Paul Stanley Defends Their “Wholesome” Groupies

Kiss’s frontman Paul Stanley recently opened up about the band’s history with groupies, describing their backstage relationships as simple and positive. “What a great, great life,” he shared on Steve-O’s Wild Ride podcast. “It’s everything people imagine it to be and more.” Stanley explained that Kiss never promoted themselves based on their wild lifestyle, but they didn’t hide it either. The vibe, according to Stanley, was carefree and exactly what people would expect from a rock-and-roll life.

‘Wholesome’ Connections Beyond the Stage

Stanley emphasized that Kiss’s interactions with fans often went beyond typical rockstar clichés. “For all the girls, groupies, young women, whatever they were, it was really kind of, no pun intended, wholesome,” he said. He explained that these women were there because they genuinely loved music and wanted to be close to the band. “They would travel with you, do your laundry, go to the movies,” he added, describing these interactions as meaningful connections rather than tawdry flings. To the band’s frontman, it was all about companionship and a shared love for music.

Respect and Fun Without Complications

When asked how Kiss’s interactions with groupies compared with Gene Simmons’s reputation, Stanley simply laughed, keeping the mood light. He added that the connections were honest and straightforward. “The women who would come to shows weren’t coming to be courted,” he said. “You have tonight and we all know that. Nobody got hurt. Nobody ever walked away feeling disrespected.” The band and their fans understood the dynamic—everyone was on the same page, and it kept things “uncomplicated and fun.” Stanley wrapped up by noting:

“We were very upfront, and they were very upfront…whatever your relationship is with anybody, hopefully it’s uncomplicated, whether it’s somebody you’re involved with for a night or for a lifetime.”