The KISSFAQ - March '05 News

This "News" page generally only relates to matters of interest to the KISSFAQ. There's no need to replicate news that can be seen on other KISS websites. If you use information appearing on this or any other KISSFAQ page, in print (fanzines) or online (directly quoted or rewritten), please have the courtesy to say where it came from. If printing in fanzines, I'd love a copy sent to the KISSFAQ PO Box. Should you want official announcements please visit the band's official website at: KISSONLINE.COM.

Wednesday, March 30, 2005 2:49:25 AM - Paul to guest on Ronnie Montrose album?
(From: melodicrock.com) Eric Singer actually toured with a version of Montrose, Ronnie, vocalist Keith St. John, and bassist Ricky Phillips, in 2003 into 2004. During the summer of 2003 Eric, Ricky and Ronnie went into the studio and layed down several tracks, probably around 10, though without a vocalist. According to Ronnie in 2004, "I'm now working on bringing 10 of my favorite singers together to each contribute lyrics and vocals to some incredible 'Power Trio' tracks that Ricky Phillips and Eric Singer and I recorded live in the studio last summer. The tentative title will be 'Ronnie Montrose and Friends - 10x10' and the complete list of singers will be listed here as soon as everyone is on board... I've contacted many of my friends, and am very excited to bring this assemblage of talent together on one project" (RonnieMontrose.com). According Melodicrock, "Guest vocalists lined up to do a track each include Sammy Hagar, Eric Martin, Tommy Shaw, Paul Stanley, Gregg Rolie and more. The style of the album says Ricky 'is old school 70's heavy rock n roll...no overdubs, no computers...'"

We'll have to see whether this one comes true! People attending KISS concerts have regularly heard Montrose's classic "Bad Motor Scooter" and "Rock The Nation" (from the debut Montose album from 1973) prior to KISS hitting the stage... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, March 29, 2005 8:39:01 PM - Ace on Stern

(Images from HowardStern.com)
(From: howardstern.com) Bullet points of Ace's appearance on the show:
Ace more interested in promoting the "Remedy" movie than talking KISS...
Ace's manager apparently didn't want him talking about KISS and cut the interview short...
Ace has no hard feelings for Gene, even though they've had their issues...
Ace still reveiving checks from KISS 'cause he's one of the "original 'family' members"...
"Sal the Stockbroker" was painted in full Ace make up...
Sal tried to talk KISS with Ace during a break, and get his picture with Ace, but Ace blew him off...
Ace instead had Sal take a picture of him and Howard... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, March 29, 2005 4:08:17 AM - Former KISS Manager JESSE HILSEN Remains Behind Bars
(From: Blabbermouth) "According to the New York Post, former KISS manager Jesse Hilsen — otherwise known as New York City's worst deadbeat dad — stubbornly refuses to pay up, preferring to rot in jail rather than settle a nearly $400,000 tab to his kids that's piled up for 17 years. Hilsen, a former Upper East Side shrink, once owned millions in real estate but has done his all to duck his debt to his three kids and about $2 million more he owes his wife, Rita, The Post reports. Hilsen has been at a federal lockup in Brooklyn for nine months awaiting trial, but he could get out if he offered to begin payments. Rita's lawyer, Jacqueline Bukowski, has been hunting for Jesse's hidden cash, which he allegedly squirreled away in South Africa, Israel and Holland during his years on the lam. His problems with paying up go back to 1988, when he agreed to give Rita $750 a week and each child $200 under a divorce settlement. He never followed through. Hilsen, who used 10 aliases while hiding out in three countries, was busted in the Catskills last June after 10 years on the run. Hilsen raked in $300,000 to $500,000 annually in the four years he managed KISS, but had filed for bankruptcy and refused to pay alimony to his ex-wife. Rita lost her East Side apartment in the bankruptcy proceeding and has lived in an 8-by-12-foot room in a shelter for the last eight years. KISS leaders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley were served subpoenas by a private investigator in September 2003 before their performance at Chicago's Tweeter Center in connection with the case. The purpose of the subpoenas was to determine what, if any, financial ties exist between Hilsen and the band, as well as whether any band members have been in touch with him since he became a fugitive. Hilsen had been Stanley's psychiatrist for several years before becoming the band's business manager. He and the band split in 1992"... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, March 29, 2005 4:08:17 AM - Ace Frehley to guest on Howard Stern
(From: Blabbermouth) "Original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley is scheduled to appear on "The Howard Stern Show" on Tuesday, March 29. Frehley is expected to promote the DVD release of the "Remedy" movie, which features Frehley in the role of "Johnny." Due March 29, "Remedy" will have national video distribution via MTI Home Video in Blockbuster as well as other stores, according to a previous e-mail received by BLABBERMOUTH.NET from the film's lead writer, Nicholas Reiner. A trailer for the film can be viewed at this location. According to the movie's official web site, "Remedy" is "film-noir in the fast lane — a darkly comic tale. It is the mystery surrounding the murder of one of a tightly knit band of friends. Extreme indulgences and the never-ending New York nightlife drive the group into realms of insanity. Eventually they destroy each other and themselves." "... «Post A Comment»

