The music world is reeling from the news of ace Frehley’s death on October 16, 2025, at the age of 78. The celebrated guitarist, best known as a founding member of the rock band Kiss, passed away following a fall at his residence. His influence on rock music and stagecraft is immeasurable.
A Legacy Forged in rock
Table of Contents
- 1. A Legacy Forged in rock
- 2. Final Performances and Recent Health Challenges
- 3. Kiss to Continue Without Founding member
- 4. The Enduring Influence of ace Frehley
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions About ace Frehley
- 6. What impact did ace Frehley’s substance abuse struggles have on his decision to retire from full-band touring?
- 7. ace Frehley Performs ‘Deuce’ and ‘New York Groove’ at Final Show: A Stellar Farewell Performance
- 8. The Historic Final Performance
- 9. ‘Deuce’ – A Raw and energetic Finale Staple
- 10. ‘New York Groove’ – A Hometown Anthem
- 11. Band Lineup and Performance Quality
- 12. Setlist Highlights Beyond the Classics
- 13. the Significance of the Farewell
- 14. fan Reactions and Social media Buzz
- 15. Future Plans and Legacy
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, longtime bandmates in Kiss, released a joint statement expressing their profound sadness. They described Frehley as an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” whose contributions were basic to the band’s early success and enduring legacy.His impact on the band’s formative years will not be forgotten.
Frehley’s journey with Kiss began in 1973, quickly becoming integral to the band’s signature image and sound. He remained with the group until 1982, departing due to challenges with substance abuse, creative disagreements, and interpersonal conflicts with Simmons and Stanley. he later rejoined for a highly anticipated reunion tour in 1996, leaving again in 2002 after the band’s initial farewell tour concluded.
Final Performances and Recent Health Challenges
The last time all four original Kiss members shared a stage was at their 2015 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, though they did not perform together that evening. Frehley made a final appearance with the band in 2018, performing four songs during a Kiss Kruise event.He also embarked on a co-headlining tour with Simmons in Australia earlier that same year.
For two decades, Frehley consistently toured across the United States with his solo band, captivating audiences with performances at theaters, casinos, clubs, and fairs. His shows often featured a mix of tracks from the Kiss catalog alongside his own compositions, including favorites like “Cherry Medicine” and “New York Groove”. His last performance took place on September 5,2025,at the Uptown Theater in Providence,Rhode Island,delivering a rousing rendition of “Rock and Roll All Nite.”
Sadly, just weeks later, Frehley was forced to cancel an appearance at the Antelope Valley Fair in California after a fall led to hospitalization. Subsequent “ongoing medical issues” ultimately prompted the cancellation of all remaining tour dates.
Kiss to Continue Without Founding member
Kiss is scheduled to perform at the Kiss Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas on November 14, 2025, marking their first live appearance sence concluding their 2023 farewell tour. The band has indicated that the performance will feature both acoustic and electric sets, but will not include their signature makeup. many fans hoped for a surprise appearance by Frehley and former drummer Peter Criss, but that is now unachievable. A tribute to Frehley is expected during the event.
The Enduring Influence of ace Frehley
Ace Frehley’s musical style, characterized by his distinctive guitar riffs and innovative use of effects, helped define the sound of Kiss and influenced generations of guitarists. His stage presence, with his iconic “Space Ace” persona, contributed significantly to Kiss’s theatrical and visually arresting live shows. Frehley’s impact extends beyond his work with Kiss, as evidenced by his accomplished solo career and continued popularity among fans.
| Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| Joined Kiss | 1973 |
| Left Kiss (first time) | 1982 |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (with Kiss) | 2015 |
| Final performance with Kiss | 2018 |
| Last Solo Concert | 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions About ace Frehley
- What was Ace Frehley known for? Ace Frehley was renowned as the lead guitarist for the rock band Kiss, celebrated for his unique playing style and stage presence.
- When did Ace Frehley leave Kiss? He initially left kiss in 1982 and again in 2002, after a reunion period.
- What were the circumstances surrounding Ace Frehley’s death? Ace Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025, following a fall at his home.
- What is Kiss planning to do in the wake of Frehley’s passing? kiss is scheduled to perform at the Kiss Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas and plans to honor Frehley during the event.
- Where was Ace Frehley’s last concert? His final gig took place on September 5, 2025, at the Uptown Theater in Providence, Rhode Island.
