Tommy is a great guy. He sent my dear friend who was recovering from lymphatic cancer a tour book signed the entire band and corresponded with him via email for a while. 100% class act. All respect and admiration to Mr Thayer. A true gentleman.
I met Tommy back on the Freedom To Rock tour. I expressed my gratitude towards him for continuing the legacy. He smiled, took a picture with me, and said “man, you’re too kind. Thank you.” Simple response, yet what else is there to say? He’s loving life, and I’m happy for him.
The more I listen to the original members attack each other, the more I really appreciate the class and professionalism that Tommy Thayer carries himself with.
Tommy has a great story. He was literally a gopher for Gene and Paul who tuned their guitars and did odd jobs for them, and ultimately ended up in the band and became the longest tenured lead guitarist in the band's history.
He wasn't tuning guitars and stuff he was tour managing and he set up all the conventions and produced and worked on projects like the table book The second coming. Great guitar player and back cool story for sure , but I've also heard people try to spin it negatively I once heard someone falsely try to say Tommy cleaned out Genes gutters or something like that lol
Tommy and Eric didn't decide to take over Ace's and Peter's characters, Gene and Paul made that decision. Tommy and Eric are doing what they are being paid to do. Gene and Paul don't want them to be original or their own characters.
Peter and Ace are leasing out the rights to the makeup , yet they complain about imposters wearing it and it's all about the money . . Blatant hypocrisy.
Ben Moen either way sold or lease they (Peter and Ace) had control over their characters and by willful ignorance or taking the money and running they are at fault. Griping about imposters in their makeup is their doing anyway you slice it. All four of these guys have major character flaws as do most human beings but good grief it is ridiculous the things that comes out of all their mouths...
Tommy is a great guitarist and a truly good person. He's pure class. It wasn't his decision to dawn the spaceman outfit. He's just doing his job and does a good job at keeping it true. Let's just appreciate what we have a great guitarist.
@@naturalbornscorpio8127 you don't know what you're talking about. Their greed comes before integrity? F off, you're a spare. You don't get to judge them on any level. Now GFY
Tommy is a stand up guy and a class act. Choosing to take the high road on this issue and wishing Ace nothing but the best is just another example of that. Ace on the other hand is very unprofessional and bitter.
@@alkohallick2901 I heard that before that sucks when you meet a hero or person you are a fan of and they come across as an Ass or jerk I guess I will never meet my hero’s Safer that way
You obviously didn't hear the original interview from Ace then? Ace expressed an opinion that was, he thought Bruce Kulick has been the best guitarist to replace him ( I agree). He even said he feels sorry for Tommy because he's been hired to be a replica of Ace instead of having his own character/ persona....what's wrong with that?
In a dream world, the original Kiss could have stayed together forever. But we all know this ain't a dream world. Tommy is super talented and seems like cool a guy. I'm happy for him and not surprised he responded like a class act.
🖕🖕🖕 to all the Tommy haters. If you choose to follow Ace, whatever. But you don't have to be an ass to Tommy in the process. Tommy's 10X the guitarist, bandmember and person Ace is. Just learn to deal with that
Have noting against Tommy, but sorry there is only one ACE and for me this is just to dumb putting on his makeup acting like him on staged. Kiss should have given him a different role like they did with Eric Carr and Vinni
Couple of points to make here. First of all, it's not Ace's makeup as he sold it. Second, if Tommy wanted to act like Ace on stage, Tommy would show up drunk. We don't see that happening. Third, why would they come up with new makeup when it was a commercial failure the first time? The spaceman makeup was available for use and it works. It's not dumb as you say, it was actually the smart business move to make.
I what this is if Ace is high or not, Ace created the spaceman and never sold the makeup, saying that like the fox Eric carr did not work dont make seens
@@natecannon6746 not owned by Ace, but it is Ace’s creation. I can buy a painting by an artist. I thereby own the painting but I am still holding on to something someone else created. Rap artist sample a beat and claim it but they are using something created by someone else. More power to Tommy. He does a great job of playing Ace role in the Broadway theatrical roadshow version of KISS 21 Century Alive. Tommy has a great gig and he does an impressive rendition of The Spaceman. That’s perhaps my ultimate rock star fantasy along with millions of other legacy KISS fans, but It’s like watching Diana Ross play Dorthy as Judy Garland in The Wiz. I can imagine one day there will be an officially licensed all girl KISS? A hip hop KISS. Hey they purchase the license and you can do whatever.
I'm certain someone could "out sing" Paul at his point. His voice is gone - but in his defense, he's older and it's simply not his fault. To be honest, this group can go on forever with new members. I go see other cover bands and enjoy myself. I'd pay to see the world's best Kiss Cover band if they sounded spot on.
It's unfortunate to say, but soon KISS will become a cover band of itself. Unlike other bands with little or no original members, KISS has become more like a tribute show playing their greatest hits.
Kiss may go on like the ford motor company went on after Henry Ford died...or like a football team has constant turnover but their name brand itself doesn't change...it would be genius
@@kevinpowell7435 can’t be a cover tribute band with the two founders and main songwriters and vocalists come on. Criss didn’t play on anything after 78 get over it!!!!
I am a fan of Ace and the original line up but I understand why Gene and Paul decided to move forward without him. Tommy is as legit they come with no ego, no entitlement and embraces their direction. He earned his spot.
1975 through 1978 both Ace and Peter were good musicians. That drum solo on 100,000 Years though old school is badass. Ace played really good back then with a lot of fire and vibrato. Ace played good on the reunion tour. Peter did really good on the Kiss Aerosmith tour. What can you say ? Tommy got a good gig and seems to appreciate it.
Apart of all discussions about how it all is handled by the band and the former members, who is right and wrong, one can't deny Tommy always takes the high road.
@Josue Vasquez That's exactly my opinion. Of course Ace and Peter were the original members and they are amazing, but Tommy and Eric are great too. And I don't understand why so many people hate them so much.
@@stevekosak8624 I don't know if you're a guitarist but if you are and Gene and Paul asked you to wear Ace's makeup and play guitar for one of the greatest bands ever, would you? Tommy was in that situation and he went for it. Don't blame him at all.
@@charleslamoureux3008 😂😂😂 I do he has FAILED at it with real Kiss fans we don't appreciate fake ace ok you can like it all you want that is fine I respect that... But old school Kiss fans nah👽
The fact is every band has lineup changes. Paul and Gene were the ones who decided to stick with the makeup after the reunion tours. Tommy is Ace’s ideal replacement. He’s a fan of the band and has been around since the mid 80’s. Just watch the documentary he made about the bands reunion tour. He really loves the band and admires Ace. It’s really sad to me that Ace is being so nasty to Tommy. They knew each other really well for years and it’s really bitter of Ace, as he could have been there if he wanted to be. He is acting like Tommy stole his job, when he left of his own volition. Gene even asked him to come on the latest tour but he refused. I admire Tommy for being so diplomatic about Ace trying to slander him. I really think at his age, Ace (and Peter) should just let the past go and move on. I, for one, really love, respect and admire Tommy, and seeing him on stage recently has inspired my 12yr old daughter to learn guitar.
