History of Kiss (band) in Timeline
Kiss is an American rock band formed in 1973, known for their elaborate face paint, stage outfits, and theatrical live performances featuring pyrotechnics, fire-breathing, and other shock rock elements. Founded by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, the band rose to fame in the mid-1970s. Despite numerous lineup changes, Stanley and Simmons remained constant members. The final lineup included Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer alongside the original founders.
2 days ago : KISS Announces Reunion Show in 2025, First Performance Post-Farewell Tour
KISS has announced their first show since their farewell tour, scheduled for 2025. The performance features an ex-member and marks the band's reunion after retiring from touring. A rock star also canceled solo concerts.
July 12, 1950: Birth of Paul Charles Caravello
Paul Charles Caravello, later known as Eric Carr, was born on July 12, 1950.
May 12, 1958: Eric Singer's birthday
1971: Formation of Secos & Molhados
In 1971, the Brazilian group Secos & Molhados, known for their extravagant costumes and face paint, was formed, contributing to discussions about Kiss's makeup origins.
November 1972: The band played a showcase for Epic Records A&R director
In November 1972, Wicked Lester played a showcase for Epic Records A&R director Don Ellis, in an effort to secure a record deal.
1972: Simmons and Stanley abandon Wicked Lester
In 1972, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, feeling a new musical direction was needed, abandoned Wicked Lester and began forming a new group.
January 1973: Ace Frehley joins Kiss
In early January 1973, Ace Frehley joined the band as lead guitarist, solidifying the classic lineup shortly after.
January 30, 1973: First Kiss performance
On January 30, 1973, Kiss performed for the first time at the Popcorn Club (shortly renamed Coventry) in Queens for an audience of fewer than ten people. The band earned $50.
August 1973: Secos & Molhados Debut Album
In August 1973, Secos & Molhados debuted their self-titled album, known for extravagant costumes and face paint, stirring debate about influence on Kiss.
October 10, 1973: Recording of first album
On October 10, 1973, Kiss entered Bell Sound Studios in New York City to begin recording its first album.
November 1, 1973: Kiss signs with Casablanca Records
On November 1, 1973, Kiss became the first act signed to Neil Bogart's new label, Casablanca Records.
1973: Stanley's Alternative Makeup Design
During 1973, Stanley occasionally used an alternative makeup design called the "Bandit" for select photo-shoots and live shows.
1973: Formation of Kiss
In 1973, Kiss was formed in New York City by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss. They were known for their face paint, stage outfits, and shock rock-style live performances.
1973: Rolling Stone's First Review
In 1973, Rolling Stone's first review of Kiss described the band as "an American Black Sabbath".
1973: First unmasked concert
The tour to promote the new album and the unmasked band members began in Lisbon, Portugal, on October 11, 1983, at Pavilhão Dramático de Cascais, the band's first concert without makeup since early 1973.
February 5, 1974: Start of first tour
Kiss's first tour started on February 5, 1974, in Edmonton, Alberta, as an opening act.
February 1974: Kiss Debut Album
In February 1974, Kiss released their debut album, beginning their career with distinctive makeup and performance style.
August 1974: Recording of Hotter Than Hell
In August 1974, Kiss stopped in Los Angeles while touring to begin recording its second album, Hotter Than Hell.
October 22, 1974: Release of Hotter Than Hell
On October 22, 1974, Kiss released its second album, Hotter Than Hell, but it stalled at No. 100 and its only single, "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll", failed to chart.
1974: Bennington Banner's Description
In 1974, Bennington Banner from Rock Music magazine said Kiss represents the most extreme form of hard rock with its bizarre makeup, leather costumes, and on-stage firepower.
1974: Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Style
In 1974, Kiss's albums featured a hard rock or traditional heavy metal style.
1974: Stanley stopped using the Bandit design
In 1974, Stanley stopped using the Bandit design permanently.
March 19, 1975: Release of Dressed to Kill
On March 19, 1975, Kiss released Dressed to Kill, which fared slightly better commercially than Hotter Than Hell and contained their signature song, "Rock and Roll All Nite".
September 10, 1975: Release of Alive!
On September 10, 1975, Kiss released Alive!, a live album that achieved Gold status and spawned their first top 40 single, a live version of "Rock and Roll All Nite".
March 15, 1976: Release of Destroyer
On March 15, 1976, Kiss released Destroyer, their most musically ambitious studio album to date, which initially sold well but dropped down the charts until the ballad "Beth" gained radio airplay.
