Gene Simmons Performs Ace Frehley Written Kiss Songs Live for the First Time

Gene Simmons performed songs written by former Ace Frehley live for the first time during a recent solo band performance, marking a rare moment in Kiss-related live history.

The performance took place on February 20, 2026, at L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana, during a show by the Gene Simmons Band. According to published setlists and concert reports, Simmons debuted the Frehley-penned Kiss tracks “Strange Ways” and “Rocket Ride”, neither of which he had previously performed live in any documented setting.

While Simmons has long included Frehley-associated songs such as “Cold Gin” in his sets, both “Strange Ways” and “Rocket Ride” have historically been absent from his live repertoire. “Strange Ways” originally appeared on Kiss’ 1974 self-titled debut, while “Rocket Ride” was featured on the band’s 1977 album Love Gun. Both tracks are closely associated with Frehley’s songwriting and guitar style.

Setlist records from the Lake Charles show confirm that the two songs were integrated into a broader Kiss-heavy performance that also included staples such as “Deuce,” “Shout It Out Loud,” “War Machine,” “Domino,” and “Calling Dr. Love.” The inclusion of multiple Frehley-written or Frehley-led songs made his influence a clear thematic element of the night.

The Gene Simmons Band lineup for the performance featured Simmons alongside guitarist and vocalist Jason Walker, guitarist Brent Woods, and drummer Brian Tichy. The group has been touring in a stripped-down format that allows Simmons to explore deeper selections from the Kiss catalog outside the constraints of a full Kiss production.

The performance was quickly noted by fans and rock media outlets, with many pointing out that Simmons’ decision to finally perform these particular songs represented a notable shift in how he approaches Frehley-era material. While Kiss’ farewell tour concluded in 2023, Simmons has continued to reinterpret the band’s legacy through solo appearances and special performances.