True, Ace and Peter could have refused on principle not to sell the rights to their makeup. The truth is, they could not afford to KEEP their personas. Both were quite broke and, when the farewell was done, it was their main source of income. Plus, the main reason Kiss kept the makeup after the farewell was because they signed another long term trademark deal. So there would be no other incarnations of Kiss as all the money was in those 4 iconic images.
The only problem with Tommy and Eric is that they’re trying to be someone we know and are iconic he’s a great guy and player but it would’ve been better if he was his own person
Met Tommy and Eric, both spectacular he has held his own despite the hate he gets , I am more outspoken and would be very vocal to defend myself. So I respect him being very cool about the situation.
If Ace licenced out his image and costume, as he says, for a hefty cheque every six months, then he has to accept that someone else will play his role, whether it's Tommy or someone else. Just business. He takes the money, the band makes the choice.
I’m sure someone else in the comments is already sent it or has before in previous videos, but Tommy doesn’t just Where the make up, he also does the exact same stage moves the same guitar solos the same intricate parts as well as various other things that the kids team probably made him nailed down to get the part.
I saw KISS 5 times in the seventies and up to the 86 tour. The Ace shows are in my mind. The other shows are not. That was a lot of paper route, allowance and mowing lawn money but it was worth it. I almost called it a day after the expensive 4 solo album bit BUT I stuck it out because I loved Ace, Peter, Gene and Paul. A lot of friends and classmates laughing, because of the obvious commercial exploitations and comparison to "real bands" like Rush, Aerosmith, Mahogany Rush, didn't make loyalty easy at times, but I hung in there and stayed a fan. (Yeah, Alive 1 and the live concert tour was that good) T-shirts to button downs; college, jobs, girlfriends, cars, bell bottoms, and straight legs, came and went, as well as punk, new wave, alternative and grunge, but I remained a fan. I almost punked myself and went to the 1997 farewell but at the last minute I decided why destroy a good memory. It's like seeing an old crush at the high school reunion. I remember a young, energetic, lean, mean, rock and roll machine. By the first farewell tour I thought better to love an old memory than face a new reality? I recently met someone who couldn't wait to see them. She was in her early thirties. She couldn't relate to me loving the original 4. I realized this and didn't even talk about KISS the band but it was like KISS was a concept? I could not really understand who those people are who are packing the stadium for this tour but she helped me understand what's going on. To her KISS are a legend and she felt as though she needed to see them, it, for whatever reason. She has no idea of the role of Tommy Thayer or Vinnie Vincent or even Peter Criss singing Beth. She just needed to see 4 guys in makeup, playing guitars, using pyro, explosions, light show and singing Rock & Roll All Night. Her only complaint was she wanted to take her kids and the price of the good tickets to see them in New York, for the entire family, was almost half a months rent. KISS has turned into a Broadway revue, so the new cast members, such as Tommy, work for a show of that nature. It's kinda like Cat's or Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. It's kind of like who is in the current version of Molly Hatchett, Iron Butterfly, Kansas, Styx, Earth Wind & Fire or the Guess Who? It almost doesn't matter to the ticket holders or anyone at this point? For the current version of KISS It is Gene and Paul and two other guys in Peter and Ace makeup. That's okay, it works, but I won't be seeing the new version of the road show. The KISS brand, unlike any other band is unique and can substitute ALL the players and still roll on as the makeup kinda makes it timeless (actually not so unique as there is always a version of the Temptations or the Four Tops, The Ventures, The Four Freshmen, etc). It's been 45 years and I still love KISS. I'm delighted that Gene and Paul are still out there on the road carrying the flying SS banner. Rock on dudes BUT there is only ONE KISS in my old mind and that hardened metal memory was forged under the heat of Ace, Peter, Gene and Paul, the hottest band in the world, KISS.
@@jeremymcmulin6876 why you want to nitpick an old man/fan reflecting on his 45 years of Kisstory? Officially 1997 was Alive/Worldwide Tour. Unofficially it was “Reunion” tour while, in retrospect it is “The Final Reunion Tour”. I remember thinking it was a final tour, and it was the final KISS tour of the original band. I kinda wish I had gone to see that tour? But no regrets. At least I have a poster from that tour. I’m pretty happy with my KISS memories.
Are people hearing something different? Ace didn't slag Tommy off..this is just click bait. Ace just made a normal remark saying Bruce Kulick is the best guitarist that has replaced him..I totally agree. He even stated that he feels sorry for Tommy because he's hired to just sound and act like him and would have been better having his own character/ persona. Again I totally agree, it worked for Vinnie Vincent and Eric Carr.
I think people are talking in general--he has slammed him a few times but they actually get along. They do it for press. he has even made a few remarks alluding to such over the years
There can only be one Spaceman and that will forever be Paul Daniel ACE Frehley. No matter what just like only one Starchild,one Demon,one Catman,one Fox and one Ahnk.
I think Tommy replicates Ace's lead breaks almost note for note. However there will only be '' One true spaceman '' Ace Frehley - Period. No guitarist can replicate Ace's Bluesy Manic Riffs and Vibrato and Sustain. His '' Blues Box '' Solo's and Pentatonic scales. I admire Tommy but like Eric he Is under the direction of Gene and Paul.
I actually think that is kinda ridiculous. Of course Tommy plays Ace’s parts exact. That’s how Ace wrote them. If Tommy came in and rewrote Ace’s riffs everyone would walk out. It’s just as much about the music than the stage show. Tommy does his own thing on songs that came after Ace, but when he plays Ace’s songs, he respects his work by playing it as close as possible to the original. Just because Ace and Peter aren’t there, doesn’t mean new musicians have a right to change what they did.
It would have been easy enough to create new characters to replace the Cat man and spaceman. The fans are not fooled. Nobody could blame Thayer. He accepted a job. I'd take that job for sure.
Ace is my all time favorite guitarist. That being said Tommy does a great job of copying him. Nobody is going sound exactly like another person but Tommy copies him about as well as somebody can. I used to really be bothered by him cloning Ace but somewhere along the line I changed my view to one of seeing it as tribute type of thing which actually can be seen almost as respect. They knew Ace's playing and image was so vital that they continued with it. To me that shows how much of an impact he had . I saw them in Oakland Last March--killer show
He plays nothing like Ace. His phrasing is completely different. He is a boring guitar player with no fire in his playing at all. His solos on Monster and Sonic Boom were horrible so they fit right in with the music.
