Exclusive new late tonight. Ace Frehley called into my radio show live tonight and confirmed that he and Peter are being denied the opportunity to perform at the R&R Hall Of Fame ceremony by Gene and Paul, who will perform instead with the current band. Ace said (and the HOF confirmed to me directly) that the HOF wants the original band. However Gene and Paul to date have declined to allow this to happen. Ace said it was important he let the fans know exactly what was happening since tickets are about to go on sale to the public and he didn’t want fans to purchase them expecting a reunion performance even for a song or two. Ace said he is undecided if he will even attend in light of this decision. Even though the HOF would prefer the original band, they will not stand in the way of the current band playing if that is all Gene and Paul are willing to do. Assume anything is possible that something could change, but at this time there are no plans at all for Ace and Peter to play, or perhaps even be there depending what they decide. As I have said consistently when there was news to share I would let it come directly from a member, and tonight Ace let everyone know exactly what was going on. Said he was most upset for the fans who voted them in and were hoping to see a song or two, but also said it is now time to move on. He is working on a new album and said the stress was really killing him about the HOF and he needed to let fans know what was up before tickets went on sale. Peter will likely have a similar statement on his site tomorrow. I’ll continue to keep you posted as more info develops but that’s where things are at now. I’m sure the audio will be on YouTube of Ace’s call but you can hear the entire show next weekend as usual on all affiliate stations and online outlets as well. Sad day for long time Kiss fans but at least we know where things stand as of now. The producer/director for the HOF show Joel Gallen expressed an interest in coming on the air soon. As usual my door is open to any and all to discuss. More soon.
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This latest news is just proof that Gene and Paul are only in it for the money anymore. How can they not care what their fans are asking for? Are the fans not the ones who make performers of any kind famous and successful? It’d just be a few songs with the guys that helped found and establish the band. It’s all about egos with them 2. At the same time, how can the HOF not recognize past members for their contributions to the band? I think even Eric Singer (15-16? years time all together) and Tommy Thayer (10-12 years?) should be recognized for their contributions. I know a big sticking point on those 2 is the makeup/character issue, but they’re still great players. The whole thing is sad how it’s being handled.
Not surprised. The ego thing with Gene and Paul will never end. They think that “They are” Kiss. But The whole HOF thing rubs me the wrong way anyway. It’s all politics and has nothing to do with music. Anything that calls itself the “rock and roll hall of fame” and doesn’t include Deep Purple is a joke. The hook of Smoke on the water alone should put them there. I have been playing guitar for 30 years and it all started with that riff just like it did with thousands of other aspiring guitar players…
Just very very sad, as a life long KISS, who happens to like the new music, as well as the 80’s, I just can’t see the rationale for this decision. While I agree that other members(Eric C., Bruce and Eric S) deserve some type of recognition, there’s no rational reason for not performing with the original members. Let Tommy and Eric come on without makeup and perform a final song with the original four. While I’ll never stop listening to KISS, Paul can now count on one less book sale(if that matters to him), which is a shame because I was actually looking forward t reading it. Now, I can only see the content as a bunch of BS. Amazing that a band who continually cites fan loyalty as the reason for their existence(anyone read Nothin to Lose?) can betray their loyal fan base with such a slight. Time for a dishonorable discharge out of the KISS ARMY.
Eddie I have always been a fan of yours, your thoughts have Always been right on. The Rock n Roll hall of fame is a joke! Where is Journey Foreigner even Styx or Deep Purple so many Ronnie James Dio has the Greatest Rock n Roll voice so getting fired up about Kiss knowing Ace and Peter weren’t going to be included I mean that’s just the Arrogant Egos of the ones who run that band! My thoughts all of current and past should be included I watched Heart play with their original lineup it was Great! Having to wait and watch to see if they allow Ace and Peter to play Sucks! I use to love the original line up of Kiss but grew in to groups like Rush really Good music and Kiss well they were makeup! This sizes up want this HOF is a Joke reminds me of John Fogerty! Eddie You keep Rocking Love the show maybe get Triumph on show they are Rock n Roll Hall of Fame! Thanks Eddie You Rock!
No one should be shocked by this one single bit! With Gene & Paul, it’s always been about the money.
But to play it “Devil’s Advocate”, G&P are truly in a “Catch-22”:
– If they play with Ace & Peter without the makeup, the fans will complain.
– If they play without Tommy & Eric, the “current” incarnation of KISS will have their feelings hurt.
– If they play with T&E in makeup, the true fans will run for the exits.
For me, the only way to do this properly is to do an “Unplugged” style performance with all surviving members past and present (even Vinnie). This would serve all masters… would it fully satisfy all, probably not, but it would certainly look better than what they’re likely trying to pull off.
My two cents…
JJ in Indy