Heartbroken bandmates of KISS have paid tribute to their lead guitarist Ace Frehley, who died yesterday aged 74.
The musician, whose full name was Paul Daniel Frehley reportedly had a fall in his home studio back in September, which saw him rushed to hospital and serious complications, including a brain bleed. It was also reported that Frehley was on a life support prior to his death.
Yesterday, his family had said that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, who said that they were "completely devastated and heartbroken", adding that “the magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions". More on this from Nova here.
Now, Frehley's bandmates, Gene Simmons, Bruce Kulick and Peter Criss have all paid tribute to the late guitarist.
"Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on," Gene Simmons wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!".
Peter Criss, original Kiss drummer wrote this message: "With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well. I love you my brother. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace's extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time".
"As a founding member of the rock group Kiss and in Ace's solo career, Ace influenced and touch the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army. At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace's family and allow them to grieve privately. To the Kiss Army and Ace's Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all... Broken...".
Bruce Kulick who worked as Kiss' lead guitarist from 1984 to 1996, added: "The news of Ace’s passing is devastating to the world of rock," he wrote on Facebook. "It has deeply [affected] me as well. He was one of a kind and truly an iconic guitar player. His undeniable role in the creation and success of Kiss cannot be forgotten. Not only was he loved by all, he influenced millions of guitarists around the world. RIP".
