Anything KISS

Las Vegas hosts the "KISS off" competition

2012-01-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

The Hard Rock is playing host to a "KISS off" to find the ultimate KISS tribute band. Local act, Las Vegas KISS is among the top 20 KISS tribute bands in the world and stopped by Action News at Midday to show their stuff.

Las Vegas hosts the "KISS off" competition

Gene Simmons teams up with Stan Lee to intoduce new venture

2012-01-25T09:38:00.000-08:00

(PARK CITY, ABC 4 News) - Comic book legend Stan Lee, and Gene Simmons of KISS, made a stop in Park City Tuesday. The duo is there for a premiere of the documentary “With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story” about the Marvel creator’s life.

The two icons might seem like an unlikely pair, but Gene Simmons was the focus of two Marvel Comic books decades ago. The rocker says his relationship began with Stan Lee years before that, and long before the two met.

Simmons was an immigrant and says his early years in America were spent feeling like an outsider. “I had to empower myself and become my own superhero. I had to get my self esteem in order. By reading Stan Lee’s comic books I noticed there was a character called Peter Parker who was a pimply faced teenager that girls didn’t care about.”

He says he related to the Marvel superheroes because they weren’t perfect, they all had weaknesses and frailty but each also had enormous strength. Simmons was deeply impacted and even wrote Stan Lee a heartfelt letter. “When Stan Lee sent me a post card as a 13-year-old boy saying ‘you will do great things’ it felt like a missive from the gods.”

Tuesday the two highly successful friends sat side by side fielding questions from around the world. Simmons has launched another endeavor that brings web video, in real time, with translation, in dozens of languages. Lee and Simmons accepted questions from viewers in Asia, Europe, South, and North America, using the Ortsbo translation technology.

Simmons says he has an answer to one question that wasn’t asked by his worldwide fans. He says the secret to success goes beyond just having comic book confidence. “We all start out as pimply faced teenagers with a big dream and the difference is whether you go work for it.”

Stan Lee says everyone has imagination. "It’s just how you use it". He credits Simmons as highly imaginative. “I find him one of the most fascinating guys I’ve every known and I’ve never known anybody like Gene. Simmons says Lee is one of the great American heroes, and is as powerful as the superheroes he’s created.

Gene Simmons teams up with Stan Lee to intoduce new venture

Paul Stanley Sings at his Birthday Party

2012-01-21T14:01:00.001-08:00

Paul Stanley singing at his 60th birthday party ("You Shook Me" by Led Zeppelin) with Ty Taylor of Vintage Trouble (Soho House in Los Angeles,

Paul & Tommy update us on the progress of MONSTER

2012-01-04T04:46:00.001-08:00

Paul Stanley and Tommy Thayer, with Greg Collins, with a report from the studio on the new album MONSTER.

Paul Stanley & His Purple Princess

2011-12-21T15:39:00.000-08:00

(from CelebrityBabyScoop) KISS star Paul Stanley seemed in good spirits as he was spotted on his way to the Beverly Glen Market in Los Angeles, California yesterday with his wife Erin and their 2 1/2-year-old daughter Sarah (December 20). The couple's other kids - 5-year-old Colin and 4-month-old Emily Grace - weren't with them on this outing.

The pretty preschooler, who held tight to her rocker papa, was dressed all in purple, from her glittery boots to her braided headband. Love those blonde curls!

KISS Tribute Concert Coming to Camp Jefferson

2011-12-16T04:36:00.000-08:00

(from northjersey.com) An incredible KISS Tribute Concert is coming to the Art Bonito Amphitheatre at Camp Jefferson in the summer of 2012 as part of the most fantastic line–up of entertainers in the five year history of the award winning venue.

This group, born and bred on the same New York City streets as KISS, has been on the tribute scene for over a decade and shares the same fiery passion to put on the greatest Rock and Roll show possible. With live concerts, interviews private parties, conventions, and Official KISS related promotional events, this band has done it all. Off the stage they have worked with the KISS camp on many projects, including appearances for KISS toy lines and promotions, such as the KISS Box Set. VH1 filmed a documentary on the band, leading up to the band playing a show for Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Doc McGhee.

Don’t miss this unbelievable multi effect concert, in full KISS makeup and costumes coming to the Camp Jefferson Amphitheatre in the Summer of 2012. The KISS tribute show joins a roster of fantastic concerts also featuring Journey, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, tribute shows along with some other block buster entertainers. These are all national touring shows that perform professionally in the major arenas, theatres and casinos in the nation. The Amphitheatre features full concert lighting and state-of-the-art sound.

Paul Stanley & Tommy Thayer Jam with Camp Freddy

2011-12-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

Paul Stanley, Evan Stanley (Paul's son) and Tommy Thayer are among the many guest musicians who performed with CAMP FREDDY, on Friday, December 9, at the second of four shows as part of the band's fifth annual Christmas residency at the world-famous The Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood, California.

How do you think Paul Stanley sounds, after his Vocal Cord Surgery??

Paul Stanley and Lita Ford's 'Lick it Up' Video

2011-11-18T07:59:00.001-08:00

With Ford on backing vocals, the band tore it up. Vocalist Stan Thompson Jr. seemed inspired having "the Starchild" just inches away, crunching out those anthemic chords. At the end of the song, Stanley, who seemed pleases with the performance, said "I'd love to thank the guy that wrote that song – oh wait, it was me."

This Day In KISStory: 30th Anniversary Of ‘Music From The Elder’

2011-11-16T09:48:00.001-08:00

“When the Earth was young, they were already old…”

(from Geeks of Doom) 30 years ago on this day in KISStory, an album would be issued that would be a turning point, and at the time a low point, for the band and their fans. Music From The Elder, produced by the legendary Bob Ezrin (responsible for the epic Destroyer), was released by KISS on November 16, 1981. The release was a concept album, and a comprehensive departure for the band, which was negatively received by both fans and critics alike.

As time has progressed, however, the album has achieved somewhat of a cult status among both KISS fans and rock/metal fans. For some reason, Music From The Elder has matured well, and while it was perhaps the most obscure and odd of all KISS releases, some now point to the album as their favorite.

This was not always the case, however. After its release, Music From The Elder developed into KISS’ poorest selling album, their first to not even be certified Gold by the RIAA. The business side of things fared so badly for KISS with this release that for the first time ever, the band did not go out on tour to boost the album.

So what went wrong for KISS back in 1981?
Essentially, what turned out to be Music From The Elder was a misguided attempt by the band and producer Bob Ezrin to showcase a more serious and sincere artistic side to the band. While this could have worked for any number of bands, for KISS, it was so distant from their musical identity that the album felt alien to many of their fans. But while it was an effort to make a serious concept album to acclaim a mature side of the band, initially this album was never meant to be that way.

With a look back to the year before, in 1980, KISS’ album Unmasked was not as well received as its 1979 predecessor Dynasty. Although Australian fans made it one of the best-selling albums in their country, causing a Beatles-like welcome for KISS during their down under tour, back home in America it was not a high point for the band. It was clear that the disco influence of producer Vini Poncia was beginning to take its toll for having been a part of KISS for too long. As a result, the band decided that change was crucial.
During their touring period of late 1980, the band announced in several interviews that they were working on a brand new album, and that it would be an authentic form to their hard rock and roll style. It was to be heavier, more aggressive, and more in tune with their earlier releases.

Read the complete article from GEEKS OF DOOM -->

Interview: ‘Detroit Rock City’ Screenwriter Carl Dupre

2011-11-11T06:30:00.001-08:00

(Geeks Of Doom - 10/21/11) As well as writing a handful of horror sequels (including Prophecy 3: The Ascent, Hellraiser: Hellseeker, Hellraiser: Hellworld) and being a prolific short story writer, Carl Dupre is also a dab hand at comedy. I have been a fan of Dupre’s writing since he wrote one of my favorite movies, the hilarious KISS-centric Detroit Rock City. In a recent interview with Dupre, the screenwriter gave me some insight as to how he wrote Detroit Rock City, what is was like on set, and getting to meet KISS.

GOD: You also wrote one of my favorite movies, a comedy called Detroit Rock City. How did that come about?

Carl Dupre: That was a lot of fun. I think every writer in Hollywood has a dream of writing a script and then having it get shot right away and having it get released right away and having almost every word in the script be stuck to. And you know what? I had that experience with Detroit Rock City and it was totally by accident. I moved out to Hollywood and I became an editor and I was working with this guy, a huge KISS fan…I mean he was like hardcore. I saw KISS on the Alive! II tour at the Providence Civic Center, I bought their records and all that but as far as lunchboxes and action figures and all that, I did not (collect them). To me they were a rock band…what a show, what an incredible concert.

There was nothing else like that. It was an experience, it was like great theater. And plus their songs were really good! [laughs] But anyway I was talking with this editor, we’re working on this movie, it was one of the first movies I worked on. It was a movie called Skinner and it had Traci Lords in it and it was directed by a guy named Ivan Nagy who later became famous for being Heidi Fleiss’ pimp!
[laughs] Like a year later we’re like, ‘oh that’s what Ivan Nagy is doing now!’ It was on that movie I talked to this other guy and like I said huge KISS fan.

His name was Peter Schink and actually he was the one who wound up cutting Detroit Rock City. He put the idea in my head. I was talking to him about a movie called I Wanna Hold Your Hand which is a Robert Zemeckis movie about…these fans that are going to see the Beatles at the Ed Sullivan show. I said somebody should make a movie like that but with KISS as the Holy Grail and this guy Pete he’s like, ‘I want to see that script on my desk on Monday!’ [laughs] He was like, ‘I really mean that, that’s what needs to be written and you need to write it!’ We wound up working on this other movie (with) James Melkonian, a movie called the Stoned Age.

GOD: Oh brilliant film!

Carl Dupre: Yeah! Peter and I worked on that one also in the editing room. (James) loved the retro thing in the ‘70s and all that…I started putting sort of pen to paper and nothing was really sticking, I was writing this like bad Pulp Fiction rip off…and it was kind of a mess and I didn’t like it at all so I just threw in the towel. And then I go out to lunch one day with Peter Schink and this other guy James Melkonian, the director. I hadn’t seen him in a while and so Peter Schink goes [laughs] ‘oh yeah, Carl’s been working on this script about these kids going to see a KISS concert in 1978!’ and this guys eyes lit up. He’s like, ‘ooh that sounds awesome! When are you going to be done with it?’ [laughs] Peter goes, ‘he’s been working on it for about 6 months now, right Carl?’ [laughs] I was like, ‘oh I should be done with it inside 3 more months.’ So now I had this sort of absurd deadline and I just said to hell it with it. I just went for it. I read a whole bunch of books on screenwriting, I read a lot of screenplays. That’s the main thing that helped me just reading screenplays of movies that I liked a lot.