@@chrisjones8977 I didn't say he played exactly as Ace, I said as far as trying to copy him he does about as well as a person can. Ace's playing is very unique. Yes, the stuff he writes is lackluster but he does good for somebody to fill in as he does. Thats what the wanted was somebody to simply fill the gap and play the songs. Although he did ok with some of the stuff on Psycho Circus. he played the solo on the song psycho Circus and it fit in well
This will be unpopular with many fans, but........I have zero hate for Tommy & Eric S. wearing the makeup/outfits. Frankly, both are doing what has been asked of them. And if they didn't do it, someone else would have...... People like to point out that Eric C & Vinnie used different makeup. Yep, that is undeniable. But that was also a completely different situation (IMO). When Eric C. & Vinnie came into the band, it was a time when KISS was simply trying to survive. And I remember that, even having their own makeup, many fans hated on them because they were not Peter & Ace.......Fast forward to the reunion tour through the present. Ever since bringing Peter & Ace back, & putting the makeup back on, KISS became a nostalgia act of themselves. Because that's what the fans clamoured for. Fans wanted to return to the KISS they knew as kids. Personally I think that's why so many can't see past the idea of having Tommy & Eric S. in the makeup/outfits.....Much like many people complain that these guys mimic the movement & playing styles of Peter & Ace. While it's true, the complaining would be even louder if (for example) Tommy refused to mimic Ace's solos, & completely did his own solos.....Many fans are not going to be happy, no matter what..... Similarly, people complain about Paul either sounding horrible now, or using lip syncing. To me, to complain about Paul is unrealistic. In order to appease us, he has put an amazing amount of stress on his vocal cords for fifty years. And for those who like to compare Paul's present voice to Gene's, again that's being unrealistic. Gene has never tried to get the range (nor holding notes nearly as long) as Paul. The two have always had completely different styles. So even though Gene still sounds much like he did in the 1970s, comparing Paul with Gene is much like comparing apples to oranges........I have been a diehard KISS fan since '76. Have owned every album except Carnival Of Souls & Monster. Recently I was told, by someone in a YT comment thread, that I am "the reason KISS stopped writing/recording new songs". Maybe that person is correct. But I don't think so. I don't complain about Paul's singing; I have never complained about Tommy or Eric S. wearing the makeup/outfits; in fact, the only member of KISS I have ever complained about was Vinnie. As for new music, I have always looked forward to it. So they didn't stop recording because of me......After all of this, my point is, that I truly wish fans could stop complaining & arguing over who should be in the makeup; who is "better" than who; so on & so forth. Why can't we simply be fans of the overall KISS song library, & KISS experience, & let them go into retirement however the band sees fit to. I hope you (fellow fans) have a great day.😎
If Kiss is really planning to continue one day with all new members, then I don't have a problem with new guys using the makeup of former band members. It's no longer about the real person, they're just temps (even if there can only be one set of originals). However, if the band is planning to end its existence then I think that new band members should create new characters.
And yet if it wasn’t for Tommy, Ace wouldn’t have been able to perform in the reunion tour. He retaught Ace all the old songs. If Ace is really bothered by it he never should’ve left in the first place. He fucking quit the band twice and gave away the rights to his character. Such a boy who cried wolf.
Thayer's a classy guy and a good guitarist. I have no problem with him putting on the Spaceman make-up. Neither should Ace Frehley. It was Frehley who sold his rights to the make-up and allowed it, but then it's no surprise Frehley plays the victim rather than being accountable. Accountability was always an issue with that dude.
My problem is... Dressing up two guys in Ace and Peter's persona. It's basically Paul, Gene and two impersonators. Nothing personal against Tommy and Eric but it's just nonsense.
I'm 18.. my dream in life is to be the next frontman of KISS I got the vocals to handle it but I'm working on the guitar skill to handle it.. do I believe it will come true.. most definitely not.. but my dream pushes me to play guitar even though I got 2 jobs working 7 days a week 60 hours a week. Let your dream fuel you!
Imma be honest. I feel bad for Eric and Tommy, two mature grown ass men among big ass children. It must hurt Tommy to know someone who he look up to and idolize is such an ass. I admire Peter even more now because Peter actually likes Eric and is proud and happy for him. Peter says nothing bad about them.
Authenticity seems a huge point of contention with Kiss fans. Not so much the case with other bands that still play from this era. Maybe that's why they call it the Kiss Army!
Tommy Thayer is NOT "pretending to be Ace Frehley" he's playing the CHARACTER of the Space Man. Huge difference. No different whatsoever from James Bond or Batman films...I love Ace, I love the Original four, but Tommy is an amazing player and does a great job> I just have no issue with this. If Ace believed in Kiss, even just a little bit, back when he sold his image, he wouldn't be in this boat.
I agree with you totally, but you have one mistake in this. Ace didn't sell his image. He licensed it so KISS can use it, but Ace gets royalties. Peter Criss on the other hand did sell his character.
@@candyfalcon1922 You are 100% wrong. Ace sold his makeup too. Paul and Gene would have NEVER taken a chance that Ace could have ever had them in their pocket. Don't believe the bullshit.
Now with Both these photo's side by side i see why i always thought that Tommy did the spaceman make-up different then Ace. Tommy doesn't use the blue shades Ace is using by his eyes. I wonder why je doesn't.
He does great on the leads too. he nails it as well as anybody could. Most people who bash him wouldn't be able to tell blind that it's him on a lot of stuff despite raving about how he "sucks." I'm an Ace fanatic and have an ear for that stuff and usually can but it's not easy and it's usually related to his tone being slightly different than playing poorly. I'm sure I'll get attacked for this but oh well. LOL check it out for yourself. Have somebody play some clips and not tell you which one it is----he is closer than people give him credit for
If anything, KISS could have played up a storyline that Tommy wasn’t Space Ace but was a citizen of Jendel. That they BOTH came from the same planet. Lol
Tommy Thayer showing class . It's sad that people bash him for keeping the band going . Ace is better off being on his own and I think it's better for everyone in the long run . It's just to bad the entire band can't check their egos at the door for the final show and get up on stage together .
Tommy, Bruce, and Eric Singer are class acts, get along fine, and even play music well together in the absence of Gene and Paul. On the EOTR tour, Tommy really came into his own and should get some kind of MVP award. I just wish the COVID-19 would end and touring could resume. It seems like a lot of great musicians such as Eddie Van Halen have passed away this year. Gene and Paul are no spring chickens and have fewer days ahead of them than behind them. Ace is trying to generate buzz and stay in the news in hopes of generating interest and album sales, so he will say and do anything to accomplish that. I saw Ace and Peter playing at a bar in the mid 90’s. They billed themselves as The Bad Boys of KISS.
I saw Ace in a free show a few years ago. He couldn't sing and all he did was put down Gene. He sucked. I left. Even free it wasn't worth my time. I like Tommy and am glad he is here. And he sure isn't bad to look at! ♥️
Ace left a band that only worked with the original look. I remember being kinda put off by Eric Carr's fox, and Vinnie s ankh-man was the jump the shark moment. If it had worked and they had continued rotating new faces over the years, Tommy probably would have gladly come up with something cool and new. But we all know, the makeup from the classic era is the brand. Can't cry foul that the other 2 guys, who you got famous with, want to continue to give the fans what they want.
