Ace Frehley, the iconic founding guitarist of KISS, died Thursday at the age of 74 after suffering a brain bleed following a recent fall at his studio. Upon news of his passing, tributes have been pouring in from his musical peers.
The guitarist was one of the most influential musicians of all time, having led many notable artists to pursue a career in rock ‘n’ roll. Such guitarists as Anthrax’s Scott Ian, Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, and the late Dimebag Darrell have cited Frehley as one of the main reasons they picked up a guitar in the first place.
In a tribute, Morello wrote, “My first guitar hero, Ace Frehley, has passed away. The legendary Space Ace Frehley inspired generations to love rock n roll and love rock n roll guitar playing.”
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McCready shared similar sentiments, writing, “I would not have picked up a guitar without Ace and KISS’s influence.”
Our condolences go out to Ace Frehley’s family, friends, and bandmates during this difficult time. See the various tributes to the legendary Spaceman below.
I am so shocked & saddened that this happened to my hero & my friend. I’ve known Ace since 1988 & we’ve been very close ever since then. Ace Frehley changed the world. He influenced millions of people & changed my life. I will miss you my friend.#RIPAceFrehley #RIPSpaceace pic.twitter.com/AXCTxH41aJ
— John 5 🎸 (@john5guitarist) October 16, 2025
@ace_frehley Ace, my brother, I surely cannot thank you enough for the years of great music, the many festivals we’ve done together and your lead guitar on Nothing But A Good Time. All my love and respect, from my family and myself – may you rest in peace!!! #AceFrehley pic.twitter.com/Vb5IIPYPxu
— Bret Michaels (@bretmichaels) October 16, 2025
It has now been officially confirmed and released by the family that my friend of 40 years @ace_frehley has passed away. This is beyond words for me on many levels. My condolences to Jeanette, Monique and all the fellow fans. I will air a special tribute to Ace tonight on… pic.twitter.com/TSIus5y0zd
— Eddie Trunk (@EddieTrunk) October 16, 2025
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Ace Frehley. Thank you for the decades of music inspiring generations with your electrifying guitar work and unforgettable stage presence. Your sound helped define rock ’n’ roll. Our thoughts are with Ace’s family,… pic.twitter.com/tRQTGNVCUl
— Gibson (@gibsonguitar) October 16, 2025