KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer recently addressed speculation about his future musical plans following the band’s farewell tour. He specifically discussed the possibility of rejoining his former band Black ‘N Blue in a statement to Music Radar.
Thayer explained his current approach to collaborating with his former bandmates. He also clarified his stance on future live performances with Black ‘N Blue.
“It’s something we just genuinely enjoy doing together, and if people love what comes out of it, that’s a pure bonus,” Thayer said. “It’s pretty simple. I’ll get together with Black ‘N Blue occasionally, like at the KISS Las Vegas event, which was an absolute blast, but there are no live shows with me playing with them on the horizon.”
The guitarist emphasized the natural, brotherly bond he maintains with his former Black ‘N Blue bandmates.
“Getting together with those guys is like hanging out with brothers,” he continued. “We just laugh, have fun, and pick up right where we left off. There are no real plans to do more right now. It’s more special when it happens naturally.”
This clarification comes after Thayer’s appearance with Black ‘N Blue at the KISS Las Vegas event. The appearance had sparked speculation about a potential reunion.
Thayer’s journey with KISS spans over two decades. It began long before he became the band’s official lead guitarist. Ultimate Classic Rock reported that when original guitarist Ace Frehley left the group in 2002, he was replaced not by previous guitarist Bruce Kulick but by Thayer. Thayer had been working with KISS in a behind-the-scenes capacity since the mid-1990s.
The guitarist’s transition from Black ‘N Blue to KISS represents a significant shift in rock history. Wikipedia noted that KISS was formed in New York City in 1973 by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. Thayer eventually adopted the iconic “Spaceman” persona previously held by Frehley. He became a permanent member during the band’s post-original-lineup era.
Thayer’s approach to occasional reunions reflects a broader trend in the rock world. Loudwire indicated that 2025 has been notable for rock and metal reunions. Major acts like Black Sabbath, Oasis, and Rush made headlines for their comeback announcements. However, many artists now prefer selective appearances over full-scale touring commitments.
The guitarist’s preference for natural, unforced collaborations with his former Black ‘N Blue bandmates stands in contrast to the highly orchestrated reunion tours that have become increasingly common in the rock industry. His emphasis on maintaining genuine relationships over commercial opportunities suggests a more personal approach to his post-KISS musical endeavors.
