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KISS Records New Song Written by Paul Stanley After 2023 Retirement
KISS has confirmed that the legendary hard‑rock band has recorded a new track written by frontman Paul Stanley, even though the group retired from touring in 2023. The song, described by guitarist Tommy Thayer as a “special” addition to the band’s catalog, will likely appear in the band’s upcoming avatar‑based show slated to launch in Las Vegas in 2028.
The decision to retire came after KISS’s final worldwide tour, which concluded with a December 2023 performance at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The band’s last show marked the end of a 50‑year career that included multiple lineup changes, but the core members—Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer—remained together through the final tour. According to a Sun newspaper interview, the group chose to stop touring because the physical demands of their elaborate stage shows were becoming increasingly difficult.
In an interview with Guitar World, Thayer said, “We did record a great new song that Paul wrote. That’s probably about as much as I can tell you right now.” He added that KISS “has always believed in making things an event” and that any new music must feel special and have a reason for existing. Thayer emphasized that the band does not record new material simply to fill a discography, stating, “You don’t make another KISS record just because you’re supposed to make another KISS record.”
Gene Simmons has also spoken about the new music in a Pollstar interview. Simmons said fans could expect new songs at the upcoming avatar shows, noting, “You’re gonna get all that stuff, and also new songs.” When asked to clarify, he added, “Exactly what that means, written by us. We have songs done.” Simmons has linked the new material to the band’s planned Las Vegas show, which will feature virtual avatars of the original members.
The avatar project represents a new era for KISS. Simmons has described the initiative as a major investment, stating that the band is spending “about 200 million dollars to take it to the next level.” The project will combine live performance technology with digital avatars, allowing the band to continue delivering the theatrical experience that has defined KISS for decades while reducing the physical strain on the musicians.
The new song, written by Stanley, is the first confirmed piece of new material since the band’s retirement. While the exact release date has not been announced, industry observers note that the track will likely be integrated into the Las Vegas avatar show, which is scheduled for 2028. The band’s decision to record new music after retiring from touring underscores their commitment to evolving their brand while maintaining the high standards that have made KISS a lasting influence in rock music.
In summary, KISS has recorded a new song written by Paul Stanley, confirmed by guitarist Tommy Thayer and bassist Gene Simmons. The track will probably feature in the band’s 2028 Las Vegas avatar show, part of a $200 million investment in a new era of performance. The band’s retirement from touring in 2023 was driven by the physical demands of their shows, but their new project demonstrates a continued focus on delivering unique, event‑style music experiences to fans worldwide.
The decision to retire came after KISS’s final worldwide tour, which concluded with a December 2023 performance at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The band’s last show marked the end of a 50‑year career that included multiple lineup changes, but the core members—Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer—remained together through the final tour. According to a Sun newspaper interview, the group chose to stop touring because the physical demands of their elaborate stage shows were becoming increasingly difficult.
In an interview with Guitar World, Thayer said, “We did record a great new song that Paul wrote. That’s probably about as much as I can tell you right now.” He added that KISS “has always believed in making things an event” and that any new music must feel special and have a reason for existing. Thayer emphasized that the band does not record new material simply to fill a discography, stating, “You don’t make another KISS record just because you’re supposed to make another KISS record.”
Gene Simmons has also spoken about the new music in a Pollstar interview. Simmons said fans could expect new songs at the upcoming avatar shows, noting, “You’re gonna get all that stuff, and also new songs.” When asked to clarify, he added, “Exactly what that means, written by us. We have songs done.” Simmons has linked the new material to the band’s planned Las Vegas show, which will feature virtual avatars of the original members.
The avatar project represents a new era for KISS. Simmons has described the initiative as a major investment, stating that the band is spending “about 200 million dollars to take it to the next level.” The project will combine live performance technology with digital avatars, allowing the band to continue delivering the theatrical experience that has defined KISS for decades while reducing the physical strain on the musicians.
The new song, written by Stanley, is the first confirmed piece of new material since the band’s retirement. While the exact release date has not been announced, industry observers note that the track will likely be integrated into the Las Vegas avatar show, which is scheduled for 2028. The band’s decision to record new music after retiring from touring underscores their commitment to evolving their brand while maintaining the high standards that have made KISS a lasting influence in rock music.
In summary, KISS has recorded a new song written by Paul Stanley, confirmed by guitarist Tommy Thayer and bassist Gene Simmons. The track will probably feature in the band’s 2028 Las Vegas avatar show, part of a $200 million investment in a new era of performance. The band’s retirement from touring in 2023 was driven by the physical demands of their shows, but their new project demonstrates a continued focus on delivering unique, event‑style music experiences to fans worldwide.