right there in front of us having lunch, she was in such a state of shock she could hardly speak. It was surreal.

With my background in journalism, I'd had numerous opportunities to meet celebrities in entertainment and sports, so I figured I wouldn't be nervous.

I told Amy we'd just walk by them and tell Gene how great the concert was the night before at the AT&T Center.

When I told Gene this was the fifth straight decade I'd seen KISS in concert, that seemed to initiate a conversation with him.

"We can still bring it, huh?" Simmons said.

That was Amy's first time to see KISS live, and when she told Gene that, he said, "Well, were we better than Keith Urban?"

Gene and Shannon were both cordial to us, and they didn't have any Hollywood attitude.

Shannon didn't even seem to mind when I accidentally called her Sharon once. She said, "Oh, you're probably thinking of Sharon Osbourne."

Gene's onstage persona is "The Demon," but when you meet him in person, his charisma and charm reveal a really cool, down-to-earth guy underneath all the makeup.

I'm not much of a Facebook junkie, but I was really excited about posting a photo of Amy and I with Gene and Shannon.

Even though it's not the original lineup these days, KISS still knows how to satisfy rock music fans better than any group I've seen. They are the consummate showmen, in my opinion.

It's hard to believe Paul Stanley and Gene are 58 and 61, respectively, when you see them perform.

With Simmons breathing fire, spitting blood and soaring over the crowd with hydraulics, he seems to transform himself into a character who would be right at home in a comic book.

On top of that, you've got arguably the greatest showman in rock history, Paul Stanley, working the crowd into a frenzy.

And the "new guys" - lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer - hold up their end of the bargain, too.

I'll never forget what it was like trying to squeeze my way into the coliseum the first time I saw KISS in Abilene.

That was during KISS' heyday in the late 1970s, and the fans were stampeding through the door so much that a skinny 12-year-old boy from San Angelo was lifted up by the fans around him fighting to get inside. I couldn't even hand my ticket off to be torn.

Seven years later, I saw KISS play at the San Angelo Coliseum in 1984. It was a dream come true to get to see them in my own backyard. That night is etched in my memory as the greatest night of music I've ever experienced in my hometown.

One of my best friends, Todd Williams, was at the same first three KISS shows that I saw - Abilene in 1977, San Angelo in '84 and Austin in '88. We didn't know each other back then, but we finally got to see them together last month. It was like we came full circle.

Including shows in Dallas in 1996 and 2000, I've seen KISS seven times spread out over the past five decades. It makes me sound like I'm 70, huh?

Like a lot of KISS fans, I've spent an enormous amount of money on KISS albums, concert tickets and memorabilia over the years. If I knew the exact figure, I'd probably be ashamed of myself.

But I didn't feel so bad last month when KISS brought some military personnel up on stage and presented them with a check of more than $440,000 from that one show. Say what you want about Simmons and Stanley, but they're good-hearted philanthropists.

And 10 years from now if they're still playing shows, I'm sure I'll be there for a sixth straight decade.

This rock 'n' roll pneumonia isn't going away anytime soon.

ACE FREHLEY Joined By TWISTED SISTER, GUNS N' ROSES Members For 'Redemption Song' Performance

Redemption Song was previously described as "an evening of conversation and song exploring the relationship between artistry, dependency, recovery, and longevity." This event featured a one-night-only conversation between influential entertainers in music discussing struggles with drugs or alcohol. The evening benefitted music education in the New York metropolitan area by supporting the many music education programs made possible by Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute.

Musician, actor, and activist against substance abuse Henry Rollins hosted an open discussion interspersed with readings and performance, inviting the audience to listen to musicians as they reflected upon their personal journeys and the impact that obstacles have had on their music. Blues, folk, jazz musician, and singer-songwriter, Rickie Lee Jones performed selections from her acclaimed body of work, musician and drummer Steven Adler read from his book "My Appetite for Destruction: Sex, and Drugs, and Guns N' Roses", and musician Darryl "DMC" McDaniels (RUN-DMC) also gave a reading from his book "King of Rock: Respect, Responsibility, and My Life with Run-DMC".

Immediately following the discussion and performance, attendees were invited to attend an exclusive afterparty sponsored by FUZE Beverage at Providence, formerly a world-famous recording studio where THE ROLLING STONES, THE RAMONES, and JIMI HENDRIX created iconic records. Steven Adler signed copies of "My Appetite for Destruction: Sex, and Drugs, and Guns N' Roses" at the afterparty where guests received a complimentary copy.

Redemption Song and all annual Notables season-launch events are generously underwritten by Pia and Jimmy Zankel, who also serves as the co-chair of the Notables program.

Kiss frontman gives file-sharers tongue-lashing

Simmons gave his stark views of P2P pirates at the MIPCOM shindig in Cannes.

"Make sure your brand is protected. Make sure there are no incursions. Be litigious. Sue everybody. Take their homes, their cars. Don't let anybody cross that line," he said.

The bass guitarist also hit out at record labels for not taking control of their own rosters of work at the right moment.

"The music industry was asleep at the wheel and didn't have the balls to sue every fresh-faced, freckle-faced college kid who downloaded material. And so now we're left with hundreds of thousands of people without jobs. There's no industry," said Simmons.

But the ageing rocker’s tough love approach doesn’t just apply to pesky file-sharers on the interwebs.

Simmons told Scottish rag The Daily Record that his two grown up kids weren’t “allowed to go off the rails".

"If I catch them getting drunk once, if they don't tell me they are going to do it, they are going to find their Beverly Hills butts in the middle of a work camp in the desert,” he told the paper.

"It is not 'old school', it is 'now school', the same rules. The phrase 'wait until your father gets home' is good. Parents should never act like a friend to their children.

"I am not their friend, I am their parent and they are going to do as I say. There is no running to their room and slamming the door. That's my room. That's my door. Even the poop they poop out is the food I bought them. The air they breathe is my air.

"They're allowed to rebel once I kick them out of the house and they earn their own living."

Presumably, however, Simmons won’t be encouraging his offspring to visit BitTorrent tracker sites and get hold of ancient rock music by some band called Kiss. Perish the thought.

Linguanote: For the record, the 70s tongue-wielder made very similar comments in 2007. Seems he's stuck on repeat. (Video)

GENE SIMMONS ON AUSTRALIAN TODAY SHOW

KISS ON GUADALAJARA NEWS

Simmons Set To Rock Mipcom

The session, entitled "How to Build an Entertainment Brand," is designed to help participants understand the inner workings of branded entertainment. The panel is scheduled on Tuesday, October 5 at 9:30am in the Grand Auditorium in the Palais.

Simmons is a legendary rock god, and multi-media magnate. Also attending MIPCOM is the love of his life, former Playmate of the Year, model and actress, Shannon Tweed. Gene Simmons Family Jewels provides a backstage pass to the Simmons-Tweed clan, showing how the most non-traditional, traditional family in America manages to make it work all under the strangest of circumstances.

"COLD GIN" LIVE FROM PHOTO PIT

KISS FUNDRAISER BENEFITS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

Guests partied like a rock star at The Pavilion Partners Pre-Concert Dinner & Fundraiser held Sept. 17 prior to the KISS concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Guests enjoyed a night of classic rock music, mouth-watering eats and hard-core fun while supporting educational outreach programs offered by The Pavilion, including Musical Scores, Children's Festival and Fine Arts Education Day.

Tickets for the event included special reserved seating for the concert, VIP Club passes, hors d'oeuvres provided by Tommy Bahama and a fabulous steak dinner catered by Outback Steakhouse.

Guests got a chance to "Shout It Out Loud" during the live auction, bidding on items such as an autographed Sting guitar, a Houston Astros VIP ticket package, an overnight golf package at Whispering Pines, two exquisite jewelry pieces and font row pit tickets for the concert, raising $13,500. The silent auction included unique items and packages created just for this event including a KISS memorabilia package, a Houston Aeros ticket package, a unique guitar-shaped wine rack filled with specialty wines, an overnight Galveston getaway package, a spectacular downtown arts package, great dinner and wine packages, fantastic Woodlands "staycation" packages and more. The silent auction raised $8,400.

"The Pavilion Partners Pre-concert Dinner & Fundraiser is one of the best fundraisers we have all year. The event brings together groups of people from both inside and outside our community and introduces them to the arts programs at The Pavilion," said Christine Scully, development director of The Pavilion. "We had some really unique auction packages to offer our guests, including a meet and greet with the evening's entertainment. Tommy Bahama provided delicious appetizers and Outback Steakhouse a wonderful meal. We could not have done it without our volunteers, sponsors and guests and who came together to raise $25,000 to support educational programs at The Pavilion."

ACE FREHLEY's Memoir Due In April

"No Regrets" is being co-written by New York Times journalist Joe Layden who also authored "The Last Great Fight" about what is considered by many to be the biggest upset in the history of boxing: James "Buster" Douglas' tenth-round knockout win over Mike Tyson in 1990.

Layden recently worked on MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine's autobiography, "Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir".

Jennifer Bergstrom, Vice President, Editor-in-Chief of Gallery Books, said "'No Regrets' is sure to be the next must-read rock-and-roll memoir."

Commented Frehley: "I think Sinatra said it best… 'Regrets I've had a few, but then again, too few to mention.'"

One of the most popular rock guitarists of the 1970s, Frehley became an inspiration to a generation of guitarists with his lead-guitar prowess and atmospheric Les Paul sound.

Frehley performed with KISS from its inception in 1973 until his first departure in 1982 before rejoining KISS in 1996 for a very successful reunion tour. Frehley's second stint lasted until 2002 as Ace went back to being a solo artist again, but the stories and memories still remain from touring in one of rock and roll's most successful acts of all time.

On the red carpet just before his performance with Slash at the at the sixth annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert on May 7 at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, Ace Frehley talked about putting his memoir together and how he got help remembering some of his old stories that he might have forgotten.

"It's gonna be memoirs, you know," he told the Artisan News Service.

"I just turned 59, [so] I think it's about time I start getting the stuff out and writing it down on paper before I forget it.

"It's hard for me to remember a lot of the stuff, so what I've been doing is getting together with people I used to work with, and they usually have better memories of situations than myself. Getting together with old bodyguards... They have the best stories about me... stuff I don't remember."

A short video clip of Ace Frehley talking to the Artisan News Service about his upcoming book can be viewed at this location.

Gallery Books is an imprint dedicated to publishing a wide variety of must-read books on a wide array of topics. The imprint was designed to showcase established voices and to introduce emerging new ones — in both fiction and nonfiction, and across a variety of genres.

VIDEO: KISS IN MEXICO CITY

GENE HELPS LITTLE KIDS ROCK!

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIP FROM MEXICO CITY

ACE FREHLEY Added To New York City's 'Redemption Song' Event

Musician, actor, and activist against substance abuse Henry Rollins will host an open discussion interspersed with readings and performance, inviting the audience to listen to musicians as they reflect upon their personal journeys and the impact that obstacles have had on their music. Blues, folk, jazz musician, and singer-songwriter, Rickie Lee Jones will perform selections from her acclaimed body of work, musician and drummer Steven Adler (GUNS N' ROSES, ADLER'S APPETITE) will read from his book "My Appetite for Destruction: Sex, and Drugs, and Guns N' Roses", and musician Darryl "DMC" McDaniels (RUN-DMC) will also give a reading from his book "King of Rock: Respect, Responsibility, and My Life with Run-DMC"; and guitarist, songwriter, and author Ace Frehley (KISS) joins the panel.

Immediately following the discussion and performance, attendees are invited to attend an exclusive afterparty sponsored by FUZE Beverage at Providence, formerly a world-famous recording studio where THE ROLLING STONES, THE RAMONES, and JIMI HENDRIX created iconic records. Steven Adler will sign copies of "My Appetite for Destruction: Sex, and Drugs, and Guns N' Roses" at the afterparty where guests will receive a complimentary copy.

Redemption Song and all annual Notables season-launch events are generously underwritten by Pia and Jimmy Zankel, who also serves as the co-chair of the Notables program.

The October 5 panel discussion and afterparty are free for Carnegie Hall Notables members at the Supporter level and higher. Admission is $40 for Notables members at the Prelude level and $60 for the general public.

For more information, please call 212-903-9734 or go to this location.

FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM MONTERREY

THAYER To Discuss BLACK 'N BLUE's OREGON MUSIC HALL OF FAME Induction On KNAC.COM

This year's master of ceremonies will be the ever-colorful Tony Starlight.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. VIP tickets, which include reserved seating, after-induction party and poster, are $90 in advance.

Tune in to KNAC.COM this Sunday, October 3 at 11:30 a.m. PDT when Tommy joins DJ Will live to discuss the early days of BLACK 'N BLUE and what it means to be recognized as one of this year's inductees.

In the late '70s, a glam metal band appeared in Portland called MOVIE STAR. The band included guitarist Tommy Thayer, vocalist Jaime St. James, drummer Pete Holmes, bassist Patrick Young and guitarist Jeff Warner. That band became BLACK 'N BLUE, releasing their 1984 debut album on Geffen with the hit single "Hold On To 18". The band recorded three more albums for Geffen, with two produced by Gene Simmons of KISS. The band broke up in 1989, reuniting in 1997 and again in 2007. The band is currently reunited without Tommy, who replaced Ace Frehley in KISS in 2002.

RALLY FOR KIDS A BIG SUCCESS!

The "KISS" Lamborghini, driven by Warren Irwin of Rosseau came in first place out of the 28 car field. The celebrity navigator was Playboy cover model Elle Patille.

The "KISS" Lamborghini Gallardo raised $377,026 for the event and was made possible through the generous cooperation and support of Gene Simmons. In recognition of his support, $50,000 was donated to the event on his behalf.

GENE TALKS NEW GUITAR HERO

KISS ROCKS EPICENTER

With Stanley strumming high in the air while hooked on to a cable KISS played "I Was Made for Loving You." I would personally like to thank the camera man who put Gene Simmons tongue on the jumbo tron for all our viewing pleasure. I've seen these guys live almost 7 years ago, and they are just as vigil and energetic as they were then, they are true rock stars to the core and their age will not age any aspect of their performance, not one bit.

Cheers to you KISS and keep rocking out, because fans young and old still seek your spontaneous performances, it's a nice break from the norm. And as Stanley put it, "The music you hear is made by the four people up here, there are no phony tapes. This is rock n' roll, and we are a rock n' roll band!" Well done KISS and well said Stanley.

Gene Simmons: Behind The Scenes - Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock

GENE SIMMONS Q&A

Ask Gene Simmons of Kiss about voicing the character of the Demi-God of Rock in the new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock and he is quick to set you straight.

"Character is not the right word. That feels like a Ziegfeld Follies show," he says. "This is a persona."

That persona, the Demi-God, is at the heart of the story in the new Guitar Hero game. The game's developers at Neversoft took as a concept the "Monsters of Rock" and made transforming the game's characters -- Axel Steel, Judy Nails and the gang -- into part of the story line. The player must shred through the game's songs to unlock those character's superhero modes needed to help the Demi-God defeat The Beast that's threatening rock. "And then of course the next logical conclusion was to have the iconic Gene Simmons voice the Demi-God of Rock," says Neversoft project director Brian Bright, "who better to push it way over the top!"

Q: How did you get involved with Guitar Hero?

Gene Simmons: I've always been aware of Guitar Hero, obviously, because it's an iconic brand. I got a phone call from management saying that the people at Activision are interested and so on and so forth. ... Initially when I got the call, I wanted to know a little bit more. Is it going to be the same old, same old? What do you want me to do? Do you want to use a Kiss song? Is it just the general stuff and they said, 'No, no, no. We want to put Guitar Hero on steriods. We want to do the monster of monsters. We want to have the largest collection of rock songs, 90, we want you to be voice of Guitar Hero including becoming the Demi-God. You know, my ego, which is completely insatiable, started to salivate. If egos can. Mine can. I can tell you whatever I imagined the experience to be like, I was completely overwhelmed when I went to the Activision offices. ... I actually got to play a much earlier version, so I tried sitting down figuring this is going to be a demonstration of it. You immediately wind up getting up. It becomes a full body experience. From the visuals to the music, this rocks.

The story seems to be straight out of a concept rock album.

There is a story, but the story is a multi-headed beast with so many different permutations, which is a big word like 'gymnasium'. You are part of the story. It can go in almost any direction. The most important part of this is it has an empowerment kind of thing. You become part of it. It is you. You are it. You may not be able to be the Demi-God but you'll know what it feels like. ... You get to bring out the inner rock star in you. And usually when you say, 'rock star' that means guys. This is for gals, too. Girls can get in there and rock out right along with the guys. In the cave man days, people used to play air guitar because everybody wants that feeling. This takes you in places you never imagined you would be.

Kiss has had some history with video games. What does having the band's songs in a music game mean for the band?

It's always about spreading the brand, on a purely business platform. You get new fans, while they are playing the game kinda go, 'Gee that's good stuff.' And while it does that for Kiss, and while I am very proud to be the voice of (the game), this also shows the players and the fans the wide range of rock. Everything from Black Sabbath to Queen and Kiss, but also to the Muse and some of the newer bands. This is all rock, though.

How do you think your character in Kiss compares to the Demi-God?

Persona. Well, clearly the Demi-God is my child and has my DNA and the designers, who else would you take it from? The Jonas Brothers? I am the original God of Thunder, after all.,P>Have you played Guitar Hero?

I have. The older versions. I think number 4. What's striking about Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock is how more 360 it is, just the angles and perspective. Like I said, full body experience. The challenge will be for you to play this sitting down. It's not going to happen. And I like the idea that it's a social experience. You won't want to play this alone. You know, there's a party going on. There's music, flirting, whatever. Whip out (the game) and watch this become the center of attention. It will take over. Everybody's going to want their turn.

There's been other Guitar Hero games devoted to bands such as Aerosmith and Van Halen and other music games based on the Beatles and Green Day. What about Kiss?

Well, every company knows that -- because Kiss has been at the forefront of pushing the limits in terms of live shows and technology and licensing and merchandising -- we wouldn't just do another Kiss game. The Activision people already heard my take on what it would take to do a Kiss game -- Mount Rockmore: Guitar Hero. You see Mount Rushmore with our Kiss faces on it. And it would obviously be a different experience. It would be a Planet Kiss. Oh, I'm sorry, I already trademarked that. Kiss is, by some marketing estimates, the four most-recognized faces on the Planet Earth. Do you know what the King of Sweden looks like? That's funny, everyone in Sweden knows what Kiss looks like.

So are you and Activision in discussion about this? Or is it just an idea floating around?

They are going to have to come to us on bended knees. The difference between Kiss and every other band, that includes Elvis and Beatles, who we outsell in merchandising and licensing together, Kiss has been and continues to be the juggernaut of all licensing and merchandising, certainly in the music world. We are like Disney without the overhead. We have 3,000 licenses. Everything from Kiss condoms to Kiss caskets. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. But in order for our friends at Guitar Hero to consider doing a Kiss game, they are going to have to do it on our terms, which is in your face, over the top... even taking it to a higher level than Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock.

KISS, BUCKCHERRY, SHINEDOWN: Nightly Earnings Revealed

Some of the rock acts featured on the list:

#2: KISS - $500,000
#15: BUCKCHERRY - $100,000
#17: HEART - $100,000
#19: SHINEDOWN - $85,000
#20: REO SPEEDWAGON - $75,000
#26: BRET MICHAELS - $64,000
#33: WARRANT - $12,000

MORE VIDEO CLIPS FROM FONTANA

EPICENTER: KISS LIGHTS UP FONTANA

After the drop of a giant black curtain emblazoned with the band's silver logo, Kiss took the stage to close out the first day of Epicenter at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana Saturday night.

The iconic '70s rockers performed in full costume and makeup, flanked by shooting flames as they floated to the stage on an elevator-like platform.

Things we noticed in the set from KISS:

Pyro makes everything better.

Dramatic entrances make everything better.

Seeing Gene Simmons' tongue on the Jumbotron is something.

Paul Stanley still has his guitar strut down.

Gene Simmons might have his own wind machine, the way those locks were flowing in the Fontana night.

KISS broadcasted the show on the Armed Forces Radio Network. That is pretty rad.

I really love the KISS pinball machine of my youth.

Going back to the pyro, I am slightly concerned since it is fire season, but we are seemingly far away from flammable mountains.

"Detroit Rock City" never gets old.

Marathon KISS show cut short by curfew

Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons' veterans had hoped to turn their set at the Epicenter Twenty Ten festival into a marathon treat for fans and U.S. troops listening to a global live broadcast of the show.

But a strict 11 p.m. curfew made them rethink their setlist - and limited them to an 80-minute performance.

Disappointed Stanley told fans, "We were gonna rock you for two-and-a-half-hours but we were told we can't; they told us we've got a curfew."

The rockers closed the first night of the weekend festival. Prior to their performance, Eminem, reunited acts House of Pain, Bush and Papa Roach thrilled fans in the scorching heat.

Sunday's line-up at Epicenter Twenty Ten includes headlining sets from Blink-182 and Suicidal Tendencies.

VIDEO CLIPS FROM FONTANA

TOMMY THAYER Discusses BLACK 'N BLUE's OREGON MUSIC HALL OF FAME Induction

This year's master of ceremonies will be the ever-colorful Tony Starlight.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. VIP tickets, which include reserved seating, after-induction party and poster, are $90 in advance.

An interview with Tommy Thayer about BLACK 'N BLUE's Oregon Music Hall Of Fame induction conducted by Iris Harrison of the 92.3 KGON radio station is available here.

In the late '70s, a glam metal band appeared in Portland called MOVIE STAR. The band included guitarist Tommy Thayer, vocalist Jaime St. James, drummer Pete Holmes, bassist Patrick Young and guitarist Jeff Warner. That band became BLACK 'N BLUE, releasing their 1984 debut album on Geffen with the hit single "Hold On To 18". The band recorded three more albums for Geffen, with two produced by Gene Simmons of KISS. The band broke up in 1989, reuniting in 1997 and again in 2007. The band is currently reunited without Tommy, who replaced Ace Frehley in KISS in 2002.

For more information, visit OregonLive.com. (Video)

KISS EQUALS GOOD TIME AT RIO TINTO

Completely over-the-top grand entrance? Literally. Gene Simmons (bass), Paul Stanley (guitar) and Tommy Thayer (guitar) appeared on a platform at the top of the stage above the already elevated kit of drummer Eric Singer. The conveyor platform rotated forward as the band played "Modern Day Delilah," eventually depositing the threesome at the front of the stage.

Tongue wagging? Absolutely. Simmons's extremely long tongue might as well draw a paycheck as the fifth member of Kiss. The appendage is as big a part of Kiss lore as makeup and costumes. The "Fear Factor" moment of the night occurred during "Cold Gin," when Simmons unfurled his tongue and licked the bottom of Thayer's chin several times during his guitar solo. Yikes! One shudders to think how big that thing actually was on video board close-ups.

A Stanley fly-by? Naturally. Stanley rode a zip line out above the front section of the audience to an elevated platform in the middle of the crowd. The circular perch rotated clockwise while Stanley delivered the lead vocals to "I was Made for Lovin' You."

Fire breathing and blood-spitting? C'mon ... Kiss would be forced to refund portions of the price of admission were these obligatory Simmons moments somehow neglected. As usual, the fire stunt came at the end of "Firehouse" and the blood-letting preceded "I Like it Loud." The latter song featured Simmons being ripped off the stage via overhead cables, which lifted him to a spot high above the stage where he handled his lead vocals for the duration of the tune.

Gasp-inducing pyrotechnics? Cheesy song introductions? Fans in Kiss regalia and facepaint? All present and accounted for.

Kiss leading a cast of thousands in the Pledge of Allegiance? OK, now there's something that was completely unexpected. That occurred between songs in an extended encore segment as Kiss brought out representatives from the CSRA Wounded Warrior Care Project and presented them with a check for $458,652. The band is donating $1 from every ticket sold during this "Hottest Show on Earth" tour. Stanley then led the audience in a spirited recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.

"Take it from some people who have traveled all over the world and know," said Stanley. "This is the greatest country on Earth."

Some other highlights Wednesday included "Say Yeah," one of three songs the band played off its latest album, "Sonic Boom;" "Shock Me," featuring Thayer on lead vocals; "Crazy Crazy Night," a song which Stanley said the band hasn't played in a long time; and "Black Diamond," which started out with Stanley riffing on Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" before Singer took over lead vocals. Other setlist standards included "Deuce," "Calling Dr. Love," "100,000 Years" and "Love Gun."

The pace really picked up at the end as the band unleashed all its biggest hits, starting off with main-set closer, "Detroit Rock City." Stanley truthfully stated that Kiss was not going to handle its encores like other bands, who play one song and leave, then return to play another song and leave.

"What you deserve is the longest encore you have ever heard," Stanley told the crowd.

The band delivered on that promise as Kiss proceeded to play a six-song, 35-minute extra session that opened with the ballad "Beth" and closed with its biggest anthem, "Rock and Roll All Nite."

Which leads to the final given of any Kiss concert.

A good time had by all? Affirmative.

ANOTHER KISS SWEDISH LOTTERY COMMERCIAL

AID FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS SEALED WITH A KISS

Since the start of their Hottest Show on Earth tour in July, the members of the group -- known more for makeup and theatrics than philanthropy -- have donated more than $440,000 to the CSRA Wounded Warrior Care Project.

They're not done yet.

The band is donating $1 for every ticket sold during the tour. The U.S. leg of the tour is scheduled to end Saturday in Fontana, Calif.

The latest check was donated after their show in San Antonio. A photo of the band on stage with service members is displayed on the KISS Web site after each show.

The relationship between KISS and the Wounded Warrior project began in October 2009, when the group invited several veterans and service members from the project to a show in Atlanta.

Several days later, three members of the band followed up with a visit to the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center.

"It's awesome because what KISS has been able to do is to activate not only their fan base, which is pretty incredible, but also to activate a nation," said Laurie Ott, the executive director of the project. "They are getting us into a national conversation in a way we couldn't do otherwise."

Ott said the band's support will be used for several projects, including establishing transitional housing, expanding programs to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, and building a retreat center to train more providers to deliver marriage and family workshops for returning service members.

"These are people who have actually been to Augusta and seen the rehab unit," Ott said. "It's pretty personal for them."

Last year, lead singer Paul Stanley told veterans in Augusta that those injured in the line of duty should be recognized for what they have given the country.

"People talk about the ultimate sacrifice," Stanley said. "But isn't it a sacrifice to come back home and discover you no longer have your life? We want everyone home safely and to urge everyone to give these people the respect they deserve."

The project

The CSRA Wounded Warrior Care Project is built on ensuring warriors get coordinated care, family reintegration skills and training and education that will lead to employment, according to Laurie Ott, the executive director of the project. It is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a community-based model for gathering care resources and increasing the coordination between federal, state and local levels. Some of its initiatives include the first-in-the-nation Veterans Curation Project, as well as marriage and family workshops and a mentor program that pairs wounded warriors with veterans.

Gene Simmons 'legal humping'

KISS NEW MEXICO LOTTERY COMMERCIAL

Paul Stanley in GUITAR DOCUMENTARY

Turn it Up! is the STORY of the electric guitar, from the invention in the 1930s to its golden years, right through the phenomenon of the Guitar Hero video-game and the digital guitars of the future. But, it's also a series of guitar STORIES, where we'll meet all kinds of people from rock stars, to congressmen, CEOs, and teenage virtuosos, to try to understand their emotional connection to their guitars.

View the trailer at loudandlouder.com

Video: Gene Simmons & Reema Major

NIGHTCLUB CITY AND KISS BRING FANS LIVE CONCERT

In a music event that will mark the first time a band of historic magnitude has streamed a free concert to millions through a social game, KISS will broadcast their final North American date of their hugely-successful 2010 Hottest Show on Earth concert tour live in Booyah's Nightclub City, a wildly-popular, music-centric social game and marketing platform for musicians on Facebook.

The live concert will bring new and traditional media together by simultaneously airing on sites KROQ.com in Los Angeles and CBS Radio rock station websites nationwide via Ustream on Saturday, September 25, where KISS is headlining the Epicenter Twenty Ten Festival in Fontana, California.

Fans of KISS will be able to watch the iconic band play for FREE by simply logging on to the Nightclub City application in Facebook or by going to the KISS Ustream site. Those who view the concert in Nightclub City will be given exclusive KISS branded virtual goods to use in the game. In addition, Nightclub City players will have access to a dedicated KISS playlist in the game, featuring the top KISS songs of all-time.

Nightclub City is a digital game based around real-world music, and the landmark KISS event represents Booyah's platform as a real-world gaming leader blending interactive entertainment with social apps while blurring the lines between the real and digital worlds.

"We're celebrating the end of a monster tour by giving everyone a chance to relive some of what they heard and saw at the show. Unfortunately, we will not be responsible for computers melting," said KISS co-founder Paul Stanley.

"We have always believed in pushing the boundaries...in giving the fans bang for the buck...in going where no band has gone before," added KISS co-founder Gene Simmons. "This one's gonna rock big time!"

The dynamic world of Nightclub City is powered by Booyah's vision of fusing elements from the real and digital worlds to create new forms of interactive entertainment. Since opening its club doors in April 2010, more than 8.6 million active players have joined the party per month, and experienced new music within the social game setting and created special experiences that go beyond the realm of the digital world.

Those who watch the KISS concert through Nightclub City will be rewarded with special KISS- branded virtual goods. The broadcast starts with the pre-show at 8:30pm, KISS plays at 9:30pm on Saturday, September 25 at http://apps.facebook.com/nightclubcity.

KISS IN SWEDISH LOTTERY COMMERCIAL

But chances are Paul Stanley would be feeling pretty good about himself regardless. That's just how he is.

Here's Stanley on what makes this tour the Hottest Show on Earth.

Question: When you say this is the Kiss tour to see, why is that?

Answer: For the last few years, the crowds have just been getting bigger, but beyond that, what's been cool is that not only are the people at the concert saying it's the best show ever, the reviews look like I wrote 'em.

Q: Will this show be markedly different than the show you did here in October?

A: Well, you know, we're not suddenly wearing red hats and rubber noses or anything (laughs). What this band is built on is predictability, in the sense that when you pay your hard-earned money, you know you're gonna get your money's worth. So the only surprise would be that it's a bigger, better show. At this point, any band with money can buy lasers. Anybody can buy smoke bombs. Anybody can buy explosive devices and everything else. But you can't be Kiss.

Q: Are there any other artists whose stage shows you admire?

A: Not really.

Q: Were there artists whose stage shows or approaches inspired you?

A: Of course. None of us would be here without the Beatles and Led Zeppelin. I love all the bands that came out of England when I was a kid. Most of the bands here looked like they just rolled out of bed. You had to put a screen behind them with lights because watching the band was so boring. At the same time, your English bands were delivering a great show where everyone looked like they cared. That's what Kiss was born out of. We wanted to be the ultimate band that gave the audience everything they deserved. Basically, we got out of the audience, stepped onstage and said, "Lemme show you how it should be done."

Q: At what point do you think you got to that level, of being the ultimate band?

A: I think from the very beginning, we were miles ahead of anybody else in terms of what we were doing onstage. But since then, the victory lap has been 35 years.

Q: I read that you'll be playing hits on this tour that you haven't done in a while.

A: The problem with a Kiss show at this point is there's only so much time and too many songs.

Q: Do you ever slip in songs that weren't as big?

A: There's a reason that songs aren't as big. It's because they're not as good. The audience, by the vast majority, wants to hear the songs that it knows best. Who are you playing unpopular songs for? Certainly not the people who paid for the tickets.

Q: Right. I guess I didn't know if there were hardcore fans who . . .

A: Well, sure, there are hardcore fans. And the hardest of hardcore fans have to realize that there's an audience there of 15,000 to 100,000 people and most of them have an overview that may not consist of the same requirements.

Q: Will you be doing anything from "Sonic Boom"?

A: You betcha. "Sonic Boom" is us not only being proud of our past, it's putting our boot in the present and mapping out where we'll be going in the future. It's not the last Kiss album. It's the first Kiss album of the next stage.

Q: Some reviews have called that your best album since the "Destroyer" days. Do you feel that way?

A: Totally. A great band can make a great album. When people lose sight of how grateful they should be to be in this lofty position of being in Kiss, not only does the band suffer, but ultimately the fans suffer. We're in a position now where the band has a great time on and offstage and that makes for something that's undeniable and can't be faked.

Q: When you talk about people losing sight of how grateful they should be to be in this lofty position, are you referring to (drummer) Peter (Criss) and (guitarist) Ace (Frehley)?

A: Sure. In this case. Others have come and gone, too.

Q: Is there anything you miss about having them around?

A: Honestly? No. And I'm not saying that begrudgingly. Truthfully, it's never been more fun than it is now. And I give them their due, which they are owed in volumes. The band never could have existed without Peter and Ace. But the band could never be around today with Peter and Ace.

Q: Is the makeup on for good now?

A: For good. With every passing year, those personalities are more iconic. Those characters are way bigger than any of us. So it would be a discredit to both the band and the fans to change anything.

Q: It seems as though the critics came around on Kiss around the time you put the makeup back on. What did you think when you started seeing that kind of reaction?

A: Do I court great reviews? No. Do I accept them graciously? Absolutely. The fans have always loved what we do. And it's a bonus to have great reviews from the critics. We certainly made it this far without them, but it's nice to have them on board.

Q: I hear you may be heading back into the studio by early next year. Is that true?

A: I would say we'll be back in the studio by February and that should mean that an album should be done fairly soon after that.

Q: Is it going to be in a similar vein to "Sonic Boom"?

A: Well, none of us have learned how to play violins or trumpets in the meanwhile, so I think it'll be pretty much on track.

Q: How do you feel about not being inducted to the Hall of Fame yet?

A: Oh, who cares? If it matters to fans, and they champion the idea, then of course we would accept it if we were inducted. But we don't need a group of 10 or 15 guys who sit in a back room deciding who their favorite band is, especially when you start looking at some of the people who are getting inducted. It's a joke. C'mon. Patti Smith? Interesting, but how far are you from Peter, Paul and Mary?

Q: Do you have a favorite Kiss album?

A: No. There are so many great ones. I'm really at the moment jazzed with "Sonic Boom," but we've got a collection of albums that is pretty heady stuff.

Q: Do you think people can get the Kiss experience from listening to a record?

A: Well, I'd have to say that probably 80 million have gotten it through buying albums. But we are undoubtedly a live animal, and we're best seen in our natural habitat.

Q: What's your favorite part of any Kiss show?

A: The beginning, the middle and the end, I guess.

Q: That's such a Paul Stanley answer.

A: Hey. What can I tell you? I am me.

KISS IN SWEDISH LOTTERY COMMERCIAL

KISS: Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Even before WWII, fathers sternly told their children that comic-book superheroes were not real, that the storylines were just fluff and that young boys' imaginations would eventually mature and merge someday with real life, that our comic books and our oh-so-perfect heroes would become a distant memory, just an adolescent phase like our love of popular music. And then everyone saw their imaginary superheroes walking across the stage, playing guitars and singing lyrics that were real and meant just for those of us who wanted to believe.

Our fathers were wrong.

KISS is either like going to church or going to the circus. Friday night the lights dimmed, the band was shown backstage walking toward the curtain via a giant screen, and when all went black, the entirety of the Woodlands heard (and chanted along to) KISS' signature entrance: "You wanted the best, you got the best. The hottest band in the world... KISS!"

And Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer took the stage as the crowd cheered. Simmons and Stanley, the only two remaining original members, were the stars for most of the evening, but Singer and Thayer got their chances to shine later on in the set.

They began with a song off their new album, Sonic Boom, and followed it with a song off their first. The rest of the night was mostly older material, with the band playing a total of about seven songs off their new album. KISS performed for close to three hours, beginning a little after 8:30 and finishing up just before 11:30 p.m.

About halfway through the show, Aftermath began to wonder if Stanley dyes his chest hair. Then we realized, "Of course not. KISS keeps him young."

Every couple of songs, three of the members would slip backstage - we assume to reapply makeup) as one of the four entertained the crowd with fireworks - dialogue or high-flying stunts like when Simmons was lifted above the rafters as bells rang ominously.

The crowd was riled up by Stanley, who reminded them that KISS would be visiting Dallas the next night, when he challenged Houstonians to be a better, louder crowd, to prove to him that we were a rock and roll city.

Their encore, which lasted for about 45 minutes, began with Singer performing "Beth," originally written and sung by Peter Criss. While the vocals weren't quite as raspy as the original recording, Singer's interpretation was strong, and the crowd was receptive.

Near the end of the encore, three Marines joined KISS onstage, and Stanely began to wave an American flag. "These are the heroes of the 21st century, the heroes of modern America," Stanley said as the crowd roared. "Now Houston, Texas, you are about to send a message to all these brave men and women... they may not hear the message, but they will hear about the message."

Led by Stanley onstage, the entire crowd then recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and the guitarist then presented the Marines with a check for $405,308 made out to the Wounded Warriors Care Project, which provides services to severely injured veterans. (KISS is donating one dollar from every ticket sold on its current tour to the project.)

The moment was heartwarming, and the Pavilion shook beneath our feet. Then one Marine, who had stood still and kept a stoic face throughout the cheering, fist-bumped Gene Simmons.

Aftermath has now seen everything.

Last week, Rocks Off ran an article in which we discussed KISS merchandise the band hasn't thought of (yet), and we mentioned KISS churches. We were wrong.

KISS is now and has always been a church, with a Bible to boot: The Bible of fire-breathing music. And for those of you who weren't there, Simmons did perform his signature spitting through a fiery sword handle. Did you ever doubt that he would?

The concert was full of music, but KISS has never been solely about the music. KISS has always been about their live performances - the flames, the lights, the stunts, the makeup and the armor - and they didn't fail to deliver on Friday. In fact, they went above and beyond.

Simmons and Stanley both flew high above the stage and the crowd a few times during the show, and fireworks and flames were the backdrop for the entire performance, but beyond that the band has come together as greater than the sum of its parts.

Now the band serves as a reminder that rock and roll can still be fun, that it doesn't have to be just a job, and that concerts can still be an escape from life rather than a reminder of everything wrong with the world.

The big finale was, of course, "Rock and Roll All Nite," which was expected but still warmly welcomed, coupled with loads of confetti poured over the screaming fans. (Think the Flaming Lips' finale at Summer Fest but with an older crowd.) It was far from original, but it did the trick to get a few of the fans who had become tired during the long evening to rise from their seats.

As Aftermath walked out of the show, we were handed a Cherry Dr. Pepper. At any other concert, we would have been pissed, but after a KISS show, we just laughed, opened it and drank up.

It doesn't matter how many Farewell Tours they have, because they'll always bring a crowd. You can't trust the Internet, the newspapers, television or tomorrow. But you can trust that KISS can never die.

The Iconic Band Truly Put on the Hottest Show on Earth!

As their token black KISS curtain fell and the stage came to life, you could see drummer Eric Singer (The Catman) pounding away on his drums and you could hear guitars playing the opening lines of "Modern Day Delilah" from the band's new album Sonic Boom. However, Gene Simmons (The Demon), Paul Stanley (The Starchild), and Tommy Thayer (The Spaceman) were nowhere to be seen. Suddenly, from behind the drumset the three appear being lifted over the banging Catman and to the front of the stage where they took their token spots on the stage. This was my first hint that things were not going to be the same this evening.

After the first blistering song, the band settled into three classics which included "Cold Gin" and "Let Me Go Rock 'N Roll." Then came the first treat of the night. The band wrapped up "Firehouse" and as the sirens were wailing, Gene Simmons did his token fire-blowing. No matter how many times you see this, it never gets old and is still thrilling. After that, they broke into another new track called "Say Yeah" and encouraged the crowd to sing along loudly. Next, they played another cut off their first album, "Deuce," following that up with a song that I'm pretty sure had every legitimate KISS fan in the house salivating over entitled "Crazy Nights." I don't think they've played this late 80's hit since maybe 1993. What a major surprise to hear that pulled out of the archives.

The next song played was "Calling Dr. Love" to which Gene began the song saying "Dr. Pepper." The band did a great job of pushing their two partners in commerce - Wal-mart and Dr. Pepper. Stanley said many times during the set "This song is off our new album that you can get exclusively at Wal-mart." It was funny. Then came the next surprise of the evening.

Tommy Thayer wass introduced and they announce he is going to be singing "Shock Me." Now any KISS fan out there knows that Thayer replaced the original Spaceman, Ace Frehley, who wrote and sang "Shock Me" in the classic days of KISS in the 70s. It was Frehley's token spotlight song of the band's set. This sends most fans into a rage, but not me. I completely understand personnel changes in a band and have no problem with someone playing another person's song. It almost seems like Thayer is paying homage to Frehley and The Spaceman character when doing the song. Needless to say, he pulled it off completely, even vocally sounding pretty right on with the original. At the end, Thayer broke into a solo and jammed with drummer Singer for a good five minutes. He played his guitar over his head, with the mirror back reflecting a sort of spotlight into the crowd before having it ascend into the sky and grabbing another one off-stage.

