GENE SIMMONS BIO

"In 1979, as I exited the stage of Madam Wong’s Chinatown and walked towards the men's room, I was grabbed by the arm, which was not unusual, except instead of a beautiful girl, I found I was being grabbed by a 'music industry' looking gentleman asking to talk to me. He wanted to buy out our management contract, and help expand the success of The Kats beyond Southern California. I should have listened to him, his name was - Gene Simmons. Later, Mr. Simmons befriended me and soon I realized what a thoughtful and intelligent man he was. Gene kept in close touch as he traveled around the globe and offered his support whenever he could. He sent video crews to record performances by The Kats, he sent Diana Ross' ex to us as a candidate for our next manager. He even asked me to co-write songs for the next KISS album. All I can say is: Sorry if I let the ball drop, Gene, I do appreciate your support, and admire the person you are!" - Freddy Moore 2005

The world changed its course on August 25, 1949, when Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz, touched down on Earth in Haifa, Israel. But before the age of 10, he came to America with his mother and it was in the U.S. that he tasted, in his own words, the land of milk and honey. After that initial meeting with Paul Stanley in 1970, the duo ultimately clicked and began to assemble the line-up that would eventually become KISS. First Peter Criss on drums, then Ace Frehley on guitars by 1973. Within two years, and after legendary jam sessions at the famous loft on 10th East 23rd Street in New York City, KISS released Alive, which remains, to this day, one of the staples of rock music and one of the top live albums of any genre. Simmons has produced demos for Van Halen, managed Liza Minnelli, dated Cher, and lives with Shannon Tweed. For more on Gene Simmons, check out his official site, http://www.genesimmons.com