Bruce Kulick, the often-overlooked yet crucial guitarist for Kiss during their non-makeup era, recently opened up about his departure from the band and his feelings about not being involved in their reunion tours and final farewell. In a revealing interview with Guitar World, Kulick discussed his contentment with not returning to Kiss in the early 2000s, emphasizing that the conditions of his return would have compromised his unique contribution to the band’s history. This article delves into Kulick’s perspective, exploring his time with Kiss, his reasons for not rejoining, and his thoughts on the band’s final chapter.
Kiss, the iconic rock band known for their flamboyant makeup, explosive stage presence, and anthemic rock, experienced numerous lineup changes throughout their career. Kulick’s tenure, spanning from 1984 to 1996, marked a significant departure from their classic image. During this period, the band shed their makeup, embracing a more straightforward rock aesthetic. Kulick’s guitar skills were instrumental in navigating this era, helping Kiss weather the grunge storm of the early ’90s and producing some of their most commercially successful albums of the period.
Bruce Kulick’s Crucial Role in Kiss’s Non-Makeup Era
When the original Kiss lineup reunited in 1996, complete with the signature makeup and costumes, Kulick graciously stepped aside for the returning Ace Frehley. However, when Frehley departed again in 2002, Kiss chose Tommy Thayer as his replacement, leaving Kulick out of the picture. This decision, while perhaps surprising to some fans, aligns with Kulick’s own feelings about returning to the band.
He explicitly stated in the Guitar World interview, “I’m not disappointed they didn’t ask me to be in Kiss again. To be in Kiss again, I would have had to be the Spaceman, right? If I had done that, I would have negated my entire non-makeup era.” This statement underscores Kulick’s pride in his specific contribution to Kiss’s history and his unwillingness to compromise that legacy by assuming a different persona.
The Spaceman Suit: A Symbol of a Different Era
The “Spaceman” character, originally portrayed by Ace Frehley, represents a distinct period in Kiss’s history, one that predates Kulick’s involvement. By taking on that role, Kulick felt he would diminish the significance of his own time with the band, a period defined by its unique musical direction and absence of the iconic makeup.
Kulick’s decision to prioritize his own legacy within Kiss demonstrates his respect for the band’s history and his understanding of the different eras that shaped their identity. He recognized that his contributions were distinct from those of the original lineup and chose to preserve that distinction rather than compromise it for a return to the spotlight.
Kiss Farewell Tour: A Peaceful Absence
Kulick’s absence from Kiss’s End of the Road farewell tour, which concluded with two final shows at Madison Square Garden in December 2023, further solidifies his stance. While he acknowledged that his former bandmates “dropped the ball” with the farewell tour’s execution, he remained firm in his belief that he wouldn’t have wanted to participate without a direct invitation.
In the Guitar World interview, he explained, “I’ve made peace with not being included in Kiss’ End of the Road. That said, no, they never called me.” He continued, “I’ve always missed being in Kiss, but if being in Kiss meant being the Spaceman like Tommy, I wouldn’t want to do it. And if being a part of the final shows meant I had to ask to be there, I’d rather stay home.”
Respect and Admiration: A Mutual Understanding
Kulick’s relationship with Ace Frehley, while complex given their shared history with Kiss, is marked by mutual respect. Kulick’s refusal to don the Spaceman suit and his insistence on being invited rather than asking to participate likely contributes to Frehley’s positive view of him. This contrasts sharply with Frehley’s less favorable opinions of Tommy Thayer, whom he has publicly criticized for his playing and impersonation of the Spaceman character.
Kulick, however, offered kind words for Thayer, stating, “Tommy Thayer did a fine job playing Ace’s riffs with some swagger. He did the Spaceman well, but I never wanted to.” This demonstrates Kulick’s professionalism and his ability to appreciate Thayer’s contribution to Kiss while remaining true to his own principles.
Kiss Lineup Changes: A Complex History
Kiss’s history is filled with lineup changes, creating a complex narrative of different eras, musical styles, and personalities. Each member has contributed to the band’s overall legacy, and Kulick’s role, while often overshadowed by the more theatrical eras, remains significant. His guitar work helped define a specific period in Kiss’s evolution, and his recent comments provide valuable insight into his perspective on his time with the band and his decision to maintain his own distinct legacy.
Looking Back: A Legacy Defined by Integrity
Bruce Kulick’s reflections on his time with Kiss offer a nuanced perspective on the band’s history and the complexities of maintaining artistic integrity within a constantly evolving lineup. His refusal to compromise his own legacy by assuming a different persona highlights his respect for the band’s past and his own unique contribution to its musical journey. While some fans may have wished to see him return, Kulick’s decision reflects a deep understanding of his place within the Kiss narrative and his commitment to preserving his individual identity within the larger tapestry of the band’s history. He chose to remain true to himself and his own legacy, rather than rewrite it for a final bow.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Bruce Kulick and Kiss
Q: Why didn’t Bruce Kulick rejoin Kiss when Ace Frehley left in 2002?
A: Bruce Kulick wasn’t interested in rejoining Kiss if it meant assuming the role of the “Spaceman,” as he felt it would negate his contributions during the non-makeup era.
Q: Why wasn’t Bruce Kulick involved in the Kiss End of the Road farewell tour?
A: While Bruce expressed disappointment with how the farewell tour was handled, he stated that he wasn’t invited to participate and wouldn’t have wanted to be there without an invitation.
Q: What does Bruce Kulick think of Tommy Thayer?
A: Bruce Kulick has praised Tommy Thayer’s performance as the “Spaceman” and acknowledged his skill in playing Ace Frehley’s riffs.
Q: What is Bruce Kulick doing now?
A: While this article focuses on his Kiss history, Bruce Kulick continues to be active in the music industry, pursuing various projects and collaborations. You can find more information about his current work on his official website and social media channels.
Do you have any other burning questions about Bruce Kulick and his time with Kiss? Share them in the comments below! We encourage discussion and further exploration of this fascinating chapter in rock and roll history.
