Bill Aucoin’s former partner, Roman Fernandez, has released the following statement regarding KISS and the Rock N’ Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony:
“I’m going on record.
I normally stand by the sidelines quietly watching the scrimmage in silence, but now, I feel I have to speak up.
My late partner, Bill Aucoin, bothered enough in 1973 to wager his entire career as a successful television producer and bet all the money he had, as well as money he didn’t have, on 4 kids from the streets of New York. He unfortunately can no longer speak for himself on the subject of KISS and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Bill Aucoin gave KISS their start, as well as some of the best years of his life. KISS would, in fact, despite all his other successes, come to define Bill in the eyes of millions of fans and in the eyes of the industry. An industry that to a great degree didn’t give KISS the time of day when it mattered the most. No one did except for Bill, Sean Delaney and Neil (and Joyce) Bogart. All no longer with us except for Joyce. But, Bill and I spoke about this subject on several occasions before he passed. Bill Aucoin was not the type to reflect in regret, and he harbored no animosity. But he was convinced that due to politics within the board of the Hall of Fame, the day would never come that saw KISS inducted. I’m pretty certain he was OK with that.
But had Bill been alive to see the day it was announced that the group would indeed, despite every notion to the contrary, be inducted, might have been a nice parting gift for him. But it’s done. He’s gone. It could have just as easily been Paul, Gene, Peter or Ace. But they’re still here. And I’m pretty sure this is what Bill might have said in light of all this nonsense: ‘(….unintelligible noises) Look it, find a compromise, put everything aside for one night, be the larger than life rock stars you know you are, and then…. Onward and upward!’
I don’t believe Bill would begrudge any reasoning for the band members feeling however they may about one another. But, I also believe he would have recognized this as one singular night to put unresolved issues aside. Bill is no longer with us. If Paul, Gene, Peter or Ace were not here, this conversation would not even be possible. Life is too short to waste such a precious opportunity. If for no other reason, do it for Bill Aucoin. And for Sean. And for Neil. Love to all members of Kiss past and present. Onward and Upward guys.”
68 Responses
Kiss was so cool in the 70’s. The few fans they have now will never forgive Gene and Paul for this.
well said , i think gene and paul are wrong for this and hope they come to their senses before its too late…
I do hope they work it out and play together. I have no expectations they will reunite and tour. I do think peter and ace have burnt those chances. Please don’t be like Eddie Van halen and cheat yourself and the fans of this..
Puts it all into perspective,
KISS is bigger than the sum of it’s parts and they should all set aside their differences and celebrate together in song for the fans.. all members of KISS past and present. Unmasked and out of costume.
Please sign this petition to get some attention and possibly make them change their minds..
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/861/398/126/we-want-the-original-kiss-line-up-to-play-at-the-rr-hall-of-fame-ceremonies/?fb_connected=1
Knowing Bill as long as I did, (and the original KISS members) this was exactly what Bill would have said, AND how Gene and Paul would have reacted. BUT, they aren’t the only band in the history of music who’ve been through this same crap. Egos can really change someone and fame can be the main culprit of an ego. Gene was, first and foremost, a business man, and a savvy one at that. Peter and Ace’s (and Bill’s) excesses were the threads that unraveled these relationships. I don’t believe Gene or Paul had any idea or intention that it was going to get so bad that the band would have to make the drastic changes it did. But they were the members who kept it going. Use your common sense. How did Gene and Paul keep the brand of KISS going if Ace and Peter were such an integral part of the group? I’m not taking away their importance or their contribution, not at all. But if you have a job, and it’s imperative that you be able to DO your job, but you can’t…wouldn’t you expect to be fired?
Where did the money go? Stupid question. The excesses of sex, drugs and rock and roll will drain anyone’s financial resources. If you haven’t figured that out maybe you should stick to Asian violin players. As for opinions that the current lineup sucks, or they wear wigs, or whatever your “gripes” are, remember, these guys are in their 60’s. They are attempting to recreate the original group, visually, because that’s what their “schtick” is. They were never known to be great musicians, but they did and still do, put on a great show. Sold out shows across the world kinda proves it…You can have your opinions but don’t state them as facts. Great interview Roman! See you soon!