November 11, 1976: Release of Rock and Roll Over
On November 11, 1976, Kiss released Rock and Roll Over, which was certified Platinum soon after its release.
1976: Record contract calls for four solo records
In 1976, Kiss' record contract stipulated that each band member had to release a solo album, counting as half an album toward the group's five-record commitment.
May 1977: Kiss in Howard the Duck comic
In May 1977, Kiss made the first of its many comic book appearances, in Howard the Duck issue 12, published by Marvel Comics.
June 30, 1977: Release of Love Gun
On June 30, 1977, Kiss released Love Gun, which was certified Platinum soon after its release.
October 14, 1977: Release of Alive II
On October 14, 1977, Kiss released Alive II, a second live album that was certified Platinum soon after its release.
1977: Continued Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Style
By 1977, Kiss' albums maintained a hard rock or traditional heavy metal style.
1977: Platinum album and highly attended tour
In 1977, Alive II became Kiss's fourth Platinum album in under two years. The ensuing tour had the highest average attendance in the group's history. Kiss's gross income for the year was $10.2 million.
1977: Sound Influences for new album
In November 2008, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley spoke about how their 1977 sound would influence their current recording. All members wrote songs in the same spirit as before with no care or outside writers, proving nothing to anyone but themselves.
April 2, 1978: Release of Double Platinum
On April 2, 1978, Kiss issued Double Platinum, a compilation album featuring remixed versions of their hits and "Strutter '78", a re-recorded disco-influenced version of a song from their first album.
September 18, 1978: Release of solo albums
On September 18, 1978, the four solo albums from the members of Kiss were released. Casablanca spent $2.5 million on marketing, shipping five million copies and guaranteeing Platinum status, though none sold particularly well.
October 28, 1978: Debut of Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park on NBC
On October 28, 1978, Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park debuted on NBC. The band members were unhappy with the finished film, which led to a rift between the band and Aucoin.
1978: Ambitious strategy
In 1978, Kiss and their manager, Aucoin, devised an ambitious, two-pronged strategy to push the band's brand further.
October 31, 1979: Infamous interview on The Tomorrow Show
On October 31, 1979, Kiss had an infamous interview on Tom Snyder's The Tomorrow Show, during which a visibly irritated Simmons and Stanley tried to contain the inebriated Frehley. Criss made references to his large gun collection, to the chagrin of Simmons.
December 1979: Tensions at all-time high between Criss and Kiss
By the end of the Dynasty tour in December 1979, tensions between Peter Criss and the rest of the band were at an all-time high. His drumming skills had noticeably eroded, and he even intentionally slowed down or stopped playing during some concerts.
December 16, 1979: Last performance of Criss
On December 16, 1979, the final show of the Dynasty tour was the last time Peter Criss performed with Kiss for almost 17 years.
1979: Theatrical release of Attack of the Phantoms
In 1979, Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park was released theatrically outside the U.S. under the title Attack of the Phantoms, after many changes.
1979: Release of Dynasty and success of "I Was Made for Lovin' You"
In 1979, Kiss released Dynasty, their first album of new material in two years, which continued the band's Platinum streak. The disco-flavored song "I Was Made for Lovin' You" became one of the band's biggest hit singles to date, peaking at No. 11.
1979: Disco/Pop Rock Sound in 'Dynasty'
In 1979, the album Dynasty featured a more disco/pop rock sound.
1979: Dynasty album since 1979
Psycho Circus was the first album with the original lineup since Dynasty in 1979.
May 20, 1980: Release of Unmasked
On May 20, 1980, Kiss released Unmasked, which had the dubious distinction of being the first non-Platinum Kiss album since Dressed to Kill.
June 1980: Auditions for Criss's replacement
In June 1980, Kiss auditioned dozens of replacements for Criss.
July 25, 1980: Debut of Eric Carr
On July 25, 1980, Eric Carr debuted with Kiss, at the Palladium concert hall in New York City. This was Kiss's only U.S. show in support of Unmasked.
July 30, 1980: Introduction of Eric Carr on Kids Are People Too!
On July 30, 1980, Kiss introduced Eric Carr on ABC's Kids Are People Too!, which would air in September.
1980: Peter Criss departs Kiss
In 1980, Peter Criss left Kiss due to creative differences.
1980: Disco/Pop Rock Sound in 'Unmasked'
In 1980, the album Unmasked featured a more disco/pop rock sound.
1980: Logo Change in Germany
Since 1980, most of the band's album covers and merchandise in Germany have used a different logo, in which the letters "SS" look like the letters "ZZ" backwards to avoid association to Nazi symbolism.
