KISS guitarist Ace Frehley dies aged 74

Paul Daniel "Ace" Frehley, the KISS guitarist also known by his on-stage persona "The Spaceman," has died aged 74. Tributes have been paid from across the world of rock music.

Ace Frehley, founder member and lead guitarist of the American rock band KISS, has passed away aged 74, his family said on Thursday.

The rock legend reportedly died at home, surrounded by relatives, following a recent fall at his recording studio in September.

"In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth," Frehley's family said in a statement.

They nevertheless said they were "devastated and heartbroken" but added: "Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will continue to live on forever!"

Paul Daniel Frehley was born and raised in The Bronx, New York City, and reportedly acquired the nickname "Ace" at high school.

He co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside frontman Gene Simmons, rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley and drummer Peter Criss.

Often performing as characters, including Frehley as "Space Ace" or "The Spaceman," the group would become as well known for their spectacular costumes, make-up and pyrotechnic performances as for hits such as "I Was Made for Lovin' You," "God of Thunder" and "Strutter."

Tributes flow for 'irreplaceable rock soldier'

Former bandmates Simmons and Stanley said they were "devastated" by the news of Frehley's passing.

"He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS's legacy."

Mike McCready, founding member and lead guitarist of Pearl Jam, said Frehley was a "hero of mine" and someone he also considered a friend.

"I studied his solos endlessly over the years. I would not have picked up a guitar without Ace and KISS's influence," he wrote on social media. "RIP it out Ace, you changed my life."

Frehley left KISS in 1982 as creative differences surfaced amid substance misuse.

He released several hit albums as solo artist and as part of his own band, Frehley's Comet, in the 1980s, before reuniting with KISS in the mid-1990s for a six-year-stint.

But he didn't perform in the bands final shows in 2022 amid health issues, disagreements and strained relationships.

Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeanette, and daughter, Monique.

Edited by: Zac Crellin