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American rock band renowned for their elaborate stage makeup, theatrical live performances, and hard rock anthems.Formed in New York City in 1973 by Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar/vocals) and Gene Simmons (bass/vocals), KISS quickly became icons through their distinctive personas: Stanley as the Starchild, Simmons as the Demon. Joined by Ace Frehley (lead guitar, Spaceman) and Peter Criss (drums, Catman), their self-titled debut album (1974) laid the foundation. Achieving massive commercial success with albums like 'Destroyer' (1976) and 'Love Gun' (1977), and the live album 'Alive!' (1975), they became known for explosive pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and hits like "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "Detroit Rock City". The band underwent numerous lineup changes, famously removing their makeup in 1983. They reunited with the original lineup in 1996 for a triumphant tour, continuing with various members until their "End of the Road" farewell tour concluded in 2023. KISS has sold over 100 million records worldwide.

• The band's iconic makeup and personas were conceived to create distinct, larger-than-life characters.
• Original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss struggled with substance abuse, contributing to their departures in the early 1980s.
• The band faced significant backlash and declining popularity after removing their makeup in 1983, attempting a more commercial hard rock/heavy metal sound.
• Original drummer Peter Criss sued Stanley and Simmons in 2001 over royalties and use of the Catman makeup, settling out of court. Frehley also had legal disputes regarding his Spaceman image.
• Eric Carr, who replaced Peter Criss as the Fox in 1980, tragically died of heart cancer in 1991 at age 41.
• KISS became a massive merchandising empire, selling everything from action figures to coffins.
• The "End of the Road" tour (2019-2023) became one of the highest-grossing tours in history.