Bruce Kulick Reacts to KISS Getting Kennedy Center Honor Without Inviting Him

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Photo Credit: Bruce Kulick/Website - Jason Merritt/Getty

Bruce Kulick, former KISS guitarist, recently shared his thoughts on the band’s Kennedy Center Honor announcement, despite not being included in the ceremony. His response was posted on Instagram.

Kulick offered congratulations to the honored members while acknowledging the announcement’s significance for the band’s legacy.

“Let’s congratulate Paul, Gene, Ace and Peter, for the announcement of being chosen for the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors later this year! WOW,” Kulick said. “Also announced is that KISS will be doing something special. That’s a big tease for all of us right?”

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The announcement has sparked reactions from KISS fans, with many expressing support for Kulick’s contributions to the band’s history.

One fan commented: “It’s awesome they’re getting this honor, but I definitely feel like the rest of the guys deserve credit.”

Another supporter wrote: “You should absolutely feel apart of this legacy and would love to see you in attendance of the Kennedy Center Honors in December!”

Kulick’s gracious response reflects his significant contributions to KISS during a pivotal period in the band’s history. The Kennedy Center recognition focuses on the original lineup.

Grand Funk Railroad’s official biography revealed that Kulick served as KISS’s lead guitarist from 1984 to 1996. He performed on multiple studio albums and during extensive world tours that earned him several Platinum and Gold awards. His tenure with the band spanned 13 years, making him one of the longest-serving members outside the original lineup.

Guitar Player magazine reported that Kulick is widely considered Ace Frehley’s most successful and beloved successor on guitar. He contributed significantly to the band’s sound during his time with KISS. His work helped maintain the band’s commercial success throughout the late 1980s and 1990s.

His official website documented that Kulick continued his prolific music career with other projects following his departure from KISS. He joined Grand Funk Railroad from 2000 until late 2023. He has also collaborated with various artists like Michael Bolton and John Corabi, demonstrating his versatility as a musician.

The Kennedy Center Honors ceremony is scheduled to take place in December 2025. KISS has promised a special performance for the occasion. The recognition focuses on the original and earlier members of KISS. Kulick’s lasting impact on the band’s legacy remains widely acknowledged by fans and music critics alike.

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