“The Demon” Gene Simmons turns 75
An absolute Rock icon
“The Demon” Gene Simmons turns 75
With his signature face paint, flamboyant stage presence, and keen business acumen, Simmons has become one of the most recognizable figures in rock music and popular culture. As a founder and member of KISS, Gene Simmons has composed, played bass and done lead vocals in some of the band’s best-known hits including “Deuce” and “Rock and Roll All Nite.” Gene was born Chaim Witz in Tirat Carmel, Haifa, Israel on August 25th, 1949. His mother survived along with other family members internment in Nazi concentration camps. She migrated to the United States when Gene was a child while the father stayed in Israel. He became involved in music during the 60’s influenced by The Beatles. In the 70’s Gene formed KISS and they went on to become one of the biggest Rock bands in the world to this day. Gene, whose KISS character is The Demon, has composed, played bass and done lead vocals in some of the band’s best-known hits including “Deuce”, “Rock and Roll All Nite”, “Calling Dr. Love”, “Christine Sixteen”, God of Thunder’ and “Cold Gin” among many others.
The co-founder, bassist, and co-lead vocalist of the legendary rock band KISS Gene Simmons was born Chaim Witz on August 25, 1949, in Haifa, Israel. Simmons was born to Jewish parents in Israel and immigrated to the United States with his mother when he was eight years old. They settled in New York City, where he changed his name to Gene Klein, eventually adopting the stage name Gene Simmons. Growing up in a working-class household, Simmons was influenced by American rock and roll icons like Elvis Presley and The Beatles. He developed a passion for music at a young age, learning to play guitar and later switching to bass.
In the early 1970s, Simmons formed KISS with Paul Stanley, Peter Criss, and Ace Frehley. The band quickly gained attention for their elaborate stage performances, complete with pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and Simmons’ infamous fire-breathing act. Their unique combination of hard rock and theatrical flair set them apart from other bands of the era.
KISS released their self-titled debut album in 1974, but it was their 1975 live album, Alive! that catapulted them to fame. The band’s subsequent albums, Destroyer (1976) and Rock and Roll Over (1976), solidified their status as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Simmons’ “Demon” persona, with his trademark face paint and tongue-wagging antics, became iconic, making him a central figure in the band’s image.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, KISS continued to dominate the rock scene, with Simmons playing a key role not only as a musician but also as a businessman. He was instrumental in expanding the KISS brand, which included everything from merchandise and comic books to action figures and even a feature film, KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park (1978). Simmons’ savvy marketing helped the band maintain its popularity even as musical trends changed.
In addition to his work with KISS, Simmons pursued various solo and side projects. He released his debut solo album, Gene Simmons, in 1978 as part of a series of solo records by each KISS member. He also dabbled in acting, appearing in films like Runaway (1984) and Wanted: Dead or Alive (1987).
Simmons is also known for the numerous relationships with celebrities that he had throughout his life, including Cher and Diana Ross, before settling down with former Playboy Playmate Shannon Tweed. The couple married in 2011 after nearly 30 years together and have two children, Nick and Sophie. Simmons’ family life was featured on the reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels, which aired from 2006 to 2012, giving fans a glimpse into his life offstage.
Beyond music, Simmons has built a successful career as an entrepreneur and author. He co-founded the record label Simmons Records, published several books, including his autobiography KISS and Make-Up (2001), and has launched various business ventures ranging from restaurants to financial services.
Today, Simmons is among other things, working on converting KISS to avatars that can play live beyond his and his bandmates lifetime, ensuring that the band’s legacy will live on for generations to come.
Watch KISS performing live one of Simmons signature songs “God Of Thunder” in 1999
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