Paul Stanley Opens Up About Unhappiness During KISS’ 2000 Farewell Tour
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Renowned musician Paul Stanley recently shared his candid thoughts on his experience during KISS’ 2000 farewell tour, revealing feelings of misery and a lack of camaraderie. In a revealing interview on The Magnificent Others with Bill Corgan, the KISS guitarist reflected on the tumultuous journey that was meant to mark the end of an era for the iconic band. Despite the tour expecting to be their swan song, KISS ultimately reunited for the End of the Road World Tour in 2019.
The 73-year-old musician expressed, “I’m going, ‘I am miserable I’m really miserable,’.” Stanley described the challenges faced during the farewell tour, highlighting the erratic music quality on some nights and a noticeable absence of joy and unity amongst the band members. Surprisingly, Stanley confessed that negative reviews did not perturb him, but rather when he found himself agreeing with them, it became a cause for concern.
The lack of fulfillment and unity during the tour led Stanley to contemplate ending it altogether, stating, “It really felt like let’s put the horse down, let’s just shoot it.” He explained that such a decision contradicted the band’s fundamental belief that KISS was larger than any individual member. The band, consisting of Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, had endured various challenges over the years, which ultimately led to their decision to bid farewell in 2000.
Reflecting on the aftermath of the Farewell Tour, Stanley recounted a notable encounter at a car wash where a fan expressed eagerness for KISS to return for a 35th-anniversary tour. This unexpected show of support from fans surprised Stanley, showcasing the enduring love and admiration for the band’s iconic musical legacy. Despite their hiatus, fans were yearning for the return of KISS, emphasizing the indelible mark the band had left on the music industry.
In a testament to the band’s enduring legacy, Stanley discussed the uncertainties surrounding KISS’s future in a 2018 interview preceding their second “farewell tour.” Addressing the possibility of his departure from the band, Stanley acknowledged the monumental significance of KISS as an iconic entity transcending individual members. As the band navigated through subsequent tours and personal commitments, Stanley emphasised the importance of balancing his role as a musician with his responsibilities as a father.
Following the challenges posed by the global pandemic, KISS postponed their live performances but maintained their commitment to their fans. The band’s resilience and unwavering dedication to their craft were exemplified through their End of the Road World Tour, captivating audiences worldwide. With a successful “final show” at New York’s Madison Square Garden in 2023, KISS continues to defy expectations as they gear up for a triumphant return with a three-day residency in Las Vegas this November.
The enduring tale of KISS is a testament to the power of music in transcending boundaries and capturing the hearts of fans across generations. As fans eagerly anticipate the band’s upcoming performances, KISS remains an enduring symbol of rock ‘n’ roll resilience and musical excellence that continues to inspire audiences worldwide.