Guitarist George Lynch recently commented on the influence of late KISS guitarist Ace Frehley. He addressed the topic in a statement shared on Myglobalmind.
When asked whether Ace Frehley was an influence on his playing, Lynch provided a candid response about what actually shaped his musical direction.
“No. And I feel bad saying that, that he just died, but he wasn’t,” Lynch said. “The only thing that impressed me — not impressed me, but the thing that really actually transfixed me with KISS in the early days was their image and their show. The first album made me think, ‘Who are these demons? What the hell? It’s so cool.’ It influenced all of us, just like Van Halen influenced us, and [Led] Zeppelin influenced everybody. It was one of those things.”
Lynch’s candid remarks shed light on how KISS’s theatrical approach resonated across generations of musicians. Individual band members’ technical contributions varied in their influence, highlighting the complexity of rock music’s evolution and the different ways legendary bands shape their peers.
Blabbermouth reported that George Lynch emphasized Ace Frehley was not a direct influence on his guitar playing. He deeply admired KISS’s image and showmanship. This perspective underscores how the band’s visual presentation often overshadowed individual musicianship in terms of broader cultural impact.
Ace Frehley, known as “Space Ace,” was the original KISS lead guitarist and a founding member of the legendary rock band. US Rocker Music documented that Frehley passed away at age 74 following a fall at his home. He left behind a legacy as a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. His death was widely mourned across the rock community. KISS members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss attended his private memorial, reflecting the enduring bonds among the original lineup despite their tumultuous history.
Lynch went on to reflect on KISS’s broader cultural impact. He noted how their theatrical approach resonated across generations of musicians. “I was watching last night, somebody sent me a link to some old STP [Stone Temple Pilots] concert where they all painted their faces and dressed up like KISS. That was just fascinating. I love it,” he continued. This observation demonstrates how KISS’s visual identity transcended their era, inspiring bands decades later to adopt similar theatrical elements.
Metal Wani revealed that before his passing, Frehley expressed openness to a possible KISS reunion in interviews. He described the band members as “rock and roll brothers” and stated he never says never to reuniting with Stanley and Simmons. Though no specific reunion plans were announced, Frehley’s willingness to consider reconciliation reflected the deep connections forged during KISS’s formative years.
Lynch’s current band, Lynch Mob, continues to tour and pay tribute to classic rock influences. They admire KISS’s theatrical impact on rock culture. His comments highlight how KISS’s legacy extends far beyond individual guitar techniques. It encompasses an entire philosophy of rock performance that continues to inspire musicians today.
