Farewell to the Spaceman: Ace Frehley, KISS Co-Founder and Guitar Icon, Dies at 74

The rock and roll universe collectively pauses today to mourn the passing of a true legend, Ace Frehley, the iconic ‘Spaceman’ lead guitarist and co-founder of KISS. Frehley, whose explosive riffs and distinctive persona carved an indelible mark on music history, departed peacefully on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74.

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in The Bronx, New York, in 1951, Ace’s journey to stardom was anything but conventional.

He picked up his first guitar at a young age, quickly developing a raw, untamed style that would soon define an era. His innate ability to blend melodic hooks with blistering solos set him apart, even in the crowded New York music scene of the early 1970s.

It was in 1973 that Frehley answered an ad that would change his life, and the landscape of rock music forever.

Joining forces with Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss, he helped forge KISS, a band whose theatricality, larger-than-life characters, and anthemic rock sound would propel them to global superstardom. As the ‘Spaceman,’ Ace brought an otherworldly charm and a certain unpredictable brilliance to the stage, his smoking guitar and explosive effects becoming synonymous with the band’s electrifying performances.

Frehley’s songwriting contributions to KISS, including classics like 'Cold Gin,' 'Parasite,' and his iconic vocal track on 'Shock Me,' showcased a depth and versatility that sometimes went overlooked amidst the spectacle.

His instrumental prowess, characterized by his unique vibrato and often chaotic yet captivating solos, influenced countless guitarists across genres.

After his initial departure from KISS in the early 1980s, Frehley embarked on a successful solo career. His 1978 self-titled solo album, released concurrently with the other KISS members' solo efforts, was the best-selling of the four, yielding the hit single 'New York Groove.' He continued to release acclaimed solo material throughout the decades, demonstrating his enduring creativity and passion for rock and roll, proving that the 'Spaceman' could soar just as high on his own.

While his career saw its share of ups and downs, including periods away from KISS and a triumphant return for the massively successful 'Reunion Tour' in the late 1990s, Frehley's impact on music remained constant.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of KISS in 2014, a fitting tribute to his groundbreaking work.

Ace Frehley was more than just a guitarist; he was a rock icon, an innovator, and a character whose eccentricity only added to his legend. His passing leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians worldwide, but his music will continue to inspire and ignite generations to come.

The 'Spaceman' may have returned to the stars, but his cosmic riffs and unforgettable legacy will echo across the universe forever. Rest in peace, Ace.