Thayer then did the "2001:A Space Odyssey" solo and fired off his guitar bombs into the sky. Instead of the usual two, he walked to the middle of the stage and both he and the drum riser rose up in the air. Next, Thayer fired off another rocket. Out of nowhere, drummer Singer stands up and says "Check this out" and pulls out a bazooka from behind the drums. He holds it over his shoulder and fires off his own rocket that explodes loudly to the cheers of the audience.

The spotlight shifted to Gene Simmons again for the next song, "I'm An Animal." This is the token Demon track off of Sonic Boom and he delivered it in full force. This was very special for me, as it is my favorite Sonic Boom. After one more classic off their first self-titled album, Gene took the spotlight again for his solo. He plucked his bass guitar chaotically while church bells rang and a bright light shined on him like the sun. He put his hand and winged cape over his face to block the shine in his best Bela Lugosi pose. Then, he started slowly spewing blood until it was running all down his chest-plate and onto the guitar. This triggered his ascent to a platform at lest 30 feet above the stage. Simmons then broke into "I Love It Loud" off the band's Creatures of the Night album. After ascending from the sky, the band headed into "Love Gun", "Black Diamond", and seemingly ending the set with "Detroit Rock City" in a posed freeze frame like they did on their last tour. The posed freeze frame is so eerie. It's like you're stuck in a historic photo or caught in time. The band came back to life, said good night, and left the stage. There was no way, however, that they were going to get away that easy.

After a few minutes of chants of "KISS, KISS, KISS!" from the crowd, the band retook the show and announced that we would be getting the longest encore in history. I kept waiting for drummer Eric Singer to walk back up to the drumset, but instead he grabbed a microphone while Stanley and Thayer began strumming the opening chords of "Beth" on acoustic guitars. I literally could not believe what I was seeing. I looked over at my buddy, who just smiled as I ate my words. I can only imagine that any crazed diehard KISS fan in the stadium that night was reeling. I personally thought that Singer pulled it off without a hitch. This was the first of six songs the band played for their encore.

The band broke into "Lick It Up" and crowd favorite "Shout It Out Loud" next. Paul then announced that he wanted to come visit the crowd. After being invited, he flew across the heads of the crowd and landed on a platform in the middle of the audience. The band moved into their disco hit, "I Was Made For Loving You," which was one of the songs played at my wedding reception and holds special meaning to me. I love that song. Heck, I love the whole album Dynasty.

Upon arriving back on stage, the band broke into another rarely-played-live track entitled "God Gave Rock "N Roll To You II" while pictures and video of the band's history was displayed on the middle screen of the stage. Especially sentimental and emotional was the long section of flashing pictures of drummer Eric Carr, who lost his battle with cancer during the period that the band first did this song. I thought it was a very cool tribute to the late drummer.

The band finally called it a night and ended the set with "Rock 'N Roll All Nite." Almost the entire time they played the song, confetti was being blown out into the air and descended on the crowd and band. At one point, you couldn't even see the band. I think their was more pyrotechnics blowing up and licking the night sky than I've ever seen before. As the band said good night, fireworks blew up over the stage and continued for probably about five minutes.

Needless to say, KISS did what they do best. They left the crowd somehow still wanting more after almost a two and a half hour concert and contemplating when they would get to see them again. It's hard to believe that Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, both either right at 60 years old or getting there, can still get up in front of a crowd every night and pull off the acrobatics and emulate the pure energy that they do. The band truly does put on "The Hottest Show On Earth!"

KISS rockin' and rollin' all night

Attendance: About 9,000 adoring members of the multigenerational KISS Army, many of who were sporting KISS makeup. Also in the house, Gene Simmons' longtime partner Shannon Tweed.

First take: Ageless founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley and drummer Eric Singer and lead guitarist Tommy Thayer made a spectacular over-the-top entrance high above the stage amid explosions and fireballs to open with “Modern Day Delilah” and the old number “Cold Gin.” When Stanley wasn't making like the Spurs' Coyote cheerleader, he was wailing on rock party songs like “Firehouse” and the new “Say Yeah.” Simmons still spews fire and blood and wags his famous, impossibly long tongue.

Kiss and sell: The Academy Is ... absolutely impressed this tough crowd with “LAX to O'Hare,” which takes a cue from the Killers but rocks much, much harder. Definitely a young band that's coming into its own (including pulling off a very cool cover of the Sweet's “Fox On the Run”). Likewise, Simmons' discovery the Envy offered a more muscular vision of Coldplay rock.

I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN' YOU FAN-FILMED CLIP

KISS COFFEEHOUSE COMMERCIAL

KISS THRILLS DALLAS

Simmons had some competition from another demon, this one with a bleacher seat. Chris Hardt, 26, of Fort Worth was decked out in demon regalia - full makeup, 7-inch platform shoes, spiked-sleeve cape, everything. He posed for picture after picture.

"I've been a fan since I was 15," Hardt said before seeing KISS in concert a third time. "I love their music. The stage show is awesome. I haven't met them yet. But I want to."

It took Hardt an hour to put on the get-up, which he purchased from an official KISS costume website.

The original demon had his biggest moment before the audience, many of which were standing on the stadium's field, during his signature blood-spitting introduction to "I Love It Loud." That should've been the theme of the two-hour-plus show, which throbbed with relentless pyrotechnic explosions, billowing smoke, the sparkling black-and-platinum wardrobe, risers, hydraulics and a high cable that transported Stanley from the main stage to a small platform above the floor throng.

He sang "I Was Made for Lovin' You," one of six encore tunes, on that mini-platform before gliding back to join his buddies.

Fans ate up the spectacle. One overzealous guy hopped onto the stage, and before security could cart him off, he dived into the crowd. It was all perfectly synchronized as if rehearsed.

A couple of KISS songs deserve special mention: "Crazy Crazy Nights," a rarity in concert, and "Shock Me," a 1977 Ace Frehley track so identified with the former band guitarist that it was jarring to hear Thayer sing it.

But nobody flinched, especially not the array of families in attendance. Everywhere you looked, there were 40-something parents with their 10-something children.

Every style of rock 'n' roll still bridges the generations... Now that's acceptance.

Ex-Kiss drummer raising money for cancer research

The rock star best known for the ballad "Beth" is participating in a walkathon for the American Cancer Society next month near his home at the Jersey Shore. He wants fans to sponsor him or join the walk themselves.

Criss, who played the Catman with the costumed rockers, asks supporters to register through his website, http://www.petercriss.net.

The Oct. 17 event in Point Pleasant Beach already has raised more than $108,000 for the fight against breast cancer.

The 64-year-old says he's cancer-free and emphasizes there should be no stigma or embarrassment attached to getting the disease as a man.

"It's not an embarrassing thing — it's a very important, major thing," he said. "You find something wrong, you have to go to see a doctor immediately. It's not going to go away.

"I was this rock hero — I had dolls made of me!" Criss said. "I never thought I could catch anything. And then there it was."

Men account for 1 percent of all breast cancer cases, but about 2,000 men develop it each year, and 440 die from it, according to the National Cancer Institute.

The walk begins at 10 a.m. at Ocean and Arnold avenues, rain or shine.

Singer on Bonzo

"Bonzo: The Groove Remains The Same", a special concert honoring John Bonham on Saturday, September 25 at the Key Club in Hollywood, California.

Former KISS drummer: Men get breast cancer too

Criss, who was the New York rock band's drummer on and off from its founding in 1972 until 2004 and the voice on some of their most beloved classics, including the 1976 Top Ten hit "Beth" and "Hard Luck Woman", said too many men don't seek treatment and think breast discomfort will go away on its own.

But Criss, who discovered a lump in his left nipple in December 2007, said men need to get over their perception that breast cancer is a woman's disease.

"It can happen to you, and when it does, if you don't deal with it right away, with your 'dude' and your metal and your tattoos, you'll go in the box and we'll see you," Criss told Reuters during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Criss, 63, underwent a lumpectomy in February 2008 and a mastectomy the following month under the care of Dr. Alex Swistel, director of the Weill Cornell Breast Center in New York, and he often felt odd as the only man in the waiting room.

While breast cancer among men is one hundred times less common than among women, it can be deadly. The American Cancer Society estimated there will be 1,910 new cases of male breast cancer in 2009, and about 440 U.S. men will die this year from the disease.

Criss, who is now cancer free, acknowledged that the treatment was unpleasant.

"Whoever invented (mammogram machines) had to do it in the medieval days," he said, adding that it was nearly impossible to fit a small male breast into the machine. He called the pain "excruciating" but a worthwhile price to pay to be healthy.

Criss, who is currently working on an autobiography as well as a new rock album, said his bout with cancer had affected his songwriting.

"My lyrics are not so deep and dismal," he said. One of the tracks on the album, expected next spring, is called "Hard Rock Knockers."

Criss said he is sanguine about the fact that his old KISS bandmates, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, are currently on a North American tour of arenas with two new band members, one in the make-up of Criss' "Catman" character and the other as ex-guitarist Ace Frehley's "Spaceman."

In its 1970s heyday with Criss and Frehley, KISS cranked out hit albums such as "Alive!," and its live performances that were filled with pyrotechnics rocked audiences.

"You want to put two clones up there in our makeup, that's great," he said. "Must I keep putting spandex and makeup on at 70 -- I don't think I really want to do that."

Still, Criss said he hopes his heavy metal credentials will help mitigate the stigma around breast cancer for men.

"You are no more manly a guy than me -- I grew up in Brooklyn," Criss said.

KISS still wants to rock 'n' roll all night, and party every day

But when Tommy Thayer was called on to take on the lead guitar chores for the departing Ace Frehley in the KISS lineup, it was as natural to him as playing in his own successful group, the moderately successful KISS-inspired band Black and Blue.

The always flamboyant KISS will headline Rock'N The Park at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas, Saturday. Other groups on the bill are Pat Green, Daughtry and Drowning Pool. The music kicks off at 1 p.m. and is set to run until 11:30 p.m. Ticket prices start at $59.92 and go up to $111.76.

According to Thayer, the KISS show features a new opening, new visual and pyrotechnic effects and even more over-the-top rock antics than ever before.

"We know that money isn't easy these days, and if the fans pay the money for a concert, we want the value to be there," Thayer said from his home Thousand Oaks, Calif. "With KISS, you don't need to worry about that. We don't stand around looking at our toes. We are out there working."

Growing up in Oregon, Thayer said he always wanted to be the lead guitarist in a successful band. And he was as surprised as anyone when it actually happened.

"It's a strange thing where life will take you sometimes," he said. "In this case, it's quite spectacular. To grow up and just be a rock 'n' roll fan in general, and a band like KISS and all the other great bands of the '70s, and then 30 years later, finding yourself playing in the band as the lead guitar player - it's mind-blowing."

Thayer said he first met KISS when Black and Blue opened concerts for the band in the 1980s. He and KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons became friends, and Simmons asked Thayer to produce several KISS projects. When Black and Blue eventually ran its course, Thayer said he was just looking to get into the business side of the music industry when Simmons offered him a job in KISS management.

In addition to filling a wide variety of roles in the organization, Thayer served as a road manager for a couple of KISS tours. Even so, he had no idea he would ever do more for KISS than work within the management team. But when the guitar slot opened in 2002, Thayer became, as he said, the "heir to the throne" vacated by Ace Frehley.

"The ironic part is I never aspired to be the lead guitar player in KISS," Thayer said, "it just happened in a very strange way. I just kind of stepped into it."

Thayer said he sees his job as being faithful to the classic KISS guitar sound as originated by Frehley, because that's what the fans expect.

"Sometimes people confuse that with being a clone," Thayer said. "But it's really important. The objective is to play these original parts as they were written and recorded back in the '70s. I take a lot of pride of actually doing that very well. But then it's a combination. When we did 'Sonic Boom' last year, the studio record, I had the opportunity then to add some of my own flavor in there, as well. We aren't trying to reinvent the wheel here, but I do get to inject a little bit of Tommy Thayer in it along the way. It's a fine balance."

Thayer said that even after eight years, he can still find himself deeply awed by his job.

"I was on stage last week doing the show," he said. "We've got 18,000 screaming crazy fans in front of us, and I look over and there is Paul Stanley, and beyond him is Gene Simmons. And I'm thinking, 'That's pretty cool.' These are guys that I grew up being a big fan of when I was in junior high school and high school, and it's very gratifying being in this position. You have to pinch yourself sometimes and wonder how you got here in the first place. It does come down to being very dedicated and working hard at things in your life."

The success of Gene Simmons' A&E Network TV show, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," has caused a resurgence in KISS popularity, and Thayer said the response from new fans of the band has been phenomenal over the past two years. Even the band has to "step back and scratch our heads and say, 'How is this happening?'," he said.

Huge corporate tie-ins with companies such as Dr Pepper, M&Ms and 7-Eleven have made the band one of the most visible in the business, and Thayer said those connections generate even more new fans.

"You get word out there that there is this great band that's rocking it and doing this amazing show unlike any other, and kids are coming out to see that," he said. "And they are being blown away just like they were in the '70s, the '80s and the '90s. But it's not just a teenage crowd - it's not just one demographic, like it was before - KISS today is multigenerational. There are four or five generations out there, and that's what makes it so powerful for us."

But KISS is always KISS, Thayer pointed out.

"It's a very solid thing," he said. "The makeup, the outfits, the whole look has been solidified over the years now, and it doesn't change."

KISS TO HEAT UP THE NIGHT

Still, guitarist, singer and songwriter Paul Stanley has, without complaint, been donning what he calls "the uniform," pulling up his boots, painting the star over his right eye and hitting the stages.

"It's murder," he said from an Atlanta tour stop. "But I'm in Kiss. Every night is my moment of glory. That's what sets us apart. We'll do our shows if it's 40 degrees or 140 degrees. If you can't do what you're supposed to, give the money back."

Sunday, Kiss - Stanley, bassist/tongue wielder Gene Simmons, Eric Singer (drums) and Tommy Thayer (guitar) - will take over the AT&T Center. It's a safe bet the Kiss Army will be out in force.

"I think there's a big difference between rock bands and Kiss," Stanley said. "Rock bands tend to be very age specific, but Kiss is tribal. A Kiss concert is like a meeting of the world's biggest secret society. Everyone is in it together. It's cool to go to a Kiss concert and see your neighbors and the people from down the block."

That Kiss Army doesn't have to ponder the meaning of Kiss songs.

"We sing about self-empowerment," Stanley said. "Our songs are about believing in yourself and celebrating being alive. It's not deep, but it's profound in its simplicity. Let other people tell you how to save the world and save the whales. That's great, but we all need a night off."

That said, Kiss is involved in social projects. $1 from each ticket goes to the Wounded Warrior Project.

"We're at about $300,000 right now," Stanley said. "The people we're giving the money to are the people who make freedom possible. They're coming back home broken in body or spirit, and we're trying to help them heal. It's a Kiss initiative, but I explain every night that we're happy to be making that donation and that our fans can make more of a donation. Don't give 'til it hurts. Give 'til it feels good."

The Hottest Show features chestnuts such as "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock & Roll All Nite" as well as tunes from the latest CD, "Sonic Boom."

"It's difficult choosing the sets. There are obviously songs we have to play," Stanley said. "But we also have to change it up. So we're doing some songs we haven't done in a long time, including songs from the first album."

Kiss shows have long made use of technology.

"Technology can be a great thing or an instrument of strangulation," Stanley said. "We use technology to sharpen the blade, so to speak. We have video screens built into our amplifiers. But there are no moving sidewalks with male dancers jumping on each other while someone lip-synchs. I'd rather go to karaoke. At least at karaoke people are actually singing."

"An excuse I've heard for lip-synching is the singers say they can't dance around and sing at the same time. They either need to get a better vocal coach or work out more. Spend 35 years with Gene standing on your shoulders and you'll stay in shape."

Kiss is known for balancing music and a rock 'n' roll circus.

"The only people who question that are people who don't like us. They act like being a showman hides a deficiency. It's ridiculous," Stanley said.

Don't expect to see Stanley doing reality TV like "Gene Simmons Family Jewels." "To each his own," he said. "I'm too busy living real life. That pseudo lifestyle television is time consuming."

In his spare time, Stanley makes visual art, giclee on canvas, acrylic on canvas and sculptures. Subjects include self portraits, abstract landscapes, blues legend Robert Johnson and angels.

"My paintings are unbelievably successful," he said. "Painting started off as a diversion. It's something I do for myself. I don't paint on tour. I don't bring my brushes on stage, and I don't take my guitar in my art studio."

GENE SIMMONS IN NEW GUITAR HERO

Gene Simmons is the Demon in Kiss, but in Guitar Hero: Warriors Of Rock he's the Demigod Of Rock, and Gene talked to Artisan News about the game and if he's any good. (Video)

KISS' 'Rock and Roll All Nite' is now 'family-oriented'

But he didn't feel the pressure.

"I think, in life, you're thrown into situations when you're ready," said Singer, who replaced the late Eric Carr, the man who replaced original drummer Peter Criss. "You're given opportunities. Sometimes you're not ready for it."

However, sometimes you are ready thanks to personal preparation.

"When you audition for a band, you have to make sure you know the material," he said. "And while people say I'm lucky, I would say I'm blessed and fortunate. I don't believe in luck. You have to be prepared to take advantage of opportunities when they manifest.

"I'm not trying to get too spiritual or analytical here, but I believe that's how life works."

Singer, who spoke by phone from his home in Los Angeles, will play at Sandy's Rio Tinto Stadium on Sept. 22 with a band that has been around since the early 1970s.

Singer's first album with Kiss was "Revenge," back in 1992. The band consisted of Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Singer and guitarist Bruce Kulick - back when they weren't wearing makeup.

"I like to think that I have some kind of talent and ability," said Singer, who had previously toured with Alice Cooper, Lita Ford, Black Sabbath, former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Jake E. Lee and Kiss' own Stanley. "But I'm not delusional. I feel honored that when Gene and Paul needed a drummer they chose me, because they could have chosen anybody."

In 1996, Kiss did a full-on reunion with the original lineup that included Criss and guitarist Ace Frehley.

"I was out, but back in during 2001," said Singer, who was the drummer when Kiss played the closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City.

After Criss returned and left again, Singer rejoined the lineup in 2004.

The current lineup as it has been since Singer returned is Stanley, Simmons, Singer and former Black 'n' Blue guitarist Tommy Thayer, whom Singer has known since the mid-1980s.

"It's interesting how you can be in a band with a group of guys and you're from all other parts of the world," Singer mused. "I mean, Tommy's from Portland, (Ore.), Paul's from New York. Gene was born in Israel, and I was born in Cleveland, but we're all in the same car going down the same road together."

Singer is psyched up for the concert, dubbed "Hottest Show on Earth."

"We recorded the 'Sonic Boom' record last fall. And the tour has morphed from 'Sonic Boom' to the 'Hottest Show on Earth,'?" Singer said. "We keep making the show bigger, adding more to the spectacle of what Kiss is."

In 2001, Singer had the opportunity to put on and play his first show in the iconic cat makeup, which was made popular by Criss.

It was a night that will always remain special, Singer said.

"The first time I ever wore (the) makeup was for a photo session, but the first time I played in it was in Japan," he said.

"It was pretty surreal," he said. "I remember it so well because it was so weird, but not in a bad way.

"I'm on stage, and Ace was still in the band. I remember having this out-of-body experience. Here I was, playing on stage in Japan and looking at the band, seeing Ace, Gene and Paul in front of me. I said to myself, 'Wow, this is weird. I'm on stage. I'm seeing Kiss with makeup, but I'm playing drums.'?"

What: Kiss
Where: Rio Tinto Stadium, 9256 S. State
When: Sept. 22, 7 p.m.
How much: $30-$115
Phone: 801-727-2700
Web: www.riotintostadium.com

KISS LAMBORGHINI GALLADO

Guitarist goes from fan to fame

"A lot of times when we finish a show, we'll get off stage in full makeup and costumes, and jump in a van to go straight to the hotel," he says, calling from a Virginia Beach hotel room.

"On this particular night, we each had our own van and we were either in Monterrey or Mexico City. We were going through this crazy traffic in the downtown area and suddenly, 'Boom!' We hit a car! I told my driver, 'Go! Go!' I mean, what am I gonna do, get out of the car and fill out a police report dressed in my spaceman outfit?"

Quick to promise there were no injuries or unresolved insurance headaches, Thayer moves on to another occupational hazard that could only come from playing in the world's most theatrical rock band.

"We were at Budokan in Tokyo, Japan, and I was still finding my way around the stage in the [famously stacked] boots," he says. "I tried to step over some lights, and didn't quite make it. I caught my foot and fell over sideways right on my ass. I jumped back up like it was part of the show, but I was very embarrassed."

With his platform footing more firmly planted these days, Thayer and KISS stomp into the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Friday to deliver four decades of testosterone-fueled, fire-breathing, hard-rock anthems, including "Love Gun," "Detroit Rock City," "Shout It Out Loud" and "Rock and Roll All Nite."

Billed, as ever, as the "Hottest Show on Earth," Thayer, drummer Eric Singer, founding bassist Gene Simmons and co-founding guitarist Paul Stanley will unleash an explosive spectacle of towering flames, dizzying lights, painted faces and bloody tongue lashings.

"A lot of people don't realize we put our own makeup on," Thayer says. "KISS has always done that. It's a ritual and it takes about an hour and a half. We all sit in the dressing room together and listen to tunes. Gene listens to a lot of older '50s and '60s stuff, and I've actually taken a liking to it, especially all the old '50s classic hits and doo-wop groups and R&B stuff."

The KISS juggernaut - which rivals Elvis and the Beatles in album sales, and claims a marketing empire that has released everything from condoms and coffins to wide-screen televisions - is grinding forward on the strength of a surprisingly solid 19th studio album, Sonic Boom.

For Thayer, who permanently filled the boots of on-again/off-again original guitarist Ace Frehley (and his successors) in 2003, Sonic Boom marks his first full-length recording with KISS.

"Sonic Boom is sort of a benchmark for me in terms of making my mark in the band," Thayer says, noting he also sings lead vocals on the track "When Lightning Strikes."

"For a long time, people would say I was just copying what was done before, and I guess that's easy for people to say. When Sonic Boom happened, I was really making my mark and taking another big step toward making my place in the band."

As it happens, Thayer's place in KISS reads like destiny. Born in Portland, Oregon, in 1960, the fledgling guitarist moved to Los Angeles and took his first shot at fame with the lightweight hair-metal band Black 'N Blue (and give yourself a break if you don't remember their singles, "Hold on to 18" and "Miss Misery"). The world at large paid little attention, but a certain Gene Simmons took notice and offered his services as the band's producer.

Thayer, of course, was shocked and awed.

"I loved KISS!" he says. "In '74, I got the first KISS record for Christmas and then got Hotter Than Hell and Dressed to Kill. But I think the [album] that was most impactful for me was KISS Alive! Even before I started playing guitar, I would come home from school, crank KISS Alive! in my parents' living room and basically play air guitar to that entire record."

When Black 'N Blue faded, Thayer formed the late-'80s KISS tribute band Cold Gin, playing the role of Ace Frehley, complete with costumes and makeup. See where this is going?

"The Cold Gin experience was a tribute I did just for laughs," he says. "Paul and Gene used to come to the shows and we'd all have a laugh. In a funny way, it was kind of like being in the minor leagues before coming to the major leagues. It gave me the opportunity to put on KISS makeup and play KISS songs. It definitely didn't hurt."

When Thayer gave up the Gin, his KISS connection paid off in spades. Initially hired by his heroes as the photo editor for the KISStory souvenir book, Thayer graduated to a jack-of-all-trades role that found him lending a hand in rehearsals, video production, sound checks and even recording as an uncredited guitarist on KISS's 1998 album Psycho Circus.

"I started working part-time [with KISS] in the early '90s," he says. "They needed someone to choose photos for the KISStory book and I thought, 'Wow, what a great job. How lucky can I be to go to work every day at Paul Stanley's house and look through this huge collection of KISS archives?'

"The great thing was that I obviously knew a lot about KISS and the guys trusted me and knew I would take care of business," he continues. "I had a lot of freedom, and it was a great job that eventually evolved into where I am today."

Today, Thayer is an avid golfer, reader, board member of Pacific University in Oregon and, of course, the mirror image of his hero Ace Frehley.

"He's always been very friendly," Thayer says of Frehley. "I actually put my arm around him at the [2006] VH1 Rock Honors show and said, 'Ace, none of this would be possible without you, so here's to ya!' I've always liked Ace and he was obviously a big influence on me. He's an important guy."

Thayer himself is an important guy these days, as he painstakingly puts a deadly accurate sheen on Frehley's immortal guitar solos. Being KISS's ace in the hole is not without its perks.

"The resurgence of KISS over the last year or two has been amazing," Thayer says. "When I go out in public to a restaurant or shopping, I'm constantly getting recognized. I have a distinctive look anyway because I stand about six-foot-two without platform shoes and have the long, dark hair. I stand out in a crowd and it's kind of cool in a way, because it doesn't hurt when you want a great table at a restaurant."

He laughs.

"I'm not complaining."

THE KISS CATS

Like guitarist Tommy Thayer, KISS drummer Eric Singer is not the original man behind his mask. While Thayer inherits the persona of original KISS guitarist Ace "The Spaceman" Frehley, Singer is the successor to the "Catman" character created by original drummer Peter Criss. Multiple lead guitarists and drummers have come and gone - and, in the case of Frehley and Criss, returned at various times for the extended reunion tour that ran from 1996-2002 - but it is Thayer and Singer who now re-create the band's classic costumed look and lineup. To his credit, Singer is a phenomenal drummer who also has played with Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, Badlands and many others. To his burden, he has to live up to the superhero-like legacy of KISS's original drummer. Given Singer's considerable talents, he can hardly be dismissed as a copycat.

WITH CONCERTS DOWN, WINNING ACTS PUMP IT UP

Fast-forward to 2010, and we see ... the costumed Kiss bringing high theatrics to arenas and amphitheatres - upping the ante boldly in the middle of a music-industry downturn.

"Nobody wants to go to the grocery store and plunk down their hard-earned dollars, and walk out with an empty sack," says Kiss front man Paul Stanley. "If you're going to pay money to see a band, you should at least see something." Stanley, the preening, grease-painted shout-it-out-louder, talked recently about spectacle and rock 'n' shows - the kind of high-wattage extravaganzas his band is known for.

Last week, Kiss brought its expensively produced tour to Toronto's Molson Canadian Amphitheatre, where a full house fanned themselves in the face of hotter-than-hell dramatics and fire-breathing. Asked about the slumping concert business, Stanley expresses disbelief. "You wouldn't know it from the 14,000 fans at our show last night," he deadpans, "and you wouldn't know it from the 15,000 tonight."

Indeed, while the summer of 2010 was the season of the tour-industry meltdown, Kiss, Roger Waters and other bombastic barnstormers are still burning up the road.

"I'm a great believer that if acts want to be a live act, they've got to deliver," says Riley O'Connor, chairman of Live Nation Canada, the country's dominant concert promoter. "If you want the adulation of the audience, you've got to give, before you can take."

Tours that suffered cancelled dates this summer included the Eagles and Lilith Fair - shows with steep ticket prices, but little in the way of production or presentation. "It's not a matter of people expecting spectacle," says Stanley. "But you shouldn't pay for spectacle and get simplicity."

Seats aren't cheap for Lady Gaga ($66 to $191.50) or The Wall ($69.75 to $264.75), but the prices would seem to be evenhanded given the high production costs involved. "I think it is completely fair that, if someone shows up with a guitar and a stool, they should be paid less than somebody who shows up with enough of an arsenal to take out a third-world country," reasons Stanley, whose band charges Kiss Army members a reasonable $35.25 to $139.75 to rock 'n' roll all night.

Pop spectacle and high-wire rock are having their way in 2010, but the notion of fair value is nothing new. "The wave of the future is the same as the law of the past," says Stanley, whose bang for the buck includes explosions of gun powder. "People want their money's worth. It's no big secret."

10 MINUTES WITH KISS

When you play with KISS, do a lot of people cheer for Ace Frehley?

Honestly, I never got any of that. You might think otherwise, but I've never seen that. Certainly not lately. Most of the crowd out there today is younger and they don't really even know as much about the original band, they just know about the band as it is now in the last 10 years.

I noticed KISS has a ton of younger fans. What do you think causes 14- and 15-year-olds to love you guys?

It's a phenomenon that's happened in the past year or two. It's a combination of factors you can attribute that to. With the internet and the age of YouTube videos, I think kids are seeing this spectacular concert performance that they don't see in any other band. It's very unique, the KISS characters and the make-up and the theatrics and the stage show. There's no other band like it. Combined with great music, of course. That and Gene Simmons' Family Jewels TV show is real popular.

And you have some really big fans out there. Lady Gaga got to hang out with KISS recently.

Yeah, a week or two ago Gaga came to our show in the New York area. She's a huge KISS fan and she's just great. She loved the show and was just really excited to be there. I think she's cut from a lot of the same cloth that KISS is. It's very theatrical and it's about getting made up and definitely thinking outside the box.

How long does it take you guys to get made up or do you just wake up in your moon boots?

We just have it permanently tattooed on our faces (laughs). About two hours before the show we sit down in our dressing room and put make-up on. A lot of people don't realize that KISS does its own make-up, always has. It's a transformational two hours. We listen to music and bond, and get into the KISS mode.

What kind of music are you listening to as your getting into KISS mode? KISS songs?

No, no. We listen to all kinds of great rock 'n' roll bands, like Led Zepplin, and Humble Pie, and the Beatles. Old R&B. We even have classical music on sometimes.

It seems like you were really involved in the business side of KISS before you stepped in for Ace Frehley.

I was. I came to work for the KISS organization about 15 or 20 years ago, initially behind the scenes. I had my band, Black 'N' Blue, back in the '80s and Gene produced a couple of our records. The relationship just grew from there. I was always really interested in the music business as well. That's why I was quite involved in the business side for many years, management and producing and all that. And probably will be in the future, when I have more time to do those things.

Which do you enjoy more, being on stage or behind the scenes?

That's an easy question, being onstage is far more exhilarating and exciting than anything. To be the lead guitarist in one of the most historic bands in the world is nothing to scoff at.

KISS
$39-$125
6:30pm Sun, Sep 19
AT&T Center
One AT&T Center
Attcenter.com

KISS HEADLINING HUGE CONCERT IN FONTANA

Fans of the band can get collectible cups at 7-Eleven

KISS, the legendary American rock band, will be wowing the crowd at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana on Friday, Sept. 25.

But before that, the many devoted fans of the tremendously popular group will be wowed with special collectible cups offered at local 7-Eleven stores.

The Super Big Gulps, courtesy of Dr Pepper, each bears the likeness of one of the KISS band members -- Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer. The cups are available in participating Southern California and U.S. 7-Eleven stores this September through the band's partnership with Dr Pepper.

KISS is currently on tour with the "Hottest Show on Earth," making stops throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico in support of its first album in 11 years, "Sonic Boom."

However, the KISS show on Sept. 25 at the Epicenter 2010 Festival in Fontana will be the band's only Southern California appearance.

KISS is giving back to the United States Armed Forces by donating $1 from each ticket sold to benefit the Wounded Warrior Care Project (www.projectaugusta.org).

"KISS has a huge following, and the legendary rockers' appeal cuts across generations," said 7-Eleven vice president and CMO Rita Bargerhuff. "For 7-Eleven to provide these special cups in September while the band is on its concert tour will be a bonus for baby boomer, Gen X and millennial fans."

Each of the sleek, black cups features an individual close-up of a band member in signature black and white make-up.

Ross von Rosenberg, art director at TPN, part of the FreshWorks consortium of agencies serving 7-Eleven, spoke of the style he used to create the new cups: "I used metallic ink and rock-and-roll style graphics to emphasize the heavy metal aspect of these cups and make KISS appear larger than life. And really, I just wanted them to look as awesome as a face-melting KISS guitar solo sounds."

The availability of collectible KISS' cups at 7-Eleven, Inc. is the latest in a long line of the band's highly successful ventures with Dr Pepper, including the popular Dr Pepper Cherry "Dr Love" and memorable Super Bowl XLIV Dr Pepper Cherry "Dr Love -- Little KISS" television commercial spots.

"KISS, Dr Pepper and 7-Eleven are all icons of American pop culture, so this is a dream team with unlimited power," said Gene Simmons.

Paul Stanley added, "We are fired up to continue our successful relationship with Dr Pepper and partner with 7-Eleven to give their customers and the KISS Army across America a cold drink in a cool collectible."

KISS, which was formed in 1972, is one of the most influential bands in the history of rock. KISS has recorded 37 albums over 36 years and has sold more than 80 million albums worldwide. More than 30 years of record-breaking tours around the globe include high-profile appearances at Super Bowl XXXIII, the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, the 2005 Rockin' The Corps concert dedicated to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and, most recently, the 2009 finale of "American Idol" that boasted 30 million viewers.

For more information about tickets to the Epicenter 2010 Festival, which runs Sept. 25 and 26, visit www.epicenterfestival.com.

A Conversation with Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons: I'm deliriously happy.

MR: Why didn't you let your daughter keep her pony?

GS: There are Beverly Hills ordinances that I wasn't aware of. You aren't allowed to keep farm animals that poop bigger than a certain size. Do you believe that?

MR: (laughs) No, I can't believe that.

GS: It's actually true. Dog poop is a certain size, but once it gets past a certain size, supposedly, there are health hazards. So, we had to move the horse past Malibu.

MR: I'm sorry to hear that. Did the horse live happily ever after?

GS: Oh yeah, happier there than in Beverly Hills.

MR: Sweet. With regards to Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, is it easy or hard for you to transform yourself from an everyday person into a savior of rock 'n' roll?

GS: When you dare dream the impossible dream, then you can unleash the inner rock star inside of you. We all had these kinds of notions when we were kids, especially guys. We all put towels around our necks and tried to fly through the air, or imagined we were Harry Potter if we're young enough. We all want to sort of defy gravity and scale Mt. Olympus, and very few things enable you to do that. 3D takes you close, but your body is motionless while your mind takes you. When you sit in those Disney amusement park rides, you get King Kong coming at you, but you're sitting still. This, for me, is a labor of love. Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock is like this full body experience, where you get to not just imagine what it feels like to be a rock star, but you become the rock star, if you will, within you. Because physically, you're playing a guitar, you're trying to keep up with this great music you're hearing. Visually, you're trying to keep up with what's going on onstage, and there's an evolution, kind of a metamorphosis; the musician becomes a demi-god. I saw a close to finished version of it and it rocks.

MR: Now, you held a press conference at Pop Sound Studios about your part in the game. Were people amazed at the end result?

GS: Yeah. People think, "How does he have time to do this?" because tomorrow, I'm physically in Toronto, and today I'm in Los Angeles. Tomorrow, I'm playing onstage with KISS, and here I'm talking about Guitar Hero. But you know, life is short and you should make time for the things that you think are cool. I don't know how else to put it, but Guitar Hero rocks.

MR: What KISS song is featured in the game?

GS: "Love Gun." Also you'll be able to hear Offspring, Queen, and a whole slew of artists. But everything from A to Z is all rock--there's not a rapper, there's no cowboy hats...

MR: So, where is rock and roll heading?

GS: It's going to depend on who's going to carry the mantle. It's like, "Who's going to wear the crown, and are you worth it?" It's going to depend on that next fifteen-year old kid, guy or girl, in a garage. Do they have something to say and do they know how to say it? Can you spread your legs wide enough to hold that rock star, Jesus Christ pose?

MR: (laughs) I thought you were going elsewhere with that. What bands do you currently think are great rock bands?

GS: I like The Envy, which is about to come out with their first record on Simmons Universal (laughs). We believe in that band, and that's going to happen big. I'm also a fan of The Muse. If you haven't heard of them, they're big in England and starting to make headway here--by the way, they're in Guitar Hero. For those that don't know, they're sort of Queen-like and a combination of other things. There are a lot of really good new bands, but it's going to depend on them and whether they're willing to pick up the challenge and go where no band has gone before. That's the only way they're going to be able to make any mark.

MR: You mentioned Simmons Universal. You have a label coming through Universal, right?

GS: Right.

MR: And what kind of acts are on it?

GS: It doesn't matter, it's just got to work. Mostly there has to be guitars in the band. I don't want a synthesizer band. You can have a synth in the band, but it's got to be driven by guitar. The heartbeat of all of it started a long time ago with Chuck Berry and Little Richard. Unless you're singing stuff that connects with the joys of life--good food, sexy people, living life to its fullest--then it's just kind of dreary. I don't want to do Seattle music. I'm actually happy to be alive.

MR: What are your thoughts on music video games in general, you know, like Guitar Hero?

GS: Well, I think Guitar Hero is head, hands, and feet above the rest simply because it allows you to kind of, not morph, but metamorph or evolve into the inner rock star in you. My favorite thing about it, though, is that it's a full body experience. Your imagination goes, you hear the music that surrounds you, the visual surrounds you, and you become a part of it.

MR: Can the case be made that somebody who plays Guitar Hero might be inspired to pick up a guitar and learn how to play the actual instrument?

GS: The answer is yes. More importantly, it self empowers you, and you are in control of your own destiny. How many places in life do you get to do that?

MR: What are you listening to right now, what's on your iPod?

GS: I don't listen to iPod; I find it insulting because bands, and I'm in one, spend so much time and money making sure that it sounds great, and then you hear it through the asshole of a fly. It's such an insulting way to do it. It's like watching movies on your handheld devices, what a f**king insult to the movie makers, and the sound guys, and technicians who spend so much time lighting stuff so that their stuff can be squashed to the size of a potato chip. I use handheld devices for communication, not for looking at art or listening to music.

MR: Wasn't that the same complaint when we moved from analog to digital, from records to CDs?

GS: Yeah, I don't like it. Just because something is easier doesn't mean it's better. I also like leftover food as opposed to fresh food because the spaghetti gets to talk with the meatball, and it's just more scrumptious. That's what marination is, "Oh, I just put some fresh wine on it." I'll say, "No, let it soak, it'll taste better."

MR: Now, you're no stranger to games. I remember you had one of the most popular pinball machines of all time.

GS: It is the most popular one of all time, the KISS Bally machine was the biggest.

MR: They came to you and asked you to be a part of Guitar Hero, right?

GS: Yes they did.

MR: What was your first reaction?

GS: First reaction was, "Cool." To be quite honest, they're not going to be able to make me rich, it's too late for that. So, the only reason for doing stuff is if you think it's cool. I don't know how to describe it other than saying Guitar Hero rocks.

MR: And it's so involved, with all the different levels, pods, all that.

GS: There are one thousand variations, can you imagine? One thousand variations of where you can go, where you can wind up, and where you can fall flat on your face, and the musical choices and the physicality of it really makes it a full body experience.

MR: Gene, are you good at it?

GS: I'm horrible, that's why I want to keep playing it. Before I whip it out, as the phrase goes, at a party or an event I want to be good at it. So, that's why I'm getting one of the first ones that are coming out. We're just doing the last vocal, and the PR campaign stuff, but I'm getting one of the first ones off the racks to quietly go over in a corner and practice. I can't say, "That's me. That's the voice. I'm the demigod." "Well, how do you play?" "Umm, not so good."

I can't do that. I've got to win, got to be cool. That's what I suggest to everybody: Get yours, and get your free Soundgarden album because the nice folks at Guitar Hero, believe it or not, are giving the whole album free, as an extra. I would go off, if I were you, and practice on your own, so, when you're at a party and someone says, "How did you get so good?" You can say, "You know, some people are just born with it. Some people are just born rock stars."

MR: KISS is on tour?

GS: We've been on tour for two-and-a-half years, pretty much, on and off.

MR: Are you working on a new KISS project?

GS: Oh, God, there are so many. Go into a 7-11 or a supermarket, or drive down the highways of America and you'll see us.

MR: Okay. More specifically, is there a new album in the works?

GS: There will be, we just need time to breathe.

MR: Right. Now, we started out talking about something that happened on your show, Family Jewels. Are there any more seasons?

GS: Season six starts shooting next month. We're the longest running reality series, we're in eighty-four countries, (sings) and a partridge in a pear tree.

MR: (laughs) Nice. Is the show going to feature you playing Guitar Hero in any of the episodes?

GS: Am I going to feature Guitar Hero in our TV show?

MR: Yes.

GS: It depends, if they buy on, yes.

MR: (laughs) Leaving aside the iPod, what are you listening to, music-wise, right now?

GS: You know, I listen to more new music than almost anyone I know because I get one thousand demos, on average, per month. So, I really do listen to new music...in fact, newer music than the people who listen to music because I get it before it winds up on a label.

MR: Are you listening in the context of finding bands for Simmons Universal?

GS: Yes.

MR: Do you have a roster that's already set?

GS: The Envy is our first act, but we're closing in on three more. You can go to simmonsrecords.com and get the lowdown.

MR: KISS has been one of the biggest franchises of all time.

GS: No other music franchise touches it. We outsell The Beatles and Elvis put together.

MR: I know somebody interested in buying a KISS casket with the fireworks.

GS: The next generation of that is coming out. The first generation sold out, you can't find them.

MR: (laughs) Yeah?

GS: The KISS condoms are coming back, too. The condoms were sold out as well. Did you ever notice that it says made in Jamaica? Oh, yours doesn't roll out that far? See, that was a joke.

