Steve Brown recently shared heartfelt comments about his relationship with Ace Frehley. He addressed the guitarist’s legacy in a statement shared on Troy Patrick Farrell.
Brown reflected on their close friendship over the past couple of years. He emphasized the personal connection they developed beyond their professional work together. He described moments of collaboration and personal connection that defined their time together.
“I’ve known Ace for a long time, but over the last couple years we’ve become so tight and telling each other things that most people don’t know,” Brown said. “And him just being here, I still feel his spirit all the time, because he was here. He lived about 45 minutes away from me. We would work at his place and then work at my place. It really was fabulous.”
Brown acknowledged Frehley’s well-documented struggles. He emphasized his character and the positive impact he had on those around him.
“Look, we all have our flaws, and his has been well documented, but deep down in his heart, he was a great guy,” Brown continued. “Some of the best moments I had were right here where I’d cook him dinner upstairs. It would be just me and him, or he’d be doing down here doing card tricks for my daughters.”
Brown’s tribute comes in the wake of a significant loss for the rock music world. Guitar Player reported that Ace Frehley, the co-founding guitarist of KISS, passed away at age 74 on October 16, 2025. He died following a fall in his home studio in Morristown, New Jersey. The legendary musician’s death marks the end of an era for one of rock music’s most iconic figures.
CBS News noted that Frehley passed away peacefully surrounded by family. His family expressed deep devastation but celebrated his life, achievements, laughter, and kindness. The guitarist had recently canceled tour dates due to ongoing medical issues resulting from the fall. He remained active in supporting his latest solo album.
Frehley’s impact on rock music cannot be overstated. News-Journal Online documented that Ace Frehley was a founding member of KISS in the early 1970s. He was known for his iconic Spaceman persona. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted him as a member of KISS in 2014, cementing his legacy as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
Brown concluded by honoring Frehley’s legacy in both music and personal relationships. “He was a really, really special guy. The music world lost a rock and roll superhero, that’s for sure. But the music and his character will live on forever. So God bless Ace.”