1981: Release of Music from "The Elder"
In 1981, Kiss released Music from "The Elder", a concept album featuring medieval horns, strings, harps, and synthesizers.
1981: Progressive Rock in 'Music from "The Elder"'
In 1981, the album Music from "The Elder" found the band dabbling in progressive rock.
January 1982: Appearances in support of Music from "The Elder"
In January 1982, Kiss made two appearances in support of Music from "The Elder". One was a performance on Fridays, and the second was a lip-synced performance broadcast during Italy's Sanremo Music Festival.
June 1982: Departure of Ace Frehley negotiated
In June 1982, Ace Frehley's departure from Kiss was negotiated, although he did not officially leave until December. This was due to his frustration with the band's new musical direction.
October 13, 1982: Release of Creatures of the Night
On October 13, 1982, Kiss released Creatures of the Night, their heaviest album to date. It peaked at No. 45 on the charts and was not certified Gold until 1994.
December 1982: Vinnie Vincent replaces Ace Frehley
In December 1982, Vinnie Vincent officially replaced Ace Frehley as lead guitarist, as Kiss embarked on its 10th Anniversary Tour.
1982: New Kiss Lineup
From 1982, the new lineup of Kiss comprised Gene Simmons (the Demon), Paul Stanley (the Starchild), Eric Carr (the Fox) and Vinnie Vincent (the Wiz).
1982: Ace Frehley departs Kiss
In 1982, Ace Frehley left Kiss, adding to the band's lineup changes.
1982: Business changes and severing ties with Bill Aucoin
In 1982, Kiss made major changes to its business dealings, including severing ties with its manager of nine years, Bill Aucoin. Ace Frehley, despite deciding to leave the band, was pictured on the covers of 1982's Killers and Creatures of the Night.
1982: Kiss Trio Performance
In 1982, Kiss performed as a trio for the first time. This occurred during a July 2007 performance after Paul Stanley was hospitalized. This was the first time Stanley missed a show in his 34-year tenure with the band, due to an extremely rapid heartbeat.
1982: Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Style in 'Creatures of the Night'
In 1982, the album Creatures of the Night featured a hard rock or traditional heavy metal style.
September 18, 1983: Unmasked Appearance on MTV
On September 18, 1983, Kiss appeared in public without makeup for the first time since their very early days on an appearance on MTV, which coincided with the release of Lick It Up.
October 11, 1983: First unmasked concert since 1973
On October 11, 1983, the tour to promote the new album and the unmasked band members began in Lisbon, Portugal, at Pavilhão Dramático de Cascais, Kiss's first concert without makeup since early 1973.
1983: New Kiss Lineup
From 1983, the new lineup of Kiss comprised Gene Simmons (the Demon), Paul Stanley (the Starchild), Eric Carr (the Fox) and Vinnie Vincent (the Wiz).
1983: Glam Metal Incorporation
In 1983, Kiss began incorporating glam metal into its sound and visual image, starting with Lick It Up and the removal of its trademark makeup.
1983: Kiss begins performing without makeup
In 1983, Kiss began performing without makeup and costumes, marking the beginning of the band's "unmasked" era.
1983: Release of Lick It Up
Kiss released "Lick It Up" in 1983. This album went platinum and introduced the band to a new generation of fans. Its music videos received airplay on MTV.
March 1984: Departure of Vinnie Vincent
In March 1984, Vinnie Vincent left Kiss at the conclusion of the Lick It Up tour, after not getting along with Simmons and Stanley. Vincent's replacement was Mark St. John.
September 13, 1984: Release of "Animalize" album
On September 13, 1984, Kiss released the album "Animalize", which became their bestselling record in America during the decade, selling over two million albums.
November 28, 1984: Animalize tour show recorded
On November 28, 1984, one of the shows from the Animalize tour at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York was recorded.
December 1984: St. John dismissed from Kiss
In December 1984, St. John was dismissed from Kiss due to reactive arthritis during the Animalize tour rehearsals, after performing in a handful of shows.
1984: St. John Leaves Kiss
After being forced to leave Kiss in 1984, St. John formed the glam metal group White Tiger.
1984: Firing of Vinnie Vincent
In 1984, Vinnie Vincent was fired following the Lick It Up tour, partly due to excessive guitar soloing at a concert in Quebec. He was replaced by Mark St. John.
1984: Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Style in 'Animalize'
In 1984, the album Animalize featured a hard rock or traditional heavy metal style.