MR: (laughs)

GS: That was a joke.

MR: (laughs) Yes, yes, and a fine one. You were on Shatner's Raw Nerve, right?

GS: Yes, I did one.

MR: What was that like?

GS: Well, Bill asks people questions that are sometimes surprising, and he actually got me. He asked about my mother, and what the immigrant experience was like coming to America, and where I came from, and stuff that you usually don't talk about in interviews.

MR: I was just curious about that.

GS: Trust me, I'm fascinating.

MR: You are, sir. I'll say you were fascinating even as a sea monster in SpongeBob SquarePants.

GS: Yes, I did SpongeBob. We also did The Fairly OddParents one hour premier, KISS did two Family Guys, where KISS saves Santa Claus. I think I did Mrs. Claus. Anywhere, anytime, all places, all things for everybody.

MR: Once you're a cartoon character, how do you go back?

GS: Well, I also created My Dad The Rock Star, which was on Nickelodeon, and around the world for twenty-six episodes. How do you go back? You try to be all things to everybody.

MR: It's clear you've got acting chops. Where did they come from?

GS: I have no clue. I think there must be a loose screw someplace because the tendency for most people is to throw up when they get up onstage because they get judged. I think I'd throw up if I wasn't on stage and I wasn't getting judged.

MR: Which takes us to what advice do you have for new artists?

GS: There's no advice you can give because every artist is unique. There's no paint-by-numbers road to success, and no ten easy steps to follow that will make you succeed. First, it will start with you, and what you've got. Then, the other three are the right thing, at the right place, at the right time.

KISS fans looking forward to Friday's concert

KISS, the iconic hard rock band, brings their high energy show to The Woodlands this weekend as part of their "Hottest Show on Earth" tour. The band, known for their elaborate live performances, has a legion of dedicated fans across the country and around the world.

"This will be the ninth time I've seen them live," said Mark Sheffield of Magnolia. "They are an amazing band."

Founded in New York in 1973, KISS burst on the music scene with a hard metal sound and a flamboyant look that included painted faces, exotic costumes and elaborate onstage antics like blood spitting, fire breathing, smoking guitars and levitating drum kits.

But it was the costumes and painted faces that separated KISS from other heavy metal bands of the era. So widespread was the popularity of the KISS characters that they appeared on the 1976 Paul Lynde Halloween Special - featuring Margret Hamilton, the Wicked Witch from the "Wizard of Oz." The appearance generated awareness and interest in young people across the country.

"That was the first time I ever saw them," said Sheffield. "I thought they were awesome."

The interest in KISS continued as he grew older - seeing them at the Cajundome in Layfayette, La., during their Asylum Tour. Like a lot of fans, Sheffield has painted his face like the band when attending live concerts. And he's certainly not alone.

Among the group's top hits is the song "Rock and Roll All Nite" - an anthem for youthful rebellion that spans several generations. It's a crowd favorite at every live performance.

Looking like comic book characters and playing hard driving rock music may have established KISS as a major force in the music world, but by 1980, interest in the group was declining. Before long, the group had changes in band personnel, stopped painting their faces and, for a time, revived their popularity.

"The makeup served them well for a while," said Sheffield. "but it was a gimmick so they eventually took it off."

In the 90s, interest in KISS again rose and the band was restored to a top touring band - and the popular makeup returned. In addition to selling albums and filling concerts, the band members discovered merchandising was an important and profitable sideline to their music business.

Over the years, KISS has licensed their image for use on clothing, posters, action figures and hundreds of different types of collectibles. The group appeals to former hard rockers and a new generation of kids.

The group is featured in a pair of Dr. Pepper commercials on television, including one with a KISS tribute band comprised of little people.

Bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons has been featured for four seasons on his own long-running reality show, "Family Jewels" along with his family, former Playboy playmate Shannon Tweed and their children, Nick and Sophie.

"Gene Simmons will make a dollar off anything he can," said Sheffield. "The guy is a genius."

Critics may dismiss KISS as comic book characters playing unremarkable music at loud volume, but it's hard to argue with the group's success. They have been performing for 37 years, sold more than 100 million albums worldwide and been named one of rock's 10 most important bands by television's VH1.

While band members are approaching official retirement age, KISS continues to defy the odds, logic and the passage of time - attracting huge audiences on their recent and current concert tour. It's a case where the make up may help keep the illusions of youth alive for fans who themselves are growing older.

While Sheffield looks forward to Friday's concert, he's a little disappointed in the change in personnel in the group. Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons remain from the original group, but Ace Frehley and Peter Criss have been replaced by Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer.

"Going to the concert is like going back in time - it's a lot of fun," said Sheffield. "I'd love to meet them."

For more information on KISS, visit their website at www.kissonline.com. For tickets to the group's performance at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Friday, visit www.woodlandscenter.org or call (281) 363-3300.

KISS - MOLSON CANADIAN AMPHITHEATRE

With the venue packed to capacity, the big screens on either side of the stage depicted a satellite view of world, coming ever closer to home as it honed in on Toronto, and then revealed backstage as the infamous New York foursome, in full make-up and dress, were led to the stage by original band manager Doc McGhee. The retro footage was cause for fans to cheer and spring to their feet in anticipation of the show. "You wanted the best, you got the best! Ladies and Gentlemen - KISS!" was heard over the loud speaker, and the excitement of the crowd was palpable as the black kabuki curtain finally fell.

The show kicked off with "Modern Day Delilah", featuring drummer Eric Singer on a riser high above the stage, with Simmons, Stanley, and Thayer on a platform that rose above the drum kit and lowered to the front. The band eventually settled onto the main stage and continued on with "Cold Gin", "Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll", and "Firehouse," the latter of which included the big screen backdrop and a bank of screened amps digitally lighting up with flames and causing the stage to look as though it had been set afire.

KISS has given fans plenty of different looks over the years, including an unmasked glam guise in the '80s and a biker-leather look in the early '90s. They?ve even gone with an elegant air in custom-fitted business suits. But for this tour it's Classic KISS, back to full make-up, black and silver spandex costumes, and impossibly high platform shoes. Their stage antics were also those from yesteryear, as Simmons thrilled fans with his infamous fire-breathing trick, and channelled his inner demon while spitting up blood and flying on guide wires to a platform high above the stage.

Early in the performance, Simmons and Stanley temporarily took a break, allowing Tommy Thayer to take over with a crowd-pleasing solo that featured pyrotechnics shooting from his guitar. The segment then included a solo from Singer, whose drum kit again was lifted into in the air as fog billowed from the corners of the platform. Thayer also was lifted on a fog-spewing riser, and the two accomplished musicians played together until they were lowered to the stage and rejoined by Simmons and Stanley.

With spokesman Stanley delivering well-rehearsed verbiage that segued nicely into song titles, the band continued on together with such classics as "Deuce" and "Crazy Crazy Nights". "Calling Dr. Love" saw Simmons take over on vocals and resume showcasing his legendary tongue while licking the neck of his bass or wagging it with lightening speed toward the audience.

"I'm an Animal", from the band's latest release and nineteenth studio offering Sonic Boom, also came with an announcement from Stanley that it was available "exclusively at Wal-Mart". Directly after, the band flipped right back to the beginning again with "100,000 Years" from their debut album. "I Love it Loud" had the audience singing en masse, as did the classic "Love Gun", and was followed closely by Stanley's delivery of a shortened but nonetheless effective cover of Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love". At 58 years of age, he still delivers the sexy moves that had girls swooning in the aisles 35 years ago, and his obvious stamina continues to carry the bulk of the vocals and the show.

"Black Diamond" and "Detroit Rock City" rounded out the main portion of the set, then after a short break, KISS returned for a 5-song encore that included the band's most memorable ballad, "Beth". The sexually suggestive "Lick it Up" also came with a snippet of The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again", before the era of disco was revived with "I Was Made for Lovin' You". With fans still on their feet and honouring the band that has given them 35 years of good time rock n' roll along with over-the-top theatrics and unforgettable live shows; fittingly the show ended with "God Gave Rock n' Roll to You" as well as the band's signature song "Rock n' Roll all Nite".

KISS Set List: Modern Day Delilah / Cold Gin / Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll / Firehouse / Say Yeah / Deuce / Crazy Crazy Nights / Calling Dr. Love / Shock Me / I'm An Animal / 100,000 Years / I Love It Loud / Love Gun / Whole Lotta Love / Black Diamond / Detroit Rock City / Encore: Beth /Lick It Up with a snippet of The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again"/ I Was Made For Lovin' You / God Gave Rock 'n' Roll to You /Rock And Roll All Nite

SOUND SHOCK: BOB ERZIN ON

The result of their semi-delusional dreaming was 1981's THE ELDER, a baroque, full-blown concept platter charting the story of a Luke Skywalker-esque boy who is called upon to battle the evil Mr. Blackwell and restore order and balance to the land. The album was the work of legendary producer Bob Ezrin (who helped shape the sound of hard rock's first horror show, Alice Cooper), a Toronto native who had previously reinvented the band with 1976's classic DESTROYER and had, at that time, just worked on Pink Floyd's double-disc rock-opera juggernaut THE WALL.

Both Ezrin and the band (well, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, anyway) were convinced that THE ELDER would be the record to forge their new "mature" path, a bounce back after the lightweight pop fluff of 1980's UNMASKED. Kiss trimmed their hair and donned new, stripped-down costumes, and the cover was the first in the band's history not to feature the freak four.

It was, of course, a gross miscalculation.

The album tanked, fans recoiled and THE ELDER pretty much drove a stake through the first wave of Kisstory. But time is a great healer, and over the years, many Kiss devotees have come forth and voiced their love for the disc (this writer included). Lush, evocative, frightening, beautiful and very cinematic, THE ELDER is such a breathlessly odd piece of work, so different from anything else in the Kiss lexicon, that it demands respect.

Fango tracked down Ezrin to talk about THE ELDER and share some memories of that pivotal point in the band's myth...

FANGORIA: To say one loves THE ELDER is-even now-not a popular sentiment.

BOB EZRIN: True. Not even amongst those of us who created it!

FANG: What can you tell us about the genesis of the album?

EZRIN: Well, the boys came to me with a bunch of really heavy demos, initially. They wanted to make a very intense record to combat the criticism of the last couple of albums. I had just made THE WALL, and I convinced them to scrap those demos and do something different. So THE ELDER was a victim of THE WALL and our mutual desire to do something "important," which really was antithetical to what Kiss was about. Kiss was never pretentious or precious and never took themselves seriously. They were always about fun, sex and power and were always, in effect, horror cartoon characters, so to suddenly do a concept album, something of "consequence," was an anti-Kiss idea. It was a flawed concept from the beginning.

FANG: Who was the driving force behind the record?

EZRIN: At the time, we were all looking for bigger, better things, and Gene-more so than Paul-jumped on the concept of doing THE ELDER. I'm not really sure if he came in with it or we developed it together, but we both evolved a script for a little film to accompany it. We thought it would be the beginning of multiple projects to go under the ELDER banner. We were wrong, of course. But Paul and Gene were really into it, and they put their all into it. They both had to step out of their personas, and it was really bold of them to do that. They were attracted to the classic rock, almost Beatles-esque, complex structure of the album...they were seduced by that. We were all trying to be artistes. It was a huge mistake.

FANG: It's well-known that lead guitarist Ace Frehley was not pleased with this direction, failed to show up for sessions and quit the band soon after. But you had similar problems with Ace during the recording of DESTROYER as well, didn't you?

EZRIN: People dwell on that, but it's not entirely true. I loved Ace. It's just that DESTROYER was a big project. It was ambitious and grandiose and had to be delivered on a finite budget in a very finite time frame. Gene and Paul were, as always, totally disciplined, but Ace was a free spirit and, like his persona suggests, a real space cadet. Sometimes we couldn't find him when we were in studio and had to record, so we had to proceed with Biff Wagner playing his parts. But when he did play on the album, he was fantastic.

FANG: DESTROYER was huge, a landmark album-but it too was met with fan dissent, initially. Do you remember the backlash when THE ELDER was released?

EZRIN: I do. Here was this larger-than-life fantasy/rock record, filled with myth and violence and passion, and I believe some fans liked it. Some critics liked it too, which rarely happened with Kiss. But most fans couldn't grasp it and they felt left behind, isolated.

FANG: What do you think of THE ELDER now?

EZRIN: There are some great moments in there, for sure, and some classics buried in the mix. But on the whole, it's way too self-indulgent and way too overproduced. It's also not fully realized. There's not enough material, and the story is not fleshed out. It's an interesting failure, I think.

FANG: And what about the commercial viability of the "concept album"...is it dead?

EZRIN: I don't believe so. Look at Green Day's AMERICAN IDIOT. It was a huge album and then a big Broadway show. And listen, I hope it's not dead, because I just got in the studio with Alice Cooper to do another concept disc, an album with a connecting thematic thread, so I'm hoping it is still very much alive and well!

Fango #298, coming in October, features lots more about Kiss and its place in the world of horror, including a major interview with frontman Gene Simmons; go HERE for a preview of the cover!

Pitzer College Presents Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons: The Medium and the Message

Pitzer College Parent '11, '14

Join us for a special talk by Gene Simmons, rock god, entrepreneur and co-founder of KISS, now celebrating 36 years of rocking planet earth. Simmons is co-founding partner of Coolspringslife.com and has had his own magazine, book publishing and comic book companies. The Gene Simmons Family Jewels TV program is now airing its fifth season and can be seen around the world.

Saturday, October 9th, 2010
3:30-5:00 p.m.
George C.S. Benson Auditorium
Pitzer College, Avery Hall
1050 N. Mills Avenue
Claremont, CA

KISS IN CLEVELAND: KINGS OF ARENA ROCK

At the start of the decade, it seemed the energy from the band's 1996 return to facepainting had run its course, with surprisingly lackluster performances only half-filling venues across the country. But for whatever reason, the band once again is in full possession of its distinct mojo onstage and staking claim as the true kings of the arena-rock spectacle.

Perhaps the newer guys in the band - Cleveland native Eric Singer on drums and Tommy Thayer on lead guitar - have given mainstays Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons a shot in the arm by so faithfully recapturing the spirit of the band's '70s heyday, even on newer material.

Kiss played three songs from their latest album Sonic Boom, and they all held up admirably next to warhorses like "Detroit Rock City" and "Deuce."

Stanley in particular seemed to be having a fantastic time, dropping Led Zeppelin and Who riffs in the middle of the band's own surprisingly muscular songs, demonstrating an uncanny ability to deliver guitar picks to any corner of the venue, and generally never letting the crowd's attention wander back to the fact we all had to get up early for work the next morning.

"BLACK DIAMOND" LIVE AT CLEVELAND

KISS: MORE LIVE VIDEO FROM DETROIT

KISS CUPS ROCK 7-ELEVEN

KISS is currently traveling North America on The Hottest Show on Earth tour. Four collectible Super Big Gulps courtesy of Dr Pepper, each bearing the likeness of one of the KISS band members?Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer are available in participating U.S. 7-Eleven stores this September through the band's partnership with Dr Pepper.

"KISS has a huge following, and the legendary rockers' appeal cuts across generations," said 7-Eleven vice president and CMO Rita Bargerhuff. "For 7-Eleven to provide these special cups in September while the band is on its concert tour will be a bonus for baby boomer, Gen X and millennial fans."

Each of the sleek, black cups features an individual closeup of a band member in signature black and white makeup. Ross von Rosenberg, art director at TPN, part of the FreshWorks consortium of agencies serving 7-Eleven, spoke of the style he used to create the new cups: "I used metallic ink and rock-and-roll style graphics to emphasize the heavy-metal aspect of these cups and make KISS appear larger than life. And really, I just wanted them to look as awesome as a face-melting KISS guitar solo sounds."

The availability of collectible KISS' cups at 7-Eleven is the latest in a long line of the band's ventures with Dr Pepper, including the Dr Pepper Cherry "Dr Love" and Super Bowl XLIV Dr Pepper Cherry "Dr Love - Little KISS" TV commercial spots.

"KISS, Dr Pepper and 7-Eleven are all icons of American pop culture, so this is a dream team with unlimited power" said Gene Simmons.

Paul Stanley added, "We are fired up to continue our successful relationship with Dr Pepper and partner with 7-Eleven to give their customers and the KISS Army across America a cold drink in a cool collectible."

For The Hottest Show on Earth tour, KISS is giving back to the U.S. Armed Forces by donating $1 from each ticket sold to benefit the Wounded Warrior Care Project.

Dr Pepper, a brand of Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Plano, Texas. The brand is available in Regular, Diet, Caffeine Free and Cherry varieties. DPS is a leading producer of flavored soft drinks, marketing Dr Pepper and more than 50 other beverage brands across North America and the Caribbean.

Dallas-based 7-Eleven operates franchises or licenses more than 8,200 7-Eleven stores in North America. Globally, 7-Eleven operates franchises or licenses approximately 38,500 stores in 16 countries. During 2009, 7-Eleven stores worldwide generated total sales of more than $58.9 billion.

KISS COMES HOME TO DETROIT

A Kiss concert anywhere in the Detroit metro area, city or suburbs is an event. A family reunion. A costume party with full face paint and outlandish outfits - including one attendee dressed as Captain America to commemorate the 9-11 anniversary.

Most importantly, it's a rekindling of a relationship that dates back to the mid-'70s, when Detroit made the members of Kiss some of its favorite visiting sons and codified when the costumed quartet recorded its first concert album, "Alive!," at Cobo Arena and then penned the anthem "Detroit Rock City." That's why a near-sellout crowd braved cold and rain on Saturday to "Shout It Out Loud" and, of course, "Rock and Roll All Nite" with the Kiss crew.

And even if it was the same 21-song, two-and-a-quarter-hour show Kiss has been playing throughout its latest tour, there was a perceptible X-factor at DTE, a few more smiles from the stage, just a bit of extra effort and a sense of homecoming ... at DTE.

Kiss also had a somewhat re-tooled show than its pair of expositions nearly a year ago at Cobo Arena. While that show focused on "Alive!," Saturday's spanned Kiss' career, mixing three songs from last year?s "Sonic Boom" album - the show-opening "Modern Day Delilah" along with the chant-along "Say Yeah" and the hard-hitting "I'm An Animal" - with old favorites such as "Cold Gin," "Black Diamond," "Deuce" and long renditions of "Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll" and "100,000 Years" that gave lead guitarist Tommy Thayer plenty of room to stretch out. The group also slipped in a bit of Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love."

Kiss delivered its dependable tricks throughout the night. The group entered on a platform that rose from behind Eric Singer's drum kit and a wall of video cubes and brought Stanley, Thayer and bassist Gene Simmons to center stage. Simmons blew fire during "Firehouse" and spit blood before being hoisted to the top of the lighting rig at the start of "I Love It Loud." Stanley ... "flew" over the crowd to a circular, rotating stage in the middle of the DTE pavilion to perform the disco-flavored "I Was Made For Lovin' You." Thayer "shot" targets from the ceiling with his guitar. There were pyrotechnics aplenty, and confetti rained during "Rock and Roll All Nite."

There was a genuinely touching moment, too, during the encore when Kiss - which has been donating $1 from each ticket to the Wounded Warrior Care Project - brought three troops to the stage to reveal that the band had so far raised $372,354. The sight of the towering Simmons leaning, deadpan, on the shortest of the trio was both comic and poignant and showed a different but still admirable application of the heart that Kiss has always put into its performances and, of course, its relationship to Detroit Rock City.

BRUCE KULICK To Appear At HOLLYWOOD SHOW

For more information, including a full list of guests and dealers as well as how to purchase tickets, visit the Hollywood Show web site.

Started in 1979, the Hollywood Show is perhaps the best known autograph show in the Hollywood area. It is legendary among autograph shows, not only for the celebrities who appear, but the crowds each event brings. It's the only celebrity autograph convention held four times per year. Currently taking place in Burbank, California, the Hollywood Show has earned the reputation of being "the place" for celebrities to appear, and known worldwide as the perfect place for fans to get "up close and personal" with their favorite stars.

KISS: VIDEO CLIPS FROM DETROIT

KISS AND TELL: MINNESOTA STATE FAIR

I bought two tickets to KISS at the moment I found out they would make an appearance at the Minnesota State Fair Grandstand. I basically leapt from my chair and face planted the computer with anxiety and uncontrollable energy. I've already attended a KISS concert last November (ALIVE 35 tour) which was held at the Target Center in Minneapolis. I fell in love with the group and deemed it necessary to attend the outdoor show in hopes of seeing the stage explode once more. Originally, I bought two tickets with the intention of asking someone (a date) believing that this plan was foolproof. However, I realized that my house is five hours away from campus, and I didn't feel like being shot down in the first week of school. Ultimately, my heart got in the way, as I knew my brother is a bigger fan than I. It was a pretty easy choice once I slowed down and recollected my brain into my skull. Seeing how he is leaving for the Marines next month, I thought this was the right decision to bring him with and spend some valuable time before his departure.

He was the right choice. Upon entering the fair and joining the teeming masses of pedestrians and hov-a-rounds, we slowly entered our way to the Grandstand. The outdoor venue was perfect temperature wise, as I was in jeans and my KISS shirt. You might see me walking around campus with my shirt; I think I'm the only one with such a garment.

After waiting in the mob of consumers and countless butt grazes, my brother and I finally got our new KISS shirts. Unfortunately we missed The Envy (opening band) but made it back to our seats for the main show. The pair of seats were only $120 and were well justified after the show was over.

The curtain dropped and the stage was filled with sparks, fog machines and lasers while Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Tommy Thayer were hoisted over drummer Eric Singer making a stupendous entrance and breaking right into their single "Modern Day Delilah" off their new album Sonic Boom. As the music progressed, they played old songs that seemed new once again like "Cold Gin, 100,000 Years, Firehouse and Deuce." KISS played for about two hours until their show apparently ended. During that time, I was dumbfounded by Thayer's guitar shooting rockets, Singer shooting a bazooka at the crowd and, my favorite, Gene Simmons' solo and blood curdling act. If you've never seen it before, go to YouTube, type in KISS MN state fair and click on the Gene Simmons solo. Oh yeah, crank the volume as loud as you can. This won't even come close to the raw power that was coursing through my body that night.

The act of Gene Simmons spitting blood and flying while destroying his solo made me realize that this band plays for the fans enjoyment rather than money. If they only played for money, than they would have stopped in the late 70's. I was humbled that they didn't use back up dancers, or any unnecessary props (yes the explosions were necessary) that didn't fit into their style of music. I realized this isn't my first show, but it was much more apparent that KISS isn't just a band; it's a global phenomenon that might stop only to the level of deity. However, I think Eric Singer achieved this status by stealing the show with his rendition of "Beth." I still find Peter Criss' version more appealing, but I was happy they went after it. That was the first time, other than movies, where I've seen the stadium filled with real lighters and arms around each other singing in unison.

Be it the raspy, rugged raw vocals of Paul Stanley, or Tommy Thayer shredding his guitar behind his head, the in-your-face hard rock music still finds a way into the hearts of generations of young and old. I was surprised but not shocked to see toddlers with earplugs screaming for more explosions and carnage caused by the band and the elderly grasping for the oxygen tanks as the stage burst into flames.

At first the band left the stage claiming that the show was over. This act revealed the KISS virgins as they all made for the door without realizing what was about to happen. The band didn't even play their best songs yet until the encore. My brother and I took a trip to "Detroit Rock City," made a visit to 'Dr. Love" and shot a "Love Gun" before the encore was completed. Unfortunately for my brother, I, and the other thousands of fans, the show was came to end once the band played "Rock And Roll All Nite." This was the greatest bit of eye candy the entire night. As Simmons and Thayer and Eric Singer with his Drums were hoisted up two stories on hydraulic jacks, a shower of sparks graced the band like metal being grinded for the entire song. Strobe lights flickered as I was having a seizure over the pandemonium and intensity caused by the song and confetti that resembled snow was pushed through industrial blowers. The final note triggered a 10 minute firework display that destroyed any Fourth of July show. I'm sure the MSP airport had to divert airplane traffic in order to allow the light show.

I'm absolutely sure I forgot aspects of this concert, but hey, you should have been there. I enjoyed the band and not back up dancers or taped recordings played by artists during live shows nowadays. I think KISS is solely meant for the music, and their message is simple. As an audience, we don't have to accept crap and we don't have to accept less. I wish some people would realize that.

Live Review: KISS in Toronto

And with scads of fireballs, explosions, lights and eye candy, the New York City foursome plied much the same showmanship they did in their early heydays on Friday night at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre – 35 years to the day after releasing their first live album Alive.

Led by original members Gene Simmons – whose kabuki-inspired makeup looks like it too had a facelift – and Paul Stanley, KISS indeed rocked and rolled all night, playing over the standard 11 p.m. venue curfew to fit in their encore of warhorses including the tender Beth, Lick It Up and I Was Made For Lovin’ You. The latter even featured Stanley flying overhead to a stage in the crowd before heading back to close.

For most of the two-hours and change, KISS delivered the goods to a receptive near-capacity throng of generation-spanning fanatics, a few with their faces painted but all on their feet from the opener Modern Day Delilah on. With drummer Eric Singer on a riser, Simmons, Stanley and guitarist Tommy Thayer stood high above the crowd on a platform which descended to the front.

“How you doing Toronto?” the talkative Stanley asked, later pointing out there were just four guys creating the music onstage with no lip-syncing or vocal gimmicks involved. But while there were no gimmicks in terms of audio, visually they had no limits. Whether it was Simmons’ fake blood running down his chin and neck before flying to the rafters for I Love It Loud or Thayer’s guitar shooting off pyrotechnics, KISS embraces spectacle.

Spectacle does not equal spectacular though, with Stanley’s pipes at times a bit rough around the edges. As well, the new songs from last year’s Sonic Boom album – I’m An Animal and Say Yeah, seemed to be cues for nature calls or beer purchasing. Fortunately the band still thrives off material Stanley dubbed the “Old Testament of KISS” and this night was no different. Detroit Rock City, Cold Gin and especially the foot-stomping Deuce with Simmons on lead vocal had the desired effect.

Using much the same set and props as they did when they launched their tour last year at Casino Rama north of Toronto, KISS seemed to get tighter the longer the show went. Following a rather sludge-y rendition of Crazy Crazy Nights, Thayer weaved his way through Shock Me, singing lead before going off on a lengthy guitar solo as Stanley and Simmons left the stage.

From that moment on KISS seemed no worse for wear despite Simmons now being 61 years young and Stanley 58. On 100,000 Years Simmons set the tone with his bass line while Stanley managed to not embarrass himself by briefly covering Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love prior to Black Diamond.

Perhaps the oddest part of the evening was the choice of openers given KISS and its ‘70s rock niche. Toronto band The Envy – signed to Simmons’ own record label – fared quite well with a tight dance-rock feel while Chicago group The Academy Is… managed to hold their own and closed with a cover of Sweet’s Fox On The Run.

Sun rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

KISS ARMY INVADES TORONTO

Supporting their latest album of 2009 Sonic Boom, that "can only be purchased at Walmart" as Paul Stanley cheekily incited the crowd to repeat, Kiss with original founders Stanley and Gene Simmons accompanied by Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer delivered nothing less than what the loyal Kiss Army expected. With a catalogue spanning close to 4 decades, there was no shortage of material for the 2+ hour set.

"This is real Rock n Roll, there's no musicians below, no hidden microphones, no lip-synching" proclaimed the Star Child Stanley, who at 58 years young, was in top form. Serving as ring master to the circus, he engaged the crowd throughout the night and fans licked it all up singing along to classics including Deuce, Calling Doctor Love and Love Gun.

Gene Simmons, portraying The Demon, was as always, a commanding presence. During his much anticipated axe bass solo - complete with blood spitting, he took flight, ascending to the top of stage. With the crowd at his feet he began the chant for the intro to I Love It Loud and yes, it was. Regardless of Gene's multitude of other ventures, it was clear that his commitment to Kiss and his persona on stage is where his true love lies.

Tommy Thayer, The Spaceman - former persona of Ace Frehley, has been with Kiss since 2002. Well seasoned into his character, Tommy sang Shock me and performed an explosive solo that included the spaceman's trademarks of launching flares and sending his guitar into the air. If anyone could ever fill Ace's shoes, Tommy proved to be the right choice and filled them well.

Eric Singer, The Cat, who originally debuted as drummer on the Revenge album in 1991, played with Kiss for 5 years until the reunion tour of 1996 and returned in full make up after Peter Criss's departure from the farewell tour of 2001. Eric's solid timing was highlighted from the rising drum set and his performance of Beth during the encore set was well received.

With the explosive pyrotechnics, rising stage platforms and a zip line to carry Paul Stanley over the crowd - Kiss was better than ever, playing harder and tighter than the Kiss of the 80's. The anthem and life motto Rock and Roll all Night, along with blasting confetti cannons provided a stunning conclusion to what can only be described as one of those Crazy, Crazy Nights.

Young or old, KISS is ready for DTE crowd

"It's pretty much become an all-ages show," said Singer, via telephone from an Atlanta hotel. 'There are so many younger kids and teenagers who come to the shows more and more. You really see a difference. We saw it starting in '08 but really started to notice a big difference over the last year or so."

Singer is unsure about the reasons behind the change. Even KISS' manager, "Doc" McGhee, has investigated the matter by walking around shows and asking people what they like about the act, which also includes guitarist Tommy Thayer, lead vocalist/bassist Gene Simmons and lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley.

"Our manager, Doc McGhee, walks around and talks to people before the show just to get a feel for what people think and what they like," said Singer, who's been in KISS from 1991 to 1996, 2001 to 2002 and 2004 to present. "He'll ask them, 'What can we do to improve the show? What do you like about the show? What don't you like about the show?' He asks those questions.

"A lot of kids say they discovered the band through YouTube, Rock Band, Guitar Hero, that stuff. ... They?ve also heard about it through an aunt or uncle, or their parents. They used to see their parents old records laying around. They investigate, put them on and listen."

KISS is encouraging families to see its pyro-heavy show by offering free tickets for children ages 14 and younger with the purchase of an adult (21 and older) lawn ticket. Tickets must be purchased day of show.

"On outdoor shows (like DTE Energy Music Theatre), whenever it's a Live Nation show with lawn seating, if somebody buys a lawn ticket, if you have a kid that's 14 or younger, you can get four kids 14 and younger for free on one ticket," Singer said. "It's very good. It's to sit on the lawn but at least you can get in the venue. We did that as a way to try to help people who are financially more strapped or want to be able to bring a family and it's just too expensive to go to a show. But a family that has three or four kids and they want to go to a show, they go, 'Hey, we'd like to take our kids but we can't afford to buy six tickets.' They can buy a couple lawn tickets and they can take their kids for nothing as long as they're 14 and younger. We're just trying to find different ways to do the right thing, if you will."

"Doing the right thing" also applies to supporting the military. KISS, who released its latest album "Sonic Boom" in 2009, is giving $1 per ticket to the Wounded Warrior Project, whose mission is to honor and empower injured troops.

"That's something that's important to us," Singer said. "We don't go out of our way to get caught up with standing on a soapbox and looking for accolades. It's just something we do because it's important to us.

"It's not a political thing for us. The bottom line is we have a volunteer army. Most of them are 18-, 19-, 20-year-old young people - practically kids. They go over there voluntarily. A lot of times they come back and they just need to get their life back. That Wounded Warriors Project helps them with physical or mental therapy. I think it's important to know that these people have sacrificed voluntarily for you and I to have an opinion one way or another on anything we want."

This KISS tour, dubbed "The Hottest Show on Earth Tour," wraps up in early October, after which the band is going to take a break. Singer said he's sure another album will be in KISS' future. In the meantime, KISS is thrilled about returning to Detroit, which is located in an area of the country where the band goes over well.

"The Midwest - or if you want to call it the Heartland - has always been great in general for rock 'n' roll," Singer said. "I grew up in Cleveland. I know what it's like. Detroit and Cleveland are very similar. They're literally just around the bend from each other on the lake. They're so close in proximity. Everyone I've met from Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, those parts of the country, they have a certain kind of work ethic and a certain appreciation for music and rock 'n' roll.

"Growing up, I remember it being such a music town. That whole region is always into music and really supportive of bands. It's in the water or in the blood. There's just something about it. Detroit's always had a special place for KISS. Besides the first album, all three of 'KISS Alive' albums were recorded in a combination of three cities - Detroit, Cleveland and Indianapolis. There's something about that connection."

KISS AT BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER SUNDAY

Having spent the last quarter of a century rocking and rolling all night and partying every day, Cleveland native and veteran rock drummer Eric Singer (born Eric Mensinger) can't wait to get back home when Kiss plays Sunday at Blossom Music Center.

"That's where I have a lot of roots and that's where all of my dreams started, playing drums, jamming with friends and playing in local bands," said Singer, calling from Raleigh, N.C. "It all started there, and for me it will always have a special place. I started going to concerts in 1974, and the first time I saw Kiss they opened up for the New York Dolls at the Allen Theatre. And then I saw them at the Akron Civic Theater when Rush opened for them. That was on the ?Dressed to Kill Tour,' later in 1974 or early '75. And then they came to the Allen Theatre again in '75. I still have the poster that I got from Record Revolution. I have it framed at home and it says, "Kiss, with special guest Journey."

Singer has been on quite a journey himself since he left Northeast Ohio in the '80s and started touring as Lita Ford's drummer. Soon thereafter, he found himself in Black Sabbath ? a band he remembers seeing in concert exactly a decade before at the old Richfield Coliseum ? and working with artists such as Olivia Newton John and a solo Paul Stanley from Kiss. Naturally, it was the latter connection that led to him joining the band from 1991 to 1996, 2001 to 2002 and then 2003 to present.

Even though Singer has been in and out of the band for a decade, the 52-year-old remembers when it first hit him he was a part of the legendary group he saw way back at the Allen Theatre.

"The first time I ever wore makeup in 2001, when I first came back to the band, and (guitarist) Ace Frehley was still in the group at the time," Singer said. "We were in Japan, and I remember playing drums, looking down at them and having this really weird, surreal feeling and thinking, ?Wow, this is a trip. I'm playing drums in Kiss.' And I really feel like I had this out-of-body experience. That's something I'll never forget. The bottom line is at the end of the day I'm still a fan."

As far as the reason why he's lasted so long as the Kiss drummer, who on stage wears the Cat Face makeup made popular by original member Peter Criss, Singer points to his Midwestern work ethic, which involves being prepared, being professional and being on time. Furthermore, the drummer said that his hard-working mind-set fits perfectly into how Kiss founders Stanley and Gene Simmons view the band as a business enterprise. And business is currently good with Kiss touring in support 2009 album "Sonic Boom."

Then there's the band's latest outing, billed as "The Hottest Show on Earth Tour." Singer said it's the group's biggest to date. Sure, such a declaration seems cliche - every band claims to be on its biggest tour, blah, blah, blah) - but the percussionist backs up his claim with the fact that Kiss is employing the same pyrotechnic expert Motley Crue used last summer. While the Crue boasted 189 effects in its show, Kiss is employing a whopping 484 effects. That's a lot of boom.

"Nobody has a show like we do," Singer said. "I'm up there breathing that (expletive) and getting blown up every night. It's unbelievable. It's like an assault on your eyes and ears. It's a great show. I guarantee you'll walk away with a smile on your face. I always say Kiss is like one of those things that everybody needs to see in their life. Everybody should see the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls or the Universal Studios Tour. And to me everybody should see Kiss at least once. The show is about celebrating life, celebrating a good time and getting people's minds off the negativity and things that maybe aren't going so well in their personal life. It's a bit of escapism, if you will."

Details

What: The Hottest Show on Earth Tour" featuring Kiss with The Academy Is? and The Envy.

When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday.

Where: Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls.

Tickets: $26.50 to $131 at Ticketmaster outlets.

Info: 216-241-5555

PRE-SHOW Q&A: KISS

I think you joined the band in 1991. What was it like when you initially came on board?

When I first started, it was a different time. They weren't wearing make-up. The circumstances were awkward. Eric Carr had cancer. Originally my relationship with the band started because I played in Paul [Stanley's] solo band in 1989. I joined the band under a strenuous situation. Playing in place of someone who had passed away was difficult. And getting an opportunity to do something better at someone's expense was very awkward.

But things eventually solidified.

This line-up has been the same for six and a half years now. They did the reunion tour and that was a great success. Some of the same issues that reared their head originally came into play again after that. Fast forward to 2010 and if it weren't for the original band, I wouldn't be talking to you. They created what Kiss is and kept it moving forward in this modern era. We have to be on the same page and in the same car driving down the same highway. Chemistry has to be important both on stage and off the stage. We have mutual respect for each other. We understand what we're here to do and how it works. There's an old saying. It's called the music business. And it's a business. People hate hearing it. This tour has been great. It's a really successful summer. There are great things tied into the tour. We're supporting the Wounded Warrior Project [to help out injured servicemen].

Gene Simmons is one of the funniest guys I've ever interviewed. Talk about what it's like working with him.

Well, I call him Uncle Gene. To me, he really is like a crazy uncle. I like Gene a lot. I honestly think he is great. I know him as a co-worker but also as a friend. He's a really nice guy. He has a strong work ethic. He has his way of doing things. If you want to work with him, you have to know he's driving. I understand how he likes to do things. I know deep down he's a good guy. I've seen him do some random acts of kindness. He loves attention and he's the first one who will try to get your attention. Gene loves Kiss but when it comes to the personal things, Gene doesn't look for attention or for anyone to pat him on the back. Deep down he's a big marshmallow.

I think it's great that kids under 14 get in for free on the lawn with a paid adult admission. Talk about your efforts to introduce Kiss to a new generation.

The audience ironically is growing younger for Kiss. Letting the kids in is about accommodating families so they can get in. We're seeing this in Europe where there was no 14 and under deal. The kids have been getting younger and younger. It's Guitar Hero and Rock Band and YouTube and visibility on the Internet. They see us and tell their parents they like us and want to see us. Their parents are like, "That's Kiss. They've been around since I was a kid."

Do you think the band will ever get inducted into the Rock Hall?

I don't give any thought to it. I'm from Cleveland. I'm really glad that the Hall of Fame got built in Cleveland. The phrase got coined there. Having these museums is a cool thing. I have a problem with one thing. Who decides who gets in. Some group of people decide. Why not let people vote, just like you do for the NBA All-stars. You should let the fans decide who gets in. I'm a fan of Madonna. But in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? She's not rock 'n' roll. She's an entertainer and pop artist. It should be just rock 'n' roll. It's wrong to ignore bands like Deep Purple, Kiss, and Alice Cooper. You can't deny their influence.

A LONG-LASTING KISS

But even he sounds humbled when he considers what the band that coined the term "Detroit Rock City" has accomplished. That includes more than 100 million records sold worldwide, its theatrically over-the-top concerts, a line of 3,000 officially licensed souvenir products or one of the largest and most dedicated fan clubs in the world, the KISS Army, since the 1974 release of its debut album.

"It's been a hoot," Simmons, 61, born Chiam Witz in Israel and moved to the United States when he was 8 years old, said with uncharacteristic understatement. "To imagine that 36 years after the first tour that we would still be here having the time of our lives and continue on and become even bigger ... it's not something we take lightly."

KISS is also something he and his bandmates - co-founder Paul Stanley, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer - want to see continue.

In a novel move for its amphitheater dates, the costumed quartet is giving free lawn tickets to up to four children with each paying adult. "It's time to give back," Simmons explained. KISS - which is also donating $1 per ticket to the Wounded Warrior foundation - hopes to show youth "that there's another world out there besides 'Hannah Montana' and the Jonas Brothers. It's important for them to see how the big boys do it.

"There's no tapes. There's no background singers backstage. There's no click tracks. It's important for the kids to see that whatever you see on stage is real. We want to spread this. I'm insulted by any act that goes up there with dancers and tapes. It's insulting, and ... these (kids) should know that it's insulting."

KISS hopes to snare the youth of the nation even more in the near future via an animated program that's being produced in partnership with E1 Entertainment and will feature the four KISS members as characters. Simmons said he hopes to have the program on air "in the next six months."

KISS is giving a new show this year after spending last year focused on its breakthrough "Alive!" album, which was recorded at Detroit's Cobo Arena and turns 35 this year. The repertoire includes three songs from last year's "Sonic Boom" album - "Modern Day Delilah," "Say Yeah" and "Animal" - as well as the seldom-performed "Crazy Nights."

And Singer, for the first time, will perform the Top 10 ballad "Beth," which was originally sung by founding KISS drummer Peter Criss.

"It's acoustic - there will be no tapes, just two acoustic guitars and bass and that's it," said Simmons, adding that KISS had previously kept the song out of the shows "out of deference to Peter," who has left the band three times, most recently in 2004. "We still have a tug of the heart ... Peter and Ace (Frehley, KISS' original guitarist) are beloved."

Simmons said KISS is anxious to work on a follow-up to "Sonic Boom," which was the group's first new studio album in 11 years, but he won't guess when that will be. "I think we'll do another one, but we need time," Simmons explained, noting the group's heavy touring schedule as well as his continuing "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" reality series on A&E and Stanley's burgeoning art career.

