Original KISS drummer Peter Criss has responded to Gene Simmons’ controversial claim that Criss doesn’t play a musical instrument. The statement appeared on Billboard.
Criss addressed Simmons’ assertion that “drums are not a musical instrument, by definition.” He defended his role as a musician and the importance of percussion in music.
“I do play an instrument. I play drums within the percussion family and drums are one of the oldest groups of musical instruments and a fundamental part of music,” Criss said. “Acting as the rhythmic heartbeat that provides structure, tempo and energy, uniting other instruments and guiding the groove in most genres.”
The drummer continued to emphasize the critical role of percussion in musical performance.
“Drums are critical for timekeeping, creating the foundation that allows other musicians to synchronize, making them essential for cohesive and popular music like rock, pop and jazz,” he continued. “By definition.”
This response comes amid ongoing tensions between the original KISS members regarding their respective contributions to the band’s legacy.
The dispute highlights the complex relationship between the founding members of one of rock’s most iconic bands. Criss’s contributions to KISS extended far beyond drumming. This established him as a multifaceted musician whose impact on the band’s success cannot be understated.
Peter Criss’s official biography revealed that as KISS’s founding drummer and creator of the Catman persona, Criss also provided lead vocals on several tracks. His most notable vocal contribution was “Beth,” which he co-wrote and performed, demonstrating his musical versatility beyond percussion.
The song “Beth” became one of KISS’s biggest commercial successes. The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame documented that it peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a People’s Choice Award. This achievement alone contradicts any suggestion that Criss lacks musical talent or instrumental ability.
Criss’s influence on drumming and rock music has been recognized by fellow musicians throughout his career. Testimonials on his official website showed that renowned drummer Mike Portnoy called him “one of the great unsung heroes of our age” for his solos and mammoth drum kit performances that inspired countless musicians.
The drummer’s legacy was formally recognized when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with KISS in 2014. Wikipedia notes that despite leaving the band in 1980 after issues with his playing, he rejoined for reunions in 1995 and made brief later appearances. This cemented his status as an integral part of KISS’s enduring legacy.