Wednesday, March 23, 2005 13:31:57 AM - Eric Replaces Tommy?
(From: SickThings UK) According to the UK Alice Cooper website, Eric Singer has replaced drummer Tommy Clufetos in Alice Cooper's band for the upcoming studio album and tour. Sickthings states: "Well it's been confirmed, thanks to an email from Ryan Roxie sent to board member 'from_the_inside'. Eric Singer is back with Alice at the moment. Somewhat of a surprise as last we heard from departing drummer Tommy he was looking forward to playing on the new album!! This now places the current band personal at Ryan Roxie and Damon Johnson on guitar, Chuck Garric on bass and the returning Eric Singer on drums. The Album is still said to be due in June or thereabouts and is also said to be a continuation of the "Eyes.." style with a few twists including the title track, "Dirty Diamonds", that Alice has discribed as "An epic". Sounds good!" Natuarally, with anything, await official OFFICIAL confirmation before getting your panties in a twist. Apparently, Tommy completed his drum work on the new album before he left to join Rob Zombie's band for OzzFest, so Eric probably won't be recording with Alice at this time... «Post A Comment»

Saturday, March 12, 2005 6:55:07 AM - Paul Stanley Solo Album News...
(From: KISS Online) "Paul Stanley checked in with KISSONLINE and chatted briefly about his upcoming solo album. The album should be done and ready to mix by mid May. Drumming on all the tracks to date is Victor Indruzzo who has toured and recorded with Macy Gray, toured with Beck and appears on various recordings by the Matrix production team. Most of the guitars have been handled by Corky James who also is heard on various recordings by the Matrix team including Avril Lavigne. In talking about their contributions Paul raved, "Victor is just an amazing drummer who can bash with the best of them while keeping a great groove going." As for James, he added "Corky just blows me away with his parts and sounds." As far as bass..."I've always been a big fan of Bruce Kulick's bass playing so it's great to have him on some of the album." Keyboards have been handled by Russ Irwin who has toured with both Sting and Aerosmith. "I've known Russ for over 15 years before the KISS/Aerosmith tour happened and his being a part of the project seemed like a natural".Of course all the vocals are handled by Paul. A few of the tracks recorded include "Wake Up Screaming," "Second To None" and "Live To Win."

Paul has been collaborating with Andreas Carlsson and for the first time in 15 or so years, Desmond Child and said, "It's magic." Paul went on to add, "From the songs to the playing and singing, everything about this album is consistent without compromise. The album is exactly who I am now and what I want to be doing. It's got all the sides of what I do, so it's not surprising that it's got elements of everything I've done plus a leap into the 21st century. I don't need to hype it. I'll leave that to everyone else who's heard it"...

The KISSFAQ is putting up a page specifically to note progress and reports on Paul's album, HERE... «Post A Comment»

Saturday, March 12, 2005 6:55:07 AM - 2005 Cincinnati KISS Expo...
ALL... RIGHT KISS FREAKS, It's time once again to break out of the ASYLUM and unite the KISSARMY!!!! ALL HELL'S BREAK'IN LOOSE IN CINCINNATI, OHIO SUNDAY APRIL 24, 2005 FROM 11:00AM TO 10:00 PM.

Held this year at the AWARD-WINNING CINCY MARRIOTT NORTHEAST. LOCATED just off I-71 & EXIT #19 At 9664 MASON-MONTGOMERY RD. for KISS ROOM RATES CALL 513-459-9800 or 1-800-228-9290.

The 3rd Annual CIncinnati KISSFEST & ROCK-N-ROLL OVER EXPO IS BACK!!! Special guests and events already scheduled and confirmed include: BRUCE KULICK, BILL STARKEY, Authors WENDY MOORE, COLETTE SHAW, GORDON GEBERT, & BOB McADAMS. Tribute bands SSG & MR.SPEED will Perform live. There will be Q&A, Autogragh & Photo Sessions for the fans. KISS Costume Contests, KISS Trivia Contests, VIP only Drawings, Special rafffles, Surprise Giveaways, Door Prizes and much, much more...