1985: David Lee Roth leaves Van Halen
In 1985, David Lee Roth left Van Halen, which may have happened due to tensions with Eddie Van Halen. Eddie Van Halen was rumoured to have been willing to break up Van Halen to join Kiss, but he was convinced to remain with Van Halen.
1985: Release of "Asylum" album
In 1985, Kiss released the album "Asylum", which was a Platinum album.
1985: Rerelease of Creatures of the Night
When the album Creatures of the Night was remixed and re-released in 1985 with a non-makeup cover, Bruce Kulick appeared on the album cover.
1987: Release of "Crazy Nights" album
In 1987, Kiss released the album "Crazy Nights", which was one of their most successful albums overseas.
1987: Poison covers Rock and Roll All Nite
In 1987, Poison covered Rock and Roll All Nite which had already achieved popularity.
1988: Release of "Smashes, Thrashes & Hits" compilation album
In 1988, Kiss released the greatest hits compilation album "Smashes, Thrashes & Hits", which was a Platinum album.
October 1989: Release of "Hot in the Shade" album
In October 1989, Kiss released the album "Hot in the Shade", which spawned the hit ballad "Forever".
1989: Eric Singer with Paul Stanley
In 1989, Eric Singer played with Paul Stanley as part of Stanley's backing band during a solo tour.
February 1991: Band decides to enlist Ezrin
In February 1991, Kiss decided to enlist Ezrin to produce its next album.
March 1991: Carr discovered to have tumor
In March 1991, it was discovered that Carr had a tumor on his heart.
November 24, 1991: Death of Eric Carr
On November 24, 1991, Eric Carr died at the age of 41.
1991: Death of Eric Carr
In 1991, Eric Carr died of heart cancer and was replaced by Eric Singer in Kiss.
1991: Frehley's album biggest seller
Since the introduction of Soundscan in 1991, Ace Frehley's solo album became the biggest seller out of the four solo albums.
May 19, 1992: Release of "Revenge" album
On May 19, 1992, Kiss released the album "Revenge", featuring a harder-edged sound.
September 1992: American tour begins
In September 1992, Kiss began an American tour.
1992: Vincent co-writes songs on Revenge
In 1992, Vinnie Vincent was utilized by Kiss as a songwriter on the album Revenge, contributing to several songs. Afterwards, Vincent and the band parted ways.
May 14, 1993: Release of Alive III album
On May 14, 1993, the album Alive III was released documenting the tour.
1994: Creatures of the Night certified Gold
In 1994, Creatures of the Night was certified Gold. The album was originally released in 1982.
June 17, 1995: Criss appears on stage with Kiss
On June 17, 1995, at the first U.S. date of the Worldwide Kiss Convention Tour, Peter Criss appeared onstage with Kiss to sing "Hard Luck Woman" and "Nothin' to Lose", marking his first public performance with the band in nearly 16 years.
August 9, 1995: Kiss performs on MTV Unplugged
On August 9, 1995, Kiss performed on MTV Unplugged, with Criss and Frehley joining them on stage for several songs at the end of the set.
February 1996: Carnival of Souls album completed
In February 1996, Kiss completed the album "Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions", though its release was delayed for almost two years.
1996: Reunion with Ace Frehley
Ace Frehley's last appearance with Kiss until the 1996 reunion, was in the music video for the single "I Love It Loud".
1996: Kiss returns to makeup
In 1996, Kiss reunited with their original lineup, including the return of their makeup and stage costumes.
1996: Kiss Alive/Worldwide Tour
In 1996, Kiss was the top-drawing concert act and the Kiss Alive/Worldwide Tour lasted for 192 shows over the course of one year and earned $43.6 million.
1996: Original lineup reunion
In 1996, the original lineup of Kiss reunited, which included the return of their makeup and stage costumes.
1996: 1996-1997 Reunion Tour
Kiss's 1996-1997 reunion tour was highly successful, grossing $143.7 million.
1997: 1996-1997 Reunion Tour
Kiss's 1996-1997 reunion tour was highly successful, grossing $143.7 million, making it the band's most successful tour.
September 1998: Release of "Psycho Circus" album
In September 1998, Kiss released the album "Psycho Circus" which achieved a No. 3 chart debut.
1998: Last Single Release Before Modern Day Delilah
In 1998, Kiss's last single release before Modern Day Delilah in 2009 was "You Wanted the Best."
August 11, 1999: Kiss inducted into Hollywood Walk of Fame
On August 11, 1999, Kiss was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in the "Recording Industry" category.
1999: Kiss's Hall of Fame Eligibility
In 1999, Kiss became eligible for enshrinement in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; however, the band was not nominated until 2009 and inducted until 2014.