Here's a cool idea... Watch the video and turn off the sound and read this while the video rolls.... ready? :::: I remember as a kid playing guitar and visiting music stores and seeing all these GREAT Guitars on the walls that I could not afford... Many years later as I was bringing Peter Criss from the band KISS Pizza and Water and making sure the guys had what they needed for the show.... I fell in Love with the Les Pauls that ACE Played, and he really was a total pro and a nice guy and I kept telling myself... man... he has the best gig ever. Great Guitars... Great Band... Man I really want that. So I sucked on Paul and Genes testicles and finally got a job...and now my VERY OWN Epiphone!!! YES... I Play it LIVE to all the backing tracks, and I LOVE the fact that I can inspire other fakers out there that really can't play that great...but I stay sober and do what the Bosses (Paul and Gene) Say... and Yes I do donate to charities... But just the One's that Gene and Paul give me a thumbs up to, you know.,, when I am off the tour and can do a little of what I want to when they are not bossing me around. But YES, Thanks to GIBSON for allowing my name on a guitar that might inspire some young person to pick one up and also learn solos from Kiss Albums that I had absolutely nothing to do with. I am glad to have this LEGACY.... Thank You All!!! (especially Gene and Paul... because they gave the OKAY on this)....
Tommy and Eric are good players that do what is needed of them exceptionally. That said, the real thorn in the foot when it comes to them imho is that their forced use of the Spaceman and Cat-man persona is the theft of Ace and Peters legacies that visibly seems intended to erase their status as founding members and write them off as just players filling a role, no different than how they’re doing with Tommy and Eric. Lineup grievances fans have could’ve been reduced 50% if they were just allowed to be their own players with their own characters.
Yeah we all knew there was never going to be replacements for Paul and Gene. They said there would be, Tommy made it seem like it could happen, but its all bs. Its not about music its about money. Paul and Gene ran Kiss into the ground any way they could. Now that they’re done, Kiss is done.
Ace was just asked who he thought was the best non Ace guitarist. Gene and Paul have to take responsibility for this division. Well Queen continued without Freddie so anything is possible as they have just had another number 1 album.
look its very simple these are two guys who want the same job its a relatively high paying job and the BOTH need the money its as simple as that two guys one job
Tommy: Maybe one day even Gene and Paul will be replaced and KISS will go on, kind of like how the other members were replaced. 2024: Yeah, about that.
KISS going on past Paul and/or Gene retiring is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard, and I know what they're up to. They want an "official" tribute band to continue under the copyrights and licensing so they can sit back and collect while they're retired. I hope I pass the audition.
Remember that saying “no one member is bigger than the band and the name of the band itself “. What if a younger big named musician (or two) wanted to live out their dream of playing in the band as their idol for a short time after they are retired ? What is so wrong with that ? There are so many musicians that picked up an instrument because of all of the Kiss members, past & present. What is so wrong about that ???
I grew up in the 70's and Ace was a guitar god, saw him on various solo tours in the late 80's and early 90's, but truthfully go listen to the live shows from the Reunion tour- his guitar playing sucked bad, it took until the last tour he did with Kiss for him to start playing decently again. Going back and looking at the 70's shows after 76 it was all hype. Nobody in their right mind would turn down the gig, Tommy got the job....
Imena.. who inspired Dime, (plus I'm sure, hundreds of others, besides..) And who's 'the other' gonna inspire, especially if parents are wise enough to say 'oh BTW< that's not the original, HERE'S the original, so... yeah...
I could totally see KISS tribute band members replacing all of the members at some point. The music and the show are much too awesome to limit it to one lifetime of a member. The Genius of the makeup does make the parts interchangeable. That's not to say install a revolving door. Bring in the best of the tribute band members on a permanent basis. I'll give you one heck of a Peter Criss right now!
Tommy is a great guy. He sent my dear friend who was recovering from lymphatic cancer a tour book signed the entire band and corresponded with him via email for a while. 100% class act. All respect and admiration to Mr Thayer. A true gentleman.
@Vincent Junio I cannot speak for ace
gene would’ve charged him 1000 bucks for one email
I say that's incorrect but there is no case against this Iam aware of ace
Tommy is such a down to earth human being and amazing musician! 💖🎵
@@ebeanshortsThat’s because Genes a tight arse jew.
I met Tommy back on the Freedom To Rock tour. I expressed my gratitude towards him for continuing the legacy. He smiled, took a picture with me, and said “man, you’re too kind. Thank you.”
Simple response, yet what else is there to say? He’s loving life, and I’m happy for him.
Legacy of 💩
The more I listen to the original members attack each other, the more I really appreciate the class and professionalism that Tommy Thayer carries himself with.
For all the crap that people give him, he's a classy guy.
Tommy has a great story. He was literally a gopher for Gene and Paul who tuned their guitars and did odd jobs for them, and ultimately ended up in the band and became the longest tenured lead guitarist in the band's history.
He wasn't tuning guitars and stuff he was tour managing and he set up all the conventions and produced and worked on projects like the table book The second coming. Great guitar player and back cool story for sure , but I've also heard people try to spin it negatively I once heard someone falsely try to say Tommy cleaned out Genes gutters or something like that lol
I take it wearing Ace's Klown make up was a demotion from being a gopher then.
@@gnarshred1239Ace probably started those stories 🤣
I enjoyed all the KISS shows I went to. Twenty plus shows over 43 years.
Tommy and Eric didn't decide to take over Ace's and Peter's characters, Gene and Paul made that decision. Tommy and Eric are doing what they are being paid to do. Gene and Paul don't want them to be original or their own characters.
Peter and Ace are leasing out the rights to the makeup , yet they complain about imposters wearing it and it's all about the money . . Blatant hypocrisy.
@@randallfox4265 peter sold his rights
@@randallfox4265 no they sold the rights years ago. They contend that their attorneys more or less conned them into it. Believe what you will.
Ben Moen either way sold or lease they (Peter and Ace) had control over their characters and by willful ignorance or taking the money and running they are at fault. Griping about imposters in their makeup is their doing anyway you slice it. All four of these guys have major character flaws as do most human beings but good grief it is ridiculous the things that comes out of all their mouths...
I mean look what happened the last time kiss tried original characters, it wasn’t well received.
Met him once ! Very very very nice guy
Tommy is so talented and full of such humanity, he deserves to be the longest-running Kiss guitarist. He taught Ace his parts for that reunion tour!
I'm a truly KISS fan, I like all the eras, all the albums and all the concerts. Everyone had their time and add something to the band.
Amen
You are right. Kiss members past and present all made their own contributions to the band.
You're so wrong
AMEN!
Tommy Thayer is a class act !
I am a Tommy Thayer fan. He's such a great guitarist
Tommy Thayer is "Outta This World"
I know right Tom Tom is the best
@@izzymurati1987 oh shut up
Love to you Tommy ❤️
Tommy is a great guitarist and a truly good person. He's pure class. It wasn't his decision to dawn the spaceman outfit. He's just doing his job and does a good job at keeping it true. Let's just appreciate what we have a great guitarist.
@@naturalbornscorpio8127 you don't know what you're talking about. Their greed comes before integrity?
F off, you're a spare. You don't get to judge them on any level. Now GFY
loved Tommy Thayer in his band Black n Blue.
