There Was A Height Requirement For KISS?
If you’ve ever wondered what was more important to KISS, style or substance, this story will clear it up for you. All I can think of is Gene in his heels…
The Kiss bassist and co-lead singer was actually born Chaim Witz in Israel.
After arriving in the US, he took the name Eugene Klein (later Gene Klein), as Klein was his mother’s maiden name. In the early 1970s, he changed his name to Gene Simmons to honor legendary rockabilly performer Jumpin’ Gene Simmons.
If you've ever wondered what was more important to KISS, style or substance, this story will clear it up for you. All I can think of is Gene in his heels walking across Jefferson in full gear. Greatness.
Getting the call from KISS
Marty Friedman was contacted by KISS many years ago, when they were "changing guitar players." Marty had played for Megadeth from 1990 through 2000, so he obviously had the chops.
But he didn't get past the phone interview . . . because of his HEIGHT. They were looking for someone over six feet tall, but he told them he was only 5-foot-7.
And that was it. Marty says, quote, "I totally get it, but I would've done anything. If there was an operation available at the time, I would've done it."
Getty ImagesKISS Back In The Early Years
Marty didn't say when this happened, but Tommy Thayer was the last guitarist to take over the Ace Frehley role, and he joined KISS in 2002.
Tall Rock Stars - It's Not Unusual
Here's a few of the REALLY tall rock stars
- Peter Steele (Type O Negative) - Standing at a towering 6'8", Peter Steele was not just known for his deep voice and gothic lyrics but also his impressive height.
- Jim Morrison (The Doors) - The Lizard King himself stood at 6'3". His presence was as imposing as his poetic lyrics.
- Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden) - While many know him for his operatic voice and energetic performances, Bruce is a solid 6'1".
- Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age) - At 6'4", Josh Homme brings both height and heavy riffs to the stage.
- Joey Ramone (The Ramones) - The punk rock legend was 6'6", making him a giant in the punk scene both literally and figuratively.
