KISS is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, known for their flamboyant costumes, makeup, and stage shows. But in 1995, they surprised their fans by performing an acoustic set of classic KISS songs for the TV show MTV Unplugged. The show was even more special because it featured the reunion of the original lineup of Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, who had not played together publicly since 1979.
The show was recorded on August 9, 1995 at Sony Music Studios in New York City. The band played 15 songs, including hits like "Rock and Roll All Nite", "Beth", and "Detroit Rock City". They were joined by their current members at the time, Bruce Kulick and Eric Singer, who shared vocals and instruments with Frehley and Criss. The audience was ecstatic to see the original four members on stage again, and the chemistry between them was undeniable.
The show was broadcast on October 31, 1995 and received rave reviews from critics and fans alike. It was also released as a live album on March 12, 1996, which reached number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart. The show was also released as a video on VHS and DVD, which included behind-the-scenes footage of the band's rehearsal sessions and their first "KISS Konvention" appearance earlier in the year.
The success of the MTV Unplugged show paved the way for the band's reunion tour in 1996, which saw them donning their trademark makeup and costumes again. The tour was one of the highest-grossing tours of the decade and reignited the popularity of KISS among old and new fans. The MTV Unplugged show is widely regarded as one of the best and most historic performances by KISS, and a testament to their enduring legacy as rock legends.
One of the highlights of the MTV Unplugged show was the performance of "2,000 Man", a song originally by The Rolling Stones that was covered by KISS on their 1979 album Dynasty. The song was sung by Ace Frehley, who had not sung lead vocals on a KISS song since 1982. Frehley's voice was clear and confident, and he delivered a stellar guitar solo that showcased his skills and style. The song also featured a harmony vocal by Paul Stanley, who praised Frehley's performance after the song.
Another memorable moment was the rendition of "Beth", the ballad that was a surprise hit for KISS in 1976. The song was sung by Peter Criss, who had co-written it with Stan Penridge and Bob Ezrin. Criss was accompanied by a string quartet and a piano, creating a beautiful and emotional atmosphere. Criss dedicated the song to his wife Debra, who was in the audience. The song received a standing ovation from the crowd and the band members.
The show ended with a rocking version of "Rock and Roll All Nite", the anthem that has become synonymous with KISS. The song featured all six members of the band on stage, sharing vocals and instruments. The audience sang along with every word, clapping and cheering. The band thanked the fans for their support and threw their guitar picks and drumsticks into the crowd. As the band left the stage, they hugged each other and smiled, knowing that they had just made history.
d8cbe59d7d