Ace , often imitated never ever duplicated, that being said , Thayer is a class act no doubt about it
Thumbs up for Tommy!
Tommy is a stand up guy and a class act. Choosing to take the high road on this issue and wishing Ace nothing but the best is just another example of that. Ace on the other hand is very unprofessional and bitter.
Thank you!
Tommy is a class
I met Ace twice and he's an ass.
@@alkohallick2901
I heard that before that sucks when you meet a hero or person you are a fan of and they come across as an Ass or jerk
I guess I will never meet my hero’s
Safer that way
You obviously didn't hear the original interview from Ace then? Ace expressed an opinion that was, he thought Bruce Kulick has been the best guitarist to replace him ( I agree). He even said he feels sorry for Tommy because he's been hired to be a replica of Ace instead of having his own character/ persona....what's wrong with that?
In a dream world, the original Kiss could have stayed together forever. But we all know this ain't a dream world. Tommy is super talented and seems like cool a guy. I'm happy for him and not surprised he responded like a class act.
tommy has a lot of class.
🖕🖕🖕 to all the Tommy haters. If you choose to follow Ace, whatever. But you don't have to be an ass to Tommy in the process. Tommy's 10X the guitarist, bandmember and person Ace is. Just learn to deal with that
Have noting against Tommy, but sorry there is only one ACE and for me this is just to dumb putting on his makeup acting like him on staged. Kiss should have given him a different role like they did with Eric Carr and Vinni
correct.
Couple of points to make here. First of all, it's not Ace's makeup as he sold it. Second, if Tommy wanted to act like Ace on stage, Tommy would show up drunk. We don't see that happening. Third, why would they come up with new makeup when it was a commercial failure the first time? The spaceman makeup was available for use and it works. It's not dumb as you say, it was actually the smart business move to make.
I what this is if Ace is high or not, Ace created the spaceman and never sold the makeup, saying that like the fox Eric carr did not work dont make seens
@@jax3959 You're grammar is out of whack. I can barely understand what you are saying. But yes, Ace did sell his makeup.
@@natecannon6746 not owned by Ace, but it is Ace’s creation. I can buy a painting by an artist. I thereby own the painting but I am still holding on to something someone else created. Rap artist sample a beat and claim it but they are using something created by someone else. More power to Tommy. He does a great job of playing Ace role in the Broadway theatrical roadshow version of KISS 21 Century Alive.
Tommy has a great gig and he does an impressive rendition of The Spaceman. That’s perhaps my ultimate rock star fantasy along with millions of other legacy KISS fans, but It’s like watching Diana Ross play Dorthy as Judy Garland in The Wiz. I can imagine one day there will be an officially licensed all girl KISS? A hip hop KISS. Hey they purchase the license and you can do whatever.
I'm certain someone could "out sing" Paul at his point. His voice is gone - but in his defense, he's older and it's simply not his fault. To be honest, this group can go on forever with new members. I go see other cover bands and enjoy myself. I'd pay to see the world's best Kiss Cover band if they sounded spot on.
It's unfortunate to say, but soon KISS will become a cover band of itself. Unlike other bands with little or no original members, KISS has become more like a tribute show playing their greatest hits.
Kiss may go on like the ford motor company went on after Henry Ford died...or like a football team has constant turnover but their name brand itself doesn't change...it would be genius
I have heard that when Gene and Paul do retire, they are going to have 4 guys in the original make-up play in Vegas.
@@kevinpowell7435 can’t be a cover tribute band with the two founders and main songwriters and vocalists come on. Criss didn’t play on anything after 78 get over it!!!!
If you didn't want someone to play your character then you shouldn't have SOLD IT!!!
ka-BOOM.
Class act! All the way!
Tommy is a classy guy ! Love him❤
I'm a lifelong KISS fan . First concert late 1975. I've been fortunate enough to see all versions of the band . Nuff said
So have I except. Peter Criss and Mark St. John. Although I'm living in the UK, so not too bad considering.
Me 2
Me also.... but love the old band. Ace Gene Paul PEteR 👍
I am a fan of Ace and the original line up but I understand why Gene and Paul decided to move forward without him. Tommy is as legit they come with no ego, no entitlement and embraces their direction. He earned his spot.
If they ever do Spinal Tap 2, it should be based upon Kiss over the last 15 years.
That's already been done by Iron Maiden.
they did do a Spinal Tap 2...back around '91
@@Kissfan96dr it wasn’t a movie it was a reunion album
@@ArchieDuke. I stand corrected. thanks Archie for the update.
@@Kissfan96dr All good.
1975 through 1978 both Ace and Peter were good musicians. That drum solo on 100,000 Years though old school is badass. Ace played really good back then with a lot of fire and vibrato. Ace played good on the reunion tour. Peter did really good on the Kiss Aerosmith tour. What can you say ? Tommy got a good gig and seems to appreciate it.
Apart of all discussions about how it all is handled by the band and the former members, who is right and wrong, one can't deny Tommy always takes the high road.
This channel deserves more subscribers
Tommy's a very wholesome and wise man. And it pisses me off when ppl put him and Eric down
@Josue Vasquez That's exactly my opinion. Of course Ace and Peter were the original members and they are amazing, but Tommy and Eric are great too. And I don't understand why so many people hate them so much.
He's a poser bum!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's pathetic that anyone is fooled by this absolute clown👽
@@stevekosak8624 I don't know if you're a guitarist but if you are and Gene and Paul asked you to wear Ace's makeup and play guitar for one of the greatest bands ever, would you? Tommy was in that situation and he went for it. Don't blame him at all.
@@charleslamoureux3008 😂😂😂 I do he has FAILED at it with real Kiss fans we don't appreciate fake ace ok you can like it all you want that is fine I respect that... But old school Kiss fans nah👽
@@stevekosak8624 Tommy is a "poser bum" but plays in front of millions and gets paid handsomely for it. You're definition of a "bum" is a little off.
The fact is every band has lineup changes. Paul and Gene were the ones who decided to stick with the makeup after the reunion tours. Tommy is Ace’s ideal replacement. He’s a fan of the band and has been around since the mid 80’s. Just watch the documentary he made about the bands reunion tour. He really loves the band and admires Ace. It’s really sad to me that Ace is being so nasty to Tommy. They knew each other really well for years and it’s really bitter of Ace, as he could have been there if he wanted to be. He is acting like Tommy stole his job, when he left of his own volition. Gene even asked him to come on the latest tour but he refused. I admire Tommy for being so diplomatic about Ace trying to slander him. I really think at his age, Ace (and Peter) should just let the past go and move on.
I, for one, really love, respect and admire Tommy, and seeing him on stage recently has inspired my 12yr old daughter to learn guitar.
If Ace didn't like Thayer wearing the spaceman persona, all he had to do was not rent it to KISS. Ace owns the trademark.
True, Ace and Peter could have refused on principle not to sell the rights to their makeup. The truth is, they could not afford to KEEP their personas. Both were quite broke and, when the farewell was done, it was their main source of income. Plus, the main reason Kiss kept the makeup after the farewell was because they signed another long term trademark deal. So there would be no other incarnations of Kiss as all the money was in those 4 iconic images.