March 2000: Farewell Tour Launch
In March 2000, Kiss launched a U.S. Farewell Tour.
2000: Criss and Frehley depart
Following the 2000-2001 tour, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley left the band again.
2000: 2000 Man performance
In 2000, Kiss performed 2000 Man on MTV Unplugged.
January 31, 2001: Criss Leaves Band Again
On January 31, 2001, Peter Criss left Kiss again before the Japanese and Australian leg of the Farewell Tour, due to contract salary disagreements.
April 2001: Farewell Tour End Date
In April 2001, the group quickly added dates to the Farewell Tour.
December 4, 2001: Kiss Honored at NARAS Heroes Award
On December 4, 2001, Kiss was one of the honorees at the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Heroes Award ceremony.
2001: Criss and Frehley depart
Following the 2000-2001 tour, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley left the band again. The 2000-2001 tour was meant to be Kiss's last.
2001: Release of 'The Box Set' and 'Kiss Kasket'
In 2001, Kiss released The Box Set and the Kiss Kasket.
February 2002: Kiss performance at Winter Olympics
In February 2002, Kiss performed during the closing ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, which was Ace Frehley's final performance as a member of Kiss.
March 6, 2002: Private concert in Jamaica
On March 6, 2002, Kiss performed a private concert at a resort in Trelawny, Jamaica, with Tommy Thayer replacing Ace Frehley, marking Thayer's first live appearance with Kiss.
April 2002: American Bandstand 50th Anniversary show
In April 2002, Kiss performed "Detroit Rock City" for Dick Clark's American Bandstand 50th Anniversary show.
August 2002: That '70s Show appearance aired
In August 2002, the episode of That '70s Show featuring Kiss, titled "That '70s Kiss Show", aired.
February 2003: Kiss Symphony: Alive IV
In February 2003, Kiss recorded Kiss Symphony: Alive IV with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in Melbourne, Australia.
March 2004: Criss's contract not renewed
In March 2004, Simmons and Stanley did not renew Criss's contract, and Eric Singer replaced Criss once again.
2004: Criss Relinquished Makeup Rights
In 2004, Criss relinquished his rights to his makeup upon leaving the band, later regretting it.
2004: Rock the Nation 2004 World Tour
In mid-2004, Kiss headlined the Rock the Nation 2004 World Tour, with Poison as the opening act. The tour ended in August with a sold-out show in Mexico City.
December 13, 2005: Release of Rock the Nation Live! DVD
On December 13, 2005, the Rock the Nation Live! concert DVD was released.
2005: Sporadic Performances
In 2005, after the Rock the Nation Tour concluded, Kiss performed only sporadically, playing two shows in 2005.
May 25, 2006: VH1 Rock Honors
On May 25, 2006, Kiss, along with Queen, Def Leppard, and Judas Priest, were honored at the inaugural VH1 Rock Honors event in Las Vegas.
June 2006: Kiss Coffeehouse Opening
In June 2006, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley attended the opening of the Kiss Coffeehouse in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
August 5, 2006: Fan Protest for Hall of Fame Induction
On August 5, 2006, a group of approximately 200 Kiss fans held a protest rally in front of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, seeking the band's induction. This was the first organized demonstration seeking a band's induction into the Hall.
October 15, 2006: Induction into Long Island Music Hall of Fame
On October 15, 2006, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss were inaugural inductees into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame, along with other performers.
October 24, 2006: Paul Stanley's "Live to Win" Album Release
On October 24, 2006, Paul Stanley released his second solo album, Live to Win, and supported it with a brief solo tour.
October 31, 2006: Release of "Kissology Volume One: 1974–1977"
On October 31, 2006, Kiss released Kissology Volume One: 1974–1977, the first of a planned series of DVD sets featuring concert footage, interviews, and previously unseen clips.
2006: Performances in Japan
In 2006, Kiss performed six shows, including four July concerts in Japan. Two of those July 2006 dates were as a headlining act at the Udo Music Festival.
January 2007: "Kissology Volume One" Certified 5x Platinum
By January 2007, Kissology Volume One: 1974–1977 had been certified 5x Platinum in the United States.
April 2007: Death of Former Guitarist St. John
In April 2007, former Kiss guitarist St. John died from an apparent cerebral hemorrhage at age 51.