Read the complete article over at Geeks Of Doom

Video: Ace Frehley on the TODAY show

2011-11-04T12:41:00.001-07:00

Ace Frehley talks with Matt Lauer on NBC's TODAY show on Thursday, November 3, 2011. Ace talks about his drug addiction, his relationship with Gene Simmons, and the commercialization of the band.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Doc McGhee Q & A

2011-11-04T05:19:00.000-07:00

Passengers on board the recent KISS Kruise had a chance to lob a few questions at the legendary band’s manager last month, touching on a few subjects, including their exclusion from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame came up.

No Regrets: Gene Simmons Spat And Had Crabs

2011-10-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

(village voice) That's according to his Kiss band member (and onetime roommate) Ace Frehley in Frehley's new book, No Regrets.

Writes Ace:
"Fastidious if not downright anal in his professional life, Gene was an utter mess in his personal life.
"As I quickly discovered, Gene was an epic slob."

Ace remembers multiple instances of Gene--whom he admits might have been affected by all that flame swallowing--spitting all over the place.

One time, he says, "Gene cleared his throat, dragged up a thick wad of phlegm, and spat it onto the carpet.

"What wasn't understandable was his insistence on spitting all over the floor.

"I was afraid to walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night for fear of stepping in a pile of mucus."
And speaking of bodily fluids, there was also some wacky sexual behavior.

Says Ace:
"Gene would fuck almost anything (and I think he's admitted as much).

"We all opened our beds to companionship on a regular basis, but somehow Gene was the one who would end up with bugs in his bush.

"Every time I scratched my balls I'd wonder whether the little bloodsuckers had crept into my bed as well."

Behind the Scenes with KISS Inc.

2011-10-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

It's not so much an office, but a gigantic display of everything KISS, the band that started in 1973 and has grown into one of the most recognizable brands in the world.

We're here to see many of the 3,000 items that KISS has licensed, from the coffin sitting locked on the floor, to the colorful condoms hanging on the wall.

"Everything begins with an idea," Simmons says. "How about when I was growing up, I used to eat M&Ms. And M&Ms, which are now in Wal-Mart, have our faces on them."

Sneek Peak: Gene Simmons gets standing O at his wedding

2011-10-17T08:08:00.001-07:00

Wedding guests can be seen applauding and getting to their feet to give the once-reluctant groom one heck of a greeting. From the looks of it, Gene Simmons loved every minute of it.

After the ceremony, Simmons' son, Nick, asked the rocker if he was “accustomed to that sort of fanfare.” Simmons said he was. “Cause that’s the last one," Nick assured.

Wedding or standing O? Either way, Simmons looked a little shocked by the thought of it.

Two new pre-wedding episodes of "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" air Monday night starting at 9 p.m. ET, and the big event can be seen Tuesday night at 9 p.m. on A&E.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

KISS Kruise Day 2: The Boat Really Rocks

2011-10-17T04:58:00.000-07:00

(browardpalmbeach.com) After an unmasked Sailaway Show on Thursday, KISS Kruisers got the full-on, legend-making experience Friday. The mild-mannered Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer morphed into seven-foot-tall aliens to the delight of the overflowing Palladium Lounge Friday aboard the Carnival Destiny.

Revelers, with a few Carnival staffers mixed in, packed the 1,200-capacity theater in various Halloween garb -- many of which featured meticulous facepaint of their favorite member of the band -- and from the moment the lights dimmed, all attention dripped onto the wall of 124 lightbulb-decorated speakers, the dry ice fogging the floor, and a giant video screen running through countless digitally enhanced versions of the band's iconic logo.

Throughout time, many popular musicians to name have expressed their admiration for long-surviving KISS. Weezer's Rivers Cuomo famously dedicated a verse of "In the Garage" to "my favorite rock band KISS," and Wilco's Jeff Tweedy recalls summers in St. Louis "playing KISS covers, beautiful and stoned." Although there are plenty of glam-rock sendups that follow in the footsteps of this power quartet with a refrain repeated until it's Super Poly-Gripped into your brain -- here's looking at you, Andrew W.K. -- the majority of artists stay far away from bad imitations of the unparalleled stage show.

"This one's one of the newer ones," Stanley cracked. "It's 35 years old." As "Shout it Out Loud" broke in, streams of photos of fans of all ages -- much like the assembled Kruisers -- pour out of the giant screen behind them. As one might guess, every single person onscreen has the black-and-white paint on their faces. Stanley mentioned that the mistakes the band made were all their own, and nothing could be attributed to samplers or musicians backstage, but there was nothing egregious -- maybe a lack of "Detroit Rock City," if we're gonna get picky.

"Lick it Up" proved to be the evening's climactic number. And the crowd took orders well, devouring the fierce harmonies by clapping along as vigorously and eventually singing a cappella along at the end after the song cycled to its end. This seemed to be the song the band enjoyed playing the most -- and there was an added youthful glint in their eyes. Simmons even dropped a pick on the head of a guy in the front row. The song closed out with a heroic bit of the coda from the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again," and probably could've been the closing note of the night. But Stanley announced "C'mon and Love Me" as the last song of the night, and the crowd erupted in boos, "until you call us back out."

Read the complete Article >>

Newlyweds Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed set sail after finally tying the knot

2011-10-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

Kiss rocker Gene Simmons and his new bride Shannon Tweed stepped out for the first time as husband and wife today.

The pair, who dated for 28 years before finally tying the knot two weeks ago, were spotted kissing and cuddling as they boarded a Caribbean-bound ocean liner in Florida this morning.

The couple's tropical getaway comes after their romantic Beverly Hills wedding ceremony, earlier this month.

The paired stayed close and walked hand-in-hand as they made their way from their chauffeured car to the giant ship.

Shannon, 54, who looked stunning in light blue printed halter neck dress and a pair of light grey stilettos fawned all over her husband, showering him with affection.
She also showed off her diamond encrusted wedding band, featuring large baguette diamonds, which go all the way around her finger.

Read the complete article -->

VIDEO: Archie Meets KISS

2011-10-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's the comic book crossover you never expected, as the greatest band in rock history comes to Riverdale to meet America's favorite teenagers!

When Riverdale is overrun by monsters bent on turning the town's residents into mindless zombies, can Archie and the gang join forces with the KISS crew to save the day? Or will Riverdale fall under the invaders' dangerous spell?

Featuring words by Alex Segura and art by superstar Dan Parent, ARCHIE #627, the first part of Archie Meets Kiss hits comic shops and the Archie Comics Digital App on 11/30. Reserve your copy now and watch as two pieces of Americana come together for the first time!

Director: Alex Kropinak

Gene Simmons Family Jewels Fall Season Premiere Ratings

2011-10-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

The Nielsen ratings numbers are in for the 2011 fall season premiere of Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

The episode drew 1.96 million viewers for the 9pm, ET, telecast. The rating for the important 18-49 demographic was a 0.9. Of the 28 original programs on cable last night, GSFJ ranked 10th against tough competition.

The 1.96 million viewers is about 34% off the July's cliff hanger episode (Belize It or Not), but is above the summer average.

POLL: What did you think of the 2011 Fall season premiere of GSFJ?

2011-10-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons Family Jewels had its 2011 Fall season premiere on Tuesday, October 4th. What did you think of it? Worth the wait? Good, Bad, Ugly??

Sound off on our poll (to the left) and/or leave your comments below of what you thought of the episode.

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed’s Wedding Rings: All the Details

2011-10-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

(peoplestylewatch.com) Shannon Tweed-Simmons waited until the last minute to decide which gown to wear as she walked down the aisle to marry KISS bassist Gene Simmons on Oct. 1. But she picked out her wedding shoes 10 years before the big day.

After spotting the ivory Rene Caovilla heels in a boutique in Santa Monica, she said, “I am going to get married in those some day,” she tells PEOPLE.

“Someday” finally arrived and the couple, who have been together for 28 years, exchanged vows they wrote themselves in front of 400 guests at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Luckily, the shoes matched perfectly with the Priscilla of Boston gown Tweed-Simmons ended up wearing — one of three dresses she chose for the big occasion. She later changed into a Badgley Mischka dress for the reception.

Besides the dress, another stunner at the wedding was the bride’s 27-carat Goel Talasazan engagement ring. But the groom’s wedding band, by the same jeweler, also held a special meaning to Tweed-Simmons.

“My father died when I was 24 so he couldn’t be at the wedding, so I melted some of the gold from his wedding ring and put it in two strands representing our two kids,” she shares.

The couple had their rings engraved, with Simmons’s reading, “My Love Now and Forever,” and his bride’s inscribed with the words, “You are my first love and you will be my last love.”

Though Simmons originally resisted the idea of marriage — causing problems in the couple’s relationship as documented on their A&E reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels (the new season kicked off Tuesday) — he says he has now definitely changed his tune.

“I look at my wedding band now,” he shares, “and think, ‘What was I afraid of all this time?’”

–Mia McNiece

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed's Rockin' Reception

2011-10-05T04:46:00.001-07:00

Gene and Shannon's daughter Sophie took the stage first and serenaded her parents with the Etta James's classic song At Last. Son, Nick followed his sister's performance with a rendition of The Doors' hit song Roadhouse Blues. Not to be outdone by his children though, Gene took the stage and sang his classic song Shout It Out Loud.

Inside the Simmons-Tweed Wedding

2011-10-03T16:59:00.001-07:00

Legendary KISS rocker Gene Simmons finally said the two words he vowed he'd never say, and ET was exclusively invited to his weekend wedding to longtime love Shannon Tweed. Watch the video!

Lady Gaga Rocks But 'Rock Sucks,' Claims Gene Simmons

2011-08-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons refuses to hold his tongue. On Tuesday, MTV News asked the Kiss frontman who he's most looking forward to seeing at the 2011 VMAs, and he pretty much denounced all of this year's nominees, except for one.

"There is only one exciting artist, and her name is Lady Gaga," Simmons told us when we caught up with him in Los Angeles on the red carpet celebrating the Blu-ray release of the 1983 Al Pacino classic, "Scarface." "Everybody else is exactly the same. Every rapper is the same as every other rapper; every rocker is the same as every other rocker. Uniqueness is the only important thing, and Gaga is the real thing."

The outspoken icon gave Justin Bieber his just due, though he compared him to other teen idols like 1970s sensation David Cassidy. "I mean, he's terrific, but I've seen him before," Simmons said of Bieber.

Without naming names, Simmons was pretty sour on all current musicians, contemporary rock and roll artists, in particular. "I think rock sucks at the moment. Artists look like delivery boys; they look like they could use a bath," he said. "There's no respect for the stage — the stage is holy ground. I don't care what you do. You don't have to spit fire or drool blood but when you get on that stage, you should give people bang for their buck."

