SohoJohnny Meets Ace Frehley

SohoJohnny backstage with ace, former Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley.

Ace Frehley, whose real name is Paul Daniel Frehley, is an American musician and songwriter best known as the original lead guitarist of the rock band KISS. Born on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York, Ace Frehley played a crucial role in shaping the distinctive sound and image of KISS during their formative years.

Frehley joined KISS in 1973 along with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, and together they became one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Ace Frehley's persona in the band was known as "The Spaceman" or "Space Ace," and he developed a signature look with his silver spaceman costume and distinctive face paint.

As the lead guitarist of KISS, Ace Frehley contributed to many of the band's most popular songs, including "Cold Gin," "Shock Me," and "Love Gun." His guitar solos and melodic playing style were integral to the band's success, and he became known for his energetic and flashy stage presence.

Frehley left KISS in 1982 to pursue a solo career, releasing albums such as "Frehley's Comet" and "Trouble Walkin'." He reunited with KISS for various tours and performances over the years, including their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.

Ace Frehley's influence on rock music and guitar playing is significant, and he is regarded as one of the iconic guitarists of the 1970s and a pioneer of the "guitar hero" archetype. His unique playing style, blending elements of hard rock, blues, and metal, continues to inspire generations of musicians.