We are talking to The Ladies In BLACK DIAMOND, Who we hope will help MC this years Costume Contests, as well as some of the Special drawings & giveaways.. We have many events already scheduled like the VIP ONLY Drawing for a ORIGINALS SIGNED KISSTORY BOOK!!! And other VIP Drawings for Great Prizes.... We will update the schedule as it happens. Thanks to all you Great KISS FANS who have made the CINCINNATI KISS EXPOS A BIG SUCCESS AND LOTS OF GREAT FUN. W! E ARE ONE...EVERY WHERE WE GO...EVERYONE WE SEE!!!!! KISS ALIVE IN 2005!!!!! & KISS ALIVE FOREVER...!!!!!

For more information go to: www.cincinnatikissexpo.com... «Post A Comment»

Saturday, March 12, 2005 6:55:07 AM - ESP Project Live in Germany with cheaper Tickets...

(From: www.kissfanclub.de) For the only ESP Show in Germany on 30.April.2005 the Tickets are cheaper now! 23 Euro in advance or 26 Euro at the door! For the ESP Show with Bruce Kulick, Eric Singer; John Corabi und Chuck Garrick (Alice Cooper) in Babenhausen (near to Frankfurt) will be some surprises for the Fans! More Informations coming soon!

For more Information about the Show see www.kissfanclub.de

Tickets for the Show also on www.kissfanclub.de or E Mail to kissfanclubexpo@aol.com ... «Post A Comment»

Monday, March 07, 2005 3:55:07 AM - Indy Expo Report...
(From IndyStar) "Kiss fans from around the globe rolled into Indianapolis over the weekend to lick up the atmosphere at an Eastside hotel. Dan Foley, a 41-year-old police officer from Wyandotte, Mich., has been to dozens of these events -- and looked like it. Dressed like Gene Simmons, an original member of the rock band known for its flashy outfits and makeup, Foley was donning leather, metal studs and face paint at the 2005 Indianapolis Kiss Expo Sunday. Upon request, he performed Simmons' signature move -- unfurling a pointy tongue. "This is just a dedicated love of the band," said Foley, whose Simmons garb cost about $6,500. "If I find something that I like, I stick with it all the way to the end."

Formed in New York City, Kiss hit it big in the 1970s with songs such as "Rock & Roll All Nite" and even performed without makeup for awhile. The Expo, held annually in Indianapolis, is one of several Kiss conventions fans attend each year. An estimated 1,000 of them made their way to the Holiday Inn East, 6990 E. 21st St., on Saturday and Sunday. Fishers couple Michelle and Keith Leroux promote the Indianapolis Kiss convention, along with Steve Stierwalt, of Indianapolis. "It's a chance to get together with all of our Kiss friends that we've gotten to know over the years, and bring Kiss to the fans, I guess," said Michelle, 32.

The couple have other jobs but also support themselves by selling Kiss memorabilia. "You wouldn't even believe what Kiss fans will buy, and want to buy, and collect," she said. "I know collectors that have warehouses just to store all of the Kiss merchandise that they have." Vendors sold collectibles, including stuffed Kiss dolls and "Kissopoly" games. Two band members -- one current, one former -- signed autographs and posed for pictures, while fans mingled and traded rock and roll stories. "Just as much as it might be cool for (the fans) to come out, it's also cool for me, too," said Eric Singer, the band's current drummer. "It's a fair exchange thing. . . . Things should be beneficial to everyone." Former Kiss guitarist Bruce Kulick, now playing with Grand Funk Railroad, came to Indianapolis from Florida for the event. The travel was tough, he said. But the fans' enthusiasm made up for it. "It is a job to get up at 4:45 a.m. for a 5:45 a.m. pickup and take two flights after playing the night before. That's the job part of it," Kulick said. "Any musician will tell you the fun part is seeing your fans, performing, meeting them and them telling you, 'You don't know how much it means to me to meet you.' "

Those fans included Bill Starkey, a third-grade teacher for Indianapolis Public Schools. To Kiss fans, however, he is the man who started a fan club, the Kiss Army, in the 1970s. Starkey, who lived in Terre Haute then, said he couldn't understand why Kiss songs weren't getting any radio play on the local station he listened to. So, he and a friend began calling themselves the Kiss Army, and made it their mission to get the band's songs played on local radio. Later, when the band sold out a Terre Haute show, the promoters asked why, and Starkey's Kiss Army was listed as the reason. Starkey became a bit of a celebrity after that. "I really enjoy talking to the people and the fans," Starkey, 48, said. "They treat me with so much kindness and reverence, and I get more attention than I could ever get from any third-grader."

