This is a sad day for the Chairman.

Ace Frehley, one of the founding members of KISS, passed away yesterday at the age of 74.

Along with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, KISS became one of the most successful bands of the 1970s, with Frehley as their lead guitarist.  Known as the “Spaceman”, Frehley brought the rock attitude to the band and was writing for some of the band’s songs, including “Cold Gin”, “Shock Me”, and “Parasite”.  In 1978, all of the KISS members put out solo albums, with Frehley’s generating the only hit, with his cover of “New York Groove”.

Frehley left the band in 1982 and continued with solo projects until rejoining KISS for a reunion tour in 1996.

KISS entered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.

We here at notinhalloffame.com would like to extend our condolences to the fans, friends, and family of Ace Frehley.

In the over the top decade of the 70’s KISS were among the flashiest and you could not turn around without seeing their painted faces everywhere. Opinions on whether this theatrical band should be in the Hall are very strong on both the pro and con. Their fervent supporters will point to their massive record sales, vibrant concerts and thirty years plus of longevity as vital reasons for their cause. Their detractors will point to their lack music’s lack of depth and that they were little more than a gimmick band. Fact is; both camps are right. Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons will never be confused for John Lennon & Paul McCartney or Keith Richards & Mick Jagger but to their millions of fans their music is pure escapism and their definition of what Rock music is all about. And while yes, their kabuki style make up was a gimmick…well, it was one hell of a gimmick!