It isn't just present-day rockers Simmons took issue with, however. He wouldn't validate anyone pre-1980. "From 1958 to 1980 — that's about 30 years — you can name a thousand major artists: Elvis, the Beatles, Hendrix, on and on and on. From 1980 till today, name me an artist that's going to last the test of time," he challenged us. "Good luck with that, by the way."

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music

Hot Corner: Interrogation room with Dale ‘The Demon’ Torborg

2011-08-19T09:00:00.001-07:00

Dale Torborg – a.k.a. The Demon – has hit me with a metal chair and clothes-lined me in the wrestling ring, so now it’s time for some revenge by bringing the former pro wrestler and current Sox strength and conditioning coordinator into the Interrogation Room.BY JOE COWLEY jcowley@suntimes.com

Kids steal the show with tribute Kiss bike

2011-07-25T04:10:00.000-07:00

(KATHRYN BURNHAM - Times Colonist) It was the kids that stole the show at the Gene Simmons meet and greet Saturday.

Thousands of fans left with a photograph of them with the famous family, but the Simmons’ clan walked away with a photo album of their own, documenting the six-week process of building a Chopper bicycle in their honour.

Sophia Harrington, 12, built the Jewel bike with the help of three other youth as part of the Angels Chopper Bicycle Club. The club gives youth an opportunity to keep busy, rather than taking to the streets.

“We are fans of the show,” Sophia said. But they also love bikes, including building them from scratch. “We make them and paint them,” she said.

Tony Harrington, 9, Gavin O’Driscoll, 11, and Thomas Haywood, 16, helped build the bike and design it in tribute to Kiss and the family.

The bike seat is shaped as Simmons’ famously-long tongue and has a guitar-shaped back-support.

“Go ahead dad, sit on your own tongue,” said Nick.

The white bike also has the names of Gene, Shannon, Sophie and Nick — and now their signatures, which the family added.

The youth group offered to ship the bike to the Simmons’ clan, but Shannon Tweed had another suggestion.

“Do you think it would be a good idea if we signed that bike and you auctioned it so you could make some money for your club?” she asked. “I think that would be a good idea.”

There were many children on site to see the stars of the Gene Simmons Family Jewels reality television show, and Simmons had some advice for youth looking to pursue their dreams.

“Whatever it is that you want to become, sometimes where you are from doesn’t have it all,” he said. “Be proud of who you are, but the mountain is never going to come to you.”

Clip from the 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels' - July 19, 2011

2011-07-20T12:53:00.001-07:00

Tweed visited the rocker while he was on tour, but the backstage banter proved the visit was more about family obligation than putting the pieces back together.

“You know what room number I’m in?” a fully costumed Simmons asked, hoping Tweed might join him back at the hotel.

“I don’t know what room number you’re in,” she answered quietly. “But I know what room my daughter’s in. I’m going to go bunk with her.”

If anyone thinks the tension between the two is just about that now-infamous photo Tweed spotted online in the first episode of the season — the one featuring Simmons with two unknown women at his side — think again. In a recent interview with Canada’s Postmedia News, Tweed set the record straight.

Gene Simmons to Keynote 2nd Annual LA Mobile Entertainment Summit

2011-07-14T04:39:00.000-07:00

Unicomm, a leading event management company and The Bob Dowling Group today announced that media powerhouse Gene Simmons will headline its second annual LA Mobile Entertainment Summit®, in association with Variety, scheduled for Tuesday-Wednesday, September 20-21, 2011 at the Hollywood & Highland Center, Hollywood, CA.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have international entertainment legend, and serial entrepreneur Gene Simmons to keynote the LA Mobile Entertainment Summit,” said John Golicz, CEO of Unicomm. “Gene is definitely in a league of his own when it comes to creating, marketing and monetizing an international entertainment brand globally.”

A founding member of the iconic rock group KISS, Simmons shows no signs of slowing down these days. KISS has just added tour dates in Canada for this summer and he and his family are currently shooting a seventh season of A&E's “Gene Simmons Family Jewels," now the longest-running celebrity reality series on TV and exported to more than 80 countries. In addition, he continues to build upon a licensing and merchandising empire that includes movies, publishing, TV, and of course, music.

Described as the “ultimate deal maker,” Simmons recently signed on as a business partner and spokesperson for Intertainment Media’s Ortsbo - a real-time filter for translating 53 different languages across 12 leading social media platforms. This summer the company is scheduled to deploy mobile apps in conjunction with extending its software across instant messaging, e-mail and RSS. According to Simmons, "Any pop culture entity has to be worldwide.”

The 2nd Annual LA Mobile Entertainment Summit will host the brightest minds in mobile technology, interactive media and entertainment to examine how content and rapidly evolving technology is dramatically changing the entertainment marketplace. The event is all about connecting the ecosystem among digital assets, original content and mobile platforms. In its latest report on the mobile entertainment market, Juniper Research predicts that revenues will rise from $33 billion last year to $54 billion in 2015.

Sponsors of LA Mobile Entertainment Summit include: Blue Calypso, as official sponsor; Epic Marketplace, MocoSpace Inc., SRS Labs, Inc. and thisMoment, Inc. as sponsors; Adknowledge Super Rewards, Celtra, Ericsson Inc., Mobile Messaging Solutions (MMS), Screenreach Interactive, Trilibis Mobile, Waterfall Mobile Inc. and xCubeLABS as supporters; Korea Media & Content Market (KMCM) as event partner.

Throughout two days of in-depth discussions, industry luminaries from studios, television, content providers, startups, brands, manufacturers, media outlets and technology companies will join leading market analysts to share best practices and provide a unique and thorough understanding of the exploding intersection of the mobile and entertainment worlds.

Kids with Cancer Tour of Hope gets big Kiss from Gene Simmons

2011-07-06T05:33:00.000-07:00

Kiss bassist vocalist Gene Simmons has made sure our Kids with Cancer Le Tour of Hope biking campaign will top $400,000 this year.

And the final success of Pinot on the Patio at the Royal Glenora Club is due to Global TV's Gord Steinke.

"I met the Kiss tour bus driver's mom on a motorcycle charity ride and she suggested to her son, Billy Wapshott, that Gene would maybe help me raise money for a charity with a signed bass guitar," says Steinke.

"I fired off an e-mail to Gene's assistant, and within four days had a reply saying he would donate not one, but two signed guitars."

Simmons autographed them Saturday in Fort McMurray and the tour bus dropped them off Sunday at Global.

Steinke has been involved with the Kids With Cancer motorcycle rides, Revving up for Kids and the Parade of Heroes for years and serves on the charity's board of directors.

"It was a no-brainer where the money should go," he said.

A bit of this and that

Other items that will make sure a record amount is raised tonight at Pinot on the Patio: a scenic flight over the Rockies; a WestJet return flight for two to any WestJet destination; a luxury Hennessy cognac tasting for eight at Ruth's Chris; and a dinner for 10 in the south-side Italian Centre. Tickets at the door are $60.

Grand Funk Axeman Talks San Diego & July 2 Del Mar Gig

2011-07-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

(sandiegoreader.com By Jay Allen Sanford) "I love playing San Diego, you can’t beat the weather and the laid back atmosphere,” said guitarist Bruce Kulick earlier this week. He'll be performing with Grand Funk Railroad on Saturday, July 2, at the Fair in Del Mar.

After logging more consecutive years of any KISS member not named Simmons or Stanley, Kulick found himself replaced by Tommy Thayer, who replaced Ace Frehley, platforms and all.

“I liked playing the [San Diego] Sports Arena with KISS; the fans were always great, nothing infamous that stands out, no real weirdoes. I definitely remember the beach girls backstage!”

The amount of time to savor the weather and scenery was limited by KISS’ hectic touring schedule. “If the tour was based in Los Angeles, we’d hang out for a little bit and then head a couple hours to Los Angeles to rest up for the next date.”

After leaving KISS, Kulick had plenty of opportunities. Aside from touring with Grand Funk Railroad for the past 11 years, Kulick released a solo album BK3 and jammed with fellow KISS alumni /current Catman impersonator Eric Singer.

He also participates in Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp. For a price, campers can jam with touring rock stars and open events for established acts. “It’s very cool, we get to jam with these amazing musicians who have chosen other professions, but still love music and are just incredible.”

“Every city Grand Funk plays, I’ll be meeting up with someone that I met through the Fantasy Camp.”

One such musician is San Diego’s Barry Rosenbaum, founding member and keyboard player of Thunder Road, a local Springsteen tribute which has been nominated for Best Cover band at the San Diego Music Awards in August.

“Barry is one hell of a keyboard player, I really can’t say enough for his talents. Great guy too. We played his birthday party at this little town near Del Mar.”

When I ask if he means Solana Beach, Kulick becomes enthusiastic, “Yeah! That’s it. What a perfect place. You have the beach, everyone is cool, little shops and good food near a great club.”

Kulick says he believes the Belly Up is where the birthday party for Rosenbaum took place. “Thunder Road is playing there next week, doing a Clarence Clemons tribute. It’s a charity show for littlekidsrock.org to get instruments. You should check it out.”

Fair ‘nuff – YOU should check out Grand Funk Railroad in Del Mar on Saturday, with Kulick alongside original members Don Brewer and Mel Schacher.

Gene Simmons cries, shares regret at father's grave

2011-06-30T05:15:00.000-07:00

(today.com) On Tuesday night’s “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” Simmons returned to his birthplace in Israel to attend to what he called “unfinished business.” That business included a heartbreaking visit to his father’s grave.

Despite having offered his father some financial support over the years, Simmons had never visited the man since his parents split when he was a small child. The estrangement became a point of regret for Simmons as a letter from his father was read aloud at the cemetary.

“My very dear son, in the beginning of my letter I must thank you for your very helpful support of me,” the message read.

While the letter went on to praise Simmons’ children and partner, Shannon Tweed, the rocker broke down.

“I was so stupid,” he cried. “I don’t know why I didn’t go to see him.”

Eventually Simmons was left alone, except for the cameras, as he fell to his knees and repeated, “I’m so sorry.”

Gene Simmons Talks 'Family Jewels' and Why Blood is Thicker Than Hummus

2011-06-28T05:14:00.000-07:00

(JewishJournal.com) In the June 28 episode of A & E’s reality series, “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” flamboyant KISS frontman Simmons – famed for his demonic makeup, fire-breathing, tongue-flicking, 10-inch platforms and female conquests – cries at his father’s grave in Israel.

It was the first time Simmons (born Chaim Witz in Haifa) had ever visited the grave; in fact, it was the first time the 61-year-old had returned to Israel in more than half a century, having left at 8 with his mother, a Hungarian survivor of Auschwitz. He stood at the grave and said “Kaddish” with half-siblings he did not even know he had until this “Family Jewels” trip; they were his father’s children from subsequent marriages.