July 2007: Hit 'N Run Tour and Stanley's Hospitalization
In July 2007, Kiss performed four concerts, three of which were part of the Hit 'N Run Tour. Prior to the final show on July 27, Paul Stanley was hospitalized due to an extremely rapid heartbeat. Kiss performed as a trio without Stanley for the first time since 1982, marking the first concert Stanley had missed in his 34-year tenure with the band.
August 14, 2007: "Kissology Volume Two" Release
On August 14, 2007, Kissology Volume Two was released.
October 24, 2007: "Kissology Volume Two" Certified 6x Platinum
On October 24, 2007, Kissology Volume Two was certified 6x Platinum by the RIAA.
December 18, 2007: "Kissology Volume Three" Release
On December 18, 2007, Kissology Volume Three: 1992–2000 was released.
2007: Release of "Kiss 4K: Legends Never Die" Comic Book Series
In 2007, a new comic book series featuring the band, titled Kiss 4K: Legends Never Die, was released by the Kiss Comics Group in association with Platinum Studios.
January 30, 2008: Confirmation of the Kiss Alive/35 World Tour
On January 30, 2008, Paul Stanley confirmed that Kiss would launch the Kiss Alive/35 World Tour, which included arena and stadium shows in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
March 16, 2008: Performance at the Australian Grand Prix
On March 16, 2008, Kiss closed the Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit and also performed in Brisbane and Sydney as part of the Kiss Alive/35 World Tour.
August 4, 2008: Rockin' the Rally Performance and "Kiss Rock and Roll Day"
On August 4, 2008, Kiss played at Rockin' the Rally at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. South Dakota Governor Mike Rounds proclaimed August 4, 2008, to be "Kiss Rock and Roll Day" in South Dakota.
September 2008: Confirmation of North American and South American Tour
In September 2008, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley confirmed that the Kiss Alive/35 Tour would continue with extensive tours of North America in early 2009 and South America.
November 2008: Confirmation of New Album Plans
In November 2008, Paul Stanley stated that a new Kiss album was in the works, with Stanley as the producer, aiming for a "real 70s Kiss sound". Later that month, both Simmons and Stanley publicly confirmed the information.
2008: Release of "Jigoku-Retsuden" in Japan
In 2008, Kiss released Jigoku-Retsuden, a Japanese exclusive album that was later included in the 2009 album Sonic Boom, which contained re-recorded versions of famous Kiss hits.
2008: Simmons Becomes Fan of Australian Rules Football
Since at least 2008, Simmons has been a fan of Carlton and Australian rules football. In 2013, Simmons was an "owner for a day" of the Carlton Football Club, although this purchase was unofficial.
May 2009: American Idol Appearance
In May 2009, Kiss appeared on American Idol, performing "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock and Roll All Nite" with Adam Lambert.
August 19, 2009: "Modern Day Delilah" Single Release
On August 19, 2009, "Modern Day Delilah" was released as the lead single from Sonic Boom. This was Kiss's first single release in 11 years since 1998's "You Wanted the Best".
September 25, 2009: Kiss Alive/35 North American Tour Kickoff
On September 25, 2009, the Kiss Alive/35 North American Tour kicked off at Cobo Hall in Detroit. The performances were filmed for a future DVD release. These were the band's final performances at the venue.
October 6, 2009: Appearance on Late Show with David Letterman
On October 6, 2009, Kiss appeared live on Late Show with David Letterman to promote their new album, Sonic Boom.
October 7, 2009: Appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
On October 7, 2009, Kiss appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to promote their new album, Sonic Boom.
October 2009: "Sonic Boom" Album Release
In October 2009, the new Kiss studio album, titled Sonic Boom, was released. The Album included new material, re-recorded versions of famous Kiss hits, and a live DVD recorded in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
November 9, 2009: Lighting Truss Fire During Winnipeg Concert
On November 9, 2009, during a Kiss performance at the MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, a lighting truss caught fire. The band broke into "Firehouse" while the fire was extinguished. No one was injured, and the show continued.
2009: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nomination
In 2009, Kiss was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, after being eligible since 1999. They were eventually inducted in 2014.
May 2010: Sonic Boom Over Europe Tour Start
In May 2010, Kiss started the European leg of the Sonic Boom Over Europe Tour. The tour included the band's first UK arena shows in 11 years and their first visit to Slovakia.
June 28, 2010: Death of Former Manager Bill Aucoin
On June 28, 2010, former Kiss manager Bill Aucoin died of cancer at the age of 66. Stanley and Simmons said he was like the fifth member of Kiss.
July 2010: US City Performances
In July 2010, Kiss performed at two dates in the US cities Cheyenne, Wyoming and the North Dakota State Fair in Minot, North Dakota.
