Gene Simmons recently opened up on pop icon Taylor Swift’s tribute to KISS during a 2009 performance. He recalled the memorable moment in an interview with Parade.
The KISS frontman talked about Swift’s decision to honor the band by dressing up as original lead guitarist Ace Frehley during Keith Urban’s Escape Together tour.
“The entire band came out and punked Keith Urban at a show, and Taylor was dressed like our original lead guitarist Ace [Frehley], and the whole band was dressed up in KISS [makeup],” Simmons said.
Simmons then praised the gesture and added his characteristic humor to the situation.
“There are people who feel it’s cool the gesture was appreciated,” he continued. “It’s a nod of the head, because you can’t get me to dress like Boy George!”
The rock legend also praised Swift’s career evolution and artistic choices.
“She’s phenomenal,” Simmons said. “She started off in country music, and then just did what she wanted to do, which is go mainstream.”
The memorable prank has become a celebrated moment in both artists’ careers, showcasing Swift’s playful side during her early touring days.
The surprise appearance reportedly occurred during a Kansas City show on the final night of Urban’s “Escape Together” tour. Swift and her band members took the stage in full KISS makeup while Urban performed “Kiss a Girl,” creating an unforgettable experience for the audience.
It is also reported that Urban himself was initially fooled by the elaborate costumes and makeup. He later described the prank as “so good,” admitting that he thought the actual KISS band was joining him on stage during his performance.