The next KISS project will likely be a fourth version of the popular "KISSology" DVD series, which Simmons said is coming "soon" and will feature "some new stuff but some stuff nobody's ever seen before, going all the way back to 1973." Also on the KISS docket is a third commercial for Dr. Pepper.

KISS and The Academy Is... and Envy perform at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11, at the DTE Energy Music Theatre, Sashabaw Road east of Interstate 75, Independence Township. Tickets are $78 and $48 pavilion, $28 lawn. Up to four children younger than 14 receive a free lawn ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket. Call (248) 377-0100 .

GREAT FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM MINNESOTA

Gene Simmons Named Keynote Speaker of "American Music Conference"

Music fans have always been insatiable for their favorite acts, but their strengthening digital preferences across a slew of new platforms and devices are making it a challenge for the music industry to connect with fans. The “American Music Conference” will feature an agenda designed to improve business today and prepare it to be successful for the future.

Planned sessions will cover the state of the music label, which digital platforms are best for marketing and selling music to fans, and how to best align with brands for sponsorship opportunities, among other hot topics.

Simmons co-founded KISS 36 years ago, and he has since seen KISS become the juggernaut of the licensing/merchandising world, including clothing line, record label and comic book series. A self-described rock god, media mogul and multi-hyphenate, Simmons can now be seen starring in the long-running A&E reality series GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS.

“The music industry is now constantly brainstorming new strategies to stay on top and even ahead of their fans’ demands,” said Variety president Neil Stiles. “Variety and dick clark productions’ American Music Conference is designed to offer the tools that will help to keep this business on the cutting edge. We are also honored to open up the day with a keynote conversation with Gene Simmons.”

Orly Adelson, president of dcp, stated, “We are excited to launch the AMC with Variety and are proud to feature the supremely talented Gene Simmons at this inaugural event.”

Years In Makeup

Paul Stanley is an old-fashioned guy when it comes to recording.

Sure, people associate Kiss with over-the-top spectacle. In fact, the guitarist and co-frontman boasts that the band's current outing is "the most technologically advanced show" Kiss has ever taken on the road. But when it came to handling producer duties for Kiss' new release, Sonic Boom, Stanley was nothing short of autocratic.

"Democracy is overrated in the studio," the 58-year-old New York City native says. The 11 new songs, he adds, were recorded on analog tape with all of the band members in the same room looking at one another.

"All the great music that I loved when I was younger was not made under a microscope or on a computer," Stanley says. "Whether it was all the great Motown stuff, James Brown, Led Zeppelin or the Beatles - the list goes on and on - that music was made from passion. And that's what I wanted to make sure we captured. That's really what the band's about."

Kiss will mix new songs such as "Modern Day Delilah" with old nuggets like "Deuce" when the quartet plays Blossom Music Center Sept. 12. Stanley says he has many great memories of Cleveland, from picking up FM powerhouse WMMS on his father's car radio to bedding down at Swingos, Euclid Avenue's legendary bastion of rock 'n' roll excess, before it became a plebeian Comfort Inn.

"That was a great place," he says with genuine affection before insisting his stories about the hotel are too X-rated to print. When pressed, he quips, "More cities need places like Swingos, where women who appreciate rock 'n' roll can congregate ? and there's an elevator not too far away."

Of course, any talk of Kiss and Cleveland eventually leads to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which has overlooked Kiss save for the band's first-time inclusion on last year's slate of nominees. In the past, Stanley has referred to the institution as "a sham" mainly because industry people instead of fans decide which acts are honored. He bristles at the mere mention of donating personal items to the museum.

"Why would I donate something to someplace that charges money for you to see [it] and doesn't give me any?" he asks sarcastically. However, he would graciously accept an invitation to the induction ceremonies if and when Kiss is voted into the Rock Hall.

"The fans have given me an incredible life, and with the best of intentions, I try to do what makes them happy," Stanley says. "So if they would like for the band that they championed to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, then I'm all for it."

TICKETMASTER COMMEMORATIVE TICKETS

You "Rocked and Rolled All Nite," with KISS, now rock a one-of-a-kind concert souvenir! Introducing the limited edition KISS Souvenir Ticket--a glossy, full-color, holographic souvenir available only to KISS concert-goers like you. Each souvenir ticket is just $12 (plus a small processing fee) and displays your actual seat location -- making every souvenir unique.

It's the perfect show-off piece for the ultimate KISS fan. But hurry -- if you wait too long you'll kiss this amazing offer goodbye. Order your one-of-a-kind souvenir tickets by Monday, September 13th with the following instructions:

HOW TO ORDER

Email Ticketmaster with:

Your Kiss event order number.

The number of souvenir tickets you'd like. Must be equal to or less than the number of concert tickets you bought.*

The last four digits of the credit card used to purchase the original tickets. This is for security purposes.*

A $2.50 processing fee applies to each order. Allow 4 - 6 weeks for delivery.

*The original credit card charged for the original concert tickets will be used for souvenir ticket purchases.

*Getting souvenir tickets for only some of your concert tickets? Souvenir tickets can be made only for consecutive seat numbers, beginning with the lowest. For example, if you purchased 4 concert tickets with seats numbered 1 - 4 and only buy 3 souvenir tickets, the seat numbers printed on your souvenir tickets will be 1 - 3. You will not be able to get 2 - 4 or any other combination other than 1 - 3.

Only those who've purchased KISS concert tickets are eligible to purchase souvenir tickets and are limited to one souvenir ticket per concert ticket purchased.

KISS AT THE STATE FAIR GRANDSTAND

But a part of being a KISS fan is understanding them as the artists they really are. As the band pummels through each big hit after another, one holds out hope that the band may throw in a surprise. There are a handful of us that want to hear some long lost gem of sorts; something from the disco era, like "Shandi," or an excerpt from the band's 1981 concept record, Music from the Elder, or anything else from the non-makeup era besides "Crazy Crazy Nights" for that matter. But that would be like going to the biggest McDonald's in the world and only ordering pickles. Truthfully, KISS are no slouches at rock 'n' roll, but spontaneity, even if it's choreographed, should be a part of that equation and it was hard to find on the Grandstand Stage Saturday night.

That's not to say there wasn't an effort to branch out from their formulas. The samples of KISS's latest record "Sonic Boom" were a nice addition, starting the show off with "Modern Day Delilah" and mixing their latest anthems, "Say Yeah" and "I'm An Animal," into their standard set. Allowing room for guitarist Tommy Thayer to show off his guitar tectonics in a solo and a nice duet of sorts with drummer Eric Singer was a nice touch. Classics like "Black Diamond," "Shock Me," and particularly "100,000 Years," with the traditional break down and call and response sing along with Paul Stanley, made the two-hour concert as great as anyone could really expect.

It's not like these guys are just going through the motions though, with so much going on onstage it's understandable why the band would play things so close to their sequined vests each night. Aside from all the established KISS stage gags -- fire-breathing, blood drooling, Paul swinging across the crowd and guitar solos -- there was some real sentiment. In fact even the most anti-war attendee has to applaud the band for putting their money where their tonges are as they took a moment to give thanks and acknowledge American troops by presenting a check to some uniformed soldiers on stage as part of their ongoing involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project they have been supporting since their American tour began. Though a bit strange at a KISS concert, the crowd seemed to happily recite along with Paul Stanley and the band the "Pledge of Allegiance" right before the band ripped into "Lick It Up."

All in all the Minnesota State Fair and KISS have happily found one another. KISS has created a world that we are just living in, and they had the most insane ride you could get at the fairgrounds Saturday night. People from all over rejoiced in what these guys have been bringing us for nearly four decades, and there was a real spirit of release and escape, not to mention absolute inebriation, on the Labor Day weekend night. For those that just wanted to rock 'n' roll all right, they weren't disappointed from beginning to end.

"BETH" AT THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR

CREW'S EYE VIEW: MODERN DAY DELILAH

ACE FREHLEY To Appear At SPOOKY EMPIRE'S ULTIMATE HORROR WEEKEND

Spooky Empire's Ultimate Horror Weekend is sure to be filled with some of the most well-known names in horror, as well as some amazing horror writers and artists! There will be unique seminars, live music throughout the weekend, some of the best tattoo artists in the world, independent filmmakers and their films, one of the largest dealer rooms packed with merchandise from movies, TV and music, special FX artists, costume contest, hearse and creepy car show, spooktacular stunt show, celebrity charity poker tournament, pool parties, classic movies, and many other surprises to be announced.

For more information, visit www.spookyempire.com.

KISS: VIDEO CLIPS FROM CHICAGO SHOW

Rockers KISS still giving it all

Singer-rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley certainly seems to think so.

"For all the talk about bands doing horrific business, we're doing terrific business," says Stanley, 58, down the line from Raleigh, N.C., recently, leading up to the band's only Canadian summer date on Sept. 10 in Toronto.

"We had 14,000-15,000 people last night, and the night before pretty much the same. I think the only thing that's changed is that people don't want to pay a lot of money. You know if you pay for a Rolls Royce and you get a Chevy, then you kind of feel cheated. So if you're paying to see something, you damn well better see something.

"I have nothing against a guy who sits on a stool with an acoustic guitar, but to pay the same amount for that as you pay for a spectacle is insanity. When you come to a KISS concert, you know where you're money just went 'cause it's blinding you, deafening you and pummeling you."

When it comes to spectacle, few acts can measure up to the face-painting, costume and platforms-wearing KISS, who have been major road warriors of late. They staged their Alive/35 tour last year which morphed into their Sonic Boom tour (named for their 2009 studio album), which is being called The Hottest Show on Earth tour in 2010.

Still, Stanley said the platform boots, combined with the physical nature of the KISS show, have definitely taken their toll over the last three and a half decades with him undergoing two hip replacement surgeries.

"It wasn't the platforms, it was years of doing a lot of roundhouse kicks, and basically you just wear out your hip, ultimately you wind up with bone on bone so I continued for years and finally it just reached a point where it needed to be replaced -- but I'm basically good for another 50,000 miles," he joked.

This current leg of the summer tour has also been taxing.

"We played last night in close to 100 per cent humidity," said Stanley. "It's kind of like trying to run a marathon under water. It's taxing; it's not for the weak-hearted."

Speaking of which, Stanley missed his first show in the history of KISS in July 2007 when he was hospitalized with tachycardia, or rapid heartbeat, something he said he's been dealing with since childhood.

"It has nothing to do with not being healthy. It's this odd condition that will never kill you, but yet your heartbeat while your sitting can go from 70 or 80 beats a minute to 200 from one beat to the next and stay there. Finally, they thread a catheter up into your heart to find what's going wrong and they just zap it, they burn it, and the next day you're back in the gym. I had it done. Look, I'm the bionic man. They've gotten me up from a 103 temperature to do a show. The show must go on."

Once The Hottest Show on Earth Tour wraps up in September, Stanley expects the band to hit the studio in February of next year to make a new studio album and he doesn't expect the compilation DVD, Kissology 4, to see the light of day until 2011 despite rumours of a fall release.

"It's really still in the planning stages," he said. "We have so much incredible footage, and we're just trying to make the most cohesive package."

Band liked 'Idol' experience

Paul Stanley of KISS says the band enjoyed themselves when they appeared on American Idol in 2009 performing with that year's runner-up Adam Lambert.

"When we were asked to be on the show, our ground rules were 'We do our whole show as we want to or we don't do anything,' and they gave us carte blanche and we blew the place up so it was great," he said.

But Alice Cooper recently said he didn't think reality shows like American Idol gave rockers enough of a platform and now Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler is rumoured to be one of the new judges.

Ultimately, Stanley, who was never approached to be a new judge ("They probably couldn't afford me!" he joked), thinks changes are a good thing for the new season.

"I think the show could use a bit of an overhaul so I'm curious, now that (producer) Nigel (Lythgoe) is back. I'll be really curious to see where the show goes 'cause I think it was time to breathe some new life into it just overall," he said. "And I think he was the first person to say that. So it should be great."

KISS: LIVE CLIPS FROM MILWAUKEE SHOW

Gems from Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons is enamored with numbers. The mouthpiece of Kiss will tell you that his band has sold more than 100 million albums and earned 24 gold records and that his reality TV series, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," has had 107 episodes and his co-star son, Nick, is 6 foot 7.

Simmons will tell you that his middle name is "Arrogance." And he's proud of that. Here's what the boastful, big-tongued bassist/singer/blood drooler, who turned 61 last week, had to say in a post-soundcheck phone call from Uncasville, Conn. He talked about heading to the Minnesota State Fair on Saturday.

Q You're playing outdoors for the first time in the Twin Cities. What's the difference between outdoors and indoors for Kiss?

A Less limitations, of course. First thing we do is make sure no local airports are nearby. If there are, we warn all low-flying aircraft not to fly overhead because our fireworks are pretty high -- anywhere from 100- to 300-feet high. It's like we're Transformers. Our stage show is so big, but it's also so flexible that we can add on pieces and just get as big as any outdoor stadium. For the last two years, we've been playing mostly stadiums, racing parks, corn fields, all kinds of stuff.

Q How hot is it in your costume when you play outdoors?

A Very hot. In Indianapolis, it was 107 when we hit the stage. Now get into a sun tanning bed. Now wear armor studs, a leather codpiece, put on 35 to 40 pounds of extra weight when you get up onstage. And, oh yes, I forgot to mention walk around onstage and try to be a little energetic if you can on 8-inch plaform heels for 2 1/2 hours.

Q How much more weight do you lose outdoors vs. indoors?

A That's a good question. I don't know. We do have massive industrial air [blowers] -- imagine a vacuum cleaner but it's backwards where it pushes a lot of air toward you. You must get air into your lungs. Between the fireballs and stage lights and everything that goes up onstage, it's easily over 100 [degrees] onstage.

Q This summer, Kiss is playing at several state fairs. Whatt appeals to you about the fairs?

A The idea is to take what we do to the people instead of assuming the people are going to come to us. There's always a new audience out there, and there isn't any group of people that we shouldn't play to. Because Kiss is all things for all people -- whether you are 3 or 300. You see everybody at the shows -- kids, their parents, strippers, lawyers -- sometimes together, sometimes not.

Q Kiss played in the Twin Cities in November. How will this show be different?

A A completely different show. Literally. You'll see different effects, different songs. We're starting off with "Modern Day Delilah." We put "Say Yeah" from "Sonic Boom" into the set. "I'm an Animal." We added "God Gave Rock 'n' Roll To You." We're also doing "Crazy Nights." Things we haven't done before.

Q Why did you finally decide this summer to have drummer Eric Singer sing "Beth," which was made famous by Peter Criss?

A We did this, not because we had to, but out of deference to Peter Criss, who was an integral part of the original band. So enough years have gone by. [Criss left in 2004.] This is a courtesy, more than anything else. There are guys who are anywhere from 3 to 30 years old who have no idea who previous members were and who don't care. They come out in the tens of thousands and they want to see the Kiss of today, with Eric and Tommy [Thayer].

Q This week, the Twin Cities had Lady Gaga on Monday and Tuesday and then we'll have Kiss on Saturday.

A She's terrific. I've only seen bits and pieces of her act [on video]. But Gaga and I have spoken on the phone. She told me she has Kiss dress-up parties where they put on the paint and have a good old time. Look, you have to tip your hat to anyone who goes the extra distance for the fans. That's what it's all about. People are spending a lot of money to go to a show and give them a show, for God's sake. Cut it out with the acoustic guitar and charging full price. Have a light show or something. Give people something for their eyes as well as their ears.

Q How much time do you spend working on "Gene Simmons Family Jewels"?

A Whenever I've got a moment to spare. We're nearing the end of Season 5. They follow me around. You know that song? "Wherever I go/Whatever I do..." That's what the show is about.

Q What did you learn from Donald Trump when you were on "Celebrity Apprentice"?

A Donald learned a few things from me, if you don't mind me saying so. How's that for arrogance? That's my middle name, by the way. [He learned] How to have a better hair style. [Simmons laughs.] If you can't have fun doing this, it's not worth it. We've known each other a long time. He's a solid guy.

Q I voted for Kiss No.1 on my Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ballot last fall. How did it feel to finally get nominated, after so many years of eligibility -- and then not get inducted?

A It's backroom politics. Honestly, we don't loose sleep over this. It's not the most important thing in our lives. It used to mean something. I don't think it means anything near that much. Once you put Madonna and rap stars in it, it ain't rock 'n' roll. It does a disservice to rap and to disco and other forms of music that have very little to do with guitars and drums.

Q Once you and Paul Stanley decide to retire many years down the road, do you envision Kiss continuing with other performers wearing your outfits and makeup?

A Why not? Of course. Anything's possible. No rules. It's supposed to be rock 'n' roll, after all.

Original KISS Drummer PETER CRISS To Appear At CHILLER THEATRE Expo

The three-day event will take place October 29-31 at Hilton Parsippany.

Signing hours are as follows:

Friday: 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more information about the convention, click here.

KISS STILL ROCKING ALL NIGHT!

In the words of lead singer Paul Stanley, a Kiss concert is part church and part circus. The big top was up and the pews were full Tuesday night at Aaron's Amphitheater.

On at least their fourth tour since the "Farewell" tour a decade ago, the band still packs 'em in and still packs a punch. The set list is their longest ever, with 21 songs spanning a nearly four-decade career, including three from 2009's "Sonic Boom," Kiss' first studio album in 11 years.

The show is part tribute to the past, part vision of the future, with ticket specials and an opening band - The Academy Is... - aimed at bringing in fans from younger generations.

Diehards have nothing to fear though - the stalwarts of a Kiss stage show are all there, from Gene Simmons breathing fire to Stanley's smashing of his guitar. And though purists may complain that the band is minus half its original line-up, it can be argued that, other than the nostalgia, nothing is missing from this one.

Drummer Eric Singer boasts both chops and a voice equal to or better than Peter Criss, and lead guitarist Tommy Thayer, nearly a decade in to his replacement of Ace Frehley, has come into his own as a cornerstone of the show. The duo?s dueling solos at the end of '70s classic "Shock Me," complete with a rocket-launching guitar and a smoking drum kit, are arguably the highlights of the show.

Stanley's voice seemed a bit strained at times, but the set is heavy on Simmons-sung songs, and Stanley is a master at inspiring audience participation, so the crowd was all too happy to share vocal duties.

Kiss is also doing its patriotic duty, donating $1 from each ticket sold to the Wounded Warrior Care Project, a fund to help war veterans with physical and psychiatric care. The band brought several vets to the stage Tuesday and led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance before revealing the tour tally of $282,000.

Kiss' Hottest Show on Earth tour continues through September.

KISS AT THE MINNESOTA FAIR

Gene Simmons is enamored of numbers. The mouthpiece of Kiss will tell you that his band has sold more than 100 million albums and earned 24 gold records and that his reality TV series, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," has had 107 episodes and his co-star son, Nick, is 6 feet 7.

Simmons will tell you that his middle name is "Arrogance." And he's proud of that. Here's what the boastful, big-tongued bassist/singer/blood drooler, who turned 61 last week, had to say in a post-sound-check phone call from Uncasville, Conn. He even talked about a rare "first" for Kiss, which comes to the Minnesota State Fair on Saturday.

Q: You're playing outdoors for the first time in the Twin Cities. What's the difference between outdoors and indoors for Kiss?

A: Less limitations, of course. First thing we do is make sure no local airports are nearby. If there are, we warn all low-flying aircraft not to fly overhead because our fireworks are pretty high -- anywhere from 100 to 300 feet high. It's like we're Transformers. Our stage show is so big, but it's also so flexible that we can add on pieces and just get as big as any outdoor stadium. For the last two years, we've been playing mostly stadiums, racing parks, cornfields, all kinds of stuff.

Q: How hot is it in your costume when you play outdoors?

A: Very hot. In Indianapolis, it was 107 when we hit the stage. Now get into a suntanning bed. Now wear armor studs, a leather codpiece, put on 35 to 40 pounds of extra weight when you get up onstage. And, oh, yes, I forgot to mention walk around onstage and try to be a little energetic if you can on 8-inch platform heels for 2 1/2 hours.

Q: How much more weight do you lose outdoors vs. indoors?

A: That's a good question. I don't know. We do have massive industrial air [blowers] -- imagine a vacuum cleaner but it's backwards where it pushes a lot of air toward you. You must get air into your lungs. Between the fireballs and stage lights and everything that goes up onstage, it's easily over 100 [degrees] onstage.

Q: This summer, Kiss is playing at several state fairs. What appeals to you about the fairs?

A: The idea is to take what we do to the people instead of assuming the people are going to come to us. There's always a new audience out there, and there isn't any group of people that we shouldn't play to. Because Kiss is all things for all people -- whether you are 3 or 300. You see everybody at the shows -- kids, their parents, strippers, lawyers -- sometimes together, sometimes not.

Q: The Minnesota State Fair has an exhibit of crop art where people craft artwork made of seeds from Minnesota crops.

A: That's great. Lots of children of the corn.

Q: We commissioned a crop art portrait of Gene Simmons for the cover of Vita.mn.,P>A: That's great. I've never had that done. I've been on the covers of lots of things but not made out of, say it again?

Q: Various seeds grown in Minnesota. It looks like your hair is wild rice.

A: Wow! I can't wait to see it.

Q: Kiss played in the Twin Cities in November. How will this show be different?

A: A completely different show. Literally. You'll see different effects, different songs. We're starting off with "Modern Day Delilah." We put "Say Yeah" from "Sonic Boom" into the set. "I'm an Animal." We added "God Gave Rock 'n' Roll to You." We're also doing "Crazy Nights." Things we haven't done before.

Q: Why did you finally decide this summer to have drummer Eric Singer sing "Beth," which was made famous by Peter Criss?

A: We [waited so long] not because we had to, but out of deference to Peter Criss, who was an integral part of the original band. So enough years have gone by. [Criss left in 2004.] This is a courtesy, more than anything else. There are guys who are anywhere from 3 to 30 years old who have no idea who previous members were and who don't care. They come out in the tens of thousands and they want to see the Kiss of today, with Eric and [guitarist] Tommy [Thayer].

Q: This week, the Twin Cities had Lady Gaga on Monday and Tuesday and then Kiss on Saturday.

A She's terrific. I've only seen bits and pieces of her act [on video]. But Gaga and I have spoken on the phone. She told me she has Kiss dress-up parties where they put on the paint and have a good old time. Look, you have to tip your hat to anyone who goes the extra distance for the fans. That's what it's all about. People are spending a lot of money to go to a show and give them a show, for God's sake. Cut it out with the acoustic guitar and charging full price. Have a light show or something. Give people something for their eyes as well as their ears.

Q: How much time do you spend working on "Gene Simmons Family Jewels"?

A: Whenever I've got a moment to spare. We're nearing the end of Season 5. They follow me around. You know that song? "Wherever I go/Whatever I do ... " That's what the show is about.

Q: I've heard people say that it seems more slick or staged or scripted than most reality shows. How do you respond to that?

A: They shouldn't watch it. Obviously, millions of people watch it.

Q: What did you learn from Donald Trump when you were on "Celebrity Apprentice"?

A: Donald learned a few things from me, if you don't mind me saying so. How's that for arrogance? That's my middle name, by the way. [Trump learned] how to have a better hairstyle. [Simmons laughs.] If you can't have fun doing this, it's not worth it. We've known each other a long time. He's a solid guy. People think he's supposed to be your friend, but it's actually called "business," not "friends."

Q: I voted for Kiss No. 1 on my Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ballot last fall. How did it feel to finally get nominated, after so many years of eligibility -- and then not get inducted?

A: It's backroom politics. Honestly, we don't lose sleep over this. It's not the most important thing in our lives. It used to mean something. I don't think it means anything near that much. Once you put Madonna and rap stars in it, it ain't rock 'n' roll. It does a disservice to rap and to disco and other forms of music that have very little to do with guitars and drums. I don't want to see dancers onstage, I don't want to hear tapes or click tracks. That's a different form of music. Where I come from, that's called karaoke.

Q: Once you and Paul Stanley decide to retire many years down the road, do you envision Kiss continuing with other performers wearing your outfits and makeup?

A: Why not? Of course. Anything's possible. No rules. It's supposed to be rock 'n' roll, after all.

Runway Trailer

SIMMONS STILL ROCKING WITH THE BEST

The serpent-tongued Simmons, now 61 with five seasons of a reality TV show under his studded belt (A&E's "Gene Simmons Family Jewels"), still calls his band "the best, the hottest band in the world." In fact, Simmons said a ticketed adult can bring up to four kids 14 and under to the show for free.

Here's more of what he had to say before his band hit the stage Tuesday in Atlanta:

Why he doesn't care that Kiss isn't in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: "There are more important things in the world. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a nice place. It's a nice building. It's in Cleveland. The idea of it was good, but it's really backroom politics. Fifteen guys decide who gets in, and if they want to get Grandmaster Flash and Madonna in there, that's fine. I don't consider that rock 'n' roll, and I've never met a human being who does."

Why hit records don't matter: "If all you are is your next hit song, when you stop having hit songs, you're done. The biggest bands in the world - Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Metallica, you name it - weren't driven by hits."

How Kiss changed rock 'n' roll as we know it: "We have single-handedly, and I'm not kidding myself about this, changed the expectations of what people expect when they buy a ticket to a concert. In the old days you could bring out your acoustic guitar and a Persian carpet and sit on it cross-legged and be the hippie-dippy kind of guy. We came up and blew up the stage and put on light shows and fireballs. Now everybody from McCartney to U2 to anybody else does that. Who did that? Actually, Kiss did that."

Why Kiss is letting in kids for free: "We want to make sure that young people out there know there's a world out there other than the Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus ... It's time to see how the big boys do it."

Which songs get the biggest response in concert: "In some of the Scandinavian counties, it's 'I Was Made for Lovin' You.' They go bonkers. In some of the bigger cities in America, it's 'I Love It Loud.' And recently Eric, our wonderful drummer/singer, has been stealing the show when he gets up there solo and sings 'Beth.'"

Why Kiss concerts may resemble an endurance competition: "Look, you've got 15,000 to 20,000 people who are standing on their seats for 21/2 hours, exhausted and drenched. If you think you're tired, change places with guys who are on stage wearing armor studs and 12-pound guitars, about 35-40 pounds of additional weight with another 30 degrees of temperature higher walking around on 8-inch platform heels for 21/2 hours. I'll trade places with you any time you like."

Why the music business is in a state of "chaos": "Because the record industry allowed kids to download for free, so an entire generation has been trained not to pay for music... And there are no more record stores, so that support's gone, and the Internet is a cold, heartless thing."

Why all that doesn't affect Kiss "one iota": "Our Dr. Pepper campaign is massive. You're going to see Kiss Slurpee cups in every 7-Eleven across the country. Nothing touches us."

COVER STORY: KISS CIRCUS MAXIMUS

This is no place for modesty. Kiss drummer Eric Singer describes the band as a piece of Americana, like Universal Studios or Disneyland. "Whether it's going to Mount Rushmore or Yellowstone Park or the Statue Of Liberty, I say Kiss is one of the Wonders Of The World. Maybe I'm biased because I'm in the band, but I really believe that you gotta see Kiss at least once in your life. Even if you don't like Kiss or don't know anything about them, I guarantee when you walk away from the show you're going to go, 'That was a lot of fun - I'll never see anything like that again.' I always say, 'It's rock 'n' roll meets the circus coming to town!'"

Appearing: September 3rd at First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre in Tinley Park.

Although old-school Kiss Army members may not be a fan of the new "Cat," Singer has actually been in and out of the band since the early '90s, when they started hitting hard rock's radar again. Before and after he has played with folks like Lita Ford, Gary Moore, Black Sabbath, Badlands, Alice Cooper, and Paul Stanley's solo tour back in 1989. The tragic loss of longtime Kiss drummer Eric Carr, who died of cancer in 1991, prompted Stanley to recommended they bring in Singer. He played on 1992's Revenge, a record that shot Kiss back up the charts via MTV's then-popular "Headbanger's Ball." Singer also played on Alive III, Unplugged, and Carnival Of Souls: The Final Sessions, as well as the home videos X-Treme Close-Up and Konfidential.

The circus has been hitting towns for the past year since the band's first studio album in 11 years, Sonic Boom, came out in October of last year. It rewarded fans with its Destroyer-era beefy tongue-in-cheek riffs and lyrics, encouraging the hordes of Kiss concertgoers.

On the recording of Sonic Boom, Singer says it was Stanley who brought up the idea of going back into the studio. "I think what happened was he started thinking, 'Hey, this band sounds really good, we get along really good . . .' and when things are good you get inspired to do things. He also saw that the audience was getting younger, and I think things changed. Three years ago, I didn't think we'd do another record. In fact, I didn't think we'd be doing as much touring as we've been doing. But we started working on ideas while we were on tour; sometimes Paul or Gene [Simmons, bass] or Tommy [Thayer, guitar] would work on some riffs and when we got back to L.A. we'd go into the studio and record them.

"We did [Sonic Boom] the old-school way, playing together live to analog tape. Obviously we used some digital technology and modern stuff once we recorded basic tracks, because then it's easier to work. But it was done in a more easy, non-pressure, organic kind of way. I'd say it was probably about the easiest record I ever had to make, in the sense of not feeling pressure, like, 'O.K., you gotta do all your drum tracks in two or three days then you're done, later.' We took our time. It was a real pleasure to make. It was well-received, and we've had a blast the last year playing all these shows and we've already been talking about going into the studio and doing another record."

Singer says the Kiss Army these days ranges in age from 3 to 73.

"It's really like a family kind of thing," he notes. "When I was a kid, going to see a rock band with your family would have been considered so uncool. But things have changed a lot. Now it's actually cool to go to events together as a family."

Paul Stanley is a family man, with a couple of very small children, whom he took overseas with him for part of their spring tour. "It was great for him and good for us too," says Singer, "because there's nothing better than the laughter of little kids and having kids around. It's good medicine for everybody."

Kiss have made their current tour a family affair in a few ways: at outdoor venues any lawn ticket is allowed to bring in four children under age 14 for free. They're also donating a dollar from every ticket sold to the Wounded Warriors Care Project, which helps veterans.

A band with a franchise as big as Kiss' allows the members the luxury of jetting home after a few shows for breaks to spend with family (though Singer has no kids himself), or, in the drummer's case, consultations with the pool man. "I don't want to say doing 'weekend warrior,' but the way our scheduling is sometimes we don't have to stay out on the road," he explains. "We've been going out playing the weekend then coming home for a few days so everybody can have a little bit of recharge time, but more importantly everybody can have a chance to be with their families or deal with other things.

"When we go back out Friday, we'll be out on the East Coast and this time we'll be out for about two-and-a-half weeks before we have another couple days off. I guess this is the way country acts do it, I'm told, because, you know, they're very family-oriented. It's like people who go to work Monday through Friday and have the weekend off: We do it the other way around. It's a little crazy getting on a plane after you've played and have to fly across the country in the middle of the night and get home in the wee hours of the morning, but it's kinda nice because then when I wake up and I'm in my own bed and in my house and it isn't too bad."

Who knew that the outlandish costumed, makeupped group of pyrotechnic-loving characters - the Demon, Starchild, Cat, and Spaceman - would end up 40-some odd years later being a family-friendly band? Wait . . . Characters . . . Disneyland . . .

"One thing we've really noticed is the demographic," says Singer. "There are a lot of young teenagers coming to the shows. Sure they've heard about the band either from their parents or from [the video games] 'Rock Band' and 'Guitar Hero,' but when asked a lot of them say, 'I found Kiss on the Internet!' The advent of YouTube was a novelty at first, but it has turned into a great promotional tool without people having to do anything. People just post clips and [other] people discover you!"

KISS MOHEGAN SUN REVIEW

The band filled arenas and stadiums for 40 years and is a part of Rock-n-Roll history with their legendary stage theatrics and countless albums sold worldwide - including their current one, "Sonic Boom." With their larger-than-life personas and devotion to their fans, KISS sold millions of albums worldwide.

KISS's current line-up consists of the original founders, lead vocalist/guitarist Paul Stanley and bassist/lead vocals Gene Simmons and new members, lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer on drums.

Minutes before KISS took the stage, the band was inducted into the Mohegan Sun's Walk of Fame. During the induction, Paul Stanley jokingly said to the crowd, "Why aren't you all in the arena enjoying the opening bands [Tester, Envy, and The Academy Is]?"

Flames and fireworks spouted as KISS ascended onto the stage on a hovering apparatus. The show was full of their Platinum songs, including, a rare rendition of Led Zeplin's "Whole Lotta Love" by front man Paul Stanley.

"My first kiss concert was in 1979 at the Springfield Civic Center. I was 7 years old and I was amazed then, and I am even more amazed now with what they can do. KISS is ageless," said Karen Gianetti, Springfield, MA.

After performing their fist encore, KISS dedicated $170,000 to the Wounded Warriors Fund, for war veterans wounded while serving our country. "The brave men and women who serve this great country of ours are the real hero's and we have great respect for each and every one of them" said front man Paul Stanley.

KISS then went on to play another two encores before ending with there signature song "Rock and Roll all Night."

DR. LOVE CLIP FROM ATLANTA

Tommy Thayer of KISS talks fandom, first shows, and rock n' roll

Jim waited long enough for the teacher to leave us at the table when he pulled out his own bag of the good stuff, his KISS records. Yanking "Peter and the Wolf" from the turntable, he dropped the needle on the first one. It had a cover with a close-up photo of this demon face, staring at me with black and white make-up and red eyes. It was the Gene Simmons solo record. I couldn't stop staring at the picture of him with blood trickling through his teeth. Watching the label in shock as it spun around, I had never heard anything like that before. I looked across the table at the girl who was sitting with us. She looked terrified. I was hooked.

Right up there with all the great Minnesota traditions - agriculture, politics, and straight-up excess - the band who was once accused of being satanic some 30-plus years ago, KISS, will be headlining the Grandstand at the Minnesota State Fair as part of their "Hottest Show on Earth" tour this Saturday. From his hotel room in Uncasville, Connecticut, Tommy Thayer talked to me about one of our favorite bands, KISS.

Starting out as a fan himself since the late '70s, he's been lucky enough to actually be a part of a long lineage of guitar players in the band. Tommy got an extra notch in his spacebelt last year after finally writing and recording with KISS on last year's fairly excellent Sonic Boom, their first release since he joined and the band's first in more than a decade.

"First time I ever saw KISS was in Circus magazine, and I saw Gene Simmons with his tongue and I thought it looked amazing," Thayer recalls, beaming with joy and pride. "In 1974 I asked my parents if they'd get me a record for Christmas. What KISS represented and what they looked like, they were the coolest thing going; theatrical, loud, rock and roll, flamboyant with things blowing up, great songs and great music."

As any fan would dream of, Tommy now flies around the world with the band and music he loves, adding his own chops and style as the character "Spaceman," a role that entailed no easy moonboots to fill since Tommy replaced original guitarist Ace Frehley almost a decade ago.

"I've always been a fan of his and this has been an honor for me," Thayer says. "My first KISS show was in early 1976 in Portland at the Memorial Coliseum. There was a Southern rock group called Point Blanke opening, this was on the Alive tour and at that point it was the highlight of my life."

KISS have always maintained an infectious spirit and high energy from their fans that seems to get stronger as time goes on. Those that are still into it at this point are crazier than ever. "The great thing with KISS these days is not only do you have the KISS faithful for years and years, but parents now bringing their kids," Thayer says. "It's a very all-American kind of feeling and people love it, and KISS fits perfectly into that, of course. It's really almost a religious experience for some people, and it gets kind of crazy."

Twin brothers Paul and Mark Bringardner were only six years old in 1979 when their father took them to their first KISS concert at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, an experience that set them on the path of musical obsession to this day. The two brothers continue to live and breathe rock and roll the way Gene breathes fire. From the smallest local bands that they love and support to the big arena and outdoor concerts, it's not unlikely to see Paul and Mark in the front row banging their heads or sneaking up onstage after a performance to grab the band's set list. The two have an inspiring enthusiasm about music and make it a part of their life as much as possible?and, as for many, KISS was their gateway drug.

Travelling far and wide to see their favorite legendary performers, the self-proclaimed "Rock Twins" let me into "the vault" of their massive record collection and let me fondle their KISS memorabilia. Along with autographed records by Black Flag, Black Sabbath, and country singer Ferlin Husky, the two proudly show off their signed KISS "Dynasty" tour book and the very same t-shirt (that they'd eventually grow into) from their first show way back when.

As we sit listening to a rare German pressing of the Killers LP, almost in unison the two tell the story of the night their lives were changed forever. "My Dad took us with his friend Jim Finn, who played keyboards in the Castaways," says Mark.

Standing on their shoulders near the front row, Paul remembers bumming out a little. "I remember my Dad pointing out the hook and wire on Ace's guitar that made it fly, sort of ruining the magic."

Eventually moving to the Twin Cities for college, the two have grown up together in the front row, backstage, and in and around the Minneapolis music scene. They work part-time jobs in between concerts most days, teaching, serving, or working as an overnight DJ on LOVE105, where you can hear Paul's sexy voice on Sunday nights. When it comes to the music scene, there's often a lot of too-cool-for-the-room-ness that keeps people from totally going nuts at a rock show. These thoughts never cross the Bringardners' minds. "It's called geeking out, because we known way more than we should about all this stuff," they say.

The Rock Twins, Tommy Thayer, and the rest of KISS will be looking more than cool this SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, when the "Hottest Tour on Earth" blows up the MINNESOTA STATE FAIR BANDSTAND.

KISS' Stanley: Current tour is rock 'n' roll 'with full guns blazing'

Stanley and company will attempt to wow an Atlanta audience for the second time in less than a year. And in an effort to attract a new generation, the band is offering as many as four free children's lawn tickets for every adult lawn ticket sold.

Q.: Pound for pound, you have the best between-song banter in the history of rock 'n' roll.

A.: There are people who would agree, and there are people who would say it's the most absurd banter. But either way it's memorable.

Q.: Although everyone shares vocal duties, you've always been the mouthpiece. How did that come about?

A.: I think early on we kind of realized that the idea of everyone talking when they feel like talking is insanity. You just wind up with chaos. It just seemed like, "Gee, Paul seems to be the best at doing this. So maybe we'll all shut up." And that's how it came about. I try to make hosting the show and pacing the show part of the show. ... The show is so high-energy, the connection has to be that high-energy. ... I'm somewhere between a preacher and a game show host or somebody leading the troops. The KISS Army needs somebody to say "forward," and I guess that's my job.

Q.: KISS was just in Atlanta last October. What's new this time around?

A.: The show is billed as the Hottest Show on Earth, and that's really because it is. It's not because of the weather. It's the best set list. The stage is incredible. It's rock 'n' roll with full guns blazing. ... And the tour's been phenomenal. I couldn't have expected a better response. We've used technology to make the show bigger and powerful as opposed to using technology to have a bunch of guys ... lip-synching. It's not about that. It's about taking rock 'n' roll and making those weapons of mass destruction that much bigger. ... The stage now has some huge video walls, and we also have video screens built into our amplifiers. There are all kinds of amazingly coordinated visuals. And there's a great guitar solo that Tommy [Thayer] does with [drummer] Eric [Singer]. There's a much broader set list covering the entire history of the band. And with [the band's most recent album] "Sonic Boom," it not only gives us a chance to celebrate what we've done, but it also gives us a chance to pound our chest and celebrate who we are today and where we're going tomorrow.

Q.: Explain the band's involvement in the Wounded Warrior Care Project.

A.: That's really taking off tremendously. It's everybody's job and obligation to give back and not just to get. You've got all of these brave men and women going overseas to fight for our freedom, and some of them make the ultimate sacrifice and lose their lives. Others come back and have all sorts of problems: physical, psychological. And the government isn't taking care of them. Augusta, Georgia, has an incredible rehabilitation facility, and all of these great soldiers deserve to be treated like heroes when they return. And we're making sure we don't let the government get in the way of helping these people. ... We're doing our part by giving $1 from each ticket to the Wounded Warrior Care Project. And at this point we're closing in at $200,000.

6:30 p.m. Aug. 31. $36.50-$149.50. Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood, 2002 Lakewood Way, Atlanta. 800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com.

POP CULTURE KING SHOW CELEBRATES KISS

KISS: MORE LIVE CLIPS FROM CHARLOTTE

KISS: FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM CHARLOTTE

Gene Simmons feels like a 'god'

The Kiss bass player and singer said the feeling he gets onstage is better than that felt by the most powerful people in the world, including religious figures and politicians.

He said: 'The most important thing is getting up on stage. It's electric church, there's no experience like it. Popes, presidents, prime ministers, even kings - none of them get to feel like I do. Only maybe Olympian gods would.'

The 'Rock 'N' Roll All Nite' singer also told how the band's fanbase is very broad and he is constantly surprises by the people who reveal themselves as fans.

He added: 'The strangest people grew up on Kiss - Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe.

'We snuck into the Grammys one time, and Luther Vandross was like, 'Oh my God, it's Kiss!' '

The 60-year-old rocker also explained his life philosophy, which was influenced by his mother, who experienced life as a Jew under the Nazi regime.

He said: 'My mother, at 14, was in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany. And saw her whole family incinerated in the ovens. Her philosophy has always been: every day above ground is a good day. Life is a gift, not a birthright. Don't waste it.'

