the hottest band in the world; KISS!

Starchild, the Demon, Space Ace, and the Catman; so notorious they would once not allow themselves to be seen in public without excessive amounts of costume make-up; the rock group, KISS! First known as Wicked Lester in ‘70 to ‘72, their name was later changed to KISS in ’73, when they hit the big time. Their self-titled debut album was released in ’73 and is considered one of their greatest. Bands spend entire careers trying to write amazing songs such as “Black Diamond” or “Strutter”, and KISS did it on the very first shot. Best known for their make-up and stage acts, believe it or not, in ’82 KISS went bare and took off the make-up for over 10 years. It wasn’t until ’96 that they realized what a brilliant way of advertising themselves and pleasing their fans the make-up was, and they put it back on. While Gene Simmons shows off his 7 inch tongue as he breathes fire and a mysterious red liquid runs down his face, Paul Stanley could be smashing his guitar to bits, haze may be arising from Ace Frehley’s guitar, or perhaps Peter Criss’ drum set may be rising far above the stage. It isn't a mystery why KISS has a reputation for throwing “the greatest rock and roll show”. Some of their greatest hits are “I Wanna Rock and Roll All Nite”, “I Was Made for Loving You”, “Cold Gin”, “Parasite”, “Deuce”, “Love Gun” and many more. KISS is so big that they have licensed their name to over 3000 products. Major motion pictures “KISS meets the phantom of the park” and “Detroit Rock City” were released in 1978 and 1999; with both plots revolving around KISS. They have also made an appearance in Marvel Comics, Howard the Duck issue #12, starring KISS as superheroes. They first started performing in small clubs in New York, and they are now one of the most known and influential rock bands of all time. “All right, you wanted the best and you got the best; the hottest band in the world; KISS!”

-Gabriella Hall

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