The music world is reeling from the loss of a true legend. Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist and founding member of KISS, has passed away at 74, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of rock enthusiasts. His death on Thursday has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fellow musicians, fans, and institutions alike, all of whom recognize his indelible mark on the industry.
But here's where it gets emotional: Frehley wasn't just a musician; he was a catalyst for countless aspiring artists. In a heartfelt statement, the founding members of KISS reflected on his irreplaceable role in the band's early years. They said, “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique, and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
And this is the part most people miss: Frehley's influence extended far beyond KISS. Take Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, for instance. In a deeply personal tribute on X, McCready shared how Frehley's music changed his life. “I heard about Ace Frehley’s passing from Rick Friel, who I played with in a band called Shadow. Rick was also the first guy on the bus in 1977 with a KISS lunchbox to tell me about Ace… just changed my life. I got a guitar in 1978 to join Rick’s band Warrior, which turned into Shadow. We covered ‘C’mon and Love Me’. All my friends have spent untold hours talking about KISS and buying KISS stuff. Ace was a hero of mine and also someone I would consider a friend. I studied his solos endlessly over the years… I would not have picked up a guitar without Ace and KISS’s influence. RIP it out Ace, you changed my life.”
Bret Michaels, the former frontman of Poison, also paid tribute, highlighting Frehley's contributions to his own career. “Ace, my brother, I surely cannot thank you enough for the years of great music, the many festivals we’ve done together, and your lead guitar on Nothing But A Good Time. All my love and respect, from my family and myself—may you rest in peace!!!”
But here's where it gets controversial: While many celebrate Frehley's musical genius, some critics argue that his legacy is overshadowed by the theatrics of KISS. Is this fair? Or does it diminish the raw talent and innovation he brought to the stage? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Even outside the rock realm, Frehley's impact was felt. Nile Rodgers, co-founder of the disco band Chic, shared a poignant memory of meeting Frehley without his iconic makeup. “Ace RIP was the 1st person I met when we were forming CHIC! @KISS were playing at a spot called Le Jardin. Without his makeup, nobody recognized him as he sat at my table. Only a few minutes before, the crowd were losing their minds over him. I learned a lot that night. Truly historic #rock.”
Tom Morello, another guitar legend, captured Frehley's essence in his tribute on Instagram. “My first guitar hero, Ace Frehley, has passed away. The legendary Space Ace Frehley inspired generations to love rock n roll and love rock n roll guitar playing. His timeless riffs and solos, the billowing smoke coming from his Les Paul, the rockets shooting from his headstock, his cool spacey onstage wobble, and his unforgettable crazy laugh will be missed but never forgotten. Thank you, Ace, for a lifetime of great music and memories.”
Even institutions like The Kennedy Center acknowledged Frehley's contributions, announcing a tribute at their December ceremony. “The Kennedy Center is saddened to hear of the passing of one of this year’s Kennedy Center Honorees, Ace Frehley of the band KISS. We will be paying tribute to this ‘rock soldier’, his work, and his legacy at our ceremony in December.”
So, here's the question: How will you remember Ace Frehley? As a rock icon, a guitar pioneer, or something more personal? Share your thoughts and memories below—let's keep his legacy alive through conversation.