LIMITED EDITION KISS CUPS AT 7-ELEVEN

Starting September, stop into your local 7-Eleven store and enjoy the rich bold blend of the 23 flavors of Dr Pepper. Pick up an ice cold Dr Pepper in a Rockin' limited edition KISS collectable Super Big Gulp Cup at participating 7-Eleven locations. There's nothing like a Pepper! Rock n Roll all month long with KISS.

New CD brings KISS back to life

"Psycho Circus," though, ended up being a lackluster effort on a musical level and far less than advertised when it came to being called a triumphant return of the classic KISS lineup.

Instead, Frehley and Criss hardly played on that 1998 CD, with studio musicians stepping in to handle what ostensibly were their parts. The band also had several outside writers contribute to roughly half of the songs.

So KISS had something to prove when the band decided it wanted to make a new studio CD, "Sonic Boom." For one thing, this was a new lineup for KISS, with guitarist Tommy Thayer making his full-fledged debut and drummer Eric Singer, who since 1996 has been the band's drummer whenever Criss wasn't in the lineup, back on board.

Now a little more than a year later, the verdict on "Sonic Boom" is in, and it's been positive, with some critics even saying it's the best CD from the band since early career albums like "Dressed To Kill" and "Destroyer."

Thayer is pleased to have seen "Sonic Boom" win such support.

"I think on a lot of different levels, it has had impact," Thayer said in an early July phone interview. "First of all, just as far as the music and being a great KISS record, check that off the list. In terms of the band, the lineup, this incarnation of the band, a lot of people from a critical standpoint would say they're just kind of re-creating what's happened in the past. They're just out there playing the songs of the '70s and early '80s and things like that. And I think what has happened here has put that to rest, too, because suddenly it's a viable, creative unit that can put together a great record and go out on tour with a fresh new approach to songs and writing and things." Interestingly, the band decided if KISS was going to fail on "Sonic Boom," there would be no one to blame but the band members themselves, as Stanley took the reins on the project.

"We were lucky to have Paul kind of spearheading the project, taking charge and being the leader," Thayer said. "It's really important to have somebody doing that in the producer's role. In this case it was just important in laying a groundwork for what direction we're going in and it worked very well to have him doing that. Of course, nobody knows KISS better than Paul does."

The success of "Sonic Boom" represents a welcome turn of fortunes for Kiss, whose future looked cloudy only a few years ago.

The reunion tour of 1996/97 with the four original members was a major success as a live venture, but by the end of the decade, it appeared the band's days were numbered. In early 2000, the band announced it would do a farewell tour that would run from that summer into 2001. It turned out to be far from a final jaunt.

KISS FEATURED IN GUITAR HERO iPHONE GAME

Check out the app and download the new KISS track pack from the in-game store and play Love Gun, Lick it Up and I Was Made for Lovin' You.

If you don't have it yet, get it here.

All they're made up to be

"...Not because of the weather. The show is by far the best Kiss show ever. Any band with money can buy smoke machines and big sound systems," he told the Observer recently. "Technology really allowed us to take this to a whole other level. I don't mean moving sidewalks on stage with dancers. Its rock 'n' roll as spectacle. Massive screens, screens built into the amplifiers, the lighting - everything is taken to the next step. The set list covers more territory than what we've done before and really celebrates the history."

That set list covers early tracks such as "Cold Gin" to Kiss' 2009 album "Sonic Boom," as well as representatives of dalliances with disco ("I Was Made For Loving You") and hair-metal ("Crazy Crazy Nights") and classics "Love Gun" and "Detroit Rock City." Recent reviews indicate almost as many vocal contributions from Gene Simmons as Stanley.

Charlotte fans will find out for sure Saturday when Kiss (with Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer filling Ace Frehley's and Peter Criss' roles) returns to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre for the first time since 2003.

With a new album - a Wal-Mart exclusive in the U.S. and the band's first since 1998's "Psycho Circus" - some older songs have fallen away to make room for new ones. Stanley doesn't mind.

"There are songs we have to do because they're the classics. Look, I'm not only in the band. I'm a fan of the band. My favorite songs are the ones that are popular."

There may be no moving sidewalks or choreography, but with Kiss having lent its brand to everything from a coffin to a coffeehouse in Myrtle Beach, could a Kiss-themed rock-opera style musical be far behind?

Says Stanley: "It might be possible, and we'd do it as long as it maintained the personality of being a rock 'n' roll band and not being a Vegas act. There's enough of that out there."

KISS FLYAWAY SWEEPSTAKES

Have you been to The Hottest Show On Earth yet? Don't miss out and grab your tickets now as KISS' summer tour burns a trail across the country! The Sims 3 and KISSOnline have teamed up to host one lucky fan and their guest at the last show date for The Hottest Show On Earth in Phoenix, Arizona on September, 24 2010! One grand prize winner will get:

Roundtrip tickets for 2 to Phoenix, AZ
Hotel accommodations
Transportation to and from the venue
One Meet & Greet Experience and one ticket for guest

Learn More About The Sims 3 here: http://bit.ly/9rt3iR

Sweepstakes Ends September 06, 2010 @ 11:59 pm (PDT)

ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES NOW

KISS & Gene on FoxNews

Ex-KISS Drummer PETER CRISS To Walk For American Cancer Society

"On October 17th, I will be walking for the American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey. I would love for you to join me in this walk to help save lives and bring awareness to men and women about this disease.

"I am going to join Nurse Betty's Team BosomBuddies/TwinPeaks. She is an awesome woman who dedicates her life to helping men and women with this disease.

"To register and join our team click the link below and if you can't walk with us please make a donation for support. As a breast cancer survivor, I THANK YOU!!!

So come walk with me on Sunday, October 17th. The walk starts at 10 a.m., speeches starts at 8 a.m. Hope you will support our team!!!"

Click here to join or donate.

Peter Criss last year spoke to the Associated Press about the stigma of being a man battling breast cancer. Watch the chat here.

While some men feel embarrassed because of "this macho crap," Criss told CNN surviving breast cancer was actually a blessing. He was treated before the tumor could spread and said he was speaking about male breast cancer to raise the profile of this rare disease.

Criss, who played drums for KISS and was known as "Catman," offered this advice to men who spot lumps in their breast: "Don't sit around playing Mr. Tough Guy. Don't say 'It's going to go away.' It might not and you might not see life anymore and how beautiful that is."

Criss, who is currently working on an autobiography as well as a new rock album, told Reuters his bout with cancer had affected his songwriting.

"My lyrics are not so deep and dismal," he said. One of the tracks on the album, expected next year, is called "Hard Rock Knockers".

Regarding the fact that his old KISS bandmates, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, are currently on a North American tour of arenas with two new band members, one in the make-up of Criss' "Catman" character and the other as ex-guitarist Ace Frehley's "Spaceman," Peter told Reuters, "You want to put two clones up there in our makeup, that's great. Must I keep putting spandex and makeup on at 70 — I don't think I really want to do that."

GENE ON UPCOMING COVER OF FANGORIA MAGAZINE

For nearly 40 years, almost every stadium stage on the face of the Earth has fallen prey to the toothy stomp of Gene Simmons' ruby-eyed dragon boots; has been bathed in the warm splat of his fake-blood-tainted saliva; has had its rafters scorched by the belch of his petrol-gargled fire breath. And since the legendary Kiss frontman's entire identity was forged in horror and dark-fantasy culture, we're tipping our hats to rock's original monster, "The Demon" himself, in this special, one-of-a-kind issue of FANGORIA (on sale in October). Buckle in for an exclusive sit-down with Simmons where we talk about monsters, junk culture, comic books, THE TWILIGHT ZONE and, of course...horror. We'll also chat up his brother in bombast, Paul Stanley, about his own relationship with the genre.

The cover will feature the image seen above: a hand-painted oil-on-canvas masterwork from Hawaii-based artist Brad Parker (http://tikishark.com), commissioned exclusively for Fango. Inside will be a huge, removable foldout poster of that painting, suitable for framing!

Of course, Fango #298 will also feature gobs of other gory goodness, including words with Wes Craven, the continuation of our chat with Adam Green about HATCHET II, interviews with the directors of hot indies AMER and MONSTERS, a look back at Hitchcock's immortal PSYCHO, a conversation with Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, a spotlight on Japanese frights, Hammer horror and tons more terror. But for KISS fans, this issue will be, well, extra special. Keep your eyes peeled, and keep logging on to Fangoria.com for all your horror culture needs!

Gene Simmons Struck Out With Candye Kane

The voluptuous and curvaceous Candye appears courtesy of her size-positive original recording "You Need A Great Big Woman," as showcased on the Lifetime network and "The Maury Povich Show." This guitar-laden swing rocker features the incomparable Ms. Kane belting out the benefits of loving a large and luscious lady like herself. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page.

Candye is one of but few women on the roster, which consists largely of members of such hard rock bands as Quiet Riot, Cinderella, Twisted Sister, Danger Danger and L.A. Guns performing songs about plus-sized women like her. Despite her minimal association with the genre, she does recall an encounter she once had with Kiss bassist Gene Simmons (who has publicly acknowledged his own appreciation of full-bodied women). "Even though I'm honored to be included here, I'm not normally in the company of rockers," admits Kane. "I think the closest I got was back in the '80s when Gene Simmons hit on me! This was when I was recording my first album and he was producing some Japanese band (EZO) in the same studio. I turned him down, so I'm probably one of the few women who can say that! Back then I was more into country music so I said, 'Maybe if you were Dwight Yoakam!' I'm sure he wasn't accustomed to hearing that!"

Also confirmed for the tribute is the inclusion of the track "BMW" by the mysterious Dogwhistle, a funk/rock fusion combining two of man's favorite things: girls and cars. "BMW" is a brand new song composed expressly for this project and is available nowhere other than the tribute. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page.

"Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks" is scheduled for an August 31, 2010 release and is now available for pre-order directly from SplitScreen Entertainment. The first 500 pre-orders will receive a free instant digital download of "Fat Bottomed Girls," as well as a bonus mini-print of the cover art upon delivery of the album.

CALL PAUL STANLEY

Bad City's album was just released, and the band is going on tour next week with Slash before joining up with The Smashing Pumpkins. Check them out at MySpace.

KISS SHOUTS IT OUT LOUD AT JONES BEACH

Continuing their reign as one of the most visible and best-known rock bands of all time, KISS is now in their second straight year of touring in support of 2009's Sonic Boom, the first new KISS record in over a decade. Saturday's cool but pleasant weather brought the KISS Army out in full glory, with thousands of attendees ranging from 6 year olds to 60 year olds, many wearing the iconic face paint of Catman, Spaceman, Starchild, and the Demon as they packed the seats of the Jones Beach amphitheater.

KISS has shot to success over the decades not only by writing catchy, anthemic rock n' roll songs, but by crafting a high energy image that thoroughly permeates their live performances. No expense or effect was spared for Saturday night's show, as the four members of KISS entered the stage on a flying, smoke-filled platform with explosions and fireballs erupting all about them.

The stage itself was a marvel to behold, with a massive high definition video screen showing close ups of the band, as well as various bright, psychedelic visual effects. Giant glowing letters spelled out KISS in the center of the stage, and streams of fog and smoke poured out from the wings. The Jones Beach stage actually had to be extended several feet to accommodate a dozen smaller video screens lining the stage, which flashed between visual effects and shots of the audience singing along.

The band kicked off the night with new song Modern Day Delilah, the musicians strutting about the stage as their high volume music thundered throughout the theater. Guitarist Paul Stanley was his usual pepped up self, welcoming the crowd and introducing songs with excitement and aplomb, while the demonic, famously long-tongued Gene Simmons posed menacingly for the crowd as he rumbled through the bass lines.

While the group played other new tracks such as Say Yeah and I'm An Animal, the majority of the night's setlist was classic KISS fare. The band hit no less than five songs from their debut album, including Cold Gin, Deuce, and 100,000 years. The crowd, full of die-hard KISS fans, sang along on every song, and the band frequently allowed them to sing choruses in their stead.

While Stanley served as the frontman for the group, all four members were given ample opportunity to not only solo, but even to lead on vocals, a true rarity in the rock world. Guitarist Tommy Thayer sang the Ace Frehley-penned Shock Me, following it up with a wild solo. Drummer Eric Singer's entire platform then rose up into the air, and he hammered through his own drum solo before Tommy rejoined him on another flying platform, flames and explosions blasting from all directions as the two jammed out to the delight of the crowd.

Gene Simmons had his own chance to shine as well, crouching in waist-high clouds of smoke and spitting up blood as he played his battle axe-shaped bass. He then dramatically raised his arms, and with aerobatic wires faintly visible, flew 50 feet straight up to land on a lighting platform, where he sang the lead vocals for I Love It Loud.

Even with lengthy solo breaks, the hit songs just kept on coming. Love Gun got an especially enthusiastic response as Stanley repeatedly played to KISS's native New York audience, and then followed up with the famous riff and final chorus of Led Zeppelin's Whole Lotta Love. Black Diamond was introduced a cappella, then sung poignantly by Singer, with Simmons eerily harmonizing on beginning of the song. Stanley introduced classic hit Detroit Rock City as the band's final song, but in truth the show was far from over.

After a quick break, KISS returned to encore with no less than six songs, including a heartfelt Beth, which saw Thayer switch to an acoustic guitar as Singer sang the vocals. The stage practically resembled a blast furnace as the band went all out with pyrotechnics and explosions during Lick It Up and Shout It Out Loud, and in a concert first for this Examiner, Stanley then led the entire venue in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance as he announced the donation of a dollar from every ticket sale to the Wounded Warriors Project.>P>Not to be outdone by Simmon's flying stunt, Stanley also flew on a zipcord to a raised platform in the middle of the venue for I Was Made For Loving You, where he played the majority of the song before sliding back to the stage, guitar slung over his back like a soldier's rifle.

The band ended the night's setlist with their generation-defining anthem, Rock and Roll All Night, and went out with million-dollar bang. Intensely colored strobe lights bathed the stage as confetti blasted across the entire venue, and with giant balls of flame lighting up the stage, Stanley smashed apart his guitar in true rock n' roll style. Even that wasn't the end, however, as full scale fireworks began exploding in the night sky as soon as the band left the stage, leaving fans ooohing and ahhing at the July 4th-worthy display.

While the evolution of heavy metal and edgier bands such as Slayer and GWAR have made KISS's once fearsome image and lyrics appear fairly mild and innocent by today's standards, Saturday night's performance proved that KISS still reigns when it comes to sheer rocking power. Backed by an explosive stage show that could put action movie blockbusters to shame, the band ran, jumped, and flew all night long in a blazing testament to the youthfulness and raw energy of rock n' roll. Even the merchandising deals, promotions, and TV shows that could be considered textbook selling out can't stop KISS from continuing their worldwide domination of arena rock, and if anything, seems to enhance the band's ability to produce a rock performance of epic proportions.

This summer tour is truly KISS at their finest, and fans would be hard pressed to find a show that even comes close the volume, energy, and in-your-face impact of a live KISS concert.

KISS AT JIFFY LUBE LIVE REVIEW

Even when fellow original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss returned to the iconic glam rock group in the late '90s, it was clear that Simmons and Stanley were steering the ship and the other two were simply along for the ride.

That's not the case with the band's current lineup, though. While "The Demon" and "The Starchild" are still Kiss' main men both on and off stage, lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer - who have assumed the "Spaceman" and "Catman" stage personas made famous by Frehley and Criss, respectively - are more than just bit players.

In fact, they provided some of the more memorable moments from Saturday night's Kiss concert at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Va. ...

Thayer and Singer have been given the opportunity on this tour to step into the spotlight and sing lead on a couple of Kiss classics that had been signature songs for Frehley and Criss back in the glory days.

Thayer sparked the crowd with his version of "Shock Me," which included a guitar solo that was at the very least equal to Frehley's. Thayer's solo morphed into an entertaining jam session between him and Singer, as they showed that they make Kiss a better band not only because they are free of the personal demons that hindered Frehley and Criss, but also because of their playing skills.

During the encore, Singer emerged from behind his drum kit to sing the hit ballad "Beth." Unlike when Criss would perform the song to pre-recorded strings and piano, Singer was accompanied by his bandmates playing acoustically. Also unlike Criss, Singer sang with conviction and actually hit the notes.

As for Simmons and Stanley, even at this stage of their careers, it was obvious Saturday night that the tongue-wagging bassist and pouty-lipped rhythm guitarist are not just going through the motions.

Kiss, still going strong as a live act 36 years after the release of their self-titled debut album and a decade after their "farewell tour," played a spirited 21-song set that went two hours and 10 minutes and had everything you would expect from a Kiss show (pyro explosions, flashing lights, fake blood, fire-breathing and, of course, Simmons and Stanley flying above the crowd) as well as something you wouldn't (Kiss leading the audience in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance).

Kiss opened with "Modern Day Delilah," the first track off its latest album, "Sonic Boom," and then played three songs from its first two albums ? "Cold Gin," "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll" and "Firehouse," before going back to "Sonic Boom" for "Say Yeah." The other track Kiss played off the 2009 album was the plodding "I?m an Animal," which actually is the only song that I skip when listening to the CD.

Another curious addition to the set was "Crazy Crazy Nights," which was one of three songs in the show from the non-makeup era. It?s not a great song to begin with, and the vocals here sounded flat compared to the slickly-produced studio version.

My only other complaint about the set list is that "100,000 Years" was retained from last year's tour while sing-along Kiss standards such as "Strutter" and "Hotter Than Hell" were dropped. Then again, when a band has a catalogue as extensive as the one Kiss has, it's impossible to please everybody.

Kiss wrapped up the main set with concert staples "Love Gun," "Black Diamond" and "Detroit Rock City" before returning to the stage for a six-song encore. Among the highlights was Stanley's rendition of "I Was Made For Lovin' You," which he sang after riding a zip line from the stage to a platform in the middle of the pavilion. Usually when performing the song live, Stanley grossly over-emphasizes the vocals, but he was much more subdued and thus truer to the studio version of the song.

As is often the case, Kiss saved "Rock and Roll All Nite" for its bombastic finale, once again proving that Kiss members and their fans may get old, but standing up and singing along to this song while being showered with confetti never does.

SET LIST
Modern Day Delilah
Cold Gin
Let Me Go Rock 'n' Roll
Firehouse
Say Yeah
Deuce
Crazy Crazy Nights
Calling Dr. Love
Shock Me
I'm An Animal
100,000 Years
I Love It Loud
Love Gun
Black Diamond
Detroit Rock City
Beth
Lick It Up
Shout It Out Loud
I Was Made For Lovin' You
God Gave Rock And Roll To You
Rock And Roll All Nite

LADY GAGA TALKS ABOUT KISS!

I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN' YOU FROM PNC

KISS: FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM BRISTOW

VINCE NEIL, LADY GAGA Attend KISS Concert In Holmdel

KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons has previously referred to Lady Gaga as "the female version" of his group, saying "I love the vibe, the big mouth and the big visuals. She's the most exciting thing to happen since us."

KISS CLIPS FROM MOHEGAN SUN

KISS HOTTEST SHOW ON EARTH HEADING TO ATLANTA

Don't tell KISS co-founder Paul Stanley he's too old to be dressing up in war paint, singing "Love Gun" and ripping power chords. At 58 years old, Stanley continues serving as ringmaster for the band's live rock 'n' roll circus. And he does so while pulling off feats such as one-handed pushups and flying over the crowd on a zip line-like apparatus.

Stanley and company will attempt to wow an Atlanta audience for the second time in less than a year. And in an effort to attract a new generation, the band is offering as many as four free children's lawn tickets for every adult lawn ticket sold.

Q.: Pound for pound, you have the best between-song banter in the history of rock 'n' roll.

A.: There are people who would agree, and there are people who would say it's the most absurd banter. But either way it's memorable.

Q.: Although everyone shares vocal duties, you've always been the mouthpiece. How did that come about?

A.: I think early on we kind of realized that the idea of everyone talking when they feel like talking is insanity. You just wind up with chaos. It just seemed like, "Gee, Paul seems to be the best at doing this. So maybe we'll all shut up." And that's how it came about. I try to make hosting the show and pacing the show part of the show. ... The show is so high-energy, the connection has to be that high-energy. ... I'm somewhere between a preacher and a game show host or somebody leading the troops. The KISS Army needs somebody to say "forward," and I guess that's my job.

Q.: KISS was just in Atlanta last October. What's new this time around?

A.: The show is billed as the Hottest Show on Earth, and that's really because it is. It's not because of the weather. It's the best set list. The stage is incredible. It's rock 'n' roll with full guns blazing. ... And the tour's been phenomenal. I couldn't have expected a better response. We've used technology to make the show bigger and powerful as opposed to using technology to have a bunch of guys ... lip-synching. It's not about that. It's about taking rock 'n' roll and making those weapons of mass destruction that much bigger. ... The stage now has some huge video walls, and we also have video screens built into our amplifiers. There are all kinds of amazingly coordinated visuals. And there's a great guitar solo that Tommy [Thayer] does with [drummer] Eric [Singer]. There's a much broader set list covering the entire history of the band. And with [the band's most recent album] "Sonic Boom," it not only gives us a chance to celebrate what we've done, but it also gives us a chance to pound our chest and celebrate who we are today and where we're going tomorrow.

Q.: Explain the band's involvement in the Wounded Warrior Care Project.

A.: That's really taking off tremendously. It's everybody's job and obligation to give back and not just to get. You've got all of these brave men and women going overseas to fight for our freedom, and some of them make the ultimate sacrifice and lose their lives. Others come back and have all sorts of problems: physical, psychological. And the government isn't taking care of them. Augusta, Georgia, has an incredible rehabilitation facility, and all of these great soldiers deserve to be treated like heroes when they return. And we're making sure we don't let the government get in the way of helping these people. ... We're doing our part by giving $1 from each ticket to the Wounded Warrior Care Project. And at this point we're closing in at $200,000.

6:30 p.m. Aug. 31. $36.50-$149.50. Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood, 2002 Lakewood Way, Atlanta. 800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com.

GOD GAVE ROCK 'N' ROLL FROM HOLMDEL

DEUCE FROM MOHEGAN SUN

MOHEGAN SUN'S WALK OF FAME ADDS KISS

Mohegan Sun is pleased to announce that KISS, one of the most iconic and recognized Rock bands of all time, has been inducted into Mohegan Sun's Walk of Fame. This places KISS among an elite group of entertainers whose stars will now lie beside theirs. Their induction took place Thursday, August 19th in The Shops concourse in front of a crowd of excited fans. KISS is the 20th star to be inducted into Mohegan Sun's Walk of Fame. Upon receiving their star band member, Paul Stanley, jokingly asked fans "Why aren't you in the Arena for the show, are you waiting for us?"

KISS has been rocking out arenas for the last four decades and has become one of the most renowned Rock bands in the history of music, with popular songs like "Rock And Roll All Nite" and "Calling Dr. Love." They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide and have continued their incredible success with the release of their latest album, Sonic Boom, just last year.

Check out this fan-filmed video of KISS being inducted into the Mohegan Sun Hall of Fame!

KISS perform tonight at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ

Wow. This is great. I'm getting to do something I always wanted to do.

"I'm trying to learn to really appreciate those moments when you're in them," Singer said during a recent phone interview. "Rather than thinking, 'Oh wow, that's cool that I played with Brian May 12 years ago.' Or, 'That's cool that we're going to go play in Cleveland, my hometown, in another few weeks.' "

Enjoying the ride

Singer, three times a member of KISS, twice replaced by original drummer Peter Criss, knows there may be a moment when he relinquishes the reins a third time. So he tries to enjoy each appearance on "The Tonight Show." He soaks up those minutes when the band sits together in the dressing room, applying makeup.

And though the pyrotechnics and makeup offer challenges most bands never have to confront, he wouldn't trade this spot behind the drums.

"I always say the world keeps spinning whether you choose to participate or whether you choose to get off at some point," Singer said. "So you might as well participate."

Singer, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and Tommy Thayer will bring their inimitable mix of music, pyro and onstage theatrics to two metropolitan area venues this month. The group still hasn't kicked open the door to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but the band has kicked open just about everything else.

Could it be that somewhere along the line KISS - the blood-spitting, fire-breathing, face-painting band from the '70s - became a piece of Americana? Like McDonald's or apple pie, if you believe Singer.

"I tell everybody, I don't care if you've never liked KISS - if you don't know their music or you don't like it - you've got to see KISS at least once in your life," Singer said. "And you will walk away going, 'That's a cool show and that's a great thing.' "

Younger audiences

The gig isn't without headaches. Singer admits that the costume is restrictive. He actually sweats less, which may not be a good thing, because the makeup closes up his pores. And don't get him started on the pyro ...

"I like the pyro as long as they have the bombs blowing up farther away from the stage," Singer said, "cause when they're on the stage, they are so damn loud and it kills my ears."

The explosions may be getting louder, but Singer said the crowds are getting younger and younger.

"There's literally little kids, 3, 4, 5 years old, up to adults and grandparents," Singer said. "So it's become a real truly family event... I liken it to Disneyland, Universal Studios. It really is like going to one of those special events."

KISS ARMY READY TO ASSEMBLE IN BRISTOW

The KISS Army has three generations now who will arrive in the four bandmates' makeup, costumes, and platform shoes.

If you are intrigued by fire-breathing bass players, literally smoking guitars (not just Tommy Thayer's riffs) and Gene Simmons' blood spitting off his infamous tongue, you will be thrilled.

Even though their Psycho Circus tour was 12 years ago, you may still witness Paul Stanley and his guitar on trapeze or Tarzan style, Simmons and his bass in the rafters, and Eric Singer and his drum kit transported on the platform above stage 3D style. You won't need special glasses for these special effects either.

Ten days after Saturday's concert, a new CD "Icon", will be released with 12 tracks and Simmons promises "KISSology 4" is in the works, too.

During their KISS Alive/35 tour of last year, Sonic Boom, their 19th studio album, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard chart. It is only available at WalMart and includes the title CD of 11 new tracks, another CD of 15 KISS Klassics performed by the current line-up in 2007, and a DVD of their live show in Buenos Aires. The liner notes booklet also includes lyrics for the new songs so you can prepare for Saturday's show.

Simmons, Stanley, and Thayer are all listed as lead vocalists and each solos with back-up vocals by the others for choruses.

"Russian Roulette" is an awesome Simmons' penned metal piece with Hendrix-sounding guitar riffs and sonic bass leads. "All for the Glory" has great three-way harmonized vocals and, like "Danger Us" and "Say Yeah" is destined to become a KISS Klassic.

The six tracks on the DVD are reminiscent of the recent Oct. 13, 2009 concert at the Verizon Center, just larger crowds in the tens of thousands. The footage is clear, crisp, and just itching- "Calling Dr. Love" - for surround sound and wide screen.

The "Farewell Tour" of 2000-01 only said goodbye to lead guitarist, Ace Frehley. His last gig was in February of 2002 when the band was part of the Salt Lake City's finale of the Olympics. Thayer took over that March and our area's KISS Army saw them at Nissan Pavilion co-headlining with Aerosmith in 2003 and with Poison in 2004.

Sonic boom can help you get ready for seeing either mini-KISS fans or large fans costumed from head-to-toe or any part thereof.

For the KISS Army, it's never enough.

KISS: LIKE A NIGHT AT DISNEYLAND

Kiss was rocking the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and it was a strange sight to see not black-clad rocker-wanna-bes in line to the enter the show, but rather families of four or five all dressed in Kiss t-shirts, many sporting the famous make-up of their favorite Kisser. It was like they were going to Disneyland or something.

Come to think of it, a Kiss concert is kind of like a night at Disneyland.

There was, of course, a very sizable barrage of fireworks onstage beginning with the opening volley of "Modern Day Delilah" and recurring every couple of songs throughout Kiss' two-hour-and-10-minute show. Bassist Gene Simmons did his fire-breathing schtick during "Firehouse," spit blood during "I Love It Loud" and flew up into the overhead lighting rig like some malevolent Peter Pan. Tommy Thayer shot rockets from his guitar during his extended solo at the end of "Shock Me," while drummer Eric Singer launched a bazooka which sent some lighting fixtures crashing to the stage.

Guitarist Paul Stanley sailed out over the heads of fans to a revolving hydraulic platform at the sound board in the middle of the crowd to sing Kiss' disco anthem, "I Was Made for Lovin' You." And the band was nearly obscured completely by the billowing fog and endless confetti blizzard that erupted during "Rock & Roll All Nite," the finale of their 40-minute set of encores.

"This next is from our latest album, 'Sonic Boom,' which is available exclusively at Wal-Mart," Stanley shrieked to introduce the heavy sludge-stomp of "I'm an Animal." Well, no one ever accused Kiss of shying away from a marketing opportunity or a corporate tie-in. (By the way, parked just next to the stage in clear view of almost everyone in the amphitheater was a huge tractor trailer truck emblazoned with pictures of Kiss holding cans of Dr. Pepper.)

It seems as though nothing can stop Kiss, who have been churning out the same bombastic mix of theatrical arena-rock and catchy pop hooks for more than 35 years now. And that's a good thing... So let's hope that when Stanley and Simmons finally do decide to retire, they'll just hire a couple of other blokes to slather on the make-up and keep the Kiss franchise going. Really, what would rock 'n' roll do without them?

Rock band brings legendary theatrical show to Jiffy Lube Live

Consider Stanley's take on why the "KISS Army" -- the band's millions of fans -- packs amphitheatres and snap up everything from KISS albums to belt buckles. The reason, Stanley said, is KISS knows what its fans want it to deliver.

"No offense to the Eagles, but no one wants an Eagles' belt buckle," Stanley said, echoing what he told Spin magazine a short while ago. "The truth is that band's limitations are based on what fans want from them and how interesting they are."

Staying interesting has never been a problem for KISS. When the band hit public consciousness in the early 1970s, the musicians behind the outlandish theatrical makeup and space age-style costumes were left to listeners' imaginations until 1983, when the grease paint was removed.

One of the main points that set KISS apart is the members didn't care if critics mocked them. Stanley, Simmons and the other members had their fingers on the pulse of the fan base and rode that to megastardom with the 1975 album "Alive" and the song "Rock and Roll All Nite."

"You know KISS, we operate outside the boundaries that other band's operate within," Stanley said. "While other people are telling you how to save the whales or end world hunger, we are singing about self-empowerment and about how each person can change the world. Not terribly heady stuff but something that was true 100 years ago and will be true 100 years from now. You can't beat it; you just can't."

Now that original KISS fans are bringing both their children and their grandchildren to shows -- and heck, those kids are attending even if the elders stay away -- critics may well have to concede Stanley is right. Just scan the reviews of KISS concerts in newspapers or fan boards and you'll see that this is no band that will go quietly into the night anytime soon.

"There is an electricity in the air ... before KISS hits the stage at every concert that can only be truly understood by someone who has experienced it," wrote one fan on a message board. "KISS proved once again that they are not only still ALIVE and kicking, but also THRIVING!!!"

Stanley underscored that, noting the band toured South America and Europe with crowds ranging from about 10,000 to 90,000 or more attendees.

"Given the state of the economy in the U.S., we are saying that the one thing you can bet [you'll get your money's worth on] is a KISS show," he said. "Our shows have changed only in the sense that they have gotten bigger and broader. ... They really have taken on a life of their own."

SHOUT IT OUT LOUD FROM SCRANTON

SCRANTON ROCK CITY

Like a Kiss concert.

The legendary showmen and their Kiss Army descended on Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain Sunday night, bringing with them an over-the-top production that combines P.T. Barnum's circus, Broadway stagecraft, professional wrestling and a church revival, complete with more pyrotechnics than a Fourth Of July celebration, band members sailing over the stage, and, oh yeah, some massive musical performances of some of the band?s best-loved songs.

At 8:52 p.m., a giant, black Kiss banner dropped, a video preface began and we heard the familiar band introduction: "Scranton, Pennsylvania, you wanted the best, you got the best, the hottest show in the world!"

It's a ballsy statement the band has been making - and backing up - for decades.

The curtain dropped, explosions ensued, and as they launched into "Modern Day Delilah," Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and guitarist Tommy Thayer rose on a platform above drummer Eric Singer's riser, then in front of the riser and onto the stage. Talk about making an entrance.

After "Delilah," from Kiss' newest album "Sonic Boom," Stanley welcomed - and challenged - the crowd. Mentioning the band had recently played in larger cities Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, he said, "Tonight, Scranton, you're gonna show us it's not how big it is, it's how you use it."

The simple and heavy "Firehouse" was an early-set standout, as was "Deuce," with Simmons on lead vocals. Thayer, Simmons and Stanley convened at the front of the stage for some choreographed back-and-forth moves, and it was a cool thing to see.

The diversity of the career-spanning setlist was impressive. Several songs from "Sonic Boom" were showcased, as were five - "Cold Gin," "Firehouse," "Deuce," "100,000 Years" and "Black Diamond" - from Kiss' self-titled 1974 debut. The band also sprinkled in some of its more pop-metal-ish tunes from the '80s, like the fun "Crazy Nights" and "Lick It Up." Hell, the band even played a song from its brief disco-rock era, "I Was Made For Lovin' You."

Each band member had extended segments in which they were the focus. Thayer, who now reprises the Spaceman role of original Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley, sang lead on "Shock Me," a song Frehley sang with Kiss. After "Shock Me," Stanley and Simmons left, leaving the stage to Thayer with Singer, who has now permanently replaced original drummer Peter Criss. Thayer played some Led Zeppelin riffs before Singer's drum solo. Thayer aimed his guitar, shooting flames across the stage. He returned to some heavy riffing while his and Singer's platforms were raised over the stage, white smoke billowing from under each of them. Singer fired flames from a bazooka, both musicians' risers lowered, and Simmons and Stanley returned to the stage, launching into "I'm An Animal," another track from "Sonic Boom" - of which Stanley joked, for the second time, is "available exclusively at Wal-Mart."

"100,000" years was a musical highlight. The moody track began with Simmons' ominous bass introduction - his bass lines all night were sharp and booming - some Jimi Hendrix-y Thayer guitar and an extended drum portion. Simmons, after his trademark blood-spitting routine, was rapidly raised to a small stage connected to the lighting rig, where he sang "I Love It Loud." This, and the following song, the Stanley-sung "Love Gun," were a pair of musical highlights. Fireworks mimicked the machine-gun riff of the latter song as it came to a close.

Singer took lead vocals on "Black Diamond." Stanley again addressed Scranton, asking the crowd of 10,588, "Do you feel like a rock city?" and "Do you wanna go to Detroit?," setting up "Detroit Rock City," explosions punctuating the song's famous introductory riffs. The drum platform rose above the crowd again while Stanley and Thayer engaged in some beautiful twin guitar leads. After four blasts of pyro, each Kiss member froze in mid-riff. Snapping out of the freeze, the band launched into a few more closing riffs before the lights went down, ending the pre-encore part of the show.

The encore was more like a mini-concert, featuring six songs: "Beth," sung by Singer, "Lick It Up," "Shout It Out Loud," "I Was Made For Lovin' You," "God Gave Rock 'n' Roll To You II" and "Rock and Roll All Nite." "Lick It Up" was tremendous and included a snippet of The Who's 'Won't Get Fooled Again."

"I wanna come out there and see you," Stanley said. "I can do it, Scranton. But you have to yell my name, Paul." The crowd obliged, and Stanley climbed onto a metal ring before he was hoisted above the stage and launched via a cable over the seats to a mini-stage near the soundboard as his bandmates started off "I Was Made For Lovin' You." He sang the funky song and played guitar on the small stage before zipping back over the crowd in time for "God Gave Rock 'n' Roll." During the song, images of rockers like Hendrix, Janis Joplin and Eric Clapton appeared on the video screens. When you combine this with the band's inclusion of Zeppelin and Who music during the show, you can tell Kiss is a band that still holds respect for its rock forefathers.

The crowd was bathed in white confetti during "Rock 'n' Roll All Nite," the stage awash in sparks, as Singer, Thayer and Simmons rose above the stage one last time. Stanley swung his guitar overhead, then smashed it to bits.

After the band left the stage, a video screen displayed the message "Kiss loves you, Scranton."

Following the band's powerhouse performance Sunday night, it's safe to say that feeling is mutual.

KISS DONATES TO WOUNDED WARRIORS

Turns out, though, that the gods of thunder have a soft spot after all: American troops wounded overseas. For every ticket sold on its "Hottest Show on Earth" tour, a fireworks-filled extravaganza stopping Thursday at Mohegan Sun, the band is donating $1 to the Wounded Warrior Care Project, which assists military personnel who have been severely injured in combat.

"Maybe we can do what the government doesn't seem capable of," Kiss singer and guitarist Paul Stanley says by phone.

Stanley estimates the band has raised $125,000 so far on the tour, which comes in support of Kiss' most recent album, last year's "Sonic Boom."

The record is a return to Kiss' classic late-'70s form for Stanley and bassist Gene Simmons. The Kiss co-founders made the record with lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer in place of original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, who were involved with the band's previous record, 1998's "Psycho Circus."

That particular effort wasn't exactly a high point in the Kiss canon, Stanley acknowledges.

"I was adamant that 'Psycho Circus' wouldn't be the last Kiss album," he says. "If there had to be a last album, we should end on a higher note than that. It was difficult to make an album with two band members and two lawyers. Those lawyers didn't play instruments very well, and the guys who could have been in the studio weren't."

This time, all four members were involved in writing songs for the album, which Stanley produced. They recorded quickly, keen on capturing the spark of early takes before the songs got rehearsed to death.

"What you may gain later on in perfection, you lose in feel," Stanley says. "I'm a big believer that all the music I loved growing up was made by people who were trying to document passion, rather than perfection, whether it was the Beatles, or Led Zeppelin or James Brown. All that music was made with mistakes, but with incredible feel."

A lot of artists who have been around as long as Kiss talk about the difficulty in concert of balancing old material with new, but Stanley rejects the premise.

"It's all Kiss," he says. "So what we try to do, particularly in the concerts, is celebrate all the eras of the band. It's no secret that there are certain songs that are must-plays, and funny, over the years, it just becomes more and more. We found ourselves ultimately making the show a little longer and squeezing in as much as we can. We can play 'Delilah' and that'll sound great whether it's next to 'Love Gun' or 'Crazy Nights.'"

That leaves just one item of unfinished business: the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Although the band first became eligible a decade ago, Kiss wasn't even nominated for the first time until last year.

"Who cares?" Stanley says. "Honestly, who cares?"

Well, the fans, for one: Kiss aficionados have been lobbying for years for the group's induction.

"I would accept being inducted, or indicted, only on behalf of the fans," Stanley says. "If it means enough to them that they're championing this so vocally, then I would do it, but only for them. I've said it before and I'll say it again: It's a farce. It's a sham. My place in rock 'n' roll history is more firmly planted than the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's."

KISS' CURRENT TOUR 'RANKS' AMONG ITS BEST

Looking back on those days, I think there may have been times when I wore a different KISS shirt to school five days a week. In fact, it was a tradition at our school that myself and a pretty large group of friends all wore our KISS shirts to school every Friday. I guess it was our own little version of the KISS Army, though most of the shirts we wore were from the non-make-up "Lick It Up" and "Animalize" era of the group. But our passion for that wonderful rock 'n roll band was undeniable.

For the past few days - and all of these years later - I've realized that nothing much has changed. Oh, we've all grown up quite a bit. There are jobs and families now and all of the responsibilities that come when you're no longer 17, but in the days leading up to KISS' show in Scranton last night, I know some of us felt as if we were 17 once again. And once we got there, were most certainly did.

KISS crushed the Toyota Pavilion on Sunday. It was my 30th time seeing them, and as a good friend with a beaming smile said to me as we headed back to our car after the show, "It ranks."

Indeed. It ranked right up there with some of the best KISS shows, ever. And though I watched the concert with the same enthusiasm as I did some 25 years ago, I'm clearly not a teen anymore. After spending the past 18 years working in part as a music journalist, I now have the ability to compare KISS to hundreds of other bands I've seen play live, and I can now watch them with a much more seasoned eye.

And you know what?

I'm still pretty much in awe.

Last night, I sang along to the music so loudly and proudly that my voice on this August morning sounds a bit like Demi Moore. I guess it would be sexy if I was a girl, but for me, it just kind of hurts. My wife's ears are still ringing, and as I pumped my fists throughout the show and totally enjoyed seeing one of my all-time favorite bands rock my hometown, I was again reminded as to why I fell in love with KISS in the first place.

The songs.

KISS' set at Montage was one of the finest the band has ever strung together. From the punch of "Deuce," to the grandness of "God Gave Rock and Roll To You II," to the new material from "Sonic Boom," the show sometimes felt like an audio assault of the senses. The group was extremely tight, musically, and while Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley had told fans that such would be the case - particularly after the reunited original lineup of the band dissolved once again a few years back - it's clear that was not lip service. Guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer have helped energize KISS, and for that, even the most loyal fans of the original lineup should be grateful.

