Guitarist John 5 recently opened the doors to his private KISS museum. The collection is documented in a special tour shared on YouTube. It spans the legendary makeup era of the band from 1973 to 1983 and contains approximately 5,000 rare items.
John 5 explained the origins and scope of his extensive collection. It includes iconic pieces from each band member’s era.
“I probably have a little over 5,000 pieces from 73 to 83, I would say,” John 5 said. “I guess it started when I was a little kid and I got my first album, which was ‘Love Gun.’ And then I started getting the dolls and the trash can and all that stuff.”
The collection features remarkable artifacts. These include Gene Simmons’ original Destroyer boots, Paul Stanley’s Hotter Than Hell belt, Ace Frehley’s silver cape, and Peter Criss’ green fur coat with authentic hair. John 5 has meticulously documented the stories behind each piece beyond the physical items.
“I just started collecting when I was a kid because I have a collective soul, I just was collecting throughout the years, and I really enjoyed it,” he continued. “I just kept collecting and just kept on building and building. And what I want to do is not just build this huge collection, but really document everything. I have tons of paperwork, like contracts of their shows or any appearances, artwork, and how they made things. So, it’s just such a huge, massive pile of documentation.”
John 5’s dedication to preserving KISS’s legacy extends far beyond casual fandom. His journey as a collector began decades ago and has evolved into one of the most comprehensive KISS memorabilia collections ever assembled.
The collection encompasses far more than just stage costumes and iconic items. Revolver Magazine reported that John 5’s museum includes fragile and rare promotional items such as “KISS Scream Machine” cups, Japanese cassette box sets with collector binoculars, and MEGO dolls. The collection also features original ticket stubs, tour itineraries, backstage passes, outfits, jewelry, buttons, promoter shirts, jackets, towels, and Halloween masks from the 1975 Tour. One particularly significant piece is the first-ever handmade KISS t-shirt. Another is the original Alive! bass drum head, which John 5 rescued from a flood in Michigan.
Currently the guitarist for Mötley Crüe and Rob Zombie, John 5 has transformed his personal collection into a dedicated KISS Museum in California. He personally tours fans through the museum. V13 noted that the museum showcases one of the most comprehensive KISS collections ever assembled. This highlights the care and detective work John 5 invests in preserving KISS’s legacy. Through this archival effort, John 5 ensures that the theatrical glam rock era that inspired him continues to inspire future generations of music fans and musicians alike.