Space with Ace!!!!!👍👊💥✌😎
The only problem with Tommy and Eric is that they’re trying to be someone we know and are iconic he’s a great guy and player but it would’ve been better if he was his own person
All true but that is on Paul and Gene. Tommy’s just getting paid. Who’s gonna turn that down? Not me.
How long have they been in the band now.... almost twenty years ? Get over it man..... it's just business.
Tommy is his own person. He's playing a fictional character, not an actual person. More than one person can play a fictional character.
@@natecannon6746 ace is real Lmao he is the space man the playing is real the theatrics aren’t but the bronx attitude the rock playing is all Ace
@@DutchVai they aren’t a rock band like they say it’s a business you want rock go see Ace live
Met Tommy and Eric, both spectacular he has held his own despite the hate he gets , I am more outspoken and would be very vocal to defend myself. So I respect him being very cool about the situation.
If Ace licenced out his image and costume, as he says, for a hefty cheque every six months, then he has to accept that someone else will play his role, whether it's Tommy or someone else. Just business. He takes the money, the band makes the choice.
I’m sure someone else in the comments is already sent it or has before in previous videos, but Tommy doesn’t just Where the make up, he also does the exact same stage moves the same guitar solos the same intricate parts as well as various other things that the kids team probably made him nailed down to get the part.
ACE FOREVER !!!
The only reason that Ace and Peter aren’t in the band is because of Ace and Peter.
I saw KISS 5 times in the seventies and up to the 86 tour. The Ace shows are in my mind. The other shows are not. That was a lot of paper route, allowance and mowing lawn money but it was worth it. I almost called it a day after the expensive 4 solo album bit BUT I stuck it out because I loved Ace, Peter, Gene and Paul.
A lot of friends and classmates laughing, because of the obvious commercial exploitations and comparison to "real bands" like Rush, Aerosmith, Mahogany Rush, didn't make loyalty easy at times, but I hung in there and stayed a fan. (Yeah, Alive 1 and the live concert tour was that good) T-shirts to button downs; college, jobs, girlfriends, cars, bell bottoms, and straight legs, came and went, as well as punk, new wave, alternative and grunge, but I remained a fan.
I almost punked myself and went to the 1997 farewell but at the last minute I decided why destroy a good memory. It's like seeing an old crush at the high school reunion.
I remember a young, energetic, lean, mean, rock and roll machine. By the first farewell tour I thought better to love an old memory than face a new reality?
I recently met someone who couldn't wait to see them. She was in her early thirties. She couldn't relate to me loving the original 4. I realized this and didn't even talk about KISS the band but it was like KISS was a concept?
I could not really understand who those people are who are packing the stadium for this tour but she helped me understand what's going on.
To her KISS are a legend and she felt as though she needed to see them, it, for whatever reason. She has no idea of the role of Tommy Thayer or Vinnie Vincent or even Peter Criss singing Beth. She just needed to see 4 guys in makeup, playing guitars, using pyro, explosions, light show and singing Rock & Roll All Night.
Her only complaint was she wanted to take her kids and the price of the good tickets to see them in New York, for the entire family, was almost half a months rent.
KISS has turned into a Broadway revue, so the new cast members, such as Tommy, work for a show of that nature. It's kinda like Cat's or Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
It's kind of like who is in the current version of Molly Hatchett, Iron Butterfly, Kansas, Styx, Earth Wind & Fire or the Guess Who? It almost doesn't matter to the ticket holders or anyone at this point?
For the current version of KISS It is Gene and Paul and two other guys in Peter and Ace makeup.
That's okay, it works, but I won't be seeing the new version of the road show.
The KISS brand, unlike any other band is unique and can substitute ALL the players and still roll on as the makeup kinda makes it timeless (actually not so unique as there is always a version of the Temptations or the Four Tops, The Ventures, The Four Freshmen, etc).
It's been 45 years and I still love KISS. I'm delighted that Gene and Paul are still out there on the road carrying the flying SS banner. Rock on dudes BUT there is only ONE KISS in my old mind and that hardened metal memory was forged under the heat of Ace, Peter, Gene and Paul, the hottest band in the world, KISS.
97 was actually the Reunion Tour.
@@jeremymcmulin6876 why you want to nitpick an old man/fan reflecting on his 45 years of Kisstory? Officially 1997 was Alive/Worldwide Tour. Unofficially it was “Reunion” tour while, in retrospect it is “The Final Reunion Tour”.
I remember thinking it was a final tour, and it was the final KISS tour of the original band.
I kinda wish I had gone to see that tour? But no regrets. At least I have a poster from that tour. I’m pretty happy with my KISS memories.
Are people hearing something different? Ace didn't slag Tommy off..this is just click bait. Ace just made a normal remark saying Bruce Kulick is the best guitarist that has replaced him..I totally agree. He even stated that he feels sorry for Tommy because he's hired to just sound and act like him and would have been better having his own character/ persona. Again I totally agree, it worked for Vinnie Vincent and Eric Carr.
I think people are talking in general--he has slammed him a few times but they actually get along. They do it for press. he has even made a few remarks alluding to such over the years
KISS owns the rights to the Spaceman and Catman looks...thats why Tommy and Singer use them.
There can only be one Spaceman and that will forever be Paul Daniel ACE Frehley. No matter what just like only one Starchild,one Demon,one Catman,one Fox and one Ahnk.
Ace was Space Ace, Tommy is the spaceman. There can be two.
Bam!
I think Tommy replicates Ace's lead breaks almost note for note. However there will only be '' One true spaceman '' Ace Frehley - Period. No guitarist can replicate Ace's Bluesy Manic Riffs and Vibrato and Sustain. His '' Blues Box '' Solo's and Pentatonic scales. I admire Tommy but like Eric he Is under the direction of Gene and Paul.
I actually think that is kinda ridiculous. Of course Tommy plays Ace’s parts exact. That’s how Ace wrote them. If Tommy came in and rewrote Ace’s riffs everyone would walk out. It’s just as much about the music than the stage show. Tommy does his own thing on songs that came after Ace, but when he plays Ace’s songs, he respects his work by playing it as close as possible to the original. Just because Ace and Peter aren’t there, doesn’t mean new musicians have a right to change what they did.
It would have been easy enough to create new characters to replace the Cat man and spaceman. The fans are not fooled. Nobody could blame Thayer. He accepted a job. I'd take that job for sure.
Ace is my all time favorite guitarist. That being said Tommy does a great job of copying him. Nobody is going sound exactly like another person but Tommy copies him about as well as somebody can. I used to really be bothered by him cloning Ace but somewhere along the line I changed my view to one of seeing it as tribute type of thing which actually can be seen almost as respect. They knew Ace's playing and image was so vital that they continued with it. To me that shows how much of an impact he had . I saw them in Oakland Last March--killer show
He plays nothing like Ace. His phrasing is completely different. He is a boring guitar player with no fire in his playing at all. His solos on Monster and Sonic Boom were horrible so they fit right in with the music.