August 17, 2010: Appearance at Saratoga Performing Arts Center
On August 17, 2010, Kiss made a brief appearance at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York.
April 13, 2011: Recording of New Album Begins
On April 13, 2011, Kiss began recording a new album intended for release later that year. Gene Simmons described it as a step beyond Sonic Boom, focusing on straight rock songs with no ballads or keyboards. The band used old analog equipment for recording.
2011: "Lost Cities Tour"
During the summer of 2011, Kiss played venues in the US and Canada as part of the "Lost Cities Tour", visiting cities they had not played in some time.
March 20, 2012: Jimmy Kimmel Live! Appearance and Tour Announcement
On March 20, 2012, Kiss appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and held a press conference to announce a summer North American tour called The Tour, co-headlined by Mötley Crüe.
July 2, 2012: Release of "Hell or Hallelujah"
On July 2, 2012, the single "Hell or Hallelujah" was released internationally. It was released in North America on July 3.
October 9, 2012: North American Release of "Monster"
On October 9, 2012, the album Monster was released in North America.
October 2012: Release of "Monster" album
In October 2012, Kiss released their new album, "Monster".
November 7, 2012: Monster World Tour Kickoff
On November 7, 2012, Kiss kicked off the Monster World Tour in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at the River Plate Stadium.
February 28, 2013: Australian Leg of Monster World Tour Begins
On February 28, 2013, the Australian leg of the Monster World Tour began in Perth at the Perth Arena. Mötley Crüe, Thin Lizzy, and Diva Demolition joined as supporting acts.
October 16, 2013: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nomination
On October 16, 2013, Kiss was again announced as a nominee for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and subsequently announced as an inductee on December 17.
2013: Purchase of Arena Football League Franchise
In 2013, Kiss purchased a share of an Arena Football League expansion franchise set to begin play at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, in 2014. Simmons, Stanley, and manager McGhee jointly owned the team, called the Los Angeles Kiss.
April 10, 2014: Kiss inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On April 10, 2014, the four original members of Kiss were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
August 31, 2014: End of Tour with Def Leppard
From June 23 to August 31, 2014, Kiss toured with Def Leppard in 42 cities, with a dollar per ticket donated to military charities such as the Wounded Warrior Project.
2014: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
In 2014, Kiss was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, after being eligible since 1999 and nominated in 2009.
2014: Tommy Thayer breaks Kulick's record
In 2014, Tommy Thayer broke Bruce Kulick's record as one of the longest-serving members.
2014: Los Angeles Kiss Debut
In 2014, the Los Angeles Kiss, an Arena Football League expansion franchise co-owned by Simmons, Stanley, and manager McGhee, began playing at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
January 28, 2015: Kiss Releases Collaboration Single with Momoiro Clover Z
On January 28, 2015, Kiss released a collaboration single with the Japanese female idol group Momoiro Clover Z, titled "Yume no Ukiyo ni Saite Mi na". It was the first time Kiss had issued a collaboration record with another artist. The single was released physically in two versions in Japan: "Momoiro Clover Z Edition" and "Kiss Edition".
July 21, 2015: Release of Scooby-Doo! and Kiss: Rock and Roll Mystery
On July 21, 2015, the direct-to-DVD animated crossover film Scooby-Doo! and Kiss: Rock and Roll Mystery was released, featuring Stanley, Simmons, Thayer, and Singer as themselves. The film's soundtrack included old hits and the new track "Don't Touch My Ascot".
September 15, 2015: Kiss Earns More Gold Records Than Any Other American Band
On September 15, 2015, the RIAA announced that Kiss had earned more Gold records than any other American band in the association's 63-year history, with a total of 30 Gold album awards, including the band's four 1978 solo albums.
December 13, 2016: Kiss Performs on The Voice Finale
On December 13, 2016, Kiss performed during the season 11 finale of The Voice, accompanied by the season winner Sundance Head.
2016: Eric Singer breaks Kulick's record
In 2016, Eric Singer broke Bruce Kulick's record as one of the longest-serving members.
2016: Folding of Los Angeles Kiss
In 2016, the Los Angeles Kiss, an Arena Football League team co-owned by Simmons, Stanley, and manager McGhee, folded.
September 19, 2018: Kiss Announces End of the Road World Tour
On September 19, 2018, following a performance on America's Got Talent, Kiss announced that it would be ending its career with the End of the Road World Tour in 2019. Stanley commented on the decision.
January 2019: Kiss began final tour
In January 2019, Kiss began its final worldwide tour.
