Gene Simmons from KISS criticized Carlos Santana’s stage presence in an interview with Las Vegas Fox station KVVU-TV, Channel 5, reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
“It’s time for us to go out and show the little boys how the big boys do it,” Simmons said. “I’m sick and tired of these bands like Carlos Santana looking at his shoes and thinking that’s a rock concert. Get off the stage.”
Santana had previously criticized KISS with his statement: “A musician doesn’t need the mask and the mascara, so there’s a difference between an entertainer and a musician.”
The exchange demonstrates the ongoing debate about different approaches to live performances in rock music.
This latest clash extends the long-running feud between the two legendary musicians. Each represents a distinctly different approach to rock performance.
The Guitar Player magazine revealed that tensions between Simmons and Santana emerged in 2005. Santana questioned KISS’s musical credibility at that time and labeled them as mere entertainers rather than serious musicians.
Music Radar highlighted KISS’s reputation for theatrical live performances. Their shows feature elaborate costumes and pyrotechnics, creating a stark contrast to Santana’s musically-focused approach.
The stylistic divide between the artists continues in their current activities. KISS completed their farewell tour with theatrical spectacles. Meanwhile, People Magazine noted that Santana tours across the U.S. His performances showcase his signature blend of Latin, rock, blues, and jazz.
This ongoing disagreement reflects a broader discussion in the rock music community. It centers on the balance between theatrical entertainment and pure musicianship in live performances.
