KISS became a household name throughout the 1970s. Rock music could never be the same. When the new fabulous four appeared on the music scene, they made an unforgettable impression. Four New York men dressed in leather suits, high-heeled boots, and makeup that conceals their identity would captivate the world and change the entertainment industry forever. Whether you love them or hate them, everyone knows KISS. The band’s attire, makeup, and overall appearance has made them one of the most recognized bands in the world. In the early 1970s, his theater astonished and confused (in some cases) concert-goers around the world. With roots in New York City, and the four members residing nearby, they initially gathered a local following, and after a few years of constant album releases and touring, they proceeded to go national and, in the mid-1970s , finally achieved international recognition. . During the 1970s, KISS would go on endless tours, appear on television shows and promote their new sound and sport in any way they could. That’s where things got interesting. KISS merchandise began to appear not only at rock concerts, but also at the toy store, the record store, the gift shop, etc. KISS, with the help of Aucoin management, began to produce and promote all of KISS. There were dolls, notebooks, posters, keychains, transistor radios, board games, and much more. Although KISS was not the first band to produce themed merchandise, they were the first to do so successfully and to a level never seen before. Many of these products would eventually be reclassified as KISS collectibles a few decades later. These KISS products would eventually help them earn the badge of “the most popular band in the world.” Their arsenal of albums, eye-catching looks, KISS-themed merchandise, and a fiery stage show would place this band in a class by itself. This level of fame unfortunately caused confusion among the members of the band, substance abuse also entered the scene and the band began to self-destruct. Peter Criss, the band’s drummer, was the first to separate from the group. He was immediately replaced and the band continued to play.

When the 1980s rolled around, there were many changes taking place within the band, including the departure of Ace Frehley the Astronaut, an original and fan-favorite guitarist. Its replacement lasted only a few years and then it was replaced as well. Overall, KISS had a total of four lead guitarists during the 1980s. The biggest change, however, was the removal of makeup and the beginning of a new era for KISS with a toned down stage show and streetwear performances. (so so). The band would release a total of ten albums over the decade and sell more concert tickets than they bargained for. The band’s new look and evolving rock sound kept fans coming back for more.

The 1990s were hectic in terms of KISS. His drummer, Eric Carr passed away from cancer in 1991. Eric became a fan favorite by playing with KISS for longer than his original drummer Peter Criss. KISS finally moved on with a new drummer and a new album, but there was more to come in the 90s and it came in the form of something totally unexpected … the KISS convention. Fans around the world were starting to gather to commemorate KISS in their makeup days. KISS tribute bands, memorabilia and collectibles, as well as many die-hard fans, filled various venues to celebrate KISS that are reminiscent of the 1970s. These KISS conventions were never endorsed by KISS, but they were truly a sight to see. Were they watching the original members of the band? We will never know, but we can imagine that they were. The next event worth mentioning took place in 1995 when the original four members took the stage for an unplugged show, an MTV production. An idea that some fans rumored was sparked by successful conventions and the growing number of KISS collectibles. This show would eventually trigger a reunion tour complete with makeup and stage show, as only KISS could do it. Fans went crazy for KISS. They sold shows around the world and made guest appearances wherever they could. The kings of promotion were back in the spotlight like old times. Merchandising was reincarnated into something that fans had never seen before. The dolls and key chains gave way to lava lamps, bottled wine, video games, and even a KISS coffin. KISS was once again a great business and with fame and fortune the same old problems arose again.

In 2000, it seemed that Peter Criss and Ace Frehley were starting to tire of the KISS experience, both with rumors of trouble. Original members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley showed no signs of slowing down. The tour continued and the band eventually settled down with drummer Eric Singer, who had already been performing with the band after replacing Eric Carr, and guitar tech Tommy Thayer. Although the tour hasn’t been as intense in recent years, as of 2009 the band is still performing, still wearing makeup, and still selling concert tickets and of course KISS collectibles.