Fans from across the country were on hand, and several arrived from Japan. "We are huge Kiss fans and we really like to see whatever the members do," said Kumiko Yoshinaga, a publicist from Tokyo. Jordan Stone, 31, traveled from Farmington, Mo., for the convention. The high school health and physical education teacher said he couldn't remember when he wasn't a Kiss fan. "There is obviously a sense of brotherhood because Kiss kind of transcends what most bands are," he said. "Kiss fans . . . tend to sort of have a common bond of lifelong fanaticism. It's always fun to come and spend time with like-minded people." Russell Dannecker, who has become a friend of the band members, is from New York City. Dannecker said he remembers meeting the band when he was younger, getting autographed records, and telling members he planned to sell the records to make money to follow them to the shows. Instead, he said the band helped him get tickets. "I grew up listening to them," said Dannecker, 34. "They have been around 30-plus years. They are great because it's like an allegiance. People connect onto it. All my friends . . . I met through Kiss"... «Post A Comment»

Sunday, March 06, 2005 1:41:52 PM - Video Of KISS' Ellen appearance online...
(From Blabbermouth) "Video footage of KISS giving a young cancer survivor the thrill of his life last when they paid him a surprise visit on his 10th birthday has been posted online. David Dingman-Grover and his parents were booked as guests on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show", where they discussed the young boy's achievement of beating the odds to survive the removal of a cancerous brain tumor, which his family were told was inoperable.

DeGeneres ended the interview by bringing out the youngster's favorite band, who gave him a signed guitar. KISS guitarist/vocalist Paul Stanley said, "This is so important for us to be a part of a miracle. People talk about we're past the age of miracles but here's proof David is a living miracle and we can all be a part of it."

Check out the video of KISS' appearance on the show at this location" HERE... «Post A Comment»

Sunday, March 06, 2005 1:41:52 PM - Peter Criss News...
(From Billboard) "Original Kiss drummer Peter Criss has been quite a busy "cat" since parting ways with the group after its highly successful co-headlining tour with Aerosmith in 2003. Currently hard at work at his own recording studio, Criss is laying down tracks for an as-yet-untitled solo album..." READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE, HERE... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, March 01, 2005 2:21:30 PM - KISS Surprise Cancer Survivor...

KISS surpised the living daylights out of 10-year-old cancer survivor DAVID DINGMAN-GROVER on the Ellen Degeneres Show today. David was told he wouldn't live to see age 10, but he proved doctors wrong, and KISS, his favorite band, were there to make the occasion extra special. Check your TV listings for broadcast times in your area (4pm with Comcast in the Bay Area). The broadcast was filmed at NBC Studios in Burbank, CA on Monday, Feb. 28, 2005. First image: (AP Photo/Chris Polk, Warner Bros.)

KISSFAQ SAYS: In a time when many older KISS fans have become cynical or totally disenchanted with the band it's nice to see the real magic which many once experienced. The pictures of joy, shock, and surprise are worth a thousand words... «Post A Comment»

Monday, February 28, 2005 4:49:39 AM - Upcoming KISS Show...
(From KISSONLINE): "KISS along with Cedric the Entertainer (Master of Ceremonies), Destiny's Child, GODSMACK, Jay Mohr, Louis Anderson and Ted Nugent have been confirmed for a April 1 performance at the Marine Corps Air Station, Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, California.

Rockin' the Corps is a patriotic celebratory concert for an audience of more than 25,000 Marines and their families. Executive producers Quincy Jones and Joseph E. Robert, Jr. have joined forces with Producers Doc McGhee and Spencer Proffer to create a high energy, patriotic celebration for the dedicated men & women of the United States Marine Corps in a show of appreciation.

More information will be available soon.

NOTE: THIS CONCERT IS FOR THE MARINES AT CAMP PENDLETON AND THEIR FAMILIES.... THERE WILL BE NO CIVILIANS ALLOWED!"... «Post A Comment»

Friday, February 25, 2005 3:57:14 AM - Obtaining the "KISS Album Focus"...
The KISSFAQ is currently out of copies of the 3rd Edition of the "KISS Album Focus." The book can be obtained exclusively from kiss4sale.com... «Post A Comment»