KISS is an American hard rock band formed in 1973 in New York. They have been performing continuously ever since their formation. Their trademark face painting style has been patented with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Their characteristic onstage costumes and elaborate live performances featuring smoking guitars and pyrotechnics have defined KISS.
The original lineup of KISS was made up of Gene Simmons (bass and vocals), Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar and vocals), Ace Frehley (lead guitar and vocals) and Peter Criss (drums and vocals). KISS’s lineup has been the most successful in the history of the bands lineup. They have released a range of gold and platinum albums throughout the 1970’s. In the year 1982, both Criss and Frehley left the band due to drug abuse and creative differences. The band got rid of their make up and regained commercial revival through the mid-to-late 1980’s. They started loosing their popularity once again by the early 1990’s. KISS however announced a reunion of the original lineup in 1996. The following tour "KISS Alive Worldwide" was one of the peak acts of 1996. Band members Criss and Frehley have been replaced by Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer, respectively. Stanley and Simmons are the only two original members performing till date. Each of the band members have also released their own solo albums.
KISS has sold about 63 million albums worldwide and has been awarded 22 gold albums. They have certified sales of 19 million records in the United States. Their unique style and powerful onstage performances have earned them numerous accolades worldwide. | 
