KISS legend Ace Frehley has passed away at 73
- HP Music
- Oct 17
- 3 min read
Ace Frehley — the trailblazing guitarist and original “Spaceman” of KISS — has died at the age of 73. His death was confirmed on Thursday, October 16, by multiple outlets including Rolling Stone and Variety.
According to a family statement, Frehley passed away at his home in Morristown, New Jersey, following complications from a fall earlier this year.
Tributes from KISS Members
KISS co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley shared a joint statement mourning Frehley:
“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. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”
They also extended condolences to Frehley’s daughter, Monique, his estranged wife, Jeanette Trerotola, and fans worldwide.
Ace Frehley: The Legendary KISS Guitarist Who Redefined Rock Music
Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, born in 1951 in the Bronx, New York, is best known as the original lead guitarist of KISS — the iconic rock band famous for its bold makeup, explosive shows, and timeless anthems. Known to millions as “The Spaceman,” Frehley’s electrifying guitar work, space-inspired look, and high-energy solos helped define the band’s signature sound (The Guardian, AP News).
After rising to fame with KISS, Frehley launched a successful solo career, highlighted by his hit single “New York Groove”, which remains a staple in classic rock playlists (People.com, AP News). Though he parted ways with KISS in the early 1980s due to creative differences, he rejoined the band for several reunion tours, earning renewed love from fans around the world.
Today, Ace Frehley stands as one of rock’s most influential guitarists — a true pioneer whose unique sound and fearless creativity continue to inspire generations of musicians.
A Guitar Hero Who Shaped Generations
Frehley’s influence went far beyond his signature “Spaceman” look. His riffs on classics like “Shock Me,” “Cold Gin,” and “Detroit Rock City” inspired generations of players. His solo hit New York Groove remains a rock radio staple to this day.
Even after leaving KISS, Frehley’s solo career thrived, with albums like Spaceman (2018) and the ongoing Origins cover series that showcased his love for rock roots.
Global Fans — Including Indonesia — Mourn
Tributes have poured in worldwide on social media. The official KISSOnline account on X has been flooded with messages, not only from U.S. and European fans, but also from Southeast Asia.
One Indonesian fan from Bandung replied to the post, writing (translated):
“I first picked up a guitar in middle school because of Ace.” — @AndhikaGuitars
The comment quickly gained attention among Indonesian rock circles, showing how far Frehley’s reach extended into local music communities that still host tribute shows and vinyl nights celebrating classic rock.
Why HP Music Joins the Tribute
As a global label rooted in Indonesia, HP Music joins fans around the world in honoring Ace Frehley’s passing. For decades, his artistry proved that rock and roll is more than just sound — it is identity, spirit, and theater. His work shaped the blueprint of performance that countless musicians still follow today.
This article is part of HePi Trending, HP Music’s editorial arm that shares global music stories, cultural shifts, and tributes to legends who’ve shaped the soundtrack of our lives. Through HePi Trending, HP Music continues to bridge Indonesian creativity with international audiences — and welcomes collaborations across borders and genres.
A Lasting Echo
Frehley himself once described rock’s enduring spirit in simple terms:
“The beauty of rock and roll is that it never asks permission — it just turns up the volume.”
Today, the stage lights dim, but the echo of Ace Frehley’s guitar will ring forever.
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