KISS rocker Gene Simmons talks about what goes into preparing for the show
KISS rocker Gene Simmons talks concert preparation ahead of the band’s Milwaukee gig.
Mike De Sisti, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Some things are not “Forever” for legendary rock band KISS, after the quartet announced that it has sold its catalog, brand name and IP.
The 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees have struck a deal with Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment Group. The company, founded by Swedish music artist Per Urban Sundin, paid the band $300 million for the acquisition, Bloomberg reported.
“Pophouse, the pioneering global entertainment and music investment firm, announces the acquisition of the music catalogue, brand name and likeness – including the world-renowned face paint designs – as well as the trademarks of the iconic American rock band KISS,” the Stockholm-based company said in a news release.
What does Pophouse plan to do with the KISS catalog, semblance?
Pophouse called the deal a “groundbreaking partnership” that will allow the privately held entertainment company to “further develop and expand KISS’ unique legacy globally,” including “preserving their iconic music, enigmatic personalities and expressive images for generations to come.”
The company is planning a biopic, an avatar show and a KISS-themed experience, according to the announcement. The group will “play a key role in the development of the projects” and work alongside Pophouse, the company added.
“We’ve always pushed new ground in popular culture, and this partnership will ensure we continue to do so for years to come,” KISS bassist and co-founder Gene Simmons said in the release. “Because what Pophouse does is break the rules… The future couldn’t be more exciting!”
The Pophouse deal comes after KISS said goodbye to live touring
The deal comes after KISS bid farewell to a live tour in December 2023 following their final show at Madison Square Garden.
“This … is the end of the road,” Paul Stanley, co-founder, frontman and co-lead singer of KISS, said during the final show in New York. “It seems sad, but tonight is a night to celebrate what we’ve done together. And we couldn’t do it without you.”
Before the curtains closed on the band’s final show, a message appeared on the venue’s video screens that read, “A new era of KISS begins now.” Immediately after the announcement, the band’s digital avatars popped up on the monitors and began playing “God Gave Rock and Roll To You”.
KISS’ last live show in New York marked the beginning of the Pophouse deal
Unbeknownst to KISS fans, the digital avatars are a project with Pophouse that was previewed at the band’s final show, according to the company’s announcement.
“Through a magical combination of cutting-edge technology and unparalleled creativity, Pophouse will bring the full, authentic KISS experience to existing and new fans alike for years to come,” the company said.
The avatar show is slated to launch in 2027, according to Pophouse.
“Our journey with Pophouse is fueled by a desire to resonate eternally in various aspects of global culture,” Stanley said in the release. “As we embark on this endeavor, we aim to weave our legacy into the tapestry of different worlds, ensuring that the KISS experience continues to captivate both our dedicated fans and those yet to discover the thrill.” This partnership is not just a chapter; it’s a timeless symphony of rock ‘n’ roll immortality.”
The only other music catalog acquisition/partnership Pophouse has with an artist outside of Sweden is that of Cyndi Lauper, which the “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” singer sold in February, according to the company.