I not only watched KISS play great songs amid all of their usual explosions and stage-flying on Sunday night, but I also watched a bit more closely as to how they sang, and as for as harmonies are concerned, they may have never been better. KISS is a band that is a product of its generation, heavily influenced by British Invasion acts such as The Who and Led Zeppelin, and especially The Beatles, and though they come with a much harder sound, that influence on their vocal style remains evident. Simmons once said KISS first set out to be a "heavy metal Beatles," and when you listen to a song like "Firehouse," that's exactly what it is.

KISS, in fact, has always done this with its music. The band has always been able to find something it likes in a musical style or trend, and often quite brilliantly, make it its own. In the late '70s, when even The Rolling Stones were doing albums like "Some Girls" and disco was king, KISS gave us "Dynasty." In the early '80s, when guitar shredders like Eddie Van Halen and Randy Rhoads were all the buzz, KISS gave us "Animalize." Later in the '80s, when hard-rock got a little more slick with bands like Bon Jovi, KISS gave us "Crazy Nights," and when hard-rock later got a little more "street" with Guns 'N Roses, KISS gave us "Hot In The Shade." And even with the arrival of grunge, we got "Carnival of Souls."

It is an impressive and an incredibly versatile catalog of music, yet it all remains distinctly KISS.

On Friday, WILK-AM and WILK-FM talk-radio here in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre had me come on the air and talk about KISS' music and the band's ongoing staying power. I guess when you've written so many stories about the group over the years, you get to be known as "the KISS guy" in the area, and that's fine with me. (You can now read many of my past KISS stories archived at www.kiss-aks.blogspot.com.) When I was asked to name some of my favorite KISS concerts out of the many that I'd seen, it was their two shows in 1988 at The Ritz in New York City that first came to mind. Why? Because it was just the them in a smaller club. No costumes. No make-up. No stage show. Just a great rock band tearing through some great songs.

Sunday night at Montage, however - show #30 for me - is now also on that short list of all-time favorites. Yeah, I love KISS for its songs the most, but it sure is fun to see those songs draped amid "The Hottest Show on Earth." And though I've been fortunate enough to have interviewed and even met KISS quite a few times, it was great to feel like I was 17 again for a few hours and be there just as a fan. My wife and I were in about the third row, and while it'd be nice to think it happened because Paul recognized me from our past meetings, or because he spotted the rose tattoo on my arm, I actually think it was her pretty face and all of her singing and dancing that caught his eye.

Regardless of the reason, the result was the same: two Paul Stanley guitar picks for us.

What a night.

Clearly, it ranks.

GENE SIMMONS FOX SPORTS INTERVIEW

KISS BRINGS PARTY TO TOYOTA PAVILION

But on Sunday, Mother Nature stepped in earlier in the day to add some thunder, lightning and a deluge of rain as a warm-up act to the thrilling spectacle that was to come at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain.

It was, however, going to take a lot more than some water and foul weather to douse the spirits of the KISS Army on hand last night. Fans and performers clad in shiny leather, black and white makeup and glam rock staples studs, platforms and capes, made it difficult to discern whether the people-watching was more entertaining in the audience or on the stage.

Veterans of the music scene for almost 40 years, the iconic band started their lively show for Northeastern Pennsylvania fans in a cloud of smoke, fire and sparks that whipped the crowd of thousands to their feet in a screaming frenzy of pure fun. Despite the fact that they are all well into their 50s now (guitarist Paul "Starchild" Stanley has famously had two hip replacement surgeries already), these guys still know how to party.

Moments before the headliners literally burst onto the stage, a giant KISS banner unfurled as Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song" blared across the mountain grounds, rousing the audience to its feet in anticipation of their heroes. Opening with "Modern Day Delilah" off 2009's "Sonic Boom" album, KISS members switched things up and followed with a few throwbacks from their first record from 1974, including the hit "Firehouse."

The music became modern again with "Say Yeah," another single from "Sonic Boom," before bouncing back to "The Bible of KISS," as Stanley described their debut album, with the anthemic "Deuce."

"Crazy Crazy Nights" was up next, followed by "Calling Dr. Love," which gave tongue-wagging vocalist Gene "The Demon" Simmons a chance to take the lead as drummer Eric "Catman" Singer pounded heavy rhythms from risers high above the stage.

"Spaceman" Tommy Thayer took a turn on fronting duties with "Shock Me" from 1977's "Love Gun," which gave him a chance to show off his guitar-shredding capabilities.

Fans and performers, were in agreement with guitarist Stanley that KISS threw "one hell of a rock 'n' roll party here in Scranton," a city he subsequently called "Number One" in the state.

KISS CLIPS FROM JONES BEACH

KISS stunningly overwhelming in Darien gig

For nearly 40 years, Kiss has reigned supreme over theatrical arena rock. Marrying the thump, wallop and strut of late 60s British and American guitar-boogie to a show blending the macabre, the over-the-top, the just plain fun, and the deafeningly decibel-infused, Kiss birthed a glitter, glam and greasepaint-adorned hard rock spectacle.

On Friday, the band brought its "Hottest Show On Earth" tour to Darien Lake and made plain yet again just what the critics have never gotten their eggheads around, but the little girls (and boys) have always understood - Kiss is rock 'n' roll fantasy writ large and played loud.

Of course some of those "little girls and boys" are now in their 40s and 50s, and many of them came to Friday's packed show with their offspring - themselves representing a new generation of Kiss fanatics-in tow. In a recent conversation with The News, band cofounder and front man Paul Stanley spoke of the Kiss audience as "a tribe," and reflected with obvious pride on the multiple generations of fans now flocking to the band's shows, in the process making this summer's Kiss tours one of the few to do solid business in just about any market imaginable.

Kiss has, for the first time in several tours, a new album to push. It has been even longer since the band had a new album worth pushing, but "Sonic Boom" is the band's best in-studio work in several decades. Not surprisingly, the quartet pushed the new stuff, though not too hard, with a total of three of the collection's songs sharing space with classics. One of them opened the show, in the form of the Zeppelin-esque boogie "Modern Day Delilah," as the band arrived on risers, the spectacle kicked off with a thunderous explosion, and Stanley commenced the energetic stage-strutting that he'd continue for the next 2-plus hours.

Kiss - Stanley, bassist/vocalist/ co-founder Gene Simmons, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer - then busted straight into a trio of stone-cold hard rock classics, as former guitarist Ace Frehley's "Cold Gin" gave way to the full-tilt raunch of the early gem "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll," and finally settled into the T. Rexlike glam anthem "Firehouse." Stanley offered his "Say Yeah," another "Sonic Boom" tune, and the additional muscle of the in-concert version eclipsed the studio track handily.

Then it was onward, as Simmons tackled what just might be his coolest song ever, "Deuce"; upped the sleaze factor with another of his finest, "Calling Dr. Love"; and then turned the microphone over to Thayer, who ably handled Frehley's trademark "Shock Me."

With the sole exception of the rather too glitzy and Bon Jovi-esque throwaway 'Crazy Crazy Nights," the set list was all killer and no filler, particularly the grouping of songs that slammed us all headlong into the encore - "100,000 Years," "I Love It Loud," "Love Gun," "Black Diamond" and "Detroit Rock City" commingled to form the finest 30 minutes of fist-in-the-air hard rock Western New York has seen in many a moon.

Western New York band DoDriver kicked off the evening's with a short set. As winners of a Guitar Center contest, the band took home the prize they'd probably dreamed about as kids - opening for Kiss.

Kiss can now suit up for the Greyhounds

When the founding member of classic rock act Kiss was given a Soo Greyhounds jersey Tuesday, he noted a major historical fact about the city's Ontario Hockey League franchise.

"Isn't this the team that Wayne Gretzky played for?" Ward 2 councillor Terry Sheehan recalled him saying.

The Great One played for the Hounds for one year. He notched 70 goals and 112 assists for the Soo in 1977-1978.

While Gretzky dazzled local hockey fans at Memorial Gardens, a Gallup poll named Kiss as the most popular band in the United States in 1978.

Stanley, Gene Simmons, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer were given authentic authentic red jerseys during a brief meet and greet with several city councillors before the sold-out concert.

Sheehan said Simmons "cracked a smile" when he described him as "the Wayne Gretzky of rock and roll."

On the weekend, the Ward 2 representative told The Sault Star the goal was to give the quartet "a little surprise for them that we hope will make their stay in Sault Ste. Marie memorable."

Sheehan described the Greyhounds jersey presentation as a gift that was "a little bit out of the ordinary."

"We didn't want to give them a whole bunch of little things," he said.

"We wanted some impact with what we gave them. (The jersey) is such an iconic symbol of Sault Ste. Marie."

Maple syrup, dream catchers and keys to the city were also considered during phone calls Sheehan made with "most" city councillors during the weekend.

"We were trying to get this organized in such a short period of time," he said.

"We thought this was the best way to go."

Kiss was supposed to play in the Sault in December, but cancelled due to poor weather conditions. The August date was announced in June.

But Sheehan said his last-minute phone calls to other councillors was because council does not meet during the summer. The last meeting was held July 19.

On the weekend, Sheehan told The Sault Star "when the opportunities are there, then we pounce on them."

He pitched the city as a site for a future Kiss convention to band management and extended an invitation for the group to play in the community again.

"If it's the first and only time in the Sault so be it," said Sheehan.

"But you know what? If there's a chance to get the entire band back, or part of the band during a convention, then that would be great as well."

The city councillor wore a white T-shirt, with the city's slogan and an ironed on patch of the band's four members.

Kiss asked about its origins, but Sheehan didn't part with his top.

"I was sure they wouldn't take my shirt," he said, when each member received a Hounds jersey.

BAND GETS KISS READY FOR NEW GENERATION

Singer Paul Stanley wondered publicly about whether there would ever be new KISS music. He and Gene Simmons weren't sure how many tours they had left.

Recently, however, lots of things fell into place. Last year, the band released "Sonic Boom," making its debut at No. 2, the band's top chart position ever. Now, in the midst of the band's "Hottest Show on Earth" tour, Stanley said the band is looking to give rock 'n' roll to a new generation.

Question: What made you focus on kids this tour, offering four free tickets for kids in some cities for every single ticket sold?

Answer: KISS is naturally fascinating to young kids. ... With those tickets, we were just trying to make it a little bit more possible economically for people to come out to see us. Times are tough now. Our shows have always been more like a tribal gathering than a concert where fans are more age-specific. Our shows are more like a gathering of a secret society on a massive scale.

Q: Do you feel the need to top yourselves with each tour?

A: Topping yourself can be done in all sorts of different ways. ... The way we look at it, any band with money can do a KISS show. We have to do something special. We have to raise the bar a little.

Q: On the current tour, you're playing riffs from "Whole Lotta Love" before "Black Diamond" and "Won't Get Fooled Again" before "Shout It Out Loud." Are you trying to introduce your younger fans to the classics?

A: Well, I didn't invent the wheel. There are other great songs out there, other great bands and music. ... I don't need to introduce anyone to the classics. I'm always floored that the generation starting with 13 and up seem more aware of Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix and Cream than any others. For us to be considered with them is the ultimate compliment to me.

Q: Does playing outside make the shows wilder?

A: There's a party no matter where we are. ... The great thing people know about KISS is that they always get their money's worth."

DR. LOVE / DR. PEPPER RADIO SPOT

KISS: FAN-FILMED FROM INDY SHOW

KISS IN SCRANTON, PA SUNDAY

If you thought this summer has been hot, just wait until Sunday night, when the self-proclaimed "hottest band in the land," KISS, brings its "Hottest Show on Earth" tour to the Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain.

Lead guitarist Tommy Thayer says that moniker isn't just lip service. A KISS concert involves more pyro than a firefighters training school.

"If you watch a show at the soundboard, 100 feet out, you can feel that heat. But if you are on stage, you really feel it," says Thayer, who, for eight years, has gotten up close and personal nightly with the flames, flashpots and explosives that have become hallmarks of the KISS experience.

In 2002, the Oregon-born guitarist inhabited the band's Spaceman persona full time, after the departure of original guitarist Ace Frehley. They're big platform shoes to fill, but Thayer wears them proudly, especially when playing and singing Frehley's signature tune, "Shock Me," from the 1977 album "Love Gun."

"The reason I'm performing that still is because people know the song. And it's a good number for me to do as the Spaceman," Thayer says, acknowledging the fact that some of the KISS Army might consider the number sacred ground. "People say, 'Well, that's an Ace song!' And we remind them, 'No, it's a KISS song.' Everybody needs to remember that. So I proudly play 'Shock Me.' "

And therein lies the superpower of KISS, made up now of original members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, Thayer and drummer Eric Singer (who permanently replaced original skinsman Peter Criss in 2003): The whole has become greater than its parts. Regardless of who is underneath the iconic makeup of the Demon, the Starchild, the Spaceman and the Catman, the KISS machine rolls on.

"KISS is a timeless entity. Strangely and uniquely that is so. There is no other band like it," Thayer says. "The appeal of KISS is that you can see that it still works the way that it always did. New fans come in, and they see this band with this makeup, this incredible stage show and these incredible outfits that kicks butt on stage. That's undeniable."

As is the band's influence in crafting what has become the modern-day concert spectacle. Without KISS, arguably, there would be no Lady Gaga. From Simmons breathing fire to Stanley flying over the crowd, or Thayer and Singer's fiery musical face-off, the show is driven by many jaw-dropping set pieces.

" 'Shock Me' segues into my guitar solo, which is this kind of on-stage duel with Eric, our drummer," Thayer says. "We do some playing back and forth, and we end up blasting each other with rockets. It's a new shtick that we're quite proud of."

Thayer and the rest of the group also are thrilled by the reception for "Sonic Boom," KISS's first studio album since 1998's "Psycho Circus."

"The response to the album has been really phenomenal. Even the critics liked it, and they can be tough on KISS sometimes. But in this case, it's been great reviews, which has kind of stunned Gene and Paul," Thayer says. "It's great to get that kind of positive feedback. And the fans love it, which is most important."

Sonic Boom also is the first KISS record to fully showcase Thayer's talents. He contributed some guitar to "Psycho Circus," but Sonic Boom marks his studio debut as a full-fledged member.

"It was really my first opportunity to shine. I was able to interject a little bit more Tommy Thayer into it and make it a little bit more mine, which is a big step," he says. "But at the same time, we wanted to make a KISS record that sounded like a classic KISS record. Not in a retro way, but in a true-to-form way of what KISS really is. I think we accomplished that."

Thayer says three "Boom" tunes are in the current set list, and one even has the coveted spot of opening the show. Still, he reveals his favorite "oldie" to play is "100,000 Years," from the band?s 1974 self-titled debut.

"It's a great song that features the lead guitar a lot. It's almost a jam song."

And Thayer admits he is conscious of how Frehley originally played the tune when he's performing it on stage.

"When I play a classic KISS song, I want to play it as true to form as I can. I'm a big believer that when a band plays live, it's really important to play the song the way it was originally written and recorded," he says. "I don't like it when guys come out and start throwing their whole new twist on things. It's not what people really want to hear. They want to hear it the way it's supposed to be."

For some concertgoers, however, the way they'll hear it Sunday will be the way "it's supposed to be," simply because they have nothing else to compare it to.

"There's a huge resurgence right now with all these new fans coming out - young kids and teenagers," Thayer says. "It's a whole new generation."

In other words, fans who are about to experience their very first KISS.

CLASSIC ROCK ROLL OF HONOUR: 2010 Nominees Announced

The ceremony — held by Classic Rock magazine and hosted by legendary rocker Alice Cooper — will take place on Wednesday, November 10 at London, England's Roundhouse venue.

Commented Classic Rock editor-in-chief Scott Rowley: "Capping off a year that saw Classic Rock explore exciting new formats with the release of the Slash album, the launch of our own festival with partners MAMA Group called High Voltage, and the continued success of the magazine as well as our sister magazine Prog, this year's move to the Roundhouse — with the Right Reverend Alice Cooper as ringmaster — shows Classic Rock's commitment to aiming high and doing things differently."

Classic Rock Roll Of Honour 2010 nominees (That include KISS):

Album Of The Year
* CHEAP TRICK - The Latest
* BIGELF - Cheat The Gallows
* SLASH - Slash
* KISS - Sonic Boom
* WOLFMOTHER - Cosmic Egg
* IRON MAIDEN - The Final Frontier
* PEARL JAM - Backspacer
* ALICE IN CHAINS - Black Gives Way To Blue
* LYNYRD SKYNYRD - God & Guns
* THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM - American Slang
* SCORPIONS - Sting In The Tail
* EUROPE - Last Look At Eden
* RATT - Infestation
* FOREIGNER - Can't Slow Down
* THE BLACK CROWES - Before The Frost…
* STEVE HACKETT - Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth

Band Of The Year
* AEROSMITH
* AC/DC
* RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE
* KISS
* BON JOVI
* SLASH & FRIENDS
* JEFF BECK BAND

KISS ON PAUL MCCARTNEY TRIBUTE ALBUM

KISS to bring over-the-top theatrics to Mohegan Sun

Theirs is an image that has never been bested by other heavy metal bands. Throw in Gene Simmons' wavering tongue, and the iconic look has been seared into popular culture since the band's reign, which ignited in 1975 with the release of Alive!

Their rendition of the already-released "Rock and Roll All Nite," off Alive! yielded their first Top 40 single, and is now considered the anthem for rock'n'roll.

Their legendary penchant for pyrotechnics, which includes everything from igniting guitars to flying into the rafters, will be let loose Aug. 19 when KISS comes to Mohegan Sun Arena.

Long after the novelty of KISS' looks have faded, their music and theatrics are luring legions of new fans while keeping their base loyal. Dubbed the KISS Army, they are an enthused bunch.

Although the band faltered in the '80s, it is one that has risen again for a comeback.

If reviews of recent concerts are to be believed, KISS still puts on quite a show - "the ultimate showmen in the ultimate heavy rock pantomime," as a reviewer in Birmingham, England, said.

Fans can expect the favorites that have kept them fueled as the band has gone through several incarnations since 1975. One included a reunion of original members in 1996 - with makeup. Since 1983, the band had performed fresh-faced, but stepped back into the fantasy world of alter-egos to the delight of fans.

Likely set-list

Songs such as the ballad "Beth," which was given new life on "American Idol" when runner-up Adam Lambert sang it, will likely be on the set list. Their "anthem" can also be expected, as well as a host of other hits: "Detroit City Rock," "Cold Gin," "I Was Made For Lovin' You," "Lick It Up" and "Love Gun," among others.

New material, such as "Modern Day Delilah," is also fueling excitement amongst concert goers.

Some may marvel that KISS is still storming the stage and wooing new generations of fans into the KISS fantasy. But the man that can be credited with keeping KISS alive through all its permutations is Gene Simmons - whose business savvy is now well-known.

The key, Simmons said in an interview, is treating it all like a party.

"Most rock groups shouldn't exist more than ... you fill in the amount of time. The premise is, a rock'n'roll band should be handled like a party. If you're at a party and it feels good and you're having a good time, stay. If it starts to get boring, go. Don't bore yourself or the people who are having the party by staying there if you're not having a good time. And that's the way KISS is treated."

KISS AT JONES BEACH & PNC BANK CENTER

Wow. This is great. I'm getting to do something I always wanted to do.

"I'm trying to learn to really appreciate those moments when you're in them," Singer said during a recent phone interview. "Rather than thinking, 'Oh wow, that's cool that I played with Brian May 12 years ago.' Or, 'That's cool that we're going to go play in Cleveland, my hometown, in another few weeks.'

Enjoying the ride

Singer, three times a member of KISS, twice replaced by original drummer Peter Criss, knows there may be a moment when he relinquishes the reins a third time. So he tries to enjoy each appearance on "The Tonight Show." He soaks up those minutes when the band sits together in the dressing room, applying makeup.

And though the pyrotechnics and makeup offer challenges most bands never have to confront, he wouldn't trade this spot behind the drums.

"I always say the world keeps spinning whether you choose to participate or whether you choose to get off at some point," Singer said. "So you might as well participate."

Singer, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and Tommy Thayer will bring their inimitable mix of music, pyro and onstage theatrics to two metropolitan area venues this month. The group still hasn't kicked open the door to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but the band has kicked open just about everything else.

Could it be that somewhere along the line KISS - the blood-spitting, fire-breathing, face-painting band from the '70s - became a piece of Americana? Like McDonald's or apple pie, if you believe Singer.

"I tell everybody, I don't care if you've never liked KISS - if you don't know their music or you don't like it - you've got to see KISS at least once in your life," Singer said. "And you will walk away going, 'That's a cool show and that's a great thing.' "

Younger audiences

The gig isn't without headaches. Singer admits that the costume is restrictive. He actually sweats less, which may not be a good thing, because the makeup closes up his pores. And don't get him started on the pyro ...

"I like the pyro as long as they have the bombs blowing up farther away from the stage," Singer said, "cause when they're on the stage, they are so damn loud and it kills my ears."

The explosions may be getting louder, but Singer said the crowds are getting younger and younger.

"There's literally little kids, 3, 4, 5 years old, up to adults and grandparents," Singer said. "So it's become a real truly family event... I liken it to Disneyland, Universal Studios. It really is like going to one of those special events."

Kiss star warns son of rock life

Stanley admits he'll "never be as good a guitarist" as 16-year-old Evan, his son with ex-wife Pamela Bowen.

But, when asked if the teen will ever play a live show with Kiss, Stanley replies, "I hope not."

The Rock And Roll All Nite hitmaker, who is also dad to three-year-old son Colin and one-year-old daughter Sarah with wife Erin Sutton, insists his kids should follow their own dreams because living in the shadow of a famous father is a tough job.

He tells the New York Daily News, "(They should) live by the same philosophy that got me where I am, which is: find your own path. Follow your desires and succeed without any sense of owing anybody any debt of gratitude. Being Frank Sinatra Jr. is a hard cross to bear."

BRUCE KULICK To Take Part In Australia's AIMS Show

At AIMS 2010, you can see, touch, hear and play hundreds if not thousands of different instruments. With three halls of music gear, if you can't find it here, they probably don't make it! Many of the big brands are sending their product experts, so you can ask all your questions and get free advice from the people who use the gear day-in, day-out. Expect to see world-class international and Australian artists on some of the stands and performances by some of the best musicians on the planet. Get up close and personal with intimate masterclasses.

Bruce will hold two workshops — one on Saturday, October 2 at 11:00 a.m. and one on Sunday, October 3 at 4:00 p.m. He will also take part in a guitar clinic at Allans Music in Sydney on October 4 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will be required, but the event is open to all ages.

KISS PLANTS ONE ON SAULT

A recent episode of Gene Simmons Family Jewels had the Kiss bassist spouting off the old adage of how standing still in business is akin to writing one's own suicide note.

Granted. But when it comes to cobbling set lists, this legendary band eyes neither the future nor even the near present all that much. Tuesday night's rock extravaganza at Sault Ste. Marie's Essar Centre was a platform-heeled musical leap into the past, save for a few tunes from 2009's Sonic Boom.

But for Simmons and his Kiss cohorts, for whom music means business, it's only prudent to subscribe to the age-old market rules governing supply and demand. Just imagine if the band hadn't closed the show - or at least included - a fiery rendition of Rock and Roll All Nite, complete with accompanying explosions, Simmonsesque tongue wagging and levitating stages. The masses would have certainly shouted out loud, calling for something much more severe than Dr. Love. Kiss appeared to supply the demand of the 4,700 who packed the house - the massive stage shaved seating capacity somewhat.

Essentially, the show lived up to its promotion as being part of The Hottest Show on Earth Tour.

A colleague mentioned earlier this week that middle-aged men in the audience would likely be brought to tears upon hearing the first riffs of Detroit Rock City. I scoffed. Now I think she was likely bang on.

On the early song-selection front, Kiss should be given full kudos from deviating from its standard Detroit Rock City opening, choosing, instead, to kick off with Modern Day Delilah from Sonic Boom. From there, the band detoured to its 1974 debut album for Cold Gin, originally sung by former lead guitarist Ace Frehley. Gene Simmons's gravely voice carried the tune well.

Other classic numbers - and not necessarily Top 40 hits - included Deuce, Let me Go Rock 'N' Roll, Firehouse, 100,000 Years, Love Gun, Black Diamond, Calling Dr. Love and Shock Me (lead guitarist Tommy Thayer handled vocals on this Frehley standard).

Along with Modern Day Delilah, other Sonic Boom selections were I'm an Animal and Say Yeah, each of which the band played - and plugged - with such polish and passion it was if the quartet's very lives depended on each and every soul in the audience going out and picking up a copy of the album first thing in the morning.

Perhaps it was pure demographics, but some of the tunes included in the two-hour gig that gleaned the most applause and fan participation were 1980s numbers, such as I Love it Loud and Lick it Up.

The audience itself was a curious mix of seniors, middle-agers and a younger set that included a healthy selection of scantily-clad teeny boppers, who would have been prime candidates for one of Simmons's more recent proposed business ventures: a bikini car wash.

There were some cleverly painted faces, but fewer folks sporting all-out Kiss costumes than what appeared at the Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., show a few years back. But, in 2007, the band played only a handful of concerts and likely attracted a much more fervent brand of enthusiasts from all four corners of the globe.

Stanley and Simmons were the ultimate showmen Tuesday night, proving their professionalism beyond a doubt - even when playing for an audience a fraction of what they're accustomed to.

"It's all about who you are, not how many you've got," said Stanley, rhyming off a few of the Canadian cities Kiss has played. Sudbury's mention was met with boos.

Stanley was also humble about delays in the Sault landing the hard rockers.

It was announced in June the makeup-clad quartet would make good on its promise to play Essar Centre in a makeup date for its postponed Dec. 15 show. The Sault placed third in an online contest last year that let fan votes route the band's fall North American tour, but bad weather cancelled the final show of the tour.

"Did you think we weren't going to come? We're here." Stanley said. His moment in the sun was gliding over the floor seats with the aid of a cable and singing You Were Made for Loving Me from a small, rotating stage in the north end of the arena.

Simmons, the man of many words in his hit reality show, remains The Demon on stage, rarely saying more than "Oh yeah" but arguably singing as well as he did during the band's salad days.

A true highlight of the show was drummer Eric Singer and Thayer showing their stuff at the conclusion of Shock Me, with Thayer's blistering guitar solo, done primarily with the axe lodged behind his head, and Singer proving his mastery of the drum kit on a short, but thundering solo. Any barbs about the two relative newcomers taking on Peter Criss's Catman persona and Frehley's Spaceman character quickly become moot.

It's hard to pinpoint the basis of Kiss's current popularity.

Is it pure nostalgia? A resurrection of the band's brand due to Simmons's reality TV stint? Or, perhaps, it's purely the music. Kiss might tell you God Gave Rock 'N' Roll to You. On Tuesday night in Sault Ste. Marie, it was Kiss that delivered.

SIMMONS SPEAKS!

Fans don't go to Kiss shows to hear an agenda. They don't go to find out who they should vote for in the next election or to hear the band's opinion on an oil spill.

"We don't talk about acid rain or who's going to save the whales or what political party you should vote for - we don't care about that. Most people yawn when they start to hear that," bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons told the Weekender from Los Angeles where the band was recording "Venus and Mars" for an upcoming Paul McCartney tribute album.

"Next time I want to find out about acid rain and the rainforest, I hope it's not from a rock star. In the same way, I don't want to find out from a scientist what other song I should put in the set, so I think rock stars should shut up, get up on stage and do what they're designed to do - otherwise, you're not qualified to tie my shoelaces."

Actually, there is something on Kiss' show agenda: To give its legion of fans the greatest show on the planet. A Kiss concert is an extravagant display of pyrotechnics, elaborate costumes and face paint, Simmons' blood spitting, Simmons and vocalist/guitarist Paul Stanley flying through the air and music that has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide since the mid-1970s.

Local fans will get to see Kiss' summer tour - called The Hottest Show on Earth - Sunday, Aug. 15 at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain.

The band has been touring the world consistently for the past two-and-a-half years, starting with Australia - where it performed in front of 80,000 people - before hitting Europe and South America twice each.

"This time, we're only doing one single day in as many cities as we can fit in in a 35-show schedule and doing a few things I'm not aware that anyone else has done," Simmons said.

For one of them, Kiss partnered with Guitar Center to offer unsigned bands across the country the chance to open for the band at each of the tour stops. Winners - like NEPA winner The SilenTreatment - join the ranks of bands like AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Rush, Motley Crue and Iron Maiden, who all cut their teeth opening for Kiss.

"It says something about us," Simmons said. "It says that we're fans as well as being in a band. We get off on solid bands as much as fans do."

KISS CHRONICLES

Simmons and Stanley founded Kiss in New York City in 1973 with lead guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss. The four wanted to "be the band we never saw," as Stanley said on last year's A&E documentary "Kissteria."

The band adopted the makeup and ensuing characters: Simmons the Demon, Stanley the Starchild, Frehley the Spaceman and Criss the Catman.

Criss left Kiss in 1980 - Simmons and Stanley have stated he was fired while the drummer maintained he quit. Frehley left in 1982 to pursue a solo career, a year before Kiss infamously removed its makeup. Various lineup changes occurred over the years - the band would variously include Eric Carr, Bruce Kulick, Mark St. John, Vinnie Vincent and Eric Singer ? until Frehley and Criss returned for a reunion of the original members in 1996.

That same year, the four put their makeup back on and brought back to life their on-stage characters. This version of Kiss would remain through the band's 2000-2001 U.S. Farewell Tour.

When Frehley chose not to remain in the band following the reunion shows, Tommy Thayer donned the Spaceman makeup and costume in 2002 and would become a permanent member of the band the following year. Singer, who first joined the band in 1991 following Carr's death, returned in 2001 after Criss left, reportedly over a contract dispute. Criss returned in 2003, but later that year, the band reportedly decided not to renew his contact, and Singer became a permanent member of the band and took over the Catman persona.

It's been nearly 19 years since Carr died of heart cancer, and Simmons said that the drummer, who was in Kiss from 1980 until his death in 1991, surely would have returned to reprise his Fox character after Criss left for good.

"Sure, oh yeah," Simmons said, his voice adopting a reverent tone. "He was a sweetheart and a hell of a drummer. He could write, he could sing. It was very tragic what happened to him, but I'll tell you that Eric Singer carries on the tradition."

"Sonic Boom," released last year, was the first album to feature this current lineup. The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, and was, as Stanley told Rolling Stone recently, "the first album in the next phase" of Kiss.

Asked to elaborate on Stanley's comment, Simmons said, "It means there are no more alcoholics or drug addicts in the band; That's a good start."

He likened Kiss to an athlete who has been found to be using performance-enhancing drugs.

"Any team gets revitalized when founding members who are dysfunctional are kicked out," he said. "And you respect that they were a part of the band and deserve any accolade that anybody else in the band gets, but it would also be the death knell of the band if they were in the band today."

As the only constant members of the band, Simmons and Stanley have both stated they'd like to see Kiss go on after they retire from the band.

"Why should any one person determine what something is?" Simmons mused. "When I was a kid, I used to think that without Mickey Mantle, there couldn't be a Yankees. Actually, there could. ... So anybody you think who's the definition without whom something can't exist, winds up being a momentary lapse of judgment.

"No one is too big for anything. Everyone can be replaced - and should be if they can't carry the weight."

THE DEMON, THE DAD

With a character named the Demon who spits blood and breathes fire on stage - which Simmons said he does "only when it's that time of the month" - and reportedly bedding more than 4,000 women and often displaying his long tongue, Simmons shows a different side of himself on his A&E reality show "Gene Simmons Family Jewels."

The highly rated show, which finished its fifth season last month, follows the personal lives of Simmons, his longtime partner Shannon Tweed and their two children Nick and Sophie.

To Simmons, though, he's just being himself.

"I've never made any bones about what I believe in or who I am," Simmons said. "I never wanted to get married - and I'm not. I've been happily unmarried with Shannon for 27 years now, but the idea of marriage is out of the question.

"I've never been high or drunk in my life, and that continues. And those are the same rules for the household. People think they're seeing a different side of me, but they're just seeing a clearer picture. There's nothing different."

Including his friendship with Stanley.

"Good God, we live a quarter of a mile from each other," Simmons shared with a laugh. "And if he wants a cup of sugar, I have lots. And if you are what you eat, I must be a really sweet guy."

MARKETING MASTERS

Almost as famous as Kiss' music - which includes 19 studio albums, nine live albums and 57 singles - is the band's vast array of merchandise. The Kiss logo has been put on everything from Marvel comic books, dolls and "Kiss Your Face Makeup" kits to condoms and the Kiss Kasket.

And the marketing campaign shows no sign of stopping.

"Kiss crack probably wouldn't be a good idea because you have to spell 'crack' with a K," Simmons replied when asked what the band wouldn't put the logo on. "I'm talking to you on a Kiss cell phone. The new generation of high-definition televisions are going to be Kiss-branded. They're massive - can't wait to get my hands on them.

"There are Kiss cameras that just hit - we're giving them out with the backstage experience people can get. The Kiss scooter just hit the stores and almost completely sold out. There's lots of fun stuff."

STILL HOTTER THAN HELL

Though there are longtime touring bands like The Rolling Stones and even "younger" bands like U2, with its 37 successful years behind it, Kiss is kind of in a class by itself.

"There are some solid bands who do this stuff," Simmons said. "But...we are the ones that kicked every band in the nuts, and, in essence, laid down the gauntlet (to say) it's not enough to come out there and sing the next song - you have to have a show."

When asked if there are any bands on the rise today that he could see having the longevity of Kiss, Simmons didn't pull punches.

"No, not in rock. It's a pretty sad state of affairs," he said. "I'll tell you who has the legs and the guts and the balls to hang in there and is fearless is Lady Gaga. She's got the goods."

AN ARMY OF FANS

One thing Kiss has made clear over the years is loyalty to its fans - the members of the Kiss Army. Two fans unofficially founded the Kiss Army in 1975, and in 2007, after a period of inactivity, the band named the Kiss Army its official fan club. Among its members is former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

During "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" and "Kissteria," viewers can see a very real look at what happens behind the scenes and how the band members interact with fans, which is almost always with a smile, an autograph or a photo.

"Well, look, don't be in a band. Pick up plumbing, become a dentist," Simmons said. "Part and parcel of this is some of you is owned by the fans... I think you owe it to yourself to be nice to your bosses. Without mincing words, the fans are the bosses. We just work here.

"The amount of love and admiration we have for them, I'd like to think, is unequaled. We sing their praises, and rightfully so. The Kiss Army is legendary, they're self-named, and I don't care if you're a U2 fan or a Rolling Stones fan, there is no name for that."

KISS ROCKED INDIANA STATE FAIR

No worries. KISS owned the state fair.

And why shouldn't they? One of the deepest-enmeshed traditions in our country is the annual state fair. A fair offers a slice of everything American, and you can find it all at the state fair -- from cows, pigs and horses to vegetable-growing competitions; from corn dogs and midway barkers to carnival rides and entertainment for the masses. And as far as entertainment's concerned, what act can possibly lay claim to being the most iconic and most American of them all? KISS.

In a recent interview, drummer Eric Singer stated "KISS has become a part of the fabric of Americana," and nowhere was that more evident than last night in Indianapolis, with more than 18,000 fans packing the Hoosier Lottery grandstand area in anticipation of the hottest show on the Earth. In fact, the demand was so high for seats in Indy that the grandstand was oversold, releasing unobstructed-view seats that they don't normally sell to the public. Like baseball, apple pie and lemonade, KISS is America.

Last night, like many other families, my husband and I brought our three children to the fair to see KISS. With KISS' long and illustrious career nearing the 40-year mark, their fan base now reaches across generations. And while when I was younger, it may not have been the "in" thing to have your parents liking KISS, but according to our kids, it's supremely cool now.

For many KISS Army members, passing the musical torch that is KISS to our children is almost ritual-like. We love to see their reactions as they experience the show just as much as we do. So, in ninety-degree heat, we and thousands of others awaited the drop of that famous black curtain branded with a silver KISS.

"All right Indiana... you wanted the best, you got the best!" When the curtain dropped, Eric Singer was atop his drum kit, gesturing with his drumsticks to the crowd, which was already screaming with anticipation. Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and Tommy Thayer rose over the drum kit on a silver platform, and as they stepped off, the platform folded away to reveal the enormous, lit logo of the band we love.

KISS opened with "Modern Day Delilah," quickly following with "Cold Gin," "Let Me Go, Rock and Roll," and "Firehouse." Throughout the tour, the set's been a great mix of KISS classics, old and new, and tonight was no exception. Paul Stanley has always been the consummate master of showmanship (please, someone just put Paul's picture next to the definition of "frontman" in the dictionary already!) and no other rock singer captures and holds a crowd of thousands quite the way Paul can. His stage presence, energy and ability are unmatchable by rock vocalists even half his age.

KISS continued its mix of old and new throughout the night. "Say Yeah," from the band's most recent album, "Sonic Boom," got a glorious response from the audience, with nearly every man, woman and child calling out "Yeah, yeah YEAH!" 1987's super-catchy singalong "Crazy Crazy Nights" followed shortly after, and it's one of my favorite additions to this tour's set list. (Some might argue the anachronism of seeing an in-makeup KISS perform a song from the non-makeup years, but I disagree. As a fan who spent her teen years deeply in love with 80s KISS, it's a delight to hear Paul singing this song again, especially after its nearly 20 years' absence from a tour setlist. And seeing the children in the audience sing along with every word in the chorus last night? Proof that it's as timeless as any other KISS classic.)

Tommy Thayer rocked his way through "Shock Me" and a joint guitar/drum solo with Eric that ended in an explosive firefight of pyrotechnics involving rockets and a bazooka, which the crowd ate up, roaring with approval. The Gene Simmons powerhouse "Animal" was another show highlight -- Gene prowled and oozed evil, swaggering around the stage in true Demon manner, again to the audience's delight.

Another show standout? Eric Singer's "Beth." KISS fans have heard "Beth" a thousand times before, but trust me when I say this is the most beautiful rendition of this song you'll ever hear live. Eric's vocal, both strong and tender, melds perfectly with the live, acoustic treatment this song deserves -- and the crowd, a singing, swaying, glowing mass of lighters and cellphones held high, agreed wholeheartedly.

Immediately after "Beth," Paul spoke about the band's continued committment to the CSRA Wounded Warrior Care Project. Throughout the tour, KISS has donated $1 for every ticket sold to Wounded Warrior Care, and last night, that running total exceeded $105,000. In an emotionally-charged speech, Paul urged fans to pray for the safe return of every one of the men and women serving our country. He then led the massive Indiana State Fair audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Looking around around the grandstand, I spotted many people with tears welling up in their eyes as they held their hands over their hearts, reciting our nation' pledge. How many rock bands today could unite their fans in such an incredibly moving, patriotic way?

Answer: One band. America's band. KISS.

And on this night, the Indiana State Fair, which offers everything from livestock events to a massive carnival midway to fair delicacies like chocolate-covered bacon and deep-fried butter, served up the most delicious treat of all to fair-goers ... America's beloved KISS.

KISS: LIVE CLIPS FROM INDIANAPOLIS

KISS SALUTES WOUNDED WARRIORS

ERIC SINGER: LIVING A DREAM

Others pounced.

Packs of critics and Kiss fans were far from content with Eric Singer's having - they would contend - the temerity to take on Peter Criss's Catman character, previously solely portrayed by the flamboyant rock band's original drummer. Even the late Eric Carr, the first to replace Criss in the early 1980s, didn't go that far; he was the Fox until the makeup-clad rockers dispensed with the war paint for a spell.

The mere mention of such cynics these days still brings Singer's claws out - a bit.

The accomplished drummer - he's also beat the skins for the likes of Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath - contends he's become very comfortable in his cat skin, so to speak, since putting it on in 2001.

"I'm totally fine with it. . . . I mean it's like all things in life," Singer said recently from his L.A. home.

"(In sports) people can love your team, and there's going to be people on the other side of the country that hate your team.

"No, I don't have an issue at all, and I know you can't make everybody happy.

Singer said he's confident many initial wounds have healed.

"Well, you still have a few naysayers. . . . There's no doubt about it," he said.

"That's one thing I tried to learn to accept many years ago, that no matter, I don't care if you are the nicest person in the world, there's going to be people in your life that are just not going to like you for some reason that they've decided, or for no reason. It's just the way it works. You can't make everybody happy.",P>Enough fans are evidently "happy" with the legendary rockers and the current lineup, which includes originals Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, as well as relative newcomer, lead guitarist Tommy Thayer (who, by the way, took on original member Ace Frehley's Spaceman character and, no doubt, took a few lumps early on).

Nearly 40 years after the band's humble genesis, Kiss concerts, complete with blinding light shows, deafening volumes, support-beam-skaking explosions and Simmons's notorious blood spitting, remain huge attractions. Indeed, there were lean years in the 1980s and some curious roster shuffles. New players were recruited and originals ? Criss and Frehley, in particular ? got the platform-heeled boot, were brought back and then later dismissed. But the band has re-emerged, partly thanks to its masterful merchandising and media manipulation.

Kiss products range from credit cards to caskets, and the A&E television show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, receives more than respectable ratings and has introduced the Kiss brand to a new generation that considers reality TV as the holy grail of entertainment.