@@chrisjones8977 I didn't say he played exactly as Ace, I said as far as trying to copy him he does about as well as a person can. Ace's playing is very unique. Yes, the stuff he writes is lackluster but he does good for somebody to fill in as he does. Thats what the wanted was somebody to simply fill the gap and play the songs. Although he did ok with some of the stuff on Psycho Circus. he played the solo on the song psycho Circus and it fit in well
Has anyone else noticed if you pause the video when the logo comes up and move your phone around, the logo appears to shift around slightly?
Kiss farewell tour was outstanding
let's just get along and focus on music...
Love Tommy Thayer and if it wasn't Tommy it was going to be someone else.
This will be unpopular with many fans, but........I have zero hate for Tommy & Eric S. wearing the makeup/outfits. Frankly, both are doing what has been asked of them. And if they didn't do it, someone else would have...... People like to point out that Eric C & Vinnie used different makeup. Yep, that is undeniable. But that was also a completely different situation (IMO). When Eric C. & Vinnie came into the band, it was a time when KISS was simply trying to survive. And I remember that, even having their own makeup, many fans hated on them because they were not Peter & Ace.......Fast forward to the reunion tour through the present. Ever since bringing Peter & Ace back, & putting the makeup back on, KISS became a nostalgia act of themselves. Because that's what the fans clamoured for. Fans wanted to return to the KISS they knew as kids. Personally I think that's why so many can't see past the idea of having Tommy & Eric S. in the makeup/outfits.....Much like many people complain that these guys mimic the movement & playing styles of Peter & Ace. While it's true, the complaining would be even louder if (for example) Tommy refused to mimic Ace's solos, & completely did his own solos.....Many fans are not going to be happy, no matter what..... Similarly, people complain about Paul either sounding horrible now, or using lip syncing. To me, to complain about Paul is unrealistic. In order to appease us, he has put an amazing amount of stress on his vocal cords for fifty years. And for those who like to compare Paul's present voice to Gene's, again that's being unrealistic. Gene has never tried to get the range (nor holding notes nearly as long) as Paul. The two have always had completely different styles. So even though Gene still sounds much like he did in the 1970s, comparing Paul with Gene is much like comparing apples to oranges........I have been a diehard KISS fan since '76. Have owned every album except Carnival Of Souls & Monster. Recently I was told, by someone in a YT comment thread, that I am "the reason KISS stopped writing/recording new songs". Maybe that person is correct. But I don't think so. I don't complain about Paul's singing; I have never complained about Tommy or Eric S. wearing the makeup/outfits; in fact, the only member of KISS I have ever complained about was Vinnie. As for new music, I have always looked forward to it. So they didn't stop recording because of me......After all of this, my point is, that I truly wish fans could stop complaining & arguing over who should be in the makeup; who is "better" than who; so on & so forth. Why can't we simply be fans of the overall KISS song library, & KISS experience, & let them go into retirement however the band sees fit to. I hope you (fellow fans) have a great day.😎
Saw them this past March.
If Kiss is really planning to continue one day with all new members, then I don't have a problem with new guys using the makeup of former band members. It's no longer about the real person, they're just temps (even if there can only be one set of originals). However, if the band is planning to end its existence then I think that new band members should create new characters.
And yet if it wasn’t for Tommy, Ace wouldn’t have been able to perform in the reunion tour. He retaught Ace all the old songs. If Ace is really bothered by it he never should’ve left in the first place. He fucking quit the band twice and gave away the rights to his character. Such a boy who cried wolf.
I love Ace always! Tommy thank you for your contribution and keeping a Class Act!
Thayer's a classy guy and a good guitarist. I have no problem with him putting on the Spaceman make-up. Neither should Ace Frehley. It was Frehley who sold his rights to the make-up and allowed it, but then it's no surprise Frehley plays the victim rather than being accountable. Accountability was always an issue with that dude.
My problem is...
Dressing up two guys in Ace and Peter's persona. It's basically Paul, Gene and two impersonators. Nothing personal against Tommy and Eric but it's just nonsense.
Tommy is an amazing guy. Regardless
I'm 18.. my dream in life is to be the next frontman of KISS I got the vocals to handle it but I'm working on the guitar skill to handle it.. do I believe it will come true.. most definitely not.. but my dream pushes me to play guitar even though I got 2 jobs working 7 days a week 60 hours a week. Let your dream fuel you!
Tommy ls a class act all the way.
I'm not going to buy a ticket for this version of kiss... the people that do that's up to them
Imma be honest. I feel bad for Eric and Tommy, two mature grown ass men among big ass children. It must hurt Tommy to know someone who he look up to and idolize is such an ass. I admire Peter even more now because Peter actually likes Eric and is proud and happy for him. Peter says nothing bad about them.
SO SHWEEEETTT...much love Tee with LIONS NAMED LEO.[the music worldwide}
COOL..TALKS..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think mr. Speed should take over when gene and Paul are done
Authenticity seems a huge point of contention with Kiss fans. Not so much the case with other bands that still play from this era. Maybe that's why they call it the Kiss Army!
What Jabs? Everybody has been more than vocal about their opinion about it for almost 20 years. What is there to respond to?
Tommy Thayer is NOT "pretending to be Ace Frehley" he's playing the CHARACTER of the Space Man. Huge difference. No different whatsoever from James Bond or Batman films...I love Ace, I love the Original four, but Tommy is an amazing player and does a great job> I just have no issue with this. If Ace believed in Kiss, even just a little bit, back when he sold his image, he wouldn't be in this boat.
I agree with you totally, but you have one mistake in this. Ace didn't sell his image. He licensed it so KISS can use it, but Ace gets royalties. Peter Criss on the other hand did sell his character.
@@candyfalcon1922
You are 100% wrong. Ace sold his makeup too. Paul and Gene would have NEVER taken a chance that Ace could have ever had them in their pocket. Don't believe the bullshit.
What would rock be without the drama?
Now with Both these photo's side by side i see why i always thought that Tommy did the spaceman make-up different then Ace.
Tommy doesn't use the blue shades Ace is using by his eyes.
I wonder why je doesn't.
I would like to think it's because Ace didn't start using the blue in his makeup until 1979. 73 to 78 is the true hey day.
Way to keep it classy!
Who is this Tommy Thayer character?
The guy who’s held down the lead guitar spot in KISS consecutively longer than any other lead guitarist (18 years), that’s who Tommy Thayer is.
He looks a bit like Ace :)
@@gsoltis29
Yeah, Gene and Paul told him to.
Can’t argue when those who signs the paycheck tells you what to do.
@@kasperkjrsgaard1447I kind of feel bad for him. Dream job but with a really crappy prerequisite.
He does great on the leads too. he nails it as well as anybody could. Most people who bash him wouldn't be able to tell blind that it's him on a lot of stuff despite raving about how he "sucks." I'm an Ace fanatic and have an ear for that stuff and usually can but it's not easy and it's usually related to his tone being slightly different than playing poorly. I'm sure I'll get attacked for this but oh well. LOL check it out for yourself. Have somebody play some clips and not tell you which one it is----he is closer than people give him credit for
If anything, KISS could have played up a storyline that Tommy wasn’t Space Ace but was a citizen of Jendel. That they BOTH came from the same planet. Lol
i like that idea, lol.
