The original lead guitarist, Ace Frehley from KISS – one of the best rock bands from the 70s, died on October 16, 2025, because of complications from a home studio accident, which led to his death at age 74. The Spaceman or Space Ace Frehley served as a KISS founding member and lead guitarist from 1973 until his departure in 1982, while creating the band’s theatrical hard rock sound. The rock world honored him as “The Spaceman” or “Space Ace” because of his distinctive guitar playing, his space-inspired stage character, and his groundbreaking use of special effect guitars.
Rock music received its influence from Ace Frehley through his work with KISS. His 1978 platinum album, “Ace Frehley,” became his most successful solo work after KISS, when he released “New York Groove” as a hit single. The formation of Frehley’s Comet in the mid-1980s established him as a major artist after his KISS departure. Tod Howarth joined Frehley’s Comet as guitarist, keyboardist, and vocalist after becoming a key member of the band. The band received stability through Howarth, who added fresh elements to their music while creating memorable songs, including “Rock Soldiers” and “Breakout.” Through this period, Frehley developed his musical approach while establishing his artistic freedom.
Ace Frehley joined KISS for their successful reunion tour in 1996 and stayed with the band until 2002. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted him as a KISS member in 2014 because of his distinctive guitar playing, which combined aggressive riffs with melodic elements and his mastery of atmospheric effects.
The End of an Era: Honoring Ace Frehley’s Contributions
The music world remembers Ace Frehley through numerous tributes from fans and musicians who recognize his enduring impact on rock music fans across multiple generations. Through his music and stage presence, he left an enduring mark on rock history, which continues to motivate new generations of fans. Through his work with Tod Howarth and other artists, Ace Frehley demonstrated his artistic growth while showing his musical range throughout his entire career.
“A week and a day has passed since my old boss and band mate Ace Frehley passed. It’s been sad and surreal however my heart really goes out to his fans.
We hadn’t done music together in years but I am and will be forever grateful to him for my freedom in Frehley’s Comet.
Rest easy with John Regan, Jamie Oldaker and Eric Carr.”
Tod Howarth wrote on his Facebook profile, after the news about Ace Frehley’s death flashed around the World.
Also, Jay Jay French, the father of the legendary glam metal band, Twisted Sister, who was auditioning for KISS in 1972, shared a photo of himself and Ace and posted the comment:
“Me and Ace at an Eddie Trunk birthday party several years go (2013). Ace gave millions of kids real rock n roll dreams. A true rock star and legend. Ace had a natural feel that can’t be taught. Rest In Peace Mr Frehley.”
Jay Jay French on his Facebook profile
Ace’s Last Song
Ace Frehley was a great musician who passed away this year (2025), but he had created a wealth of excellent work, giving many fans of rock music incredible sensations and moments. I’m sure that he will live forever through his work. Remind you of his last work called “Cherry Medicine,” published on February 23, 2024, as a track on Ace Frehley’s album “10,000 Volts.”
