The American band Kiss was formed in 1973 in New York. Kiss combines multiple musical genres, from hard rock to heavy metal and glam rock, each predominating during different periods of the band's career.
Kiss first drew attention in the mid-1970s with their completely unusual stage costumes, makeup, and elaborate stage setups, including pyrotechnic effects. The original and most famous lineup of Kiss consisted of bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons, guitarist and vocalist Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley (guitar and vocals), and Peter Criss (drums and vocals). The four adopted stage names inspired by cartoon characters: Simmons became The Demon, Stanley – The Star Child, Frehley – The Space Man, and Criss – The Cat Man.
Kiss’s first self-titled album was released in 1974, followed by numerous live performances where the band gained fans attracted by their unusual and diabolical image. Despite heavy promotion and concerts, the album sold only 75,000 copies, a number considered unsatisfactory by the band members. Hotter Than Hell, their second album, was released the same year. A few months later, Dressed to Kill followed, reaching a higher chart position.
The first live album, Alive!, became the most successful release in the band’s early discography. Its sequel, Alive II (1977), received platinum certification. In 1982, due to drug problems, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley were fired from the band. During that period, the band abandoned the costumes and makeup that had made them famous, resulting in a commercial success.
However, in the early 1990s, the band reunited in its original lineup and returned to their iconic costumes and the personas under the pseudonyms that had made them famous. Criss and Frehley left the band for a second time, replaced by Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer. Simmons and Stanley have remained the only constant members throughout Kiss’s history.