Simmons’ longtime partner, Shannon Tweed, a former Playboy playmate, had arranged for the rocker to meet them: “She was very sneaky and planned the whole thing, with a lot of surprises,” he said. “I didn’t even know I had any siblings. We were at a restaurant when a good-looking guy approached me; I thought he was the waiter. Then they sprung it on me that he was my half-brother – and I met my half-sisters.”

For the KISS bass player-singer-songwriter (a.k.a. “The Demon”), it was a chance to confront some personal demons; particularly those surrounding the father he believed had abandoned him and his mother.

“It was too much, actually,” he said of the cemetery trip. “I didn’t even know that was going to happen. They don’t tell me anything on the show; what you see is pretty much what you get. They have cameras on all sides, so people think we do additional scenes, but we don’t. I thought we were going sightseeing on that day.

“I found out a lot of stuff: that my father was married at least six times, and apparently had a lot of kids,” he added.

Tweed, who this season has threatened to leave Simmons for his infidelities, noted the similarities between father and son. “Her point was: lots of women—it seems to be in the DNA,” he said. “Let’s just say I’ve been around thousands of women.”

Confronting issues about his father proved transformative, however: “The last time I saw him I was almost 7,” Simmons said. “So it was time [for me] to grow up, because men don’t want to grow up, you know.”

Here are excerpts from the rest of my conversation with Simmons, who was alternatively thoughtful and provocative as he discussed his ardent support for Israel; why President Obama is “foolish” for his take on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; why Jews should change their names, and how “Baywatch” can save the world.

Read the complete atrticle and interview by clicking here

KISS RECORDS NEW ALBUM WITH CLASP

2011-06-27T06:05:00.000-07:00

Engineer/producer Greg Collins and Kiss are using Endless Analog’s CLASP System to record the band’s next album.

(endlessanalog.com) Commenting on the use of CLASP during the sessions, band leader/producer Paul Stanley stated, “CLASP allows us to go ‘back to analog’ for all the warmth and classic sonic characteristics but with all the convenience and advantages of Pro Tools. It’s a no brainer and you just can’t lose with CLASP. I’m a believer.”

On their first collaboration, 2009’s Sonic Boom, music was recorded on analog tape and edited in Pro Tools, but the two processes were separate from each other, necessitating frequent extended pauses in recording for tape transfers. For the recording of the new LP, Endless Analog’s CLASP (Closed Loop Analog Signal Processor) system, which integrates analog tape machines into the digital audio production workflow, is allowing the band to use analog tape while tracking to Pro Tools in real time, opening up the sonic space of tape while providing the editing capabilities of the digital recording workspace.

Collins recalls, “I went to Endless Analog’s web site and saw Bryan Lenox giving a pretty thorough description, and this was right around the time we were making plans for the new KISS album. We had done a majority recording for Sonic Boom using tape, and we loved the sound, but punch-ins were challenging at times, and getting the tracks into Pro Tools for editing took a lot of time. But mainly, we enjoyed the process of using tape, and everyone enjoys the convenience that digital recording offers. If there had been a way with that first record to get the best of both worlds at the same time, we would have done it. And now there is that reality [with CLASP], so we had to give it a try.

“I sat down with Paul, who is once again producing, while I am co-producing, engineering and mixing. Paul really knows his way around a studio, but he lets me manage the gear side of things. He gave the go-ahead to use CLASP, so we went for it.”

Once they acquired CLASP, Endless Analog President/Founder and CLASP inventor Christopher Estes made a personal visit. Collins continues, “I got in touch with Chris, and he was good enough to come out and set us up on the first day in the studio, and he stuck with us through the first few days of tracking to make sure that it was all going smoothly, which it did. And it was such a good experience. For me, the tape sound, for a hard rock band, is the ideal sound. It deals with the transients in a way that’s really nice and easy on the ears. Drums for instance – it keeps them sounding punchy and powerful, but not ‘painful,’ like you might associate with a digitally recorded drum sound. Tape is an important part of the right sound, and CLASP makes it possible to not have to sacrifice any of the perks of digital.”

Collins also recalls how nice it was to keep things moving. “There was zero downtime needed for transferring the tracks into Pro Tools. The band is so tight and well-rehearsed, and it’s so great to just start a session and knock out a song in two or three takes. A few punch-ins and the track is pretty much there. It’s so efficient; it just keeps the creativity and performance going. And the band loves the sound. Honestly, every time the guys walked in the control room for playback, everybody was so impressed – they said, ‘It sounds even better than last time, and we loved what it sounded like last time.’”

CLASP, Endless Analog President/Founder and CLASP inventor Christopher Estes made a personal visit. Collins continues, “I got in touch with Chris, and he was good enough to come out and set us up on the first day in the studio, and he stuck with us through the first few days of tracking to make sure that it was all going smoothly, which it did. And it was such a good experience. For me, the tape sound, for a hard rock band, is the ideal sound. It deals with the transients in a way that’s really nice and easy on the ears. Drums for instance – it keeps them sounding punchy and powerful, but not ‘painful,’ like you might associate with a digitally recorded drum sound. Tape is an important part of the right sound, and CLASP makes it possible to not have to sacrifice any of the perks of digital.”

Collins also recalls how nice it was to keep things moving. “There was zero downtime needed for transferring the tracks into Pro Tools. The band is so tight and well-rehearsed, and it’s so great to just start a session and knock out a song in two or three takes. A few punch-ins and the track is pretty much there. It’s so efficient; it just keeps the creativity and performance going. And the band loves the sound. Honestly, every time the guys walked in the control room for playback, everybody was so impressed – they said, ‘It sounds even better than last time, and we loved what it sounded like last time.’”

VIDEO: Clip from Gene on Battleground Earth: Ludacris vs. Tommy Lee

2011-06-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Rock legend Gene Simmons gives Luda, Tommy Lee, and their ecorage some advice on proper green burials in this clip from Battleground Earth: Ludacris vs. Tommy Lee. You can catch this episode on July 6, 5:aam, ET, on Planet Green

Gene Simmons Gives his Advice on Battleground Earth - watch more funny videos

Vinnie Vincent cleared of assault charge

2011-06-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

Vinnie Vincent has been cleared of an aggravated assault charge following an alleged bust-up with his wife in May, 2011.

The guitarist was detained by cops at his home in Tennessee over allegations he had become embroiled in an altercation with his long term partner Diane Cusan. He was later freed on $10,000 bail.

Vincent has now issued a statement via his YouTube.com account.

He writes, “I thank you for helping me face my darkest struggle. You were there during my loneliest time when I was hopelessly lost with no direction… Your message of love became the moments that I will always remember… I am happy to announce that all charges alleged against me were dropped and the case dismissed. Unfortunately and very sadly I was falsely charged…

“To all of the ‘truly genuine’ friends and fans who sent me their heartfelt messages of support and love during my hurting time, I will answer each of you. I ask that you give me some time.”

Gene Simmons Family Jewels Full Episodes (June 21)

2011-06-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

Catch the latest episodes from A&E's Gene Simmons Family Jewels. "KISS Your Family Goodbye" and "You Always Hurt the Ones You Love"

VIDEO: Gene Simmons visits THE TALK on CBS

2011-06-21T04:27:00.000-07:00

Sharon Osbourne confronts KISS front-man and reality star Gene Simmons about controversial statements he made about The Osbournes.

You can watch the whole episode and the full Gene Simmons interview by clicking here.

VIDEO: KISS' Attorney, Raymond E. Scott

2011-06-16T04:40:00.000-07:00

Up in Tellico Village lives an attorney, but not just any attorney. This one has an interesting resume that rivals many hot shot Hollywood lawyers.

Many know the music and style of the band KISS. Most importantly you know their faces. Raymond E. Scott is more familiar with those faces than most. After all, he did trademark them.

"No one had ever registered the face of an entertainer before. As a matter of fact, the trademark office said you can't do that," said Scott.

However, the trademark office went through with it after Scott's argument. He is an attorney, afterall.

"I actually had somebody sit in for Peter Criss, the drummer, and wear the same make-up and nobody knew," explained Scott.

It wasn't just the famous KISS make-up. Scott helped Gene Simmons and his bandmates make millions of dollars starting with their first album.

KISS' manager called on Raymond to set up a recording of a live show.

"As an attorney who is more than willing to b.s. if necessary. Of course I know how to set up a recording. Well, I had no clue," said Scott. "I had a friend in the business and he said, 'Oh, you ought to talk to Bob Segar's manager because he records in Detroit.'

And so KISS Live was born.

"The album went gold in three weeks. It went platinum in five. And that began KISS," said Scott.

After this he became their attorney and took the band even further with trademarks of all kinds. T-shirts, more albums, the list goes on.

"They started out they were making less than $50,000. I said I can do better and that's why I was hired. And my first year, I think we did $15 million," explained Scott.

He also made millions off another famous face, Farrah Fawcett. You might know the famous picture of Fawcett in a red bathing suit. He copyrighted that image as well.

"We sold 11 and a half million posters in nine months. We sold 8 and a half million in t-shirts in nine months," explained Scott. "Bedding, sheets, pillow cases, lamps. Young boys were very much in love with Farrah Fawcett."

Raymond didn't exactly choose this field "I got into entertainment law as I said by accident," said Scott.

He actually followed his dad's wishes and started out as an engineer. "He made me on his death bed promise that I would be an engineer so I went to engineering school at the University of Wisconsin," explained Scott.

However, he just couldn't help himself, patent law was calling his name.

"I've done work for Boston. I've done work for the Eagles," said Scott.

KISS, Farrah, the world of Hollywood. So, why East Tennessee?

"As a kid I used to camp in the Smokies and fell in love with Tennessee. My wife has a little sign up there that says, 'I wasn't born in Tennessee, but I got there as soon as I could,'" explained Scott.

Raymond E. Scott, a patent attorney with a flair for the fabulous, but also just a regular guy who loves his wife and loves his life in East Tennessee.

"I'm a very, very lucky man," said Scott.

One of Your Stories. There's no place like this one.

VIDEO: Pacific Univ. Legends Golf Classic

2011-06-15T05:03:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for the 2011 Legends Golf Classic, hosted by Tommy Thayer, lead guitarist for the legendary rock group KISS. In support of Pacific University's athletics program, Legends is jam-packed with world-class golf, entertainment and lots of fun!

Legends Golf Welcome from Pacific University on Vimeo.

Gene Simmons speaks out on success | Music | Entertainment | Toronto Sun

2011-06-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing KISS's Gene Simmons knows how to do, it's wag his tongue.

So it only makes sense that the multi-tasking entertainer and businessman has recently added a new credit to his lengthy resumé: Motivational speaker.

