KISS, one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of the 70s and of all time to say the least, is finally concluding their 2023 “End of the Road Tour.” Announced in 2018 that after nearly five decades in the industry KISS would be making their final trip around the world as a band in 2019 and conclude in 2023. Bringing much excitement, and sorrow, to their loyal fanbase, these legends are making their last mark in history. After nearly fifty years in the rock music scene and many comeback tours, the renowned band is finally bringing they’re days of rock-and-roll to a sad, but epic, ending. The “End of the Road” tour, which has been kicking off all over the world, promises to be one of the most epic and memorable tours in the band’s storied history.
KISS, an all-American rock band formed in New York City in January 1973, consists of four members: Gene Simmons on bass guitar and vocals, Paul Stanley on guitar and lead vocals, Ace Frehley on lead guitar, and Peter Criss on drums. Known for their elaborate stage shows and face-paint, KISS will forever be known as the most eccentric and iconic bands in the history of rock-n-roll. Each member embodied personas in forms of various costumes: Stanley as the Starchild, Simmons the Demon, Frehley as Space Ace, and Criss as Catman. The band’s origins can be traced back to 1971 when Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley formed a band called Wicked Lester. However, the band did not achieve much traction, thus both Simmons and Stanley swayed in a different direction to form a new band with a more visual and theatrical image. From there on, they recruited guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss and KISS was born. Following their initial album release in 1974 that did not generate much success, the band’s fortunes diverged with the release of their second album, “Hotter Than Hell,” later that year. The album solidified KISS’ footprint in the rock-n-roll scene following their debut and nonetheless established the band’s sound and style. KISS’ ultimate breakthrough album, entitled “Alive!”, was then released in 1975. The album was a compilation of all live recording from the band’s concert performances showcasing their high-energy stage shows. It became a huge commercial success and further cemented KISS’ reputation as one of the most exciting live bands in the industry. Over the next several years, KISS further released a string of successful albums, including “Rock and Roll Over””(1976), “Love Gun” (1977), and my personal favorite, “Dynasty” (1979). The band’s image and stage shows became increasingly elaborate with the encouragement of their fanbase and unique image.
In 1980, KISS released their concept album “Music from ‘The Elder’”, which steered away from their earlier work and overall group concept. Unfortunately for KISS, this release was not well-received by fans or critics. This hindered band’s popularity over the early 1980s causing drummer Peter Criss to depart from the band in 1980 and guitarist Ace Frehley in 1982. That was until KISS made a comeback with the release of the platinum album “Lick It Up” in 1983. The album embarked on a return to the band’s hard rock roots, this time without the makeup, costumes, and personas, and a new featured lineup. To reconfigure the group following the previous members’ partings, guitarist Vinnie Vincent replaced Ace Frehley and drummer Eric Carr replaced Peter Criss. The band continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, but with varying degrees of success. However, with Eric Carr’s unfortunate death in 1991, Eric Singer soon after took over on drums.
In the early 1990s, fans grew reminiscent of the original band members working together, causing a nostalgic uproar. This wave caught the eye of KISS, making their return with all of the original bandmates in 1996 along with the signature elaborate stage makeup and costumes. Their reunion tour that following year came to be one of their most successful tours in KISS history. Nearly twenty years later, KISS was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. Their influence on the world of rock music cannot be overstated, as they have inspired countless bands and artists over the years.
Since beginning their final tour in 2019, KISS has been fulfilling the hearts of nostalgic fans all over the world. With upcoming shows scheduled for South America, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States, KISS plans the end their last ever tour right where it all began at Madison Square Garden in their home state of New York. Acknowledging all their greatest hits, the 2023 KISS tour will likely feature “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” “Beth,” “I Was Made For Lovin’ You,” and “Heaven’s On Fire,” as well as some deep cuts and fan favorites that are sure to thrill longtime KISS fans. In addition to the music, the tour will certainly showcase the band’s signature over-the-top stage performance, complete with pyrotechnics, elaborate costumes, and larger-than-life theatrics. KISS has always been known for their extravagant live performances, and their finale shows is sure to take things to the next level.
While the original KISS lineup has concluded their days in the spotlight, their rock still continues to roll. Ace Frehley has since been replaced by Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer is still taking over in Peter Criss’ place. Nonetheless, fans can still expect a larger-than-life, epic performance that the band has forever been known for. This tour is also a significant milestone for the band, as it will leave an imprint on the KISS legacy in the rock-n-roll music industry. As the band’s founding members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley have said in recent interviews, the 2023 tour is a celebration of KISS’ enduring legacy and the band’s unwavering commitment to their fans. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the KISS universe, the 2023 tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Luckily, I’ll be attending their final show in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Bowl with my father. Funny enough, KISS was his first ever band he saw live in concert back in the 80s, and now it will also soon be my first band to see perform live! Some of our favorites are “Deuce,” “Lick It Up,” “Outta This World,” and “Black Diamond” all of which we hope to hear one last time.
