The Gene Simmons Band made history on February 21 by performing two Ace Frehley songs for the first time ever. The concert took place at L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and marked the band’s first show of 2026. They added “Strange Ways” to their 14-song setlist, a significant moment since it was only their second performance since Frehley passed away on October 16, 2025. Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss.
Simmons shared with fans that KISS hadn’t played “Rocket Ride” live in 50 years. This song was a favorite at Frehley’s solo shows, with Brent Woods taking the lead vocals. “Rocket Ride” was co-written by Sean Delaney and Frehley and featured on the 1977 album, Alive II. Meanwhile, “Strange Ways” was originally sung by Peter Criss on the 1974 album, Hotter Than Hell. A demo version with Simmons on lead vocals was released last November as part of the expanded box set of Alive!.
The band also performed “Cold Gin,” another classic Frehley track that has been featured in Simmons’ solo shows. Frehley wrote many of KISS’s biggest hits in their early years but didn’t feel confident enough to take on lead vocals until after 1977’s Love Gun. He passed away at the age of 74.
In early December, Simmons stirred controversy by suggesting that poor choices contributed to Frehley’s death, despite Frehley having claimed sobriety for nearly 20 years. Simmons later apologized, stating he never meant to hurt Frehley or his legacy.
The Gene Simmons Band includes Simmons on bass and vocals, Jason Walker on guitar and vocals, Brian Tichy on drums and vocals, and Brent Woods on guitar. They have more shows lined up this month, including an appearance on the Rock Legends Cruise XIII.