"I love the sound of my own voice, as you can imagine," says Simmons of his Rich & Famous Speaking Engagements. "So part of it is about me. But it's also about my path to success.

"When I was growing up, I read the newspapers. I would watch television. I would see celebrities and successful people. But they were always mythical people. You never got a chance to sit in the room and listen to them talk about their path. And everybody's path is different. There's no secret to success. No magic bullet. There are only time-tested and true pieces of the puzzle that can impact and increase your chances of becoming more successful -- or, in my language, make more cash.

"I'm not here to talk about spiritual or relationship issues. I may not be the most qualified person in the world on that," admits Simmons, whose 28-year relationship with Canadian beauty Shannon Tweed seems to have "pretty much unraveled," if you believe what she said during a tense TV appearance the pair made earlier this week.

But cashing in is something at which the 61-year-old Israeli immigrant-turned-Beverly Hills resident is indisputably a master. Nearly 40 years after their formation, KISS remain one of rock's biggest bands and brands, with 3,000 licensed products from condoms to caskets ("We'll get you coming and going," Gene quips). He also stars in the longest-running celebrity reality-TV show Family Jewels, about to begin its latest season. Between those gigs, he presides over the Canadian-based Simmons Records, pitches a variety of products, and is preparing to launch a chain of theme restaurants and a TV talent show.

But he's still willing to make time to pick up $100,000 for talking about how he got rich enough to charge $100,000 for talking about how he got rich.

Before winging to Winnipeg to put his mouth where his money is, Gene shared his keys to success, told me what's wrong with Men Without Hats and explained why I should change my name.

Read more of "Gene Simmons speaks out on success" | Music | Entertainment | Toronto Sun

VIDEO: Paul Stanley talks about Hearing Loss with Dr. Sanjay Gupta on CNN

2011-06-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

(from cnn.com) In the Human Factor, we profile survivors who have overcome the odds. Confronting a life obstacle - injury, illness or other hardship –- they tapped their inner strength and found resilience they didn’t know they possessed. This week KISS singer Paul Stanley explains how he became the frontman for one of the most successful rock bands in America, despite being born deaf in his right ear.

I was born with a Level 3 Microtia, which is a congenital deformity of the cartilage of the outer ear, and occurs in approximately 1 out of every 8,000 to 10,000 births. There is no ear canal and no direct path to the inner-workings of the ear. Except for bone conduction, I’m virtually deaf on my right side, as there is no access for sound to enter.

I’ve had an implanted hearing aid for about two years now. This is a device that is usually given to children at an early age or to adults who have lost their hearing due to a medical condition. This has been an ongoing adjustment for me as my brain has never processed sound coming in from my right side. In the beginning, it was incredibly taxing and extremely confusing. It would be like you are suddenly developing an eye in the back of your head. That said, it has settled in quite a bit and I have to say, it has enhanced my day-to-day activities.

People often ask if my hearing problem has had any impact on my career. It’s sometimes hard for people to understand that you don’t miss what you’ve never had. When blind people speak about seeing or colors, it’s very personal to them.

In the same way, I may not hear music the way other people hear it, but I have nothing else to compare it to, or didn’t for most of my life. I haven’t felt at a loss for anything. I have no sense of the direction of sound, yet I have no trouble mixing a stereo album. I hear the expanse or width of sound but I can’t necessarily tell you where it’s coming from.

Click to read more >>

Gene & Shannon appear on NBC's TODAY (June 13)

2011-06-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

In a tease for the new season of "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," which premieres on June 14 at 10 p.m. on A&E, it appears that his long-term relationship with the mother of his children, former model Shannon Tweed, is on some seriously shaky ground after she sees a TMZ photo of him with two ladies on his arm. And the couple's appearance on "Kathie Lee and Hoda" Monday morning seems to confirm serious trouble for the union.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Video: Celebrating Celebrity Entrepreneurs

2011-06-09T12:49:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons, Bethenny Frankel, Jason Bateman, and the Kardashians are honored by Forbes magazine. Gene was honored with the Lifetime Achievement award. The Gene Simmons interview is about 3 minutes into the video.

Full story at http://blogs.forbes.com/dorothypomerantz/2011/06/09/celebrating-celebrity-entrepreneurs/

Rock & Roll All Nite in Nextel Argentina Commercial

2011-06-08T05:17:00.000-07:00

A new commercial from Nextel Argentina features "Rock and Roll All Nite." The video is about of 13 Argentine street musicians that get together to promote the new marketing campaign of Nextel Argentina.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley talks about Hearing Loss with CBS News

2011-06-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

CBS Sacramento producer Shawn Boyd interviews KISS front man Paul Stanley before their headline show at Raley Field on Sunday, for the annual Hope Productions' Rock 'N Walk benefit for kids. Paul talks about the epidemic of hearing loss in teens.

VIDEO: FOX 40 - KISS Performs at Raley Field

2011-05-31T11:54:00.000-07:00

VIDEO: George Lopez Interview with Paul Stanley

2011-05-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Paul gives his philosophy of rock 'n roll, and talks about Lady Gaga coming to see KISS wearing nothing but panties and "tape." And Paul's boots.

Plus, Paul and George are auctioning a painting they made together! Proceeds go to the American Red Cross to benefit tornado victims in the South and the Midwest. Click here to bid! For more info, visit www.redcross.org.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley's appearance on Lopez Tonight

2011-05-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

Paul Stanley comes out and performs DETROIT ROCK CITY with the band.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley & The Lopez Tonight Band Jam to Rock & Roll All Night

2011-05-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

George Lopez singing "Rock and Roll and Nite"! In addition to Paul Stanley and the Ese Vatos, George is backed up by Randy Jackson on bass, and Russell Peters DJing!

VIDEO: TLC's NY Ink uses familiar song in Promo

2011-05-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

NY Ink follows Ami James as he puts it all on the line to become the Tattoo King of New York. Series premieres June 2nd.

Video of Rock Star Gene Simmons: 'Obama Doesn’t Have a Clue'

2011-05-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons, tells the CNBC Christian network that U.S. President Barack Obama “has no idea of what the world is like." He also calls the United Nations “the most pathetic body on the face of the earth.”

Jane Wells interviewed Simmons on CNBC and asked him what he thinks of President Obama, for whom Simmons voted and now regrets it.

WATCH @GeneSimmons and Paul Stanley at KISS Global Chat

2011-05-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

VIDEO: Paul Stanley on KCAL in Los Angeles

2011-05-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

“People tend to think, ‘if you can’t hear on both sides, how can you make music?’ But you don’t miss what you never had,” Stanley said.

But his hearing was also something he never took for granted. Since he could only hear out of his left ear, he protected it no matter what, whether he was playing or listening to someone else.

“I’ve been going to concerts since kid and from the time I saw Led Zeppelin or Jimi Hendrix, or anybody, I always had earplugs in. It just made common sense to me,” he said.

Now at age 59, he is on a crusade of sorts, to warn about the dangers of hearing loss, especially to teens, who are literally attached to their music, video games and concerts with the sounds only getting louder and louder all over the place.

“Somebody who is working a jackhammer using earplugs…So you mind and your ears don’t differentiate from what the source of the noise is or the volume. So whether you are in front of a jet engine or at a rock concert, your ears are being assaulted,” he said.

“Anything over 85 decibels is real serious. At 85 decibels, usually you can listen to that for about a half hour and you need a break. Anything above that, if you get to 105 decibels, which is the average rock concert, after about four minutes, you are in trouble,” Stanley warned.

A rock star telling us to put earplugs in during his concert?

“Music is so loud that your body shakes, so you won’t know any difference. You can still turn your brain to jelly, but you can also preserve your hearing,” he said.

Stanley has teamed-up with the non-profit House Research Institute on a major initiative called “Sound Rules! It’s How You Listen That Counts”, with the goal of educating millions of teens around the world on preventing noise-induced hearing loss and providing simple ways to stop the noise. Paul Stanley says he is not preaching, just giving the facts, and if people listen he has done his job.

There will be an event held in Los Angeles on Thursday, May 12, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Directors Guild of America located at Theater One, 7920 Sunset Boulevard. For more information on how you can attend and meet Paul Stanley in person, visit soundrules.org.

VIDEO Series: Ace Frehley Teaches Shock Me

2011-05-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

eHow and IMV present: "Shock Me" is a track off of the band KISS's 1977 album "Love Gun." Break down the basics to "Shock Me" with help from KISS member Ace Frehley in this free video clip.

An Intro to KISS's Shock Me - Tune Strings Down Half Step: Part 1-8 —powered by eHow.com

Gene Simmons Family Jewels: Unseen Couch Interview

2011-05-10T05:58:00.000-07:00

VIDEO: Paul Stanley on KTLA

2011-05-10T05:50:00.000-07:00

KISS lead vocalist Paul Stanley has teamed-up with the non-profit House Research Institute on a major initiative called 'IT`S HOW YOU LISTEN THAT COUNTS' to educate millions of teens around the world on preventing noise-induced hearing loss.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley on GOOD DAY NY

2011-05-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

MYFOXNY.COM - A medical condition impacting his ability to hear did not stop legendary entertainer Paul Stanley of KISS from pursuing his dreams.

Stanley made it big and he says you can, too.

The performer was born with level three microtia--a deformity of the outer ear cartilage where there is no ear canal.

"I can't hear on that side," Stanley told Good Day New York.

Stanley encourages people of all ages to consider using earphones when attending particularly loud music concerts.

He'll be speaking about the need to protect your hearing starting at an early age at the Director's Guild of America in Manhattan.

Stanley will be on hand from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For more information on the Director's Guild of America, visit DGA.org .

Paul Stanley of KISS: MyFoxNY.com

MINI and legendary rock band KISS partner to raise money for UNICEF

2011-04-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

MINI USA launches the "MINI Rocks the Rivals" competitive test-drive tour in the USA, and as part of the kickoff, MINI has partnered with legendary rock band KISS to raise money for UNICEF to help children in Japan and emergencies around the globe.

(prnewswire.com) KISS band members made the announcement live as four MINI Countryman vehicles with KISS-inspired designs made their debut at the New York Auto Show, each representing one of the KISS band member's iconic faces. All four vehicles will be auctioned after being custom painted with the revealed design and signed by all four KISS members. Fans will be able to bid on the vehicles during a special Father's Day eBay charity auction opening May 29th and proceeds will be donated to UNICEF.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Japan in this time of great tragedy. We wanted to help and also to provide a real way for the KISS Army to get involved," said Gene Simmons of KISS. "UNICEF raises money to help children who are still coping with the effects of these disasters, and also supports other very important emergency relief efforts around the world. Join the KISS Army in giving."

In addition to the vehicle charity auction, MINI USA will sell MINI vehicle wraps of the KISS designs revealed at the New York Auto Show beginning April 21, 2011. MINI USA's proceeds from those sales will also be donated to UNICEF.

