Kiss consists of Eric Singer (drums), Gene Simmons (bass, vocals), Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar, vocals), Tommy Thayer.
KISS is an American glam rock/ hard rock band formed in New York City in 1973. The group has performed and recorded continuously since their formation. Co-founders Gene Simmons ( bass and vocals) and Paul Stanley ( rhythm guitar and vocals) have been the two constant members throughout the band's history. KISS is known particularly for their use of face-paint, elaborate costumes, and over-the-top stage shows riddled with pyrotechnics. KISS has more Gold Certified Albums than any other American band, and has broken records established by The Beatles. KISS ranked 10th on VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock".
KISS traces its roots to Wicked Lester, a New York-based rock and roll band led by co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. Simmons (born Chaim Witz in Haifa, Israel on August 25, 1949) and Stanley (born Stanley Harvey Eisen in Queens, New York City on January 20, 1952) fired the other members of Wicked Lester in 1972 after Epic Records rejected an album recorded by the group.
In late 1972, Simmons spotted an ad in Rolling Stone placed by Peter Criss, a drummer "willing to do anything." Criss (born Peter Criscuola on December 20, 1945 in Brooklyn, New York City) auditioned for and joined Wicked Lester, now a trio. In January 1973 the group added lead guitarist Paul "Ace" Frehley (born April 27, 1951 in the Bronx, New York City) after being extremely impressed with his audition. That month, the Wicked Lester name was dropped and the band became KISS.
