Ace Frehley, the enduring founding guitarist of KISS, died Thursday on the age of 74 after struggling a mind bleed following a latest fall at his studio. Upon information of his passing, tributes have been pouring in from his musical friends.
The guitarist was probably the most influential musicians of all time, having led many notable artists to pursue a profession in rock ‘n’ roll. Such guitarists as Anthrax’s Scott Ian, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Rage In opposition to the Machine’s Tom Morello, and the late Dimebag Darrell have cited Frehley as one of many major causes they picked up a guitar within the first place.
In a tribute, Morello wrote, “My first guitar hero, Ace Frehley, has handed away. The legendary House Ace Frehley impressed generations to like rock n roll and love rock n roll guitar enjoying.”
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McCready shared related sentiments, writing, “I’d not have picked up a guitar with out Ace and KISS’s affect.”
Our condolences exit to Ace Frehley’s household, mates, and bandmates throughout this troublesome time. See the assorted tributes to the legendary Spaceman beneath.
Our hearts are damaged. Ace has handed on. Nobody can contact Ace’s legacy. I do know he cherished the followers. He advised me many instances. Sadder nonetheless, Ace didn’t stay lengthy sufficient to be honored on the Kennedy Ctr Honors occasion in Dec. Ace was the everlasting rock soldier. Lengthy could his legacy stay on!
— Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) October 16, 2025
The information of Ace’s passing is devastating to the world of rock. It has deeply affected me as effectively. He was one in every of a form. And really an iconic guitar participant. His simple position within the creation and success of KISS can’t be forgotten. Not solely was he cherished by all, he influenced… pic.twitter.com/LcN7la8x89
— Bruce Kulick (@brucekulick) October 16, 2025
I’m so shocked & saddened that this occurred to my hero & my pal. I’ve identified Ace since 1988 & we’ve been very shut ever since then. Ace Frehley modified the world. He influenced hundreds of thousands of individuals & modified my life. I’ll miss you my pal.#RIPAceFrehley #RIPSpaceace pic.twitter.com/AXCTxH41aJ
— John 5 🎸 (@john5guitarist) October 16, 2025
Ace Frehley was the embodiment of rock ’n’ roll perspective — unapologetic, loud, and irresistibly catchy. His riffs had swagger, his tone had chunk, and his presence lit up levels like a supernova. The Spaceman has left the stage, however his orbit will shine without end. pic.twitter.com/TDyDvEVA9i
— Steve Vai (@stevevai) October 17, 2025
— Dee Snider🇺🇸🎤 (@deesnider) October 16, 2025
Deeply saddened by the passing of Ace Frehley. I had the glory of assembly him a number of instances. His presence modified rock without end, inspiring generations world wide. My condolences to his household, mates, followers, and all of KISS. RIP, Ace.#YOSHIKI #KISS #AceFrehley https://t.co/kckXhdTuPk pic.twitter.com/X2jWAO4rPk
— Yoshiki (@YoshikiOfficial) October 17, 2025
@ace_frehley Ace, my brother, I certainly can’t thanks sufficient for the years of nice music, the various festivals we have executed collectively and your lead guitar on Nothing However A Good Time. All my love and respect, from my household and myself – could you relaxation in peace!!! #AceFrehley pic.twitter.com/Vb5IIPYPxu
— Bret Michaels (@bretmichaels) October 16, 2025
It has now been formally confirmed and launched by the household that my pal of 40 years @ace_frehley has handed away. That is past phrases for me on many ranges. My condolences to Jeanette, Monique and all the guy followers. I’ll air a particular tribute to Ace tonight on… pic.twitter.com/TSIus5y0zd
— Eddie Trunk (@EddieTrunk) October 16, 2025
We’re deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of the legendary Ace Frehley. Thanks for the many years of music inspiring generations together with your electrifying guitar work and unforgettable stage presence. Your sound helped outline rock ’n’ roll. Our ideas are with Ace’s household,… pic.twitter.com/tRQTGNVCUl
— Gibson (@gibsonguitar) October 16, 2025
Relaxation Straightforward Spaceman 💔The Legend and the music will stay on without end…#acefrehley pic.twitter.com/dQByDmuYB4
— John Corabi (@Crablegs59) October 17, 2025