"MINI and its owners have long been dedicated to contributing to philanthropic and charitable efforts," said Jim McDowell, Vice President - MINI USA. "MINI USA had established a relationship with KISS as we kick off the 'MINI Rocks the Rivals' tour in the US, and these fundraising initiatives were an ideal way for us to incorporate a fun charitable component to the campaign with these original pieces of art."

For additional information, images and video please visit: www.miniusanews.com.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley on THE DOCTORS

2011-04-14T05:26:00.000-07:00

Rock icon and lead singer and songwriter of the band KISS, Paul Stanley, joins The Doctors and opens up about being born deaf in one ear. He explains how frequenting loud concerts without taking the appropriate precautions can permanently affect your hearing.

That Metal Show w/ Ace - Full Episode Online

2011-04-07T05:01:00.000-07:00

The March 26th episode of THAT METAL SHOW is now available online, here at Anything KISS.

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Celebrate sisterhood and a sort of KISS Jr.

2011-03-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

The monthly performance is geared toward female musicians looking for a place to showcase their music as well as receive industry information.

Marsyada distributes literature about the Songwriters Hall of Fame, an organization she cites as helpful to artists.

“I wish people would realize that when you join something like that, you aren’t just paying your dues and that’s it,” she said. “They will help you out. All you have to do is give them a call.”

Marsyada, who sings and plays keyboard and rhythm guitar, will be joined by Phyllis Hopkins of Pittston on lead guitar, Lisa Welch of Conyngham on bass and Mary Jo Demshock Mellas of Dallas on drums.

“If anybody wants to get up and do something and they’d like us to back them up, they can just tell us what key it’s in,” Marsyada said. “We’re open to freestyling.”

One artist is featured at each gathering. This month’s is Cathy Donnelly, whom many might recognize from local country radio station Froggy 101 as well as WILK News Radio and The Mountain. Donnelly performs solo on acoustic guitar and piano and plays blues and early jazz as well as original work. She’s also witty, making for an anything-but-mild performance.

Marsyada treasures an artist like Donnelly, who shares stories as she tries to connect with audiences. She encourages artists participating in S.O.S. to do the same.

“It’s so cool to see and hear stories about how somebody crafted their song,” she said. “Finding out the inspiration behind things makes the song more fun to listen to.”

Though it’s a Sisterhood of Song, the night isn’t limited to the ladies.

“The gentlemen are welcome to come up and join us as well,” Marsyada said.

Surely you’ve seen plenty of KISS impersonators, but have you come across a Paul Stanley so young?

Read the Complete Aticle from timesleader.com

KISS Gene Simmons Blood - I Love It Loud - Hard Rock Hollywood FL 3/17/11

2011-03-18T07:47:00.000-07:00

Houston Rodeo - Kiss Concert

2011-03-16T04:46:00.000-07:00

CLips from various songs of the KISS Rodeo Concert in Houston, March 15, 2011.

KISS Give a rare "In The Round" performance at Reliant Stadium. The stage rotated around during the concert to give all fans a chance to see KISS from ALL angles.

Gene Talks New Album

2011-03-15T04:58:00.001-07:00

(from fearnet.com) By now you've heard some tasty hints about the new KISS album in the works (guitarist Tommy Thayer dropped some interesting info earlier this year), and now the God of Thunder himself, Gene Simmons, has confirmed via Metal Messiah's radio show "Heavy Metal Thunder" that the band has written a ton of new songs – apparently enough for two albums – and they're just about to head into the studio to begin recording them. We've got the latest info below the fold – as well as some interesting news about a potential reunion of the original band lineup – after the jump!

Excerpts from the show were posted on Blabbermouth.net, revealing the status of the follow-up to the 2009 smash Sonic Boom: "We start recording in three weeks," Gene said, calling the new record "the next step to Sonic Boom. Very similar... straight rock songs, no ballads, no keyboards, no nothing, just rock." He also reported that the band will also be following the same path to songwriting, with most of the songs "written by the whole band together, so no outside writers, just the band doing what it did on the first three records: writing the songs ourselves." Apparently that stage is not only complete, but there are too many songs for one album: "We have about 20 to 25 things that look and sound good," Gene said.

Simmons also hinted at the possibility of a reunion of the band's original lineup, with guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Kriss sharing the stage with Gene and Paul Stanley for the first time since 1996: "There will be one more time when we play together," he explained. "Sometime in the future there's going to be a last show. Sometime in the future we'll be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. There will be one more time when we do it together to honor the beginning." Time will tell if that happens for real...

Would you like GENE SIMMONS' tongue on your dong?

2011-03-07T10:26:00.000-08:00

KISS, the rock brand with everything is bringing a new element into the world of entertainment merchandising. A new line of KISS KONDOMS is on the way, but these condoms are a little different than the first - they actually have GENE SIMMONS' picture on them, and his tongue is aimed at whatever target you're about to tackle. Indeed, your own personal Love Gun has a shiny new holster...

Graphic Armor, Inc., in association with KISS®, Live Nation, and Condomania®, announced today the release of newest KISS Kondoms™, the world’s first FDA approved “Picture Condoms™” featuring a full color image right on the latex!

KISS, the rock brand with everything is bringing a new element into the world of entertainment merchandising. A new line of KISS KONDOMS is on the way, but these condoms are a little different than the first - they actually have GENE SIMMONS' picture on them, and his tongue is aimed at whatever target you're about to tackle. Indeed, your own personal Love Gun has a shiny new holster...

Graphic Armor, Inc., in association with KISS®, Live Nation, and Condomania®, announced today the release of newest KISS Kondoms™, the world’s first FDA approved “Picture Condoms™” featuring a full color image right on the latex!

Would you like GENE SIMMONS' tongue on your dong? New KISS condoms are on the way...

Tampa Bay Lightning anger KISS fans with Ace Frehley gaffe

2011-03-03T12:03:00.000-08:00

On March 11, the Tampa Bay Lightning plan to use a time-tested marketing scheme to attract a few extra fans to their game with the Ottawa Senators: a concert featuring an over-the-hill rock star with a cult following. In this case, it was former KISS lead guitarist Ace Frehley, performing as part of their outdoor concert series.

To promote the show, the Lightning had banners depicting the "Spaceman" hanging around the St. Pete Times Forum.

Turns out they got the character correct ... but the wrong man behind the makeup.

A member of KISSAslylum.com, a fan site, posted a photo of the banner with the following note:

Thayer joined KISS as the new "Spaceman" in 2002, after Frehley left the group for a second time. A former member of a KISS tribute band, he's been their lead guitarist ever since, wearing the same makeup as Frehley did during the group's heyday.

Which, of course, brings us to the Lightning's affront to KISS fandom in getting their Aces shuffled.

You'd figure they'd know that from his appearance fee.

Anyway, the banners will be corrected and the Lightning have done their part to restore peace in the New KISS vs. Old KISS wars, which are like Kirk vs. Picard for costumed classic rock nerds.

This is the second hockey-related appearance for Frehley during the 2010-11 NHL season, having performed "New York Groove" at the New York Rangers' home opener on October.

Baby Girl On the Way for KISS’ Paul Stanley

2011-02-26T07:01:00.000-08:00

(02/26/11 - people.com) Paul Stanley‘s fan base is still growing: the KISS frontman and his wife Erin are expecting a baby!

The lead singer of the rock group and Erin, an attorney, will welcome their third child together — a baby girl — in August, the couple confirm to PEOPLE exclusively.

“There is nothing greater in life than family, and my accomplishments as a father rank at the top of my successes,” he says.

“Erin and I are blessed with our expectation of the addition of another princess to our family and a new member of the KISS army.”

The new baby will join Sarah Brianna, 2, Colin Michael, 4, and Evan Shane, 16, Stanley’s son from a previous relationship.

Fully enjoying fatherhood later in life, Stanley jokes his age doesn’t affect his dedication to daddy duty in the least. “I may be 59,” he says, “but the only rocking chair this rocker is getting ready for is the one for my new baby.”

– Anya Leon with reporting by Marisa Laudadio

Miss Emily could get Gene Simmons kiss

2011-02-24T09:20:00.000-08:00

(02/24/11 - intelligencer.ca) Emily Fennell has a demon chasing her.

Not just any demon — The Demon.

Fennell, a Prince Edward County native, is currently in negotiations with Simmons Records, the record label operated by legendary KISS bassist Gene Simmons who, when wearing the KISS makeup, is known as The Demon.

Singing professionally for the past eight years, Fennell hit a milestone accomplishment earlier this year when she was invited to perform for Simmons in Toronto as he searches for new talent to sign to his label.

"I'm loving 2011 and we're only a couple of months in," Fennell, who now calls Kingston home, told The Intelligencer. "Things are going very well. I have not signed anything (with Simmons Records) yet but there are offers on the table. The first offer we turned down and they've returned to the table with another offer."

Just exactly how Simmons came to know about Fennell remains a mystery as the 30-year-old singer said she has no idea how her music made its way into his hands.

"He called me on Jan. 3, that's when this all began. We're not sure how he found out about me, but he heard my stuff somehow and then contacted Universal Canada — Simmons Records' Canadian affiliate — and asked if they knew about me. They said they did because I did a showcase for them back in December and we'd been in talks with them," she said. "Anyway, they e-mailed me and said he wanted to meet me, see me play and hear a set."

During the last week of January, Fennell travelled to Toronto and met with Simmons and then, a day later, performed some of her original material for him. Despite Simmons' legacy in the history of rock and roll, she said, she was not intimidated to perform for him.

"Everybody's human. Everybody farts and has weird tastes ... Don't get me wrong, I can appreciate the fact that Gene Simmons is Gene Simmons and he's a world-wide household name and that's cool and the fact he likes me is great, but I wasn't nervous or anything," she said.

Simmons loved Fennell's material and a few days later commented on the Simmons Record website that she "has the best pipes we have ever heard in an unsigned artist. We are moving ahead and want to sign Miss Emily to our label. Hopefully, the lawyers and well-wishers will get out of the way and let her have her career."

Fennell said negotiations are continuing and she's hoping things will result in a positive outcome. She said the record label executives have indicated they want to put her on an "express elevator" and, should she sign a deal, make things happen quickly.

VIDEO: Paul STanley on CNN

2011-02-21T06:42:00.001-08:00

CNN's Becky Anderson interviews rock superstar Paul Stanley of KISS.

