Mick Rogers, guitarist for Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, recently shared an intriguing memory from KISS’s early days during an interview with Guitar World. Rogers recalled a moment when KISS opened for his band, offering a rare insight into the band’s ambitious and fearless attitude at the time.
Rogers vividly remembered using the same microphone as Gene Simmons, despite the bassist’s infamous blood-spitting antics: “I had to use the same microphone that Gene Simmons used with all the blood coming out of his mouth,” Rogers said. “Can you imagine that! I remember Simmons saying to me: ‘We’re either going to be the next biggest thing, or we’re going to die on our a**!’”
Rogers further elaborated on the unforgettable experience of watching KISS take the stage in full makeup and costume. The audience, Rogers noted, was left speechless by their theatrical appearance: “They came on stage with all the makeup and stuff. I think people were quite silent because they just couldn’t believe what they were seeing… nor could we! They were scary, I mean, Gene Simmons was a scary-looking image, but he was lovely.”
This early encounter with KISS showcased the band’s theatrical, larger-than-life approach to rock music, which would later cement their legendary status in the genre.
Reports from Blabbermouth confirm that Simmons’ bold prediction about the band’s future ultimately proved to be prophetic. KISS’s success continues to evolve, with the band embracing new directions after their farewell tour. Simmons himself has stated that KISS is open to exploring fresh paths moving forward.
This forward-thinking approach reflects the band’s longstanding business strategy, with Simmons’ early confidence driving KISS to sustained success over the years.
Radio host Eddie Trunk has also highlighted the physical demands of KISS’s performances. The band’s combination of elaborate costumes, iconic makeup, and high-energy live shows has been a constant feature since the band’s earliest days, contributing to the intensity of their concerts.
As a result of the physical toll these performances took, KISS decided to conclude their traditional touring format. However, their legacy continues to evolve, marking a significant shift in their approach to live music.
Ultimate Classic Rock documented how KISS’s theatrical style revolutionized rock performances. Their initial shock value, which Rogers described in his recollection, became a blueprint for countless artists that followed. The band’s commitment to pushing boundaries and their high production values have had a lasting influence on generations of musicians. Simmons’ early prediction, which seemed so extreme at the time, clearly led to the former outcome: massive success.
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