A Tribute to Ace Frehley: John 5's Reflections

On October 17, SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk" aired a special episode dedicated to the late Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of KISS. During this tribute, MÖTLEY CRÜE guitarist John 5 shared his personal experiences and reflections on his fandom for KISS, including his time playing with the band.

A Lifetime of KISS Fandom

John 5 has been a die-hard KISS fan since he was a teenager. Growing up in California, he would spend hours listening to KISS albums, mesmerized by Ace Frehley's innovative guitar work and stage presence. As he delved deeper into the world of KISS, John 5 became increasingly fascinated with the band's history, music, and iconic characters.

For John 5, KISS was more than just a band – it was an experience that transported him to another world. He recalls attending KISS concerts as a teenager, feeling the energy and excitement of the live performances. These experiences shaped his perception of the band and influenced his own musical tastes.

Collaborations with Ace Frehley

In addition to his admiration for KISS, John 5 had the opportunity to collaborate with Ace Frehley on several occasions. One notable example was when he joined forces with Frehley to play "New York Groove" at a charity event in 2004.

John 5's collaboration with Frehley not only showcased their musical chemistry but also deepened his respect for the guitarist. He was struck by Frehley's infectious enthusiasm and passion for music, qualities that made him an invaluable member of KISS.

John 5's Musical Influences

As a musician, John 5 has been influenced by KISS's diverse discography. He cites songs like "Detroit Rock City" and "Shout It Out Loud" as key inspirations, admiring their raw energy and catchiness. These influences have seeped into his own music with MÖTLEY CRÜE, contributing to the band's signature blend of hard rock and heavy metal.

John 5's Memories of KISS Live Shows

John 5 has shared numerous stories about attending KISS live shows over the years. He remembers being blown away by Frehley's guitar solos during performances of "Hard Luck Woman" and "Love Gun." These experiences left a lasting impression on him, emphasizing the importance of musicianship in live performances.

In addition to his appreciation for Frehley's guitar work, John 5 was struck by the camaraderie among KISS band members. He recalls being part of the excitement and energy during rehearsals and soundchecks, where everyone seemed to be having an absolute blast.

The Legacy of Ace Frehley

Ace Frehley's legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. As a guitarist, he was known for his distinctive playing style, which blended elements of blues, rockabilly, and heavy metal.

John 5 praises Frehley's influence on guitarists worldwide, citing his innovative approach as an inspiration for his own playing. He acknowledges the significant impact that KISS had on the development of hard rock and heavy metal music in the 1970s and beyond.

John 5's Tribute to Ace Frehley

In light of Ace Frehley's passing, John 5 felt compelled to pay tribute to his musical hero. He shared stories about their collaborations, as well as fond memories of attending KISS live shows during his formative years as a musician.

Through these reflections, John 5 aimed to honor Frehley's enduring legacy and celebrate the impact that KISS has had on rock music as a whole. His tribute serves as a testament to the lasting influence of Ace Frehley's guitar playing and the iconic status of KISS within the world of rock.

Conclusion

John 5's reflections on his KISS fandom provide valuable insights into the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time and genres. As a musician, he has been inspired by KISS's innovative spirit, guitar-driven soundscapes, and iconic characters – qualities that have shaped his own musical tastes and career.

In honor of Ace Frehley's memory, John 5 continues to celebrate the band's legacy through his music with MÖTLEY CRÜE. His tribute serves as a testament to the enduring influence of KISS on rock music and its ongoing relevance in contemporary culture.

Additional Notes

• Influence on MÖTLEY CRÜE: John 5's collaboration with Ace Frehley highlights the band's own musical evolution, influenced by KISS's diverse discography.
• KISS Live Shows: John 5 has shared numerous stories about attending KISS live shows, emphasizing the importance of musicianship in live performances and the camaraderie among band members.
• Guitar Influences: John 5 cites songs like "Detroit Rock City" and "Shout It Out Loud" as key inspirations for his own guitar playing with MÖTLEY CRÜE.