Gene Simmons, co-founder of the iconic hard rock band Kiss, has made a significant move by selling the band’s back catalog of songs to a Swedish music investor for over $300 million. The deal includes the rights to the group’s brand, likeness, and intellectual property, marking the band’s retirement from live performances on their End of the Road World Tour.
This sale follows similar moves by legendary artists Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen, who also sold their back catalogs for multimillion-dollar amounts to major music houses. While the exact details of the Kiss deal have not been disclosed, it is believed to be in line with other high-profile catalog sales in the industry.
Founded in 1973, Kiss quickly rose to fame with their iconic face paint and hit songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “God of Thunder.” Despite a brief period without their trademark face paint in the 1980s, the band continued to evolve and captivate audiences over the decades.
Gene Simmons, known for his entrepreneurial spirit, emphasized the importance of collaborating with the right partners in this deal. He and his co-founder, Paul Stanley, will remain involved in the ongoing development of the brand and content generation using the band’s extensive library of work.
The CEO of Pophouse, the Swedish firm behind the acquisition, praised Kiss for their unique identity and worldwide fan base. Simmons highlighted the band’s extensive range of branded products, from coffee to coffins, showcasing their prowess in marketing and branding.
As Kiss embarks on this new chapter with their catalog in new hands, the band’s legacy and impact on the music industry continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. The enduring appeal of Kiss and their music serve as a testament to their lasting influence in the realm of rock and roll.