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The beat world is still reeling from the news that KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has passed away.
Frehley was 74 and rumored to be in good health in the months leading up to his passing.
News of Frehley’s death comes courtesy of a statement issued by his family:
Musician Ace Frehley visits at SiriusXM Studios on March 23, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Ben Gabbe/Getty Images)Ace Frehley’s loved ones pay tribute to late rock legend
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth,” reads the statement (per Variety).
“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.
“The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
The family also confirmed reports that Frehley died following injuries suffered during a fall last month.
Lead guitarist Ace Frehley of the rock group ”KISS” performs live, June 27, 2000 at the Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by George De Sota/Liaison)Frehley joined the band in 1972 along with other founding members, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss.
The other members recalled being dismayed by his appearance — he wore one red sneaker and one orange one to his audition — but blown away by his guitar work.
Though KISS scored a slew of hits, they received little respect from critics, who turned their noses up at the band’s theatrical makeup and pyrotechnic-heavy stage shows.
KISS’ legacy has since been reappraised, and they’re today regarded as pioneers in the genre of glam rock.
When all four members simultaneously released solo albums in 1978, Frehley’s — which included the banger single “New York Groove” — received the most favorable response.
Inductee Ace Frehley of KISS attends the 29th Annual Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center of Brooklyn on April 10, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)Frehley left KISS to pursue a solo career in 1982 before reuniting with his bandmates for a lucrative reunion tour in 1996.
“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history,” Stanley and Simmons wrote in a statement, adding:
“He is and will always be a part of Kiss’ legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique, and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Our condolences go out to Ace Frehley’s loved ones during this enormously difficult time.
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