Paul Stanley Warns KISS Tribute Bands

KISS frontman Paul Stanley recently sent a stern warning to KISS tribute bands.

During an appearance on the “Howie Mandel Does Stuff” podcast, Paul Stanley referenced the fact that countless KISS tribute bands profit from the goodwill of the legendary rock act. He said,

“ There are some KISS tributes that we’ve allowed to continue. It’s a matter of giving them the license to do it that can be revoked at any time, because all the makeups, all those personas are trademarked and nobody can use those for any purpose.”

Asked by Mandel if the KISS camp has ever had to revoke the license from any tribute band that had perhaps crossed the line in the way they presented the KISS tribute show, Paul said:

“If it becomes big business, that goes beyond a tribute. Yes, it’s okay to make some money, but your heart has to be in the right place.”

KISS recently announced that the band’s “KISS Army Storms Vegas” event will “transform” into “KISS Kruise: Landlocked In Vegas”. Set to take place November 14th to 16th, 2025 at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas, this special fan experience is being created with co-producers Pophouse, creators of boutique music vacations Topeka and music-led destination experience company Vibee.

Newly included activities include a special acoustic KISS “kick-off” set on Friday, November 14, along with performances from former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick, Stephen Pearcy and Warren DeMartini performing the music of Rat, Sebastian Bach, Quiet Riot, Black ‘N Blue, Chris Jericho’s Kuarantine, KISS tribute bands Mr. Speed and KISS NATION, School Of Rock, comedian Craig Gass and DJ Noiz.

There will also be question-and-answer sessions with Simmons and Stanley, as well as longtime KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer manager Doc McGhee. Other panelists include KISS producer Bob Ezrin, KISS photographer Lynn Goldsmith and KISS Army founders Bill Starkey and Jay Evans.

The “everything KISS” paradise, which also includes support artist meet-and-greets, curated KISS gifts and so much more, will take place in celebration of KISS Army’s 50th anniversary and the 30th anniversary of the first KISS fan convention. Since retiring from touring in December 2023, this will be the first time KISS has performed together and will be a one-of-a-kind moment for fans to experience KISS “unmasked” acoustic and electric shows featuring Simmons, Stanley and Thayer as special guests.