February 2019: Simmons Discusses Farewell Tour Revenue
In February 2019, Simmons said the farewell tour would likely gross between $150 million and $200 million, not counting ancillaries, licensing, merchandise and stuff like that. During the first leg of the End of the Road World Tour, Kiss was accused by fans of lip syncing and using backing tracks.
November 14, 2019: Cancellation of Australia and New Zealand Shows
On November 14, 2019, Kiss announced that its Australia and New Zealand shows on its final tour had been canceled due to Stanley's health issues.
December 2019: Yoshiki Joins Kiss on Japan Leg of Tour
In December 2019, X Japan's Yoshiki joined Kiss in Tokyo and Osaka on their Japan leg to perform "Beth" on piano and "Rock and Roll All Nite" on drums. They would later collaborate on a televised New Year's Eve performance in Japan, performing "Rock and Roll All Nite" under the combined name "YoshiKiss".
February 17, 2020: Kiss Appears on America's Got Talent
On February 17, 2020, Kiss appeared again as special guests on America's Got Talent with a televised performance of "Rock and Roll All Nite".
March 4, 2020: Kiss Dedicates "Do You Love Me" to Kobe Bryant
On March 4, 2020, Kiss dedicated "Do You Love Me" to Kobe Bryant and the 2020 Calabasas helicopter crash victims during the Los Angeles show at the Staples Center.
November 20, 2020: Kiss Announces New Year's Eve Livestream Show
On November 20, 2020, Kiss announced that they would perform an exclusive New Year's Eve 2020 livestream show. The pay-per-view concert was part of the Landmarks Live Series and was filmed with over fifty 4K cameras with 360-degree views on a 250-foot stage at The Royal Beach at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai.
December 2, 2020: Kiss Confirms Continuation of Final Tour
On December 2, 2020, Simmons confirmed that Kiss would continue their final tour in the summer of 2021, in which there are another 150 shows left, as well as rescheduling the Australian leg of the final tour.
December 15, 2020: Announcement of Kiss Biopic
On December 15, 2020, it was announced that a biographical film of Kiss was in the works, with hopes to release it on time with the band's final concert. Deadline reported that Netflix has nearly finalized a deal to produce the Kiss biopic titled Shout it Out Loud, which will be released in 2024.
2020: Kiss Temporarily Ceases Final Tour Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused Kiss to temporarily cease its final tour, with Simmons commenting that the tour would continue once scientists had confirmed that it is safe to resume.
March 25, 2021: Stanley Comments on New Kiss Music
On March 25, 2021, Stanley stated that he would not rule out the possibility of Kiss producing new music, with both Simmons and Stanley stating in later interviews that the band did not need to record another album.
September 30, 2023: Kiss Performs at AFL Grand Final
On September 30, 2023, Kiss performed as the headline act for the pre-game entertainment at the 2023 AFL Grand Final in Australia.
November 14, 2023: Simmons Confirms Kiss Brand Will Continue
On November 14, 2023, Simmons confirmed that while the tour was the band's last, the Kiss brand would continue with a cartoon show, further merchandise and Kiss-themed travelling shows with different musicians. He also reiterated that the band had no plans to record another album.
December 2, 2023: Kiss Performs Final Show
Kiss performed their final show at Madison Square Garden in New York City on December 2, 2023, which was streamed via Pay-per-view.
December 2023: Kiss retires after final show
Kiss retired in December 2023 after performing their final show in New York City.
January 2024: Digital Avatar Show Update
In January 2024, Thayer stated that it would "take some time to get the imagery" where the band would want it to be, regarding it as the future of entertainment, for the digital avatar show.
April 2024: Kiss sold to Pophouse
In April 2024, Kiss was sold to Pophouse for $300 million. The deal included all of their songs, brand, and intellectual property. Simmons and Stanley would remain in key roles for projects related to the band.
April 2024: Simmons Continues Work with Rock & Brews and Solo Band
In April 2024, Simmons continued to work with the American rock-inspired restaurant Rock & Brews, and performing with his solo band, in which he played his first post-Kiss show at the opening of a Rock & Brews restaurant in Ridgefield, Washington.
November 2024: Possible One-Off Show Discussed
In November 2024, Stanley expressed openness to a one-off Kiss show in an interview, but later conceded it was unlikely to happen.
2025: "Kiss Army Storms Vegas" Announced
In 2025, after Simmons postponed seventeen shows on his tour, a special event called "Kiss Army Storms Vegas" was announced at the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas between November 14 to 16, and is set to feature former member Kulick.
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