Video: Backstage Axxess Interviews Tommy Thayer

2011-01-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

One of the interviews Backstageaxxess.com set up while at NAMM 2011 was with KISS guitarist and all around nice guy Tommy Thayer. Tommy was there to sign autographs and pose for pictures on behalf of his guitar amp company Hughes and Kettner. The Duotone amp is eye catching. It's lit up with an indigo blue that reflects Tommy's signature. The best part about the amp is that Tommy's royalty payments from the sales of his signature amp go directly to the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. After we talked about the amp, we dove into the state of KISS. Will there be a new KISS album? Will there be a tour in support of it? Tommy answers these questions and more. Let's see if lightening really does strike twice...

VIDEO: Gene Simmons and Marketing Magazine Canada

2011-01-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

If anyone knows the power of a brand it’s Simmons, a founding member of the rock-n-roll dynasty KISS and now an entrepreneur and marketing guru.

VIDEO: School of Rock Hollywood Tribute to KISS

2011-01-23T14:07:00.000-08:00

School Of Rock performs DEUCE, with Bruce Kulick

Video: School of Rock Hollywood Tribute to KISS

2011-01-23T14:01:00.000-08:00

School of Rock Hollywood Tribute to KISS, at The Cat Club on Sunset Blvd, in Hollywood, CA on January 22, 2011

VIDEO: Paul Stanley on Fox Business

2010-12-30T09:15:00.000-08:00

Paul Stanley visits the FOX Business new program Varney & Company on December 30th.

VIDEO: Gene on Lopez Tonight 12/21/10

2010-12-22T18:44:00.000-08:00

Gene talks about the undying love he has for Shannon Tweed, and KISS co-founder Paul Stanley. Plus, Gene relates wild stories from the road, including sleeping with a nun-to-be, and signing a human leg that a fan threw onto the stage!

AUDIO: Gene Simmons/Bruce Kulick "Ain't Gonna Die" Remix

2010-12-18T16:17:00.000-08:00

Bruce Kulick has given us KISS fans a early KISSMAS present. He has made available "Ain't Gonna Die" remix for all to listen. You can listen to the remix here on the AK Blog.

VIDEO: KISS on Spain's ROCK METAL TV

2010-12-17T08:02:00.000-08:00

TV Rock Metal locks for MSN interviewed Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, KISS historical leaders. Both tell us what is KISS, who they are, and what is the life philosophy of KISS. During the interview we see pictures of one of his concerts in Spain, specifically offered last June 21, 2008 at the festival and its video clip Kobetasonik "Modern Day Delilah".

Watch this fantastic video from MSN: Interview with KISS

VIDEO: Paul Stanley is an Artist on Stage and On Canvas

2010-12-16T07:09:00.000-08:00

(12/16/10 - KNBC) When you think about legionary rock bands, only a few come to mind.And if you mention makeup, leather and outrageous, you're only talking KISS.Starchild is moonlighting these days with a second career, that of artist.

View more news videos at: http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video.

VIDEO: The Show Girl & Gene Simmons

2010-12-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

Gene Talks about his favorite band, The Beatles. Skip to about 1:51 on the video to view the Gene Simmons Segment.

Gene Simmons: ‘I’m Very Conservative’ on Some Issues, Regrets Voting for ‘Unqualified’ Obama

2010-12-08T05:01:00.000-08:00

By Brad Wilmouth | December 08, 2010 | 05:13

Appearing as a guest on CNN’s Parker-Spitzer, rocker Gene Simmons of the rock band KISS and the TV show Family Jewels related to viewers that he is "very conservative" on fiscal and foreign policy issues, voiced his support for President Bush and the war on terrorism - including "nation building" in Iraq - and declared that he wishes he could take back his vote for President Obama from the 2008 election.

As he later explained that he normally does not talk about politics because he believes entertainers are not qualified to speak about such matters, he also took a jab at Hollywood liberal Sean Penn and suggested that politically outspoken celebrities are "morons."

Simmons, who has a history of declaring his love for America because of the rescue of his mother from Nazi concentration camps, also discussed his visit to the house of Holocaust victim Anne Frank and its inclusion in his TV show Family Jewels.

When asked by co-host Kathleen Parker about his support for President Bush and the invasion of Iraq, Simmons revealed some of his voting history:

Well, I'm like most Americans, we don't vote by party, we both by the person because a person is bigger than the party, which is why sometimes the Democrats get in and sometimes the Republicans get in. I voted for President Bush, I voted for President Clinton, and, although I do want my vote back, I voted for President Obama.

After Simmons declared, "By the way, as a wake-up call to all of you, al-Qaeda doesn't care what political party you are, they want you all to die," co-host Eliot Spitzer brought up the issue of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, leading Simmons to expand on his foreign policy and political views:

I don't care about that. ... No, I don't care whether there are or not. And politicians lie every day. I believe clearly that if you don't deal with a nuclear Iran now, and if you don't deal with al-Qaeda before it gets its hands on dirty weapons and if you don't stop the nonsense there, and, yes, I think there's got to be some nation building. I'm a very conservative foreign policy person. Fiscally, I'm very conservative. I don't believe in welfare states. I believe in giving people jobs. Most importantly, I believe I'm like most Americans, I'm socially liberal.

Read more of the article "KISS’s Gene Simmons: ‘I’m Very Conservative’ on Some Issues, Regrets Voting for ‘Unqualified’ Obama"

VIDEO: Simmons, Tweed and Parker Compare Tongues

2010-12-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

Gene Simmons and partner Shannon Tweed talk about family, love, and public life in this hilarious behind the scenes look at "Parker Spitzer."

VIDEO: Shannon Tweed Praises Gene Simmons' Tongue for 'Speed and Accuracy'

2010-11-29T18:24:00.000-08:00

Shannon Tweed praised her longtime partner's tongue based upon four qualities. "It's not size as much as it is speed and accuracy," she said. "Durability and, at my age, you know, sustainability."

And Simmons himself took at stab at describing his tongue's prowess by putting a "romantic" spin on things. "I think, in more romantic terms, you have to have the ability to have a spin and dry cycle," he said, "and the flexibility to whip it up."

VIDEO: Gene & Shannon Pimp Contest

2010-11-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed are promoting the Reality Rock Awards and the contest that is associated with the awards program, when you vote. You can vote for Gene Simmons Family Jewels by clicking here.

Gene Simmons, talent scout, sniffs up north

2010-11-19T06:25:00.000-08:00

Despite years of blood-spitting, fire-breathing, and salacious tongue waggling, Gene Simmons is probably not the Antichrist. But the legendary KISS bassist, reality TV star, and marketing mastermind might be channeling Mammon, the demon of wealth, or perhaps whatever Horseman of the Apocalypse rides the most expensive thoroughbred.

At least, that's the impression he seems to playfully cultivate in interviews and his long-running A&E reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, as he shrewdly and pragmatically discusses dollars and cents with a devilishly sharp wit, and one eyebrow perpetually arched above impenetrably dark sunglasses.

As a founding member of KISS, one of the biggest-selling bands in rock history, Simmons continues to tour arenas all over the world. But he's in town this weekend for a different reason. At the M for Montreal music showcase, he'll be scouting talent for his new label, Simmons Records, and promoting his first signing, Toronto rockers The Envy, who gave a free show Wednesday night at Cafe Campus.

Partnered with ex-MP Belinda Stronach, Simmons' latest venture is focused exclusively on Canadian bands. "I really believe that the next generation of superstars is going to come out of Canada," he says. "You've got perhaps the biggest marketing entity in the world right next door. You can take advantage of America, but you've got to have the goods."

And those goods can be found right here. "There's plenty of talent (in Canada)," he says, listing off a number of national songwriting treasures and also Nickelback. "What's missing up here ... is not the talent, but the ability to market and sell the talent."

Canada, says Simmons, is a gold mine of great music. But don't compare it to former musical meccas like Seattle. "Seattle was a disaster. You have one band that survived, and that's Pearl Jam. All the others are dead and forgotten," he says. "I love the music. But whining white boys complaining about their lives? I never bought it." To Simmons, it's not about fads or scenes, but promoting solid bands. "We're going to make sure the music's there, the marketing's the right way, the branding is the right way. It's a big opportunity for Canada."

Read all of the Article 'Gene Simmons, talent scout, sniffs up north'

VIDEO: Gene Simmons Playing Goal at Saskatoon Blades Game

2010-11-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

While in Saskatoon filming an episode of Gene Simmons Family Jewels, Gene got dressed up in full goalie equipment (minus skates) and was part of a shootout during the first intermission of a Saskatoon Blades hockey game.

VIDEO: Paul Stanley Interviewed At FREEDOM AWARDS

2010-11-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

Paul Stanley and his wife, Erin Sutton, attended the 2010 Freedom Awards in LA on November 7. A short interview with Stanley conducted at the event by Real TV Films can be viewed below.

Simmons to play Blades netminder

2010-11-07T03:11:00.000-08:00

Rock star Gene Simmons is trading his guitar for a goalie stick.

The KISS bassist and reality TV star plans to play puckstopper during an intermission shootout next Friday when the Saskatoon Blades face the Portland Winterhawks at Credit Union Centre.

"He'll be dressing up in goalie gear from head to toe," said Brittany Loraas, the Blades' manager of game-day operations, "and during the second intermission, we'll have three guys take shots at him."

Simmons is bringing his reality show, Family Jewels, to Saskatoon where his actress wife, Shannon Tweed, attended Mount Royal Collegiate. The show's producers confirmed Friday they'll be shooting an episode here from Nov. 12-15.

"A lot of it is just going to be a walk down memory lane," said Natalie Gecht, part of the show's production team.

The episode will air on A&E as part of the show's sixth season, due to start in early spring of 2011.

The Blades couldn't confirm whether the hockey game would be part of the show but they have invited Tweed to perform a ceremonial faceoff. The CUC atmosphere promises to be a little bit country and a little bit rock 'n' roll because the Blades were already planning to wear denim-look jerseys to promote the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Canadian Finals. The PBR event comes to town Nov. 19-20, and Asquith bull rider Aaron Roy is also taking part in Friday's pre-game festivities.

"With it being PBR Night, we're already expecting a big crowd," said Loraas, "but having Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed in the building will hopefully fill it up."

News of their visit came as a surprise to the Blades' staff earlier this week. Team president Jack Brodsky got a phone call from local tourism officials and promptly began planning to host the celebrities.

"It's an honour for us to be a part of that," said Brodsky. "We're excited about it and we know that the citizens of Saskatoon will be excited about it, too."

Simmons returns to CUC almost exactly a year after he and KISS played a sold-out show at the venue. Last year's Nov. 10 concert drew 13,000-plus fans. The Blades likely won't get those kind of numbers, but the team is expecting Friday's crowd to far exceed their season average of 4,000.

Simmons to play Blades netminder

POLL: Which OTHER member from KISS would you like to see a reality show based on?

2010-11-05T04:55:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons Family Jewels will premier with 10 new episodes in December to kick off the 6th season. But I want to know if another current or former member of KISS was to get their own reality series, who would you want to watch each week?