Did you know Ace Frehley was largely self-taught on the guitar, developing his distinctive style through experimentation? What are your favourite memories of Ace Frehley’s performances and contributions to rock music?
share this story and let us know your thoughts on Ace Frehley’s unbelievable legacy in the comments below!
What impact did ace Frehley’s substance abuse struggles have on his decision to retire from full-band touring?
ace Frehley Performs ‘Deuce’ and ‘New York Groove’ at Final Show: A Stellar Farewell Performance
The Historic Final Performance
On October 16th, 2025, Ace Frehley, the iconic Space Ace of KISS fame, delivered what is being widely reported as his final full-band performance at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, New Jersey.The night was a festivity of his solo career and a poignant farewell to decades of electrifying stage presence. Central to the setlist were blistering renditions of “Deuce” and “New York Groove,” two tracks deeply ingrained in the history of rock and roll and fan favorites from his post-KISS work. This Ace Frehley concert marked a notable moment for fans of classic rock, hard rock, and the New York rock scene.
‘Deuce’ – A Raw and energetic Finale Staple
“Deuce,” originally a KISS track co-written and prominently featured by Frehley, was a highlight of the evening. The performance wasn’t simply a replication of the studio version; it was a raw, energetic explosion of guitar riffs and driving rhythm.
* The song’s signature opening riff promptly ignited the crowd.
* Frehley’s signature guitar solos were particularly sharp and inventive, showcasing his continued mastery of the instrument.
* The band’s tight performance underscored the enduring power of the song’s composition.
Fans have long considered “Deuce” a cornerstone of Frehley’s musical identity, and its inclusion in his final show felt particularly fitting.The song represents the rebellious spirit and sonic energy that defined his career. Many Ace Frehley fans cite “Deuce” as their introduction to his guitar playing.
‘New York Groove’ – A Hometown Anthem
“New York Groove,” a 1978 hit that reached the Top 10, served as a powerful anthem for the evening. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody resonated deeply with the New Jersey crowd, creating a euphoric atmosphere.
* Frehley’s vocals, while characteristically understated, were perfectly suited to the song’s laid-back vibe.
* The song’s iconic guitar solo was delivered with precision and passion.
* The audience participation during the chorus was a testament to the song’s enduring popularity.
“New York Groove” isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, representing the energy and vibrancy of New York City and its influence on the rock music landscape. The choice to close with this track felt like a heartfelt tribute to his roots and his fans.
Band Lineup and Performance Quality
Frehley was backed by a seasoned band featuring Ryan Spencer (guitar/vocals), Chris Wyse (bass/vocals), and Matt Starr (drums). The band’s chemistry was evident throughout the performance, providing a solid foundation for Frehley’s signature guitar work. Reports from attendees consistently praised the band’s professionalism and energy, noting their ability to seamlessly blend with Frehley’s unique style.This Ace Frehley band has been touring with him for several years, solidifying their reputation as a tight and reliable unit.
Setlist Highlights Beyond the Classics
While “Deuce” and “New York Groove” were undoubtedly the highlights, the setlist also included a range of other fan favorites, including:
- “Rip It Up”
- “Shock Me”
- “Speedfreak”
- “Parasite”
- “Cold Gin” (KISS cover)
the inclusion of these tracks demonstrated the breadth of Frehley’s musical catalog and his willingness to revisit both his solo work and his contributions to KISS. The Ace Frehley setlist was carefully curated to provide a thorough overview of his career.
the Significance of the Farewell
The decision to retire from full-band touring comes after decades of performing and a well-documented struggle with substance abuse. While Frehley has hinted at the possibility of occasional solo appearances, this show marked the end of an era for fans who have cherished his energetic live performances. The Ace Frehley retirement has sparked an outpouring of gratitude and appreciation from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Social media platforms exploded with reactions following the show. Fans shared videos, photos, and heartfelt tributes to Frehley, using hashtags like #AceFrehley, #FinalShow, and #SpaceAce. The overwhelming sentiment was one of gratitude for his contributions to rock music and his enduring legacy. Many fans expressed sadness at the prospect of not seeing him perform live again, but also acknowledged his need to prioritize his health and well-being. The Ace Frehley farewell tour culminated in a night of shared memories and emotional connection.
Future Plans and Legacy
While full-band touring is over, Ace Frehley’s legacy