Yeah, and everybody on that planet wears the same make-up. At least it’s a concept.
I Will Always be a Rock Soldier. U can Google Rock Soldiers But Don't forget to Mention Ace Frehley
Did he actually say "the new Ace"!!?
Tommy Thayer showing class . It's sad that people bash him for keeping the band going . Ace is better off being on his own and I think it's better for everyone in the long run . It's just to bad the entire band can't check their egos at the door for the final show and get up on stage together .
Tommy, Bruce, and Eric Singer are class acts, get along fine, and even play music well together in the absence of Gene and Paul.
On the EOTR tour, Tommy really came into his own and should get some kind of MVP award.
I just wish the COVID-19 would end and touring could resume. It seems like a lot of great musicians such as Eddie Van Halen have passed away this year. Gene and Paul are no spring chickens and have fewer days ahead of them than behind them.
Ace is trying to generate buzz and stay in the news in hopes of generating interest and album sales, so he will say and do anything to accomplish that.
I saw Ace and Peter playing at a bar in the mid 90’s. They billed themselves as The Bad Boys of KISS.
I saw Ace in a free show a few years ago. He couldn't sing and all he did was put down Gene. He sucked. I left. Even free it wasn't worth my time. I like Tommy and am glad he is here. And he sure isn't bad to look at! ♥️
I think Tommy did Kiss,the fans and Ace a respectful thing by leaving the "Spaceman" as it always was.....shame on you Ace...touche'Tommy
Ace left a band that only worked with the original look. I remember being kinda put off by Eric Carr's fox, and Vinnie s ankh-man was the jump the shark moment.
If it had worked and they had continued rotating new faces over the years, Tommy probably would have gladly come up with something cool and new. But we all know, the makeup from the classic era is the brand. Can't cry foul that the other 2 guys, who you got famous with, want to continue to give the fans what they want.
Here's a cool idea... Watch the video and turn off the sound and read this while the video rolls.... ready? :::: I remember as a kid playing guitar and visiting music stores and seeing all these GREAT Guitars on the walls that I could not afford... Many years later as I was bringing Peter Criss from the band KISS Pizza and Water and making sure the guys had what they needed for the show.... I fell in Love with the Les Pauls that ACE Played, and he really was a total pro and a nice guy and I kept telling myself... man... he has the best gig ever. Great Guitars... Great Band... Man I really want that. So I sucked on Paul and Genes testicles and finally got a job...and now my VERY OWN Epiphone!!! YES... I Play it LIVE to all the backing tracks, and I LOVE the fact that I can inspire other fakers out there that really can't play that great...but I stay sober and do what the Bosses (Paul and Gene) Say... and Yes I do donate to charities... But just the One's that Gene and Paul give me a thumbs up to, you know.,, when I am off the tour and can do a little of what I want to when they are not bossing me around. But YES, Thanks to GIBSON for allowing my name on a guitar that might inspire some young person to pick one up and also learn solos from Kiss Albums that I had absolutely nothing to do with. I am glad to have this LEGACY.... Thank You All!!! (especially Gene and Paul... because they gave the OKAY on this)....
TOMMY WAS IN A FEW REALLY GREAT CLUB BANDS BACK IN THE DAY
How come Tommy won’t wear the blue eyeliner? That’s what I wanna know!
Love BnBlues first to records
Tommy and Eric are good players that do what is needed of them exceptionally. That said, the real thorn in the foot when it comes to them imho is that their forced use of the Spaceman and Cat-man persona is the theft of Ace and Peters legacies that visibly seems intended to erase their status as founding members and write them off as just players filling a role, no different than how they’re doing with Tommy and Eric.
Lineup grievances fans have could’ve been reduced 50% if they were just allowed to be their own players with their own characters.
Ace är den bästa gitarist i kiss och Tommy den sämsta
Yeah we all knew there was never going to be replacements for Paul and Gene. They said there would be, Tommy made it seem like it could happen, but its all bs. Its not about music its about money. Paul and Gene ran Kiss into the ground any way they could. Now that they’re done, Kiss is done.
Ace was just asked who he thought was the best non Ace guitarist. Gene and Paul have to take responsibility for this division. Well Queen continued without Freddie so anything is possible as they have just had another number 1 album.
Yet Queen isn't Queen without Freddie. Hence the With Adam Lambert tag.
@Joe Pensanti I wouldn’t disagree though personally I preferred the little cameos Roger and Brian did with the Foo Fighters with Taylor on vocals
look its very simple
these are two guys who want the same job
its a relatively high paying job and the BOTH need the money
its as simple as that
two guys
one job
Tommy: Maybe one day even Gene and Paul will be replaced and KISS will go on, kind of like how the other members were replaced.
2024: Yeah, about that.
KISS going on past Paul and/or Gene retiring is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard, and I know what they're up to. They want an "official" tribute band to continue under the copyrights and licensing so they can sit back and collect while they're retired. I hope I pass the audition.
Remember that saying “no one member is bigger than the band and the name of the band itself “.
What if a younger big named musician (or two) wanted to live out their dream of playing in the band as their idol for a short time after they are retired ? What is so wrong with that ? There are so many musicians that picked up an instrument because of all of the Kiss members, past & present. What is so wrong about that ???
“He was the Ace in the band” “he’s the new Ace in the band” you said that a few times. Wtf?
As far as Corona is concern, Yes! We are One. Don't Shout it out loud. LOL.
I grew up in the 70's and Ace was a guitar god, saw him on various solo tours in the late 80's and early 90's, but truthfully go listen to the live shows from the Reunion tour- his guitar playing sucked bad, it took until the last tour he did with Kiss for him to start playing decently again. Going back and looking at the 70's shows after 76 it was all hype.
Nobody in their right mind would turn down the gig, Tommy got the job....
They’re just doing their job..nuff said!
Kiss is a demon, a starchild, a spaceman, and a cat. That’s the formula
@NettiesKid 2294 Vinnie's character was *The Wizard* - not an "Ankh Warrior." His nickname was "Wiz," to be similar to "Ace."
Imena.. who inspired Dime, (plus I'm sure, hundreds of others, besides..) And who's 'the other' gonna inspire, especially if parents are wise enough to say 'oh BTW< that's not the original, HERE'S the original, so... yeah...
Let's face it - when he excepted the job and that he would be using Ace's makeup he had to expect some backlash. Just take your paycheck and smile. :)
Tommy is a consummate professional
I could totally see KISS tribute band members replacing all of the members at some point. The music and the show are much too awesome to limit it to one lifetime of a member. The Genius of the makeup does make the parts interchangeable. That's not to say install a revolving door. Bring in the best of the tribute band members on a permanent basis.
I'll give you one heck of a Peter Criss right now!
Reunion tour happened about 25 yrs too early imo