Voting is on the left and comments can be left below.

VIDEO: Bruce Kulick Featured on That Metal Show

2010-11-05T04:42:00.000-07:00

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Thayer family overwhelmed by local support

2010-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

In these divisive hours of tumult and overheated rhetoric, it is a most heart-warming development to see how the community has banded together to support the Thayer family of Long Beach in its time of distress.

Even the famous rock musician Gene Simmons of KISS has been an active contributor to the cause.

Lance and Jennifer Thayer five years ago endured a parents' ultimate nightmare, as they lost their lovely 4-year-old daughter, Breanna, to brain cancer.

And for the past 16 months, their 14-year-old son, Jalen, has been battling the same condition as he's undergone treatments at St. Jude Children Research Hospital in Memphis, Children's Hospital in Los Angeles and Miller Children's Hospital in Long Beach.

The Polly's Pies chain held Friends of Jalen fundraisers last week at their Long Beach and Los Alamitos locations and, according to retired Long Beach Unified School System teacher Synthia Kaitanjian, they turned out to be quite successful.

"Both places were jammed - there was an hour and a half wait in one of them - and even ran short of some culinary items," relates Kaitanjian, who helped coordinate the events. "It was a tremendous turnout."

Read the complete article -> ->

POLL: Which Recent Solo Album is your favorite by Current and Former KISS Members?

2010-10-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Gene, Paul, Peter Ace and Bruce have all recently released solo albums the past few years. Which one was your favorite and why?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS:

1 (20%) - Gene Simmons: Asshole (2004)
3 (60%) - Paul Stanley: Live To Win (2006)
0 (0%) - Peter Criss: One For All (2007)
1 (20%) - Ace Frehley: Anomoly (2009)
0 (0%) - Bruce Kulick: BK3 (2010)

Gene Simmons vs. Anonymous: Who's the bigger tool?

2010-10-20T16:53:00.000-07:00

KISS bassist Gene Simmons—a man willing to parade around stages dressed up like "The Demon" while singing songs about sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll—isn't a man best known for the subtlety (or consistency) of his thought. In a 2007 interview, while explaining why file-sharing had killed music, Simmons said he wasn't going back into the studio because no one would pay for the tunes he creates. His very next sentence: "I will be putting out a Gene Simmons box set called Monster—a collection of 150 unreleased songs. KISS will have another box set of unreleased music in the next year."

But threatening the Internet vigilantes of Anonymous with prison rape might be a new low, even for Simmons. Unless, of course, Simmons' true genius is simply calling attention to himself; in that case, he succeeded again spectacularly this weekend. Anonymous repaid his comments with a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack that has taken Simmons' website offline.

Spectator sport

It's hard to know who's the bigger asshat here. On the one hand, Anonymous has spent the last few weeks cyber-attacking everyone from the RIAA to the law firm of Dunlap, Grubb, & Weaver to the UK government's Intellectual Property Office. The group's manifesto—"For this, you will be held accountable before the people, and you will be punished by them. We will not stop. We will not forget. We will prevail. We are anonymous"—could serve as the dictionary definition of "puerile." Leaders have said they will continue until they stop "being angry" as they try to change the world "OUTSIDE the basement."

And yet—they're going after Gene Simmons. Gene Simmons. This is the guy who told Billboard in 2007 that "every little college kid, every freshly scrubbed little kid's face should have been sued off the face of the earth. They should have taken their houses and cars and nipped it right there in the beginning. Those kids are putting 100,000 to a million people out of work. How can you pick on them? They've got freckles. That's a crook. He may as well be wearing a bandit's mask."

Read the entire article: Gene Simmons vs. Anonymous: Who's the bigger tool?

VIDEO: Ace Frehley Performs at New York Rangers Home Opener

2010-10-17T03:33:00.000-07:00

To kick off the historic 85th anniversary of the New York Rangers on Friday, October 15, fans got to experience Ace Frehley, founding member and lead guitarist for the legendary rock band KISS, perform his hit song "New York Groove" live at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Ace's Performance starts about 7:45 into the video.

Operation Payback Targets Gene Simmons

2010-10-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

Ace Frehley and Eddie Ojeda "Back in the New York Groove"

2010-10-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

Ace Frehley performed "New York Groove" at the Redemption Song event on Tuesday, October 5 at Zankel Hall in New York City. The performance included Eddie Ojeda (TWISTED SISTER) on rhythm guitar and Steven Adler (GUNS N' ROSES) on hand claps.

KISS’ Gene Simmons on Family Jewels & more: MIPCOM KeyNote

2010-10-05T05:56:00.000-07:00

Deputy editor Peter White of TBI Magazine moderated a session that unfolded at the mercy of its enabler, president/GM Bob DiBitetto of A&E Network and Bio Channel, and KISS frontman Gene Simmons.

The latter came to plug his reality show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, which just surpassed its 100th episode. But you know him best as the engine behind KISS, which is less a band than a half-billion dollar industry: in the last 8 years, it’s sold $400 million in concert tickets alone.

Simmons took great care to point out KISS has also lent its name and likeness to 3000 licensed products, from condoms to caskets. “We’ll get you coming and we’ll get you going,” he quipped. (Motorcycles and hi-def TVs are also in the works.)

MORE of the Liveblog: KISS’ Gene Simmons on Family Jewels & more

KISS-Branded HDTVs Ready for Crazy Crazy Nights | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

2010-10-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

(by Mark Hachman) God may have given you rock and roll, but only Roundtable Concepts has said it will deliver the first KISS-branded TVs.

The LED HDTVs will ship in four sizes ranging from 55 inches to 32 inches. Roundtable is also offering a deal - if a customer buys one of the 55-inch LCD TVs for the retail price of $1,988.88, Roundtable will throw in a 32-inch LCD TV for free.

Roundtable said that only 15,000 of the new TVs will be made. Each will come with a special "diamond finish," includes the official KISS logo, and splash an image of the band on the screen during the eight seconds or so the TV requires to fully power on.

Roundtable did not release data for how many nights and days the new HDTVs could rock and roll for, and then party.

The LED HDTVs are designed and built by Roundtable with a Chinese ODM partner, said Jay Lent, vice president of sales for Roundtable, in an email.

The listed specifications include a display resolution of 1,920-by-1,280, brightness of 450 lumens, static contrast of 5000:1, dynamic contrast of 5,000,000:1, and RCA, components, VGA, and HDMI inputs. All feature edge-lit LED lighting.

The 55-inch model includes 240-Hz technology, plus four HDMI, 2 USB, 1 component video, 1 composite video, 1 PC, and 1 RF connector. It also has a pair of 10-watt speakers.

While Roundtable will sell the 55-inch model for $1,988.88, the company will sell a 46-inch, 120-Hz model for $1,388.88. A 42-inch model is available for $1,188.88, while the 32-inch version costs $818.88.

Roundtable will ship the KISS TVs for free, the company said. The company also includes a line of TVs featuring characters from the Marvel comic books, and has struck a deal for a soon-to-be-released line of LED HDTVs under the Paramount Pictures brand.

Roundtable said it signed the deal with Live Nation, the licensing agent for KISS.

KISS-Branded HDTVs Ready for Crazy Crazy Nights | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

The Envy Visits Gene and Shannon

2010-09-30T02:00:00.000-07:00

VIDEO: KISS - I Was Made For Lovin' You (Live From Inner Sanctum)

2010-09-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

Gene Simmons unlikely campaigner for women's health

2010-09-29T06:36:00.000-07:00

HE'S a fire-spitting, cod-piece wearing demon in platform boots. He gloats about his eight-inch tongue and says his passion for pashin' has resulted in his bedding an estimated 4600 women.

All things considered, it seems a little odd that Kiss axeman Gene Simmons, whose family life is laid bare in the dubiously titled reality series Gene Simmons: Family Jewels, has suddenly positioned himself as a campaigner on women's health.

Simmons has been derided for saying he's been "happily unmarried" to actor Shannon Tweed for 24 years.

Tweed, he maintains, is the best friend he's ever had. And when she found a lump in her breast - since given the all clear - it threw the family, including Gene, son Nick and daughter Sophie, into a spin.

Simmons, who was in full Kiss make-up backstage at a gig when Shannon called to say she was having a biopsy, canceled touring commitments and flew home to be by her side during the trauma.

"Men are stupid, you know," Simmons says.

"We are oblivious to what goes on outside of us. We never ask women how they are, what's going on. The fact is one in every four women gets cancer. That means your daughter, your sister, your mother, girlfriend, your loved ones. And we men can't sit on the sidelines.

"This all sounds like cornball, politically correct language, but it's not. Hundreds of millions of women will get cancer and all you have to do is get them to go see a doctor.

It's not hard. Catch it early and survive. Catch it late, you will die a miserable death.

"Part of being alive is understanding that death is a real possibility. And without getting too cryptic about it, it's better to be alive than not.

"Life should be the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain and if you avoid pain and suffering it's your responsibility to do that for your family. If you can do something just by making sure people visit the doctor, then force them to go now, not tomorrow." Asked if he's good at looking after his own health, Simmons begins talking about the fitness base he builds while on the road with the band.

A two-hour set, performed in demon attire, can be physically punishing.

Imagine as a guy, he says, even taking a brisk walk in platform heels.

"Stick 40lb of suit, like an armour, on top of that," Simmons adds.

"Do that on stage and you'll sweat like never before."

He cloaks in humour his response to a question about men being intimidated by tests for prostate cancer.

"You know what's going to happen when the doctor goes through the gateway to hell, so let him at least kiss you and take you out to dinner first," Simmons says.

"Seriously, the only thing that is your enemy is time. If you prefer to watch a sports game and let the days go by while your body rots, it's your fault, because cancer is curable if you catch it early."

Gene Simmons' Kiss and Tell

Craving moments of solitude or anonymity:

"Never. Solitude is over-rated. You'd be miserable."

When it's OK to tell a lie:

"When it hurts somebody. Your mother comes down the stairs looking like Bozo the Clown and says, 'What do you think of my dress and my bling and my red shoes?' I say, 'Well, it's a new kind of look mum'. You don't say, 'Mum, you look like Bozo the Clown, take off those f--ing things'."

How to disarm a lady most effectively:

"Beg. For God's sake, if a guy ever wants to marry a woman, what's the thing he's got to do? Go down on a knee? That's right, grovel. A guy has to be able to talk female talk. Women, incidentally, don't have to talk guy talk. We have to be in touch with our feminine side. They do not have to be in touch with their masculine side. These are the rules. I didn't write them."

Keeping Polaroid pictures of his sexual conquests:

"Well, they don't make those cameras any more. I hate digital technology. It's cold."

Gene Simmons unlikely campaigner for women's health - By Darren Devlyn