KISS were originally founded under the name Wicked Lester in 1972 in New York
City by Gene Simmons (bass, vocals) and Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar, vocals).
After recruiting drummer Peter Criss and guitarist Ace Frehley, the group
adopted the name KISS in early 1973 and began performing in the city’s club
circuit. Their high-energy shows quickly set them apart, leading to a record
deal with Casablanca Records in November 1973. The band’s self-titled debut
album, released in 1974, sold only around 75,000 copies despite relentless
touring and television appearances. However, their r...