Musically, the band has returned to its roots. The latest studio album, 2009's Sonic Boom, harkens back to the group's mid-1970s hard-rocking style. The formula evidently worked: Sonic Boom debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling 108,134 copies in its first week of release.

If there if is any doubt about Kiss's drawing power, just ask fans in a city where the band planned a show ? then pulled out.

It was announced in June the makeup-clad quartet would make good on its promise to play Essar Centre in a makeup date for its postponed Dec. 15 show. The Sault placed third in an online contest last year that let fan votes route the band's fall North American tour, but bad weather cancelled the final show of the tour.

Black ice be damned, some said. Reactions by fans quoted at the time ranged from "disappointed" to "pissed off."

But it appears all is patched up now, with faithful gearing up for Tuesday's sold out show. There's even pre- and post-concert gatherings slated for a couple of local pubs, and fans are encouraged to show up in all their Kiss glory: makeup, hairspray and all.

Singer and the boys weren't oblivious to discontent here.

"I remember reading some comments when the show got cancelled and they felt like, 'Oh we're going to get blown off, they'll never come back here.' " the drummer said.

"No. The only reason we cancelled the show was because the weather was bad. There was black ice on all those roads. We were in Pittsburgh at the time and the truckers all said, 'We don't want to take a chance. We don't think we can get there in time, it's really dangerous,' and we were advised to not do the show. So that's why. So we said, 'Well, we'll make it up at some point,' and here we are to make it up to everyone."

The show is part of Kiss's North American tour, dubbed The Hottest Show on Earth, which started on July 23, and Singer vows the Essar gig will be a dandy, with "bigger and better' effects, "more pyro" and "a third" of the set list shuffled from last year's tour, with three Sonic Boom selections tossed in.

"I don't want to give away too much," Singer said

"Let's say people (will) walk away, as they say in England, gobsmacked. Their jaws will drop. They really will. The show is a great show ? and I would say that even if I wasn't in the band. We don't just look good. . . . You close your eyes and Kiss sounds good. We're not all smoke and mirrors, is what I'm saying."

On the day of this interview, Singer is on a break - sort of.

Although the band has been off for a few days, most of his morning has been spent on the horn doing interviews with various media outlets. And the next day, Singer is expected to be up with the birds to catch an 8 a.m. flight for Philadelphia, where Kiss resumed the current leg of the tour.

He's not complaining. The current tour schedule allows for breaks every two weeks or so - something sort of foreign to touring rockers, Singer said.

"It's almost like stop, start, stop, start. . . . . But I kind of like it because I can sleep in my own bed and drive my car and go eat at all the places that I want," he said, the sound of a microwave beeping in the background indicating his cold coffee has been reheated. "You know, I do the things I want ? go to the gym and work out with my friends and do that kind of stuff. It's kind of weird. I'm on tour, but I'm not. You know it's kind of weird. It's just a different mindset for me. Something I have to get used to."

The 52-year-old might be described as a living testament to the old adage about persistence paying off. His on-again, off-again tenure with Kiss - Peter Criss was brought back a couple of times during Singer's nearly 20-year relationship with the band - became permanent when, in 2003, Simmons and Stanley opted not to renew Criss's contract.

Singer's been touring and recording with Kiss ever since, even claiming lead vocal credit for one Sonic Boom selection, All for the Glory.

Pretty heady stuff for a guy who, as a budding drummer in his late teens, worshipped Kiss and other powerhouse groups for which he's worked. In 2008, he actually toured with both Kiss and Alice Cooper, but has since devoted his drumming to the former.

"It's pretty amazing, because I was actually, in all honesty, a fan of both bands. . . . I love both the bands," Singer said.

"I always have Alice Cooper's Billion Dollar Babies on my Top 10 desert island list. I love that record, and still do to this day.

"Alice is a great guy and, look, I had a lot of great years playing with Alice. I don't rule out that I may not play with him again, but right now, Kiss is too busy and I'm happy to say we're very active in doing a lot of stuff with Kiss. So right now my focus and all my energy is all strictly on Kiss."

Working cheek by jowl with Stanley and Simmons also affords Singer an opportunity few have in seeing firsthand what really makes these rock legends tick.

"These guys know what they are doing," Singer said.

"They know music. They are unbelievably knowledgeable about music. Paul, out of anyone I've ever met in my life, probably knows more music trivia and minutiae. It's unbelievable his knowledge of songs. This guy knows more songs, the most obscure stuff. It's unbelievable. He's a real music aficionado, and so is Gene. They both really know their music theory, chords and voicing. (Simmons) always tries to tell you, 'Well, I don't really know what I'm doing, I don't believe I'm that much of a bass player.' He always tries to play it down and act like he doesn't know. He'll try to act like he's more about business and more about, like, presenting a product in a show and all that, but that's just posturing. Believe me."

And and far as showmanship, it doesn't get much better than Simmons.

"Gene is, pardon my French, f-----g nuts, I've got to tell you," Singer said.

"He really is. When he's on stage, he's out of his mind. I'll sit there and look at him and I've got to laugh, he's so intense and so into what he's doing. It really is sincere. He's really genuine. . . . He's very sincere about what's he doing. He loves being in Kiss. He loves doing the Kiss show, absolutely."

KISS: THE LEGEND CONTINUES

Such was the power of this dark mass of an album, so indelible its post-British Invasion guitar attack and pop-based hooks, so urgent and menacing its pace and attack.

To say nothing of the album cover itself. Here was a band of aliens, a garish collection of superheroes, each with his own fully developed persona: a tongue-curling demon wielding his bass guitar as if it were an extension of a rather threatening libido; a tripped-out spaceman tethered to the earthly plane only by the weight of the Gibson Les Paul strapped across his midriff; and a cat-like creature locked behind a massive drum kit, sticks raised above his head as if in some ancient, ritualistic gesture.

To the right of this motley collection there stood a sort of plumed peacock, an archetypal rock star in 10-inch heels with a pout aimed at every teenage girl who might happen to look his way, and whose coiffured head recalled the swirling ringlets of T. Rex frontman Marc Bolan.

Were these guys kidding?

No, as it turned out. Kiss represented the apotheosis of glam rock, the full consummation of Marvel comics, horror movies and teenage lust. That every song boasted a Rolling Stones-y guitar shuffle, a primitive but powerful guitar solo, and a killer chorus -- well, this did not hurt. "Alive!" became the New York City foursome's point of entry to world domination. Within a year of its release, Kiss owned most of the planet.

Thirty-five years later, as the band prepares to bring its "Hottest Show on Earth" tour to the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Friday, Kiss is still larger than life, still way over the top, still incredibly popular, and still cranking out fat-free arena rock classics.

The band's concerts now draw several generations of Kiss fanatics to gigs that offer no acknowledgment of the concert industry recession plaguing so many tours of late. Parents bring their kids, and share their love of Kiss as if passing along something of great value to their offspring. Original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are gone, but their replacements, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, are now full-fledged members of the band. More importantly, they've brought an unflagging solidity to the Kiss sound.

Last week, Kiss co-founder, rhythm guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and -- even still -- sex symbol Paul Stanley spoke to The News on the state of Kiss in 2010. Five minutes into a conversation with the man, it is glaringly apparent why Kiss remains so vital after all this time. Stanley is charming, intelligent, funny and incredibly confident, without being arrogant. He loves Kiss as much as his fans do.

Q: Though there are seasoned fans who still wish Ace and Peter were in the band, in many ways, Kiss has never sounded better. The band is incredibly tight, you've released your best studio album in decades with "Sonic Boom," and it seems that Tommy and Eric are a huge part of the sound now.

A: Really, we never have sounded better, and we've definitely never had more fun. For me, having the new material on "Sonic Boom" gives validity to what we're doing now. The way to experience what Kiss is about in 2010 is to listen to the new album and to go see the show, which is our biggest and best yet. It's important, I think, that we are a band in the present tense, that we're doing our best work right now. Tommy and Eric are a big part of that.

Q: I'm sure you have no desire to bad mouth Ace and Peter, but from the fans' perspective, there is a consistency in the playing now that was sometimes lacking in the past. Has this been a relief for you?

A: Absolutely, for both (bassist/vocalist) Gene (Simmons) and myself.

The thing is, Kiss could not have existed in the beginning without Ace and Peter. But it could not exist today with them. Being in this band is a privilege and an honor, a gift. If you disrespect that gift, you disrespect the fans, and you disrespect the legacy of the band. It doesn't matter who it is -- this applies to me, it applies to Gene, it applies to Tommy and Eric. If you don't respect this incredible gift that we've been given, then you lose it. It really is as simple as that.

Q: It must be hell trying to put together a set list these days, when you've got so much material to choose from, and so many different factions of the fan base eager to hear certain songs. What's your primary concern when getting the list together?

A: When it comes to set lists, the thing is, there's no sense of past members or present members -- it's just Kiss.

People come to the shows to hear Kiss do what Kiss does, and it's our job to deliver that. It's my belief that obscure songs are obscure songs for a reason! (laughs) If they stayed obscure, that's because fewer people liked them, and that means they probably just plain weren't as good.

For me, it's about this: We can now play "Modern Day Delilah" from the new album right next to something from "Love Gun" (1977), and it stands up. It's seamless.

Q: In 2008, you toured with your solo band, and for the first time, you were able to play songs from your original solo album [1978's "Paul Stanley," one of the four solo albums released by the members of Kiss simultaneously] like "Tonight You Belong to Me" and "Goodbye." Did the experience give you some new perspective on performing with Kiss?

A. That tour was so enjoyable for me. It reminded me of being a kid and going to the Fillmore East in New York City and seeing Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Humble Pie. These were no-frills shows, just people getting up there and blending their talent, their heart, their soul and their passion. That is always at the heart of whatever I'm doing. Kiss is all of that, plus. It's like the super-charged hot-red convertible version! (laughs) But underneath the hood, it's still all about the heart, the soul and the passion.

Q. Kiss has never been treated kindly by the press, and most writers wanted to dismiss the band as a joke without really addressing the music. You've never come across as anything but confident in the belief that your band was THE band, whatever anyone might suggest to the contrary. Surely, though, it must've bothered you a bit that the press never showed you any respect.

A. I've got kind of a big house. (laughs) I call it "the house that bad reviews built." Lately, we've started to get very positive reviews, for the first time ever. (Here, Stanley reads aloud from a review of a recent show.) So now, "the house that bad reviews built" has a whole new wing! (laughs)

It's nice to finally be acknowledged in reviews, but really, it has never made any difference to us. Why? Because Kiss is a band that plays for the Kiss tribe. These people are the barometer of our success, and they are very clear in their opinions. Their reviews always have been, and are still, the only reviews that matter to us.

KISS: FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM BOSTON

KISS: MORE LIVE CLIPS FROM PHILLY

KISS CONQUERS CAMDEN AND PHILLY

Frontman Paul Stanley owned the crowd leading them in whatever direction he chose, assuring that each member of the audience became part of the show. While Stanley hammed it up, Gene Simmons growled to the enjoyment of his screaming fans. Flanked by the solid musicianship of lead guitarist Tommy Thayer and the bombastic drumming of Eric Singer, the KISS of 2010 is by far the most solid lineup the band has assembled.

They covered the entire KISS catalog with hits including "Deuce," "Love Gun," "Lick It Up," "Black Diamond," "Crazy Crazy Nights," "I Love It Loud" and mixed in new songs from Sonic Boom, including "Say Yeah!" and "I'm An Animal."

The combination of theatrics and ear-shattering rock is what has kept KISS at the top of the list of must-see concerts for decades, and they still do it better than anyone. From Simmons' blood spitting and fire breathing to brand-new antics featuring Singer, Thayer and a bazooka, they continue to raise the bar living up to the moniker "The Hottest Show on Earth."

The band, while hugely successful on their own merits, also took time to pay homage to some of their favorites. Stanley performed a good portion of the Led Zeppelin classic "Whole Lotta Love" during the intro to "Black Diamond," while the entire band played a chunk of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again" during "Lick it Up."

Perhaps the most electrifying moment of the night came when Eric Singer emerged from behind the drum kit and joined the rest of the band on stage to perform one of the band's classic hits, "Beth." Over the years, the band occasionally took some flack for using a tape when former drummer Peter Criss would perform the song. The new, super-powered lineup took it to the next level with a stunningly lovely acoustic version of the beloved ballad.

No KISS concert would be complete without staples such as "Detroit Rock City" and closer "Rock and Roll All Nite," where the thousands of fans were doused in monstrous amounts of confetti. There wasn't a person in the Susquehanna Bank Center that wasn't singing along with rock's National Anthem. Simmons, Stanley, Singer and Thayer proved to Camden that this KISS is much more than just a kiss.

UNIVERSITY GRAD DESIGNS KISS LOTTERY TICKETS

Jessica Quintana, who graduated from ENMU in 2000 with a bachelor's degree in fine arts, designed the new popular KISS scratchers.

"They were fun," she said.

Lottery spokeswoman Linda Hamlin said the KISS lottery game launched June 22, and within four days, 80 percent of the 1,100 New Mexico Lottery retailers had the tickets on display and for sale. That is one of the fastest responses, she said.

Hamlin said the lottery has received e-mails from people around the country and around the world asking if they could buy KISS lottery tickets. People can only buy the game in New Mexico, except for the tickets Hamlin found for sale on eBay for $10 and $50.

Official retailers sell the KISS tickets for $5 each.

Hamlin said the KISS scratchers got started when lottery CEO Tom Romero, a KISS fan, invited the band to be featured in a lottery game in December. Because the group's image is licensed, the designers needed to work with the members on the tickets.

Quintana, a veteran in working with licensed material, created tickets with photos from the band, received approval from lottery employees and sent the designs to the KISS manager.

The manager sent the designs on to KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. Quintana said the group was on tour in Europe, but responded in about three days, compared to the three weeks some licensers take.

Quintana received messages saying "Gene" and "Paul" each wanted a different guitar used.

"That was really surreal to feel I was on a first-name basis with these superstars," she said.

Over Quintana's five years with the lottery, Hamlin said, she's developed skills to get licensed games developed in an efficient manner, and her temperament allows her to change her designs to suit owners of licensed material.

"She's just got a wonderful, wonderful temperament and a methodical approach to the process," Hamlin said.

Among other duties, Quintana has designed various lottery games with licensed material, including Betty Boop, Indiana Jones and Hershey's tickets.

Her time at ENMU affects her work today, Quintana said.

"My teachers were fantastic, and they really taught me a lot about how art is done today and how it was done before," she said.

When Quintana was 4 years old, she knew she wanted to become an artist, and she discovered graphic arts in college.

"I love to draw, and I love to be creative, and especially with this job, with the lottery, I get to showcase my art in 1,100 retailers," she said.

The native of Manzano, a small town in central New Mexico, said she wouldn't have been able to attend ENMU without a scholarship she received after attending high school in the town of Mountainair.

Therefore, she said, it's rewarding for her to work for an organization that provides scholarships for others to go to college as well.

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM CAMDEN LAST NIGHT

KISS DRUMMER KEPT COMING BACK

Whereas the fiery Martin managed the New York Yankees on five different occasions, Singer has been the drummer in KISS on three different occasions. He replaced Eric Carr (who himself replaced Peter Criss in 1980) in 1991, but when KISS decided to put the makeup back on in 1996, Criss returned to the band and Singer found himself on the street.

"A friend of mine said, 'It's not the music friends, it's the music business. The bottom line is like all things in life, sometimes you are on the good end of a decision and sometimes you are on the bad end of a decision," Singer said.

"I've known Paul for more than 20 years. I have a friendship with him. Do I take it personally? Sure I do. You have to learn to be an alligator and have tough skin to get through it. I understand why decisions were made. KISS is a company. You have to make decisions to keep it afloat. Sometimes, that means you get downsized."

In 2001, however, just before the Japanese and Australian leg of the Farewell Tour started, Criss left the band again, reportedly unhappy with the salary. Singer returned, but only stayed with the band for a year before Criss returned once again. Yet, when Criss' contract expired in 2004, Singer permanently replaced him.

These days, lineup changes (which were prominent in the 1980s as the band shuffled guitarists and drummers seemingly every two or three years) are as much a thing of the past as farewell tours (which the band did a decade ago for the original lineup).

The makeup has also returned, with Singer donning Criss' Catman costume (lead singer Paul Stanley is The Starchild, Gene Simmons is The Demon, and Tommy Thayer, who replaced Ace Frehley, is The Spaceman).

"We get along so well and play so well together," Singer said of the current lineup. "If, three years ago, you said that we'd be touring for the next three years and have a new record, I wouldn't believe it. I thought we'd do maybe 10-15 shows a year in places like Australia and Europe, with occasional corporate dates in the U.S."

The current KISS lineup will take the stage Saturday night at the Comcast Center in Mansfield. The show is part of the band's summer North American "Hottest Show on Earth" tour, which follows the band's KISS Alive/35 and Sonic Boom tours. The band is touring ostensibly behind its most recent album, last year's Sonic Boom, which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard album chart even though it was only sold exclusively at Walmart, missing the top spot thanks to crooner Michael Buble.

"When you have a lot of fun doing something, if people aren't coming to see you, there's no reason to keep playing," Singer said. "But KISS is growing into as big of a machine as before. It is a true pleasure."

Expect to hear such classic KISS cuts as "Detroit Rock City," "Rock & Roll All Nite" and "Beth," as well as see (and hear) pyrotechnics, the fake blood, and the makeup. It's something that, Singer says, everyone should experience. "I always say that going to a KISS concert is like going to Disneyland. You need to do it at least once."

It's cliche to make fun of KISS as a stage-show spectacle, but consider that the band has sold more than 19 million albums in the United States, 100 million albums worldwide, and has been around since 1973. They are doing something right, clearly, to have survived that long.

"Some bands have been around a lot of years, but you find out they never see each other offstage. Many bands, surprisingly, exist that way," Singer said. "We all love KISS and doing the KISS thing.

KISS plays at the Comcast Center in Mansfield on Saturday night. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $70.50, $25, and $20. For information or to purchase tickets, visit www.livenation.com.

Gene Simmons of KISS plays golf for Pacific University

And so much more. The leering Lothario with his self-proclaimed thousands of conquests. The misogynist boor whose verbal harassment of National Public Radio’s Terry Gross is one of the most notorious public broadcasting moments ever. The gleeful modern Barnum who summarizes his contempt for rock-for-art’s sake by declaring that he “never wanted to be in a rock’¤n’¤roll band, I wanted to be in a rock’¤n’¤roll brand.”

Or maybe he’s the pussycat father in “Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels,” the documentary-style sitcom about the family he has with longtime companion (and 1982 Playboy playmate of the year) Shannon Tweed.

Simmons is all that and even more. And last weekend he was right here in Aloha, headlining Pacific University’s fourth annual Legends Golf Classic, a high-dollar, star-studded fundraiser for the school’s athletic programs.

Not because Simmons, or any member of his clan, has a connection to the school, either. That would be too predictable. This is all about Kiss guitarist — and Washington County native — Tommy Thayer. He didn’t attend the school either but is nevertheless a member of Pacific’s board of trustees, the one whose showbiz connections, along with his public-spiritedness and his unbelievably nice demeanor (call him the Homecoming King, it totally fits) make him one of the school’s most potent fundraisers and attention-getters.

Much of this is due to the Legends golf tourney, which weaves golf, rock’¤n’¤roll, pro sports and well-to-do Oregonians into a two-day event that is both a quick sellout and a huge fundraising tool for Pacific.

And here’s how it all went down.

SUNDAY

It’s 3 p.m., more than two hours until the festivities start. No matter, the camera crew for A&E’s “Gene Simmons’ Family Jewels” is already in tight formation on the Reserve’s deck, capturing the apparently casual late lunch being enjoyed by Simmons, Tweed, Thayer and his wife, Amber. Hard to know what they’re talking about (don’t even ask to go out there, you can’t), so let’s think instead about Thayer.

The suburban son of a military officer-turned-entrepreneur, Thayer fell in love with rock’¤n’¤roll as a middle-schooler, got a guitar (a blue Fender Mustang) soon after and that was that. A procession of garage bands led to Black & Blue, a metal band successful enough to score a major label deal and nearly a decade on the cusp of big-time success that never quite happened. Already friendly with Simmons (Black & Blue opened shows for Kiss) Thayer joined the Kiss organization as a kind of apprentice. He played on demo recordings. He fetched coffee. He worked as a road manager.

“I had the work ethic to be there on time every day and do whatever it takes,” he says later. “Now I can proudly say that I’ve been in the top spot, as lead guitarist, for eight years.”

Thayer’s clear-eyed, goal-centric attitude is perfectly matched to Simmons’ old-world industrialist perspective, and the older man (who is 60, 10 years Thayer’s senior) gazes at Thayer with the paternal pride of an entrepreneur who already knows his company will be in excellent hands when he leaves.

“I could certainly play a role in Kiss’ next generation,” Thayer says. “It’d be a natural thing.”

3:30 p.m.: Down in the pavilion, one of those huge white function tents that come wired for lights and sound, an all-star band (of sorts) prepares for the acoustic concert that will follow tonight’s auction. Jack Blades (Night Ranger, Damn Yankees) leads the group, with contributions from Thayer, ex-Chicago drummer Danny Seraphine and a few others. They’ll do songs from everyone’s repertoire, (imagine an acoustic “25 or 6 to 4” and “Sister Christian”) plus the Beatles, Stones, etc.

“Wait for the whap-boom before the tag,” Blades instructs. They all know exactly what he’s talking about. Meanwhile, “celebrity liaise” Lydia Ewing stands nearby, wielding multiple phones and handheld devices to make sure all the musicians and professional athletes are not only where they need to be, but as happy as they deserve to be. It’s a breeze, she says, particularly compared with the years she spent performing similar tasks for the Clinton administration. So when Ewing’s phone erupts with news that Kiss manager Doc McGhee’s wife has arrived, unexpectedly, with a hotel-verboten lapdog, Ewing barely shrugs.

5:30 p.m.: Now come the attendees. The first car turns out to be not just a limo, but a Hummer stretch limo, glossy and black, which disgorges half a dozen middle-aged couples, divided evenly between nicely coifed women in light summery gowns and guys in khakis, designer bowling shirts and wrap-around shades. All stride past Pacific’s event photographers without breaking stride, not because they’re personally famous but because in the age of 24/7 celebrity media, everyone knows how to fend off the paparazzi.

6 p.m.: Auction items: Rounds of golf with celebrity guests from Simmons to ex-Oregon football coach Mike Bellotti, every musician in sight, a herd of retired jocks (NFL, MLB, NASCAR, PGA, LPGA) and actor Clint Howard, who has been in a ton of movies, not all of them directed by his brother, Ron. Plus the usual high-end auction prizes: vacations; Amber Thayer’s designer jewelry; Willamette Valley wines; on and on. And there’s the open bars and the circulating platters of free drinks. Do you suppose there’s a relationship between a person’s alcohol consumption and an impulsive decision to bid $10,000-plus for a guitar autographed by ex-Eagle Don Felder? How about a registered (No. 4256) Pete Rose-signed baseball?

6:20 p.m.: It’s Pacific president LesleyM. Hallick, who was the provost at OHSU for 20 years before taking Pacific’s top job last year. She’s also a trained microbiologist and spends her downtime raising cattle on a ranch in Scappoose. Now her job involves chatting with Simmons, which Hallick admits strikes her as a “surprising” turn of events.

“I’m not really a Kiss expert,” she admits. “I’m more a folk music fan. But I’m learning. And Gene is a lot of fun.”

6:55 p.m.: Simmons enters the pavilion tent after everyone is seated. He’s wearing lizard-skin (it appears) cowboy boots, designer jeans, a pinstripe jacket and dark shades. And his hair all but defies description. It’s definitely thick and inky-black, textured in a way that seems contrary to its natural inclinations. Though “natural” seems like a stretch, too.

7 p.m.: Dinner is served, along with opening remarks from emcee Lisa Guerrero, who you may know from “Monday Night Football,” “The Best Damn Sports Show Period” or her current gig on “Inside Edition.” She’s smart and funny and full of unapologetic jokes about the tidal wave of alcohol sweeping through the tent. The whole night, she decrees, is a drinking game: “Whenever anyone asks for money, you take a drink.” The audience, which clearly requires no such prompting, howls.

8 p.m.: Everybody loves Thayer. His “spirit and incredible generosity,” his willingness to circulate through the tent, distributing handshakes, hugs and smiles-for-the-cellphone-cam with unending cheer. He’s eager to chat but later. “Definitely, I’m psyched to do it. Now just hang out, have some fun, enjoy yourself, OK?”

10 p.m.: “The Oregonian, The Oregonian, The Oregonian.” This is Simmons talking. He first heard the paper’s name in 1974, he explains, and always hated it. “Who came up with that? What were they thinking, that everyone had to know precisely where they were located? I think it’s time to re-brand.”

MONDAY

12:30 p.m.: Another day, another mass of cameras, microphones and reporters gathered around Simmons. A double ring this time, with local news cameras shooting in front and A&E’s cameras capturing the scene from just beyond. Random phrases float up. “The backbone of what America is all about,” Simmons says. “No excuse for whining.” When time runs out, Simmons calls a halt. “Nice to see you!” he chirps. “Now, get out!’

1 p.m.: Simmons has never picked up a golf club, so the A&E cameras know exactly what they’re after: awkwardness, good-natured humiliation and a flash or two of progress. He provides plenty of the former, then by the fourth tee shows a glimmer of the latter in a drive that lands surprisingly close to the distant green. Dan Dutton, the former CEO of Stimson Lumber, has taken on the role of alpha-golfer, telling the others when to hit and where to aim, and is duly impressed. “You’re really gettin’ it!’ he proclaims.

3 p.m.: Thayer, on the other hand, is a natural leader of his own foursome. Not just because that’s his name on the tournament, but also because he can nail soaring drives and sink tricky, 30-foot putts, while making the whole affair look breezy and, really, no hassle at all. “Let’s go for it, guys!” he calls at one point. Then, later: “Another birdie! And a beautiful day, what else can we ask for?”

Pacific University certainly scored with its unlikely trustee, just as Simmons’ informal apprenticeship program reaped a fine new rock¤’n’¤roll executive. No wonder they fit so easily with the corporate executives, lawyers, stockbrokers and other big-money college donors. They’re all playing the same game, spinning the wheels of commerce in their own particular ways.

“He’s an intelligent person, not that guy you see with the painted face,” Dutton says approvingly of the man he’d coached through his first 18 holes. “That Kiss brand is one of the more high-profile brands in the country. He’s a very successful businessman, so to have him take the time to come out was fantastic.”

Turns out, there’s more than one way to party every day.

KISS IN CAMDEN TONIGHT

So it's not surprising that the cartoonish rock band has dubbed its latest jaunt the "Hottest Show on Earth Tour" with a stop tonight at the Susquehanna Bank Center.

"There's a good reason that we went with that name for our tour," drummer Eric Singer says while calling from Los Angeles. "We're still a hot act. No band brings it like Kiss."

The veteran band, which continues to be led by vocalist-guitarist Paul Stanley and vocalist-bassist Gene Simmons, still plays the big arenas and sheds around the country. The "Kiss Army" continues to support the band, and its contingent is expanding.

"We're seeing a lot of younger fans come out to our shows," says Singer. "So we have the older and definitely the younger, who are so enthusiastic."

The veteran Kiss fans have introduced the kids to anthemic staples such as "Detroit Rock City" and "Deuce."

The group has little choice but to play the array of old chestnuts.

"We have played those songs countless times, but they never get old to us," Singer says. "We love to play 'Black Diamond,' 'I Was Made For Loving You' and 'Love Gun.' How can you not play the songs that made this band legendary? It's a privilege to play Kiss classics. We love it."

The members of Kiss are getting long of tooth, so it's probably not a bad time for the quartet to sport makeup."It's part of the ritual," Singer says. "We're always pumped up to lay things out in a theatrical manner. It's a cool thing going out in the makeup and the cool clothes. This band has always been about being larger than life. There just aren't many bands out there that are larger than life anymore. We're living in an ordinary era and then you have Kiss, which is still all about being big."

The shows aren't just big. The Kiss concerts are lengthy.

"We go out there every night and do two-hour-plus shows," Singer says. "I don't know if we have a choice because we have so many songs to play. We're getting older, but we've been doing this for years and the guys in this band are in such good shape. But that's what we have to be to pull off a show like you'll see when we come to town. We go all out when we play, so you experience a show that you'll never forget."

For Paul Stanley, success is not a dirty word

Who says? KISS singer/guitarist Paul Stanley of course.

Stanley, Gene Simmons and the other two masked men (longtime supporting players guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer) are back for their second Boston-area date in less than a year Saturday at the Comcast Center. Stanley dialed the Herald to talk about a possible KISS fridge, a probable new album and finally getting great reviews.

You guys were just here. What is this, a victory lap?

The last 35 years have been a victory lap for us. No one other than our fans thought we were going to win, but we've spent the last two years playing to 10,000 at the smallest show and 90,000 at the biggest around the world. We just wanted to bring the hottest show on Earth, the best show we've ever done, back to the States. Once again, we are the winners.

You have so many albums and songs. How do you balance playing the hits and obscure songs your cult loves?

I'm one of those people who believes that songs are obscure for a reason. Hold on a second. (The chattering of a child can be heard in the background.) Sorry, my kids rule my house. Where were we?

Hits vs. cult classics.

Right. KISS has built its name on pleasing the masses. I won't play a song to make 25 people happy and have 25,000 scratching their heads. I once saw the Stones in a theater doing their obscure songs, and by the third song it was boring. People pay for the hits, so we give them the hits.

I just read there'll be a KISS refrigerator. Is that true?

I didn't authorize a KISS fridge. But if somebody wants a KISS fridge, let them have a KISS fridge. We're not marketing geniuses. We listen very carefully to what our fans want and we give it to them. It's only after we listen and put the product out that we're called marketing geniuses.

I'm thinking about the Dr. Pepper commercial that's everywhere. Many bands in the so-called indie community think it's abhorrent to sell songs to advertisers, what do you say to those bands?

Wake up and smell the coffee. If those indie bands keep that philosophy they'll be flipping burgers soon enough. There's a reason that it's called the music business. Putting your song in a commercial doesn't negate your creativity.

The concept of selling out is meaningless to KISS, right?

Success isn't selling out. We've never had to sell out because we've always done things on our terms. I didn't get into this to have a fan base of 100. I will gladly fly in the private jet to the show and make no apologies for being loved worldwide. Hold on a second. Listen to this from Rolling Stone: "KISS proved why they are the reigning kings of theater rock, delivering an electric two-hour, 21-song set of glam-rock smashes, newer tunes, over-the-top pyrotechnics." Regardless of what the naysayers say, I didn't have to sell out to get these kind of reviews.

Is it nice to have the critics finally loving what you do?

I didn't get into this for validation, but I'll take it as long as it's on my terms.

How did KISS survive so many changes in the music industry?

There's always going to be a flavor of the week. And every year has not been the pinnacle of our career. Ali didn't win every fight, but he's still called the greatest.

Gene's been doing reality TV for a decade. Why aren't you pushing to raise your profile?

I've steered the ship the way I've wanted it to go. I'm too busy living a real life to live a scripted one. There's no appeal in that for me. Which isn't to knock it. The great thing about success is the ability to do whatever you want.

So you and Gene aren't competitive?

No, we're very different people. He'd make a horrible me. We're family in the best of ways. You don't want to spend all your time with your brother, but he's still your brother.

Will we get another album soon?

Yes. "Sonic Boom" wasn't the last album but the first of the next phase of KISS. We had to do that album. We were getting along too well, sounding too good, not to put our boot down, so to speak. It's the beginning of something new.

You're donating a dollar of every ticket to veterans charities. Whose idea?

We went to a rehab center in Augusta, Ga., one that really should be a model for the rest of the country. Meeting these men and women and having them screwed out of what they're entitled to is unconscionable. We've raised $77,000 in five shows, so it's only the beginning.

KISS Featured On 'Madden NFL 11' Soundtrack

After 10-plus years of being a foremost showcase for introducing new artists, the Madden NFL 11 soundtrack focuses on stadium authenticity with classic fan-favorites by AC/DC, QUEEN, KISS, OZZY OSBOURNE (including his new hit "Let Me Hear You Scream"), GUNS N' ROSES, THE HIVES, GARY GLITTER, BLUR, YING YANG TWINS and TODD RUNDGREN. Adding to the unprecedented authenticity are official team fight songs of the Green Bay Packers, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins and more.

"The term 'Madden Music' has come to mean music that matches the intensity of the video game," says said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music and Marketing for EA. "This year, we wanted the music to not only define the game, but also the stadium experience. These are the classics that consistently bring NFL crowds to their feet. It's an exciting new audio direction for Madden NFL, one that we know all fans will respond to. There is nothing like the experience of live football in a packed stadium, and the Madden NFL 11 soundtrack absolutely brings that excitement home."

The complete in-game soundtrack for Madden NFL 11 includes:

Original Recordings:
* AC/DC - Thunderstruck
* ARCHIE EVERSOLE - We Ready
* BLUR - Song 2
* BUSH - Machinehead
* GUNS N' ROSES - Welcome to the Jungle
* KEVIN RUDOLF featuring LIL' WAYNE - Let It Rock
* KISS - Rock and Roll All Nite
* OZZY OSBOURNE - Let Me Hear You Scream
* OZZY OSBOURNE - Crazy Train
* THE HIVES - Tick Tick Boom
* TODD RUNDGREN - Bang the Drum
* YING YANG TWINS featuring HOMEBWOI - Halftime

Cover Versions:
* Rock N Roll Part 2 - as made famous by GARY GLITTER
* We Will Rock You - as made famous by QUEEN
* Crowd Chant - as made famous by JOE SATRIANI
* Kernkraft 400 - as made famous by ZOMBIE NATION

Team Fight Songs:
* Chicago Bears - Bear Down Chicago Bears
* Detroit Lions - Gridiron Heroes
* Green Bay Packers - Go Packers Go!
* Miami Dolphins - Miami Dolphins #1
* Minnesota Vikings - Skol Vikings
* Philadelphia Eagles - Fly Eagles Fly
* Washington Redskins - Hail to the Redskins

Madden NFL 11 will be available on August 10 for the Xbox 360 video game system from Microsoft, PlayStation2 and PlayStation 3 computer entertainment systems, Wii, and PSP (PlayStation Portable) handheld entertainment system. Madden NFL 11 will also be available for download globally on mobile platforms including iPod touch and feature phones.

NEW KISS NEXT YEAR

The glam rock legends revealed to Rolling Stone magazine that their plan is to end their current touring cycle later this year, have a break and then head into the studio in February to work on the follow up to last year's excellent Sonic Boom. The new record will hopefully be with us by the end of the summer.

"Sonic Boom was something that fortified us and really united us in the sense that we're now celebrating everything we've done in the past, the present, and where we're going in the future," said Stanley. "Sonic Boom is not the last album. It's the first album in the next phase."

In the Rolling Stone article Paul Stanley revealed that the band faced a tough task fitting in newer songs with their hits, and why they are determined not to fall into the trap of mining their back catalogue for lesser known tracks.

"We don't want to fall into the thing where you have to play obscure songs," said Stanley. "I'm a big believer that a song is obscure for a reason: Songs that aren't as popular aren't as good."

KISS' Hottest Show On Earth Tour is scheduled to run until the end of September in North America.

GUITAR CENTER'S SWEEPSTAKES FEATURING KISS

Prize: One (1) Grand Prize:

* Two (2) VIP tickets to see "KISS" LIVE on September 24, 2010 (for Winner and one eligible Guest)

* One (1) trip for two (2) (the Winner and one eligible "Guest") to Phoenix, AZ, to see the Concert. The Trip includes round trip coach airfare for two (from a major commercial airport near winner's residence within the continental United States), hotel (3 day/2 night - double occupancy), car service to and from the local airport.

* Three (3) Guitars from KISS as follows: one (1) Washburn from Paul Stanley: one (1) Les Paul Standard from Tommy Thayer; and one (1) Axe-Bass from Gene Simmons.

* A "Meet & Greet" with KISS!

* The opportunity to play, as the "eligible contestant" the "$1,000,000 Dice Roll"

ENTER NOW for you chance to win!

Rejuvenated band comes to Comcast Center on strength of well received new CD

The previous Kiss studio CD "Psycho Circus" did little to prove that the band still had creative life in it.

The CD was billed as the return of the original Kiss, since it came in the midst of the reunion of guitarist/singer Paul Stanley and bassist/singer Gene Simmons with the two other original members, guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss.

"Psycho Circus," though, ended up being a lackluster effort on a musical level, and far less than advertised when it came to being called a triumphant return of the classic Kiss lineup.

Instead, Frehley and Criss hardly played on that 1998 CD, with studio musicians stepping in to handle what ostensibly were their parts. The band also had several outside writers contribute to roughly half of the songs.

So Kiss had something to prove when they decided they wanted to make the new studio CD, "Sonic Boom." For one thing, this was a new lineup for Kiss, with guitarist Tommy Thayer, making his full-fledged debut, and drummer Eric Singer, who since 1996 has been the band's drummer whenever Criss wasn't in the lineup. KISSNow a little more than a year later, the verdict on "Sonic Boom" is in, and it's been positive, with some critics even saying it's the best CD from the band since early career albums like "Dressed To Kill" and "Destroyer."

Thayer is pleased to have seen "Sonic Boom" win such support.

"I think on a lot of different levels, it has had impact," Thayer said in an early July phone interview. "First of all, just as far as the music and being a great Kiss record, check that off the list. In terms of the band, the lineup, this incarnation of the band, a lot of people from a critical standpoint would say, 'They're just kind of re-creating what's happened in the past. They're just out there playing the songs of the '70s and early '80s,' and things like that. And I think what has happened here has put that to rest, too, because suddenly it's a viable, creative unit that can put together a great record and go out on tour with a fresh new approach to songs and writing and things."

Interestingly, the band decided if Kiss was going to fail on "Sonic Boom," there would be no one to blame but the band members themselves, as Stanley took the reins on the project.

"We were lucky to have Paul kind of spearheading the project, taking charge and being the leader," Thayer said. "It's really important to have somebody doing that in the producer's role. In this case it was just important in laying a groundwork for what direction we're going in, and it worked very well to have him doing that. Of course, nobody knows Kiss better than Paul does."

The success of "Sonic Boom" represents a welcome turn of fortunes for Kiss, whose future looked cloudy only a few years ago. Gene Simmons, left, and Tommy Thayer of Kiss perform in 2008 in Prague, Czech Republic. (AP file photo)The reunion tour of 1996-97 with the four original members was a major success as a live venture, but by the end of the decade, it appeared the band's days were numbered. In early 2000, the band announced it would do a farewell tour that would run from that summer into 2001. Before the tour was over, Criss split with the group, and Singer, who had joined the group following the death from cancer of drummer Eric Carr, rejoined Kiss to finish the farewell tour - which of course, turned out to be far from a final jaunt.

By 2002, Frehley had also played his final gig, with Thayer filling that slot. When the band returned to the road in 2003 to co-headline a tour with Aerosmith, Criss had been brought back, prompting Singer to say he would never play with Kiss again. This time, Criss lasted only for about a year, and as shows became sporadic over the next four years, it truly looked as if Kiss might actually fade from scene.

But in 2008, with the 35th anniversary of the band's formation in New York City looming, Kiss announced it would begin is "Kiss Alive/35 World Tour," with Singer and Thayer joining Stanley and Simmons.

Now Kiss gets to continue cementing the idea that the band is back on track both creatively and as a live unit by touring amphitheaters this summer and fall. Thayer said the show is notably different from the one the band took on the road last fall.

"I know this sounds like a typical answer, but it is bigger than ever," he said. "It's a bigger stage. We've got more effects, bigger pyro and added songs. We have a new opening as well. So there are a lot of new bells and whistles. You try and take a Kiss show and take it to a new level, and that's really what we try to do each time because it has to be bigger than the time before."

"Kiss Legends Golf Tournament Keeps On Rockin!"

The tournament kicked off with a silent auction fueled by the famous Kiss Goodnight cocktails(Black Cherry Vodka and cranberry juice.) A 4 course sit down dinner featuring 2008 Desert Wind Ruah Bordeaux blend, 2009 Duck Pond Pinot Gris and 2005 Duck Pond Semillon Desert Wine was perfect with the entree grilled flat iron steak with parsley red skin potatoes, baby carrots and wild mushroom demi-glace. The emcee was acclaimed sportscaster and Monday Night football broadcaster Lisa Guerrero.

The live auction was full of energy and raised lots of money for the university. 3 people bought signed Kiss guitars for $15,000 each. Gene Simmons sweetened the purchase with invitations and back stage passes to a future Kiss concert.

The highlight was a special concert with Tommy Thayer and friends. Jake Blades of the famous band Night Ranger, Danny Seraphine original drummer for Chicago, Johnny Lee Urban Cowboy fame and biggest hit Looking For Love, and Ray Kennedy famous song writer with Dave Mason, Brian Wilson and Fleetwood Mac entertained the crowd with lively music, dancing and fun. Former LA Ram Leroy Irvin and others joined this vibrant group on stage to help Tommy and crew do a few songs. Kiss favorite "Rock and Roll All Night Long" had everyone dancing and smiling into the wee hours with many "Goodnight Kisses."

