In December of 2023, one of the most famous bands in Rock and Roll history decided they were going to put an end to their touring days. The band was KISS, and the idea of them actually retiring was not something that anybody took extremely seriously. As much as KISS has done for rock with a number of anthemic songs and albums, there’s no denying how much effort was put into the money-making machine that the band was and is. Retire? When there’s money to be made? Hardly. And sure enough, they’re performing more concerts this November.
The band seems to have a good reason for getting back together. They’re celebrating their 50th anniversary in Las Vegas. From November 14th-16th, the KISS Army Ultimate Fan Experience will be held at the Virgin Hotels. The convention is going to have a variety of activities, some of yet are to be announced.
A Facebook user posted screenshots of what appears to be the website for the event, which is password locked, teasing a non-makeup live performance, and the return of KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick.
Oh, and if you forgot who the current line-up of KISS is, here’s your reminder that it consists of vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Paul Stanley, bassist and vocalist, Gene Simmons, drummer Eric Singer, and lead guitarist Tommy Thayer. Could there be more shows in the future? Yeah. If there’s money to be made you can almost guarantee it. Again, to be fair, a 50th anniversary event that’s primarily for fans is a good reason to show up and do a show.
Still, it’s funny the band is still going, literally 25 years after they said they were doing their final tour. Maybe that’s why other bands have poked fun at the idea of a “farewell” tour. Phil Collins had his “First Final Farewell Tour” in 2004, with tongue planted firmly in cheek over the name. Eagles named one of their concert videos “Farewell 1,” implying that they were going to be touring more, which they did and still are.
If KISS ever does truly retire, we’ll tell you.