Golf the next day was highlighted by a clinic with one of the top rated teaching professionals Tommy Masters. He is rated as one of Golf Magazine's top 100 instructors. Long drive Champion Sean Fister also hit some long bombs. He told us that he has hit the ball over 500 yards and can carry it 360 yards. A putting contest, lunch and cocktails preceded the 1:00 Shot gun that filled both the North and South courses at the Reserve. A brief opening ceremony featured Tommy and Gene wishing everyone good luck. Gene had the cameras follow him around for his Family Jewels program and has not played much golf before so it will be a very interesting future TV segment.

We got paired with some great golfers and good guys. Eddy Goldenberg and Alan Skuba from Palm Desert and Dr. Brett Johnson a local dentist. We had the good omen of starting out on lucky number 7. Having played in many of these kind of events, I know it was going to be a good day when Eddy nearly aced the par three number seven. We finished 15 under par and won the Pro-Am with each of us getting Callaway drivers. I was lucky and made a 50 foot putt on one hole to secure a one stroke victory. Alan Skuba is a long time manager with Big Horn in the desert and his long time friend Mack Wiebe rode along with us. Mack is the proud father of Senior Professional Mark Wiebe and had some good tips for Alan to lead us to victory. A final awards presentation was held and followed by a golf ball drop. 500 people bought a chance to win closest to the hole when a helicopter dropped the 500 balls on the putting green.

The weather was perfect and Pacific University benefited from very generous patrons. My partner Alan Skuba summarized the day when he said on our last hole, 'I can't believe we are on the last hole already. It is days like this that you never want to end." Tommy said he promises to make it even bigger next year. Great event Tommy! MJ and I are looking forward to "rockin" with you and Gene again next year!

PACIFIC UNIVERSITY'S LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC

Perfect weather, a star-studded field of celebrities and two days of entertainment, music and golf, has translated into another huge success for the Pacific University Legends Golf Classic.

Hosted by KISS guitarist and Beaverton native Tommy Thayer, the fourth annual tournament grossed over $425,000 to benefit Pacific University's 21-sport NCAA Division III athletics program. For the first time, the event was a sell out with over 400 people attending the Sunday dinner, auction and concert, and 185 people participating in the Monday golf tournament. The event was held at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club in Aloha.

"I sincerely thank everyone involved for making the 2010 Legends Golf Classic a huge win for Pacific University," Thayer said. "Legends continues to become bigger ever year and 2010 tops them all. We will continue to make a difference in the lives of Pacific University's student-athletes."

KISS co-founder Gene Simmons joined Thayer as the featured celebrity at this year's tournament. Simmons filmed an episode of his reality television show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, at the event, focusing on his first-ever attempt at playing golf. The episode is schedule to air early this fall on the A&E Network.

Simmons himself was a moneymaker for the University as the opportunity to play golf with him and KISS manager Doc McGhee raised $30,000 at the Sunday live auction. The opportunity to play golf with tournament host Thayer fetched $10,000.

Other highlights of the 2010 Pacific University Legends Golf Classic:

* PGA Professional Tommy Armour III hit a hole-in-one on the par-3, 194-yard 11th hole on The Reserve's South Course.

* A field of 23 celebrities from the worlds of music, sports and golf participated in the tournament. Among those joining Thayer and Simmons were PGA professionals Tommy Masters and Jason Allred, LPGA pros Perry Swenson and Amber Prange, musicians Jack Blades, Ray Kennedy, Danny Seraphine and Johnny Lee, NFL standouts Neil Lomax and Leroy Irvin, MLB stars Scott Erickson, Chuck Finley and Chili Davis; actors Lisa Guerrero and Clint Howard and NASCAR legend Geoff Bodine.

* Lisa Guerrero hosted Sunday night's dinner and live auction, which grossed over $425,000 for the Pacific University athletics program. The auction was followed by a special concert featuring Thayer and Night Ranger front man Jack Blades.

* The tournament concluded with a golf ball drop from a helicopter, which flew overhead at the conclusion of the event. Participants had the chance to purchase golf balls, which were then dropped from a helicopter over The Reserve's driving range. The person whose ball landed closest to the pin won $2,500, which was promptly donated back to Pacific University.

* Tremendous media attention brought the tournament's excitement to the larger Portland area. The Legends Golf Classic was covered on-site by media sponsor KGW Newschannel 8, KPTV Fox 12 Oregon, the Forest Grove News-Times and The Oregonian. Extensive pre-tournament interviews were aired on the "Wheels At Work" show on media sponsor 95.5 The Game (KXTG-FM). The tournament also netted national media attention, which included appearances by Thayer on the Golf Channel's Grey Goose 19th Hole and on Sporting News Radio's Tim Brando Show.

Team winners in the tournament's three competitive flights:

* Celebrity Flight: BP America (Michael Abenhoff, Kurt Eickmeyer, Mark Fontana, Brian Rehm, Scott Erickson)
* PGA Flight: Norton Group (Chad Norton, Charlie Norton, Jimmy Stephensen, Chris Yach, Perry Swenson)
* Boxer Flight: Golf Today (Eddy Goldenberg, Brett Johnson, Alan Skuba, Mike McColgan)

The planning has already begun for the fifth annual Legends Golf Classic, which will take place in August 2011. For more information, to view celebrity biographies or check out the media coverage of the event, please visit www.pacificlegendsgolf.com.

'Recording KISS' Documentary Posted Online

German company RME has produced a documentary about the recording of the 2010 KISS live show. The 14-minute film, which features interview clips with the engineers about recording and producing the merchandising MP3 USB stick in real time during the show, can be viewed in two parts below.

"Recording Kiss" - Part 1, "Recording Kiss" - Part 2.

KISS AT GUITAR CENTER VIDEO INTERVIEW

Speaking with Gene Simmons: KISS still Alive after 35, and 'better than ever'

It had already been eight years since Kiss recorded "Psycho Circus," the first disc featuring the band's original members in nearly 20 years, amid a five-year reunion tour that brought Stanley and co-founder Gene Simmons back together with former members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss.

Fast-forward to today.

Kiss not only recorded a new album, "Sonic Boom," in 2009, but it became the group's highest-charting disc ever, reaching No. 2 on Billboard's albums chart.

And now the group is two years into a tour to celebrate the 35th anniversary of its breakthrough disc, 1975's "Alive," which gave the band its first Top 10 album, as well as its first hit, "Rock and Roll All Night."

They play at Hersheypark Stadium tonight.

In a recent telephone calling from Los Angeles, where the band was appearing on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," bassist Gene Simmons talked about the band, its future and KISS's legacy.

Here's a transcript of the interview:

Lehigh Valley Music: Hey Gene, how are you?

Simmons: "I'm deliriously happy."

Ha! Are you at the Leno show?

"Yes,"

You're on there solo?

"No, KISS was playing tonight."

How's the tour going?

"Fantastic. It really is amazing. Except our crew talks when we do interviews [loud voices heard in the background] so we're going to shut them out. We are having a ball, as you can imagine. How'd you like to get up on stage, wear more make-up and high heels than your mommy does? "

Ha, ha. OK, but this many years into it - still fresh for you? Still exciting?

"Just absolutely love it. Better than ever, no drug addicts or alcoholics in the band, no excuses. No dark clouds. It's just great to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle again. No excuses, no nothing. I mean, after all, we introduced ourselves with 'You wanted the best, you got the best. The hottest band in the world.' We're calling this the hottest show on earth.' So you've gotta have some king-sized nuts to go out there with two of the guys just dragging their sorry butts around. This has been an ongoing tour now for approaching two years. We started almost two years ago in Australia to 80,000 or 90,000 people and continued on, went through Europe twice. We just came back to American and this is our second time through America. But this time we're playing all the cities but only single nights. We're trying to hit as many places as possible. And we just added three stadiums in Mexico and we're going to Central American and South America. We have a ball."

No offense, but you guys - you and Paul [Stanley, KISS's songer/front man] are not kids.

"You can't offend me. You can offend Paul, though."

Ha. Is it more difficult to do?

"No. No, I think if you see us, you'll see that it's actually gotten more convincing. Because it's like a kid having sex for the first time - you blow your wad in five seconds. The more you do it, the longer you can go, because you know how to pace yourself. It's like nervous fighters who get in the ring the first time, they get knocked out right away; they don't know how to jab and stay in there and go for the knockout when it's ready."

Well, right - you know when to push yourself to the limit and when not to, I guess.

"Yeah, because if the spotlight's on [guitarist] Tommy [Thayer] taking a solo, and I'm jumping up and down killing myself and you can't see me on the screens, or people are looking the other way, it?s a wasted energy."

Along with that, the new album, "Sonic Boom," comes out, -- your highest chart debut ever. How much validation is that for you?

"Not much. It really hasn't ever been an issue. Most important, although it sounds cornball, is the fans. The fact that we can - here we are doing 'Modern Day Delilah' on Leno and not, I don't know, 'Duece' or 'Dr. Love' or something. But you know, the old stuff holds up. There's a Dr. Pepper commercial , 'Calling Dr. Love.' There are any number of other products that use 'Rock and Roll All Night,' and stuff like that. So the old stuff is going great. And we're playing, I don't know, about half the record live. And going into the '80s and doing that stuff. In fact, this tour takes bits and pieces from every decade. I'm proud to say I'm the voice of the new Guitar Hero."

I read that. Congratulations.

"I read that, too, as a matter of fact."

I interviewed Paul back in '06, when he did his solo disc, and at that time he was saying he envisioned no future new KISS albums. What changed your minds?

"Well, I think every day you wake up and you make assessment of life on earth as you see it on that day. The thing that changed is Tommy and Eric. You want to go forward when you feel there's a real team committed to doing everything. And, you know, if you're in a soccer game or a football game or any kind of team situation, you don't feel like getting out on the field if not everybody?s holding up their end. So with Tommy and Eric as part of the team felt - I don't know - convincing and easy to do. In fact, 'Sonic Boom' was one of the easiest records we?ve ever done."

And obviously you like it more than you liked 'Psycho Circus'?

"I like them both for different reasons. 'Psycho Circus,' though, was torture. Ace and Peter were going through their thing again of last-minute sending lawyers in to do all kinds of stuff. And you know what? We just said, 'Stay home,' you don't need to be in the band. And you don't need to torture everybody. You're happier at home and everybody should respect you because you were pivotal members of one of the most enduring bands in rock and roll history. KISS couldn't have done it without Ace and Peter then, and Kiss cannot do it with Ace and Peter now.

"So I think it's best for them - and bless them both. We love them and stuff. It's best for them to rest on their laurels. But we don't have time for the past. We're too busy having a good time right now. We're looking forward to the future."

Your participation in the reality shows - "Family Jewels"...

"Oh, you mean, you mean the oldest, the longest-running reality show of them all. It's the 100th episode tomorrow, as a matter of fact."

Congratulations on that as well. I was not aware of that. Your participation in that and "Celebrity Apprentice," how does that compare to the thrill you get from being on stage?

"Completely different. You know, you get kudos when you write a great article and then when you mow the lawn and your friends come over and say, 'Boy, your house looks spic and span,' they're different pleasures, and they don't compete with each other. They're completely validated by themselves, if you see what I mean. Being on stage with KISS is unequaled for that thing. On the other hand, making a great business deal that throws off millions of dollars, that's pretty satisfying, too."

The reality stuff - is there satisfaction for you in sort of the appearances or is it...

"I don't care. It doesn't matter to me at all. My life's an open book and take it or leave it. Not everybody liked Jesus, either."

The future of Kiss: Obviously you're going to be playing a lot of shows. But from here one out, do you envision another album somewhere down the line? Do you envision a stop to your touring?

"No, no end in sight that we can see. Another record? Sure, why not?"

Physical limitations at all?

"I don't think so. There's going to be a certain point where they're going to have to bury us in the ground. We're all going to get our turn. But so far, so good. If you take a look at the biggest bands on earth, none of them are 20 years old. None. And, in fact, a few of them are quite a bit older. Jagger's got to be 64, 65. And McCartney's even a little older than that."

Do you have any thoughts on the Rock and Roll Hall of fame's snub at this point?

"It's not a snub to us. We've gotten everything we've ever dreamed of and more. There's nobody in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame -- in fact, if you took all of them and put them together - they couldn't match all the licensing and merchandising we've done and the legacy we've left. I mean, yes, Madonna's important. I have no [darned] idea what she's doing in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Or Grandmaster Flash or any other disco or rap artist. I think it's an insult to them to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I don't want to be in the Rap Hall of Fame. And likewise, rappers shouldn't be in there. It's the wrong place.

"But what band would I rather be? There's not a band in there that has as much fun as we have. None of them are super heroes. We are. We have comic books and all this kind of stuff. So would I rather be in Crosby, Stills and Nash or Kiss? I think I'll take Kiss.?

Yeah, it was particularly galling to me when ABBA got in. I just didn't see that at all.

"Oh. I mean, I see that a lot easier than L.L. Cool J."

Yeah, I guess.

"I'd rather go pop than rap."

Last question and sort of all-encompassing: Why do you think Kiss has lasted so long? And what's the secret?

"There are no secrets. Nothing beats hard work and teamwork. There just isn't. I mean, you've got to be born at the right place at the right time with the right thing. But having said that, nothing takes the place of a great team. People support each other. And nothing takes the place of getting up there and making sure that every single show you ever play in your entire career may be the only thing people will ever remember you by. Which is to say, you must have truckloads of pride. Remember how we introduce ourselves. And I really hope to God the very last show we ever play we will live up to the legend of Kiss."

Listen Gene, I love you, man. You're a great interview, a great musician.

"Don't forget good looking!"

KISS HOTTER THAN EVER & READY TO ROCK

For the last 35 years KISS has staged a spectacle unlike any other in the rock and roll business?one that keeps getting bigger and better every time they go out on the road on tour. This year's tour, called "The Hottest Show on Earth," is a two-hour extravaganza filled with enough fireworks and pyrotechnics "to bring down low-flying aircraft," promises KISS rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley.

"When we go on stage, we want people in the audience to go, 'This is what a rock concert is supposed to be!" says Stanley. "Our show started out by us wanting to get up on stage and show people how it was supposed to be done. We wanted to be the band that we always wanted to see but never saw. We still go out there every night and try to be the ideal band."

Fans can always count on seeing bassist Gene Simmons spewing mushroom clouds of fire, Les Pauls that shoot fireworks, and more confetti than a Wall Street ticker tape parade celebrating a World Series victory by the New York Yankees. This year's tour includes massive video screens that give fans close up views of all four band members in performance, multi-colored flame explosions, and hydraulic platforms that lift band members high into the air while spraying out more fireworks and pyro.

"Whenever we go on tour we always try to top the previous tour by doing more or coming up with a different angle," says Stanley. "We always want to come down from the heavens at the beginning of the show. We want to come down to all of the people and rock them in the church of rock and roll."

"We're involved in every aspect of the production," adds Simmons. "Anywhere, any time, anyhow our logo, name, or likeness appears it's our responsibility to make sure that we can stand behind it. There isn't one iota of any piece that goes out there without us okaying it. We have to be proud of what we do."

Considering that KISS has licensed between 2,000 and 3,000 different types of products, that's much more involvement and responsibility than most bands are willing to devote to their careers. In addition to the usual clothing lines, trading cards and action figures that many bands currently market to fans, KISS has gone even further by offering their own specialty coffeehouse and custom made KISS Kaskets, like the one in which Pantera guitarist and devoted KISS fan Dimebag Darrell was buried.

The incredibly high standards that KISS apply to their show and merchandising efforts also apply to the opening acts that the band brings out with them on tour. Over the years, a wide variety of artists and bands, including AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Cheap Trick, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, John Mellencamp, M?tley Cr?e, Tom Petty, Rush, Bob Seger and many, many others, have opened for KISS.

"From the very beginning KISS has broken a lot of other bands," says Stanley. "We may not have made them famous, but we gave them the opportunity to get famous. We feel it's our obligation to give other people the chance to go out there into the arena as gladiators so our audience can give you either the thumbs up or the thumbs down."

For this summer's tour KISS has partnered with Guitar Center for a unique GC Onstage competition that offers 22 unsigned bands in 22 cities once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to open for KISS. Fans in each city will select their five favorite unsigned bands, and the members of KISS will review each of the five finalists and select one winning band for each show. In addition to opening for KISS the best of the 22 bands, as selected by Kiss, will win a $10,000 shopping spree at Guitar Center.

"All bands are welcome at a KISS concert," says Stanley. "Somebody is going to get up there on stage before us each night. This may be your chance to hit the big time."

While the members of KISS aren't revealing what they're looking for from the bands they're likely to select as winners, they do offer a few words of advice to all aspiring bands that hope to find success in the music industry. "Don't copy us," says Simmons. "Don't grow a beard just because the guy down the street is growing a beard. Don't wear your hat backwards or sideways. Don't do the obvious thing. Do your own thing. Most importantly, be a team. A band should be like the four legs on a table or the four wheels on a car. Everybody has to hold up their share. Get rid of the losers, alcoholics and drug addicts. They're vampires and they'll suck the life out of you. A team in disarray is a team of losers that will not win. To be effective you need to be strong and speak as one. It's all for one and one for all."

Stanley adds: "Listen to your inner voice. You know within yourself what you should be doing. The people around you who tell you that things are impossible are the ones who failed, and people who fail always need somebody else to cry with. Those are the people you don't need around you. You need people around you who will spur you on and will tell you what is possible. But ultimately I recommend that you don't listen to advice. We didn't and you don't have to."

When it comes to building a team, the current KISS lineup is the band's strongest ever. While some diehard fans may still miss original lead guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer have given the band renewed vitality and energy while keeping the band's original sound intact.

"Most people don't realize that a lot of that sound is due to Paul's guitar playing," explains Thayer. "Keith Richards plays a certain way in the Rolling Stones and that's why they sound like the Stones. Paul Stanley plays a certain style of rhythm guitar and that's why it sounds like KISS. Whenever we've gone in the studio, sometimes it doesn't feel right until Paul lays down his rhythm guitar tracks."

Stanley adds: "We've had a template and a blueprint from the beginning. That was to follow in the footprints of all of the bands that we loved?Humble Pie, Cream, Led Zeppelin, The Who?bands where the guitar formed this iconic, huge sound. By having two guitar players who played together in tandem and played off of each other, we created something that's classic and classical. We've had different guitarists in the band from time to time (Frehley, Vinnie Vincent, Mark St. John, Bruce Kulick), but it's not about who is in the band. It's about having everybody in the band believe in the same thing. The teams that win the World Series or the Super Bowl aren't always the teams with the best players but rather the teams with the best spirit. Our spirit has never changed, and it's probably healthier at this point than it's ever been."

Stanley has been associated with several guitar companies over the years, but Thayer is a devoted fan of the Gibson Les Paul, and he owns a variety of Standard, Custom and Deluxe models. His main stage guitar is a 1960 Standard reissue featuring Gibson 498 humbucking pickups. One of Thayer's more recent acquisitions is a 2009 Gibson Explorer with a custom silver sparkle finish that he plays during encores.

Last year when KISS was recording their latest album, Sonic Boom, the band decided to go for a classic sound reminiscent of the band's mid-Seventies efforts. As a result, Stanley and Thayer decided to put some of their more recent gear aside in favor of equipment dating back to the Seventies or earlier. Thayer used several of his original Seventies Les Pauls, and Stanley dusted off some guitars and amps that hadn't seen action since KISS released their Dynasty album in 1979.

"We used the same classic vintage tube amps and guitars that our heroes used to play," says Stanley. "It was really a way for us to pay homage to the bands that we loved, but we also paid homage to everything that KISS has created in the past. It was the gear that we always loved?gear that you can still find at Guitar Center's vintage guitar department."

Thayer adds: "The interesting thing with the sound of KISS?particularly the guitar sound?is that it's a timeless sound. It worked very well 35 years ago and it still works just as well today. That sound will live forever, so you never really want to get away from that."

More towards the back of the stage, Singer first started playing drums with KISS in 1991 when the band hired him to replace Eric Carr, who had passed away from a brain hemorrhage. He remained with the band until 1996 when KISS reunited with original members Criss and Frehley for the Alive/Worldwide tour. Singer went on to play with Alice Cooper and Queen guitarist Brian May before KISS finally brought him back as a full-time band member in 2003.

Playing a nine-piece Pearl Masters Premium drum kit with double bass drums, Singer gives the current KISS sound the muscle and punch the music demands. The kit includes the Pearl Eric Singer ES1465 signature snare, a 6.5x14" snare with a 10-ply maple shell. Recently he switched from shells with a Black Comet sparkle finish to clear smoked acrylic shells.

"The change was more for aesthetic reasons than anything else," explains Singer. "We have this amazing, huge video wall behind us and I didn't want to block the view of it. I also wanted the lights to come through my drum kit, which added to the overall look of the stage and the video wall. Fortunately those acrylic drums sound really good, too."

Singer says that he prefers to use the same kit in the studio and on stage: "What I play is what I play. I may change some cymbal weights around depending on what type of music I'm recording. On Sonic Boom I wanted to go for what I wouldn't call a retro sound but more of a classical sound. It was more of a Seventies-style recording process using analog two-inch tape the old school way. We used more vintage gear and went for an organic, traditional sound."

Singer's kit also includes a vast assortment of Zildjian cymbals, including a pair of 19" Z3 Medium Crash (one has an 8" inverted splash on top), 21" K Custom Hybrid Ride, 16" Oriental China trash, 12" Z3 splash, 9.5" Zil bell, 8" and 6" A Custom splash, and 14" Avedis rock hi-hat cymbals. "I've been with Zildjian my whole life," says Singer. "That's what everybody played. My dad was a drummer and my first kit had Zildjian cymbals so I've played Zildjian since I was a kid. Zildjian cymbals were always considered the best and to me they still are. It's really about having gear that works for you and provides the sound that I want and need. That's what Pearl and Zildjian both do."

With Thayer and Singer now permanent members of the band, it seems likely that KISS will live on longer as a live and recording act as well. Despite announcing a farewell tour in 2000 and telling the press that their 1998 effort Psycho Circus was likely to be their last studio album, KISS has gone on several tours since then and made a strong recorded comeback with Sonic Boom. Stanley has even expressed his desire to enter the studio to record another KISS album after "The Hottest Show on Earth" tour wraps up.

After spending nearly four decades rock and rolling all night and partying every day, Simmons and Stanley aren't anywhere close to retiring. Both agree that the current state of KISS is the best it has ever been, which is exceptionally good news for anyone who has "attending a KISS concert" on their bucket list or even longtime fans that want to experience the band in peak form.

Stanley agrees that now may be the best time in the band's history to witness a KISS show: "Eric is bar none one of the greatest drummers in rock and roll, and he proves it every night. It's awesome to have him on stage with us. Tommy just blows us away every night. Gene, for all his hot air and everything else he spits out there, is a monster bass player. At the end of the day this is all about the music. What we put on the outside is all the fancy chrome and color, but man there's an engine in here that's been working 35 years."

ERIC INTERVIEW IN PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

The KISS monster keeps growing. Why is that?

"I think it's a couple of different factors. We noticed a change when we toured Europe in 2008. We noticed that all of a sudden, 'Wow there's a lot of kids here, like teenage kids.' It wasn't just Mom and Dad bringing little kids to the show, like babies, it was teenage kids coming on their own, like you would expect with this brand-new band or a young band. We thought, 'This is just Europe,' because we hadn't been there in a few years. And then we went to South America and Australia and New Zealand, and everywhere we went it was the same thing. It was a younger audience.

"The band has become a part of the fabric of Americana. When you think of America, a lot of people think of Coca-Cola or Pepsi, and Dr. Pepper, McDonald's, Disneyland, Universal Studios. I think KISS fits right in with those things. It's part of American fabric. It's become an iconic thing that you think about as part of America. Everywhere you go, you can show the KISS logo or the makeup designs of the guys, and everybody will go, 'Oh, that's Kiss.' I mean, they'll know it even in Malaysia."

A lot of that is to do with Gene being a master brander, right?

"It's not just Gene. I love Gene and I respect Gene, he's very much a business-minded guy, but he's not the one that invented everything KISS ever did. Ace Frehley came up with the KISS logo. So you've got to give credit where it's due. A lot of our costumes, all the things that we wear now, Paul Stanley sat there and he sketched them and designed them all out himself. When we do photo sessions Paul Stanley goes out and goes to Home Depot, and buys supplies with some of the crew guys, and he puts together the sets of how he wants it to look for the photo sessions. I mean, a lot of the stuff we do is hands-off, but a lot of the creative stuff, I have to give credit, is more Paul.

"But Paul's not the kind of guy who's gonna go out and tell everybody, 'I did this, I did that.' I think people associate Gene as the face or spokesperson of the band. But that's really more Gene marketing Gene through KISS. So he thinks along those lines and he's very creative and comes up with a lot of great ideas. But just for the record, everybody, including myself, have input for things that we do.

"But you know, Gene and Paul have really been there from day one. They started the band. They created this idea of what they wanted it to be, so it really is a partnership of really those two. If you want to think of the one common thread, it's those two guys."

The original KISS lineup is so revered by fans, and I know you've been with the band on and off since '91, but when [original drummer] Peter Criss decides to come back, you get ousted. How do they go about telling you you're no longer needed? Does it make you upset, or do you get it? How does it work knowing you're basically a permanent understudy?

"Well, I wouldn't say I'm an understudy anymore. And I actually never looked at myself as an understudy. The bottom line is that it's a business. Every band can tell you, 'I just care about the music, and I'm an artist.' They can all say that, but the bottom line is, if nobody buys their records or nobody buys tickets to their concerts, guess what, they're not going to be in business for very long. If you don't treat it somewhat business-like and approach it from at least some aspect that would be included in your mindset, you're not going to be in business very long, because you can't just be an artist."

So you didn't / don't take it personally?

"Well, no, because it's business. But look, was I happy when they did the [original lineup] reunion? No. But here's how I looked at it: I knew that if they did a reunion, it's like, I can give you a lottery ticket and say, 'Brian, I have all the winning combinations on the ticket, all you have to do is scratch the numbers off and give them the ticket. But you have to do that, you have to go in and claim your check.' To me, those guys doing the reunion was like a lottery ticket they just had to go cash. So, it was an opportunity they couldn't pass up, and they knew that, and they saw that the time was right, and it absolutely was. And honestly, I don't think they knew how big and successful it was going to be.

"Look, I know what I do is play drums. I sing songs, and I like to think of myself as a very solid background singer, but I also know that I'm not the leader, I'm not the front man of the band. I don't have that ability to go out and front a band. I know that. Some people, their ego can't get out of the way. They think they need to be a star too, but not everybody gets to be. That's not something everyone is capable of doing, even if they'd like to do it. I look at my job as a unique thing that I get to do, but I also realize that if I'm not here playing drums, it would definitely be someone else. Don't ever think you're not replaceable because everybody's replaceable."

FAN WINS $50K ON KISS LOTTERY TICKET

Aguirre, who lives in Alamogordo, New Mexico, won $50,000 playing the New Mexico Lottery's "KISS" Scratcher. "I love KISS and I love Gene Simmons," Aguirre told lottery officials in Albuquerque. "When I heard the game had come out, I just had to play."

Aguirre, a KISS fan since the 1980s and a loyal viewer of reality show "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," bought the ticket Tuesday morning. After winning $10 and $15 on "KISS" tickets played earlier in the month, Aguirre said she never expected her next ticket to reveal a five-figure sum.

"My heart started pounding and I had the biggest smile on my face," she said. "My heart's still pounding."

Now $50,000 richer, the winner plans to buy a new car and treat husband Michael to a vacation.

The New Mexico Lottery "KISS" Scratcher is the world's first lottery game to feature the legendary performers. In addition to cash prizes, the game offers a drawing to win trips to meet KISS in Phoenix for "The Hottest Show on Earth," the band?s biggest concert tour ever. Aguirre wants to win that prize as well.

Since 1996, the lottery has raised $442.7 million for education and more than 61,000 students have attended college on Legislative Lottery Scholarships.

As of the Spring 2009 semester, 2,000 students from Otero County have received $8.4 million in Legislative Lottery Scholarships.

Information about scholarship eligibility is available at www.nmlottery.com.

Review: KISS in Cincinnati

Which is why Kiss is also recession-proof. A perfect example was their hit-packed show at Cincinnati's Riverbend Amphitheater on Friday night (July 30). Yes, it was nearly identical to one I saw years ago at Dodgers Stadium, but ask anyone in the maniacal sold-out audience what they thought and you were likely to get a raucous high five from someone wearing a Kiss T-shirt who was modeling Kiss face paint and dragging along a couple of third generation mini-Kiss fans whose minds were just blown. And, chances are, they just got out of the merch line where they bought their umpteenth concert tee.

I brought along a skeptical friend who had never seen the band for a stop on their "Hottest Show On Earth" tour, and by the time the massive confetti canons were belching two forests-worth of fluff into the air during the blinding fireworks explosion that was "Rock and Roll All Nite," he too was one of those high-fivers who couldn't get the grin off his face.

The show had all the highlights you expect: Digital flames licking the stage on more than two dozen high-def screens during the Detroit boogie of "Firehouse," Gene spitting fire from atop a sword, Paul smacking his ass during "Deuce," a trip to visit "Dr. Love," replacement guitarist Tommy Thayer doing his best approximation of original ax man Ace Frehley's knock-kneed rag doll stumble while shooting pyro loads from the headstock of his guitar before sending the spent instrument up into the rafters on a wire and replacement drummer Eric Singer crooning the ballad "Beth" and blasting down a fake lighting rig with a bazooka from his drum riser, which was levitating 30 feet in the air with smoke shooting out as if it was a rocket taking off.

The music swung at times from the bubblegum roller disco of the Bay City Rollers to the dinosaur stomp of Led Zeppelin, but I forgot the kinship the band shared with bands like Black Sabbath until the opening rumbling of "100,000 Years" from their debut album. Gene busted out his ax-shaped bass for that tune as Paul showed off his Roger Daltrey-like mic swinging action. (In a testament to the strength of that 1974 disc, they played five songs from it, including the disco glam of "Black Diamond" with Singer on vocals.)

Just past the show's halfway point, the strobes started going and everyone know what that meant: Simmons was going to bubble fake blood out of his mouth during a Kabuki theater interlude that gave way to the swaggering thunder rock of "I Love It Loud."

"Love Gun" ended with a choreographed fireworks mini-display that brought back the song's melody in firecracker explosions, and during the giant flash-bangs of "Detroit Rock City," the flames on stage were so intense you could feel them on your face 25 rows back. Stanley promised the longest encore ever, which began with a charity check for military families, a full run through the Pledge of Allegiance and a bombastic, extended jam on the '80s unmasked hit "Lick It Up" (which featured a quick bit of the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again"). No show is complete without Paul putting his boot into a silver ring and flying out over the audience to a revolving turntable satellite stage mid venue for a shimmy through the satin pants classic "I Was Made For Lovin' You," and everyone in the place busted out their digital cameras for the night's fly-over.

What makes Kiss even more recession-proof is that there are no downer songs and no morbid ballads -- just joyful, triumphant celebrations of non-stop fun like "Shout It Out Loud" and the standard Argent cover "God Gave Rock N Roll to You II," which Kiss play as if it's their "Hey Jude," swaying arms and all. I joked that the former needed a burst of confetti canons, but when they started belching during "Rock and Roll All Nite," there wasn't a frown in the joint. From the guy up front to the dude in a half-shirt making out with his girl on the back of the lawn, everyone came, everyone was rocked.

Amid the eye-searing spectacle and pageantry, though, the image that stuck with me was of the 12-year-old who stood on his seat the whole show right in front of me. He kept waving his arms hoping for one of the shower of guitar picks Stanley was flicking (and spitting) out into the crowd like a machine gun. But, more than 50 yards back, there was no chance this little guy was going to go home with his schwag.

Except he did. Paul seemed to spot him and gave a super-flick of a pick out over the pavilion crowd that landed at the kids' feet. His dad fumbled around for it among the empty beer cups on the floor and handed it to his Kiss Kid like it was Charlie Bucket's golden ticket to the Wonka factory. The kid thrust his hand up in the air and displayed it, earning a shower of back slaps and high fives from the Kiss Army soldiers all around him.

Guess which kid will never miss another Kiss show?

ERIC TALKS SPORTS WITH ROTOEXPERTS RADIO

KISS MELTS HERSHEY CROWD

KISS, the aging rock group with cartoonish face paint, explosive pyrotechnic shows and hard-hitting, feel-good classics, melted another crowd Saturday night in the latest installment of The Hottest Show on Earth Tour at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, next to the chocolatiest place on Earth.

KISS might be growing older, but its fans are only getting younger.

After 35 years together, KISS is offering a little something for everybody, from kids and parents wearing matching caked-on face paint to long-time fans wanting to rock and roll all night and party every day to women in revealing outfits looking to get noticed by one of rock's all-time memorable legends.

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, along with Eric Singer on drums and Tommy Thayer on guitar, played only a few of their newer hits in Saturday's two-hour-plus show, which heavily featured timeless classics, ending with everyone's favorite "Rock and Roll All Night."

Fathers raised their kids onto their shoulders and teenagers danced along with their parents and, in some cases, grandparents, for the ending number, as a confetti snowstorm blew into the crowd. If the ear-splitting explosions during the show weren't enough, the concert ended with one more fireworks display to light up the night.

As the opening acts played, children, many wearing earplugs, ran around the stadium with their friends, posing for pictures with Gene Simmons look-alikes and sticking out their tongues to mimic him. Many of the children say they were drawn to KISS, either by their parents or by playing video games "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero," which feature some of the band's music.

KISS's opening number was a relatively new hit "Modern Day Delilah," from the band's latest album, "Sonic Boom."

After that, the crowd was quickly jolted into a frenzy.

With explosions, flames and smoke shooting up all around, the band performed one classic after another, starting with "Cold Gin."

Throughout the show Stanley sweet-talked the crowd, telling them to "Kiss on me, Hershey, Pennsylvania," and then flying over the crowd on a zip line as he performed, "I was Made for Loving You."

Simmons, was his usual tongue-wagging self, spewing blood to the crowd's delight.

And even though the band was missing fan favorites Ace Frehley on guitar and Peter Criss on drums, the show went on with Thayer making his guitar smoke and fly, ala Frehley, and Singer performing "Beth," made famous by Criss.

The performance also featured the "longest encore you ever heard," as Stanley described it.

And KISS, long known for its ability to hawk any and all merchandise featuring its image -- from action figure dolls to lunch pails to coffins -- also encouraged the crowd to go out and buy its newest album, which is "on sale at Wal-Mart," Stanley said. "I have to say that," he later joked.

KISS, which has been around for more than 35 years, also paid tribute to other rock legends, such as Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, The Who, Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles. A video montage featuring the legends played on dozens of television screens on stage while the band performed "God Gave Rock and Roll to You." Earlier, Stanley mixed in Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" during the band's performance of "Black Diamond," and The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again" during "Lick it Up."

Before ending the show, KISS presented a $71,990 check to the Wounded Veterans foundation. The donation came by way of ticket sale proceeds.

The Hottest Show on Earth Tour continues on Friday at the Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, N.J., and Scranton's Toyota Pavilion on Aug. 15.

KISS FAN-FILMED CLIPS FROM HERSHEY

"WHOLE LOTTA LOVE" IN PITTSBURGH

GENE: VOICE OF NEW GUITAR HERO

Winchester man has assembled an 896-piece collection of rock band

Born with Down syndrome, he brought his favorite toys to make the move easier: Four long-haired dolls - one each for Peter Criss, Ace Frehley, Paul Stanley, and Gene Simmons - the original lineup of the face-painted hard-rock band KISS.

"They're the hottest band in the world," Benji said 34 years later, standing in front of a dresser stuffed with KISS T-shirts.

His dolls are now just a small part of a 896-piece KISS collection that has taken over his grandparents' basement, his bedroom, and now even the family living room.

"This is his whole life," said Benji's grandfather (and retired city treasurer) Walter "Skeeter" Knee, 75, standing in the basement Benji calls his office.

Like most offices, it has a desk, but it's sitting next to a life-size cardboard cutout of the members of KISS, and is surrounded by shelves piled with statues, books, toy cars - even cologne - all featuring KISS.

Benji has at least three KISS lava lamps, a battle ax-shaped KISS lamp, and a toothbrush that plays "Rock and Roll All Nite" - his favorite KISS song - while he uses it.

"He even has KISS chap stick," Skeeter said.

When Benji goes bowling, he wears KISS-themed sweatbands, and uses a KISS bowling ball, and he's never without his KISS watch, KISS ring, and a KISS T-shirt.

"People always ask me if he has anything else to wear," said Nancy Knee, 77, Benji's grandmother.

Many of the items were sent to him by friends and family members who know to watch for memorabilia.

Some of those friends were on hand when former KISS guitarist Frehley was signing T-shirts in Myrtle Beach, S.C., in 2007.

He wrote "Be safe! We support you!" to Benji on the shirt, which is now framed on the Knees's wall.

The shirt is a prized part of the collection, but Nancy said Benji loves everything involving KISS equally.

"He is thrilled with every single thing, even just a little card," she said.

Nancy said she believes Benji's membership in the KISS Army - as the band's fans are known- helps him.

"It's good for him to think about them and talk about them," she said.

At Benji's job at NW Works, his co-workers quiz him on KISS trivia, and Benji spends time each day in his KISS basement, photocopying and laminating pictures and articles about his favorite band.

His fandom even led him to write a short article for the NW Works newsletter.

Titled "My Dream Comes True," it is about the KISS concert that Nancy and Skeeter took him to in 2000.

"I'm pretty sure we were the oldest people there," Nancy said. "It's a pretty remarkable show," Skeeter added.

Though they don't completely share Benji's enthusiam, more than 30 years of being surrounded by KISS has started to wear them down.

Skeeter said he likes the song "New York Groove," while Nancy prefers "Beth."

"It's easy to kind of tune it out," she said.

While they may not feel the same as Benji about the band, the Knees are as dedicated to his hobby as he is.

Nancy said she buys KISS memorabilia as soon as it is released for fear that Benji will miss something, and Skeeter is nearly on a first-name basis with Virginia's authorized KISS dealer.

In 2000, when Skeeter gave Benji his basement office, the doting grandparents strung a streamer across the basement stairs for an official ribbon-cutting- which now hangs on the basement wall.

Benji loves KISS so much that he finds it impossible to pick a favorite band member, though he admitted liking the original lineup best.

He also has trouble picking his favorite piece in the collection, though he's partial to the lifesize cutout.

He said he likes to come downstairs and look at the whole collection.

"I like all of it."

BACKSTAGE WITH KISS AT HOTTEST SHOW ON EARTH

With three massive video screens and bright LED lights, Kiss kicked the show off with fiery jams like "Modern Day Delilah" and "Cold Gin," but the band hit their stride once they launched into "Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll," which found Kiss saturated in blinding white light and sent the crowd into a frenzied clap-along. (Dozens of die-hards dressed in full Kiss fatigues while hundreds more donned the band's trademark makeup.) Throughout the gig, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer filled in solidly for original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, especially when Singer reprised Frehley's sparks-shooting guitar solo in "Shock Me." When Criss left the band in 2004, Kiss abandoned playing the fan-favorite "Beth" but they revived their 1976 classic ? to date, their highest-charting single ever ? for their current tour. "The band is bigger than the members," Stanley told RS. "The idea that some people can be replaced and not all of them would be a little pigheaded and big-headed of me. Gene and I, there are people out there who could do what we do at least as well, if not better. I don't have to be there for it to be Kiss." Stanley added that the band could "absolutely" continue if he and Simmons decided to retire.

While the band delivered fan favorites like a show-closing "Rock and Roll All Nite," Kiss mined their catalog for deeper cuts like the faux-disco 1979 single "I Was Made for Lovin' You," during which Stanley zoomed over the crowd suspended by wires. (Another surprise: "Crazy Nights," the no-makeup-era single that sounded 10 times better as a summer-evening singalong than it did broadcast on MTV in 1987.) Kiss' show was also big on tunes from 2009's Sonic Boom and even those heavy, anthemic songs could have been long-lost tracks to albums like 1976's classic Rock and Roll Over."Sonic Boom was something that fortified us and really united us in the sense that we're now celebrating everything we've done in the past, the present, and where we're going in the future," said Stanley. "Sonic Boom is not the last album. It's the first album in the next phase."

Stanley said that the band plans to go back in to the studio next February and release an album as early as next summer, but in the meantime, Kiss are content to deliver a hit parade for the Hottest Show on Earth tour. "We don't want to fall into the thing where you have to play obscure songs," said Stanley. "I'm a big believer that a song is obscure for a reason: Songs that aren't as popular aren't as good."

Set List
"Modern Day Delilah"
"Cold Gin"
"Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll"
"Firehouse"
"Say Yeah"
"Deuce"
"Crazy Nights"
"Calling Dr. Love"
"Shock Me"
"I'm an Animal"
"100,000 Years"
"I Love It Loud"
"Love Gun"
"Black Diamond"
"Detroit Rock City"