Remembering “The Spaceman”: Ace Frehley’s Most Unforgettable Songs

When Ace Frehley first left KISS in 1982, it wasn’t clear if the “Spaceman” would ever fully take off on his own. But over time, he proved that he didn’t need face paint or fire-breathing bandmates to make great rock ’n’ roll.

Sure, there were long breaks — fueled by personal struggles, substance issues, and even a high-profile reunion tour with KISS in the late ’90s. But every time people counted him out, Ace came soaring back with another batch of songs filled with swagger, humor, and those instantly recognizable guitar licks. Between 2014 and 2024, he released five solo albums — a remarkable run for someone who’s been rocking stages for more than five decades. From his late-’80s band Frehley’s Comet to his recent solo efforts, Ace has built a galaxy of songs that show just how strong his creative spark still burns.

Here’s a look at the Top 20 Post-KISS Ace Frehley Songs, ranked and celebrated for their riffs, personality, and pure rock attitude.

Early Solo Sparks: Finding His Post-KISS Groove

20. “Separate”
Album: Second Sighting (1988)

One of the few bright spots on Second Sighting, this track features a half-spoken, half-sung delivery from Ace over a slow, simmering riff. It’s moody, confident, and a reminder that even when his band lineup was shaky, Frehley could still deliver a cool, spacey groove.

19. “Rockin’ with the Boys”
Album: Spaceman (2018)

Written decades before it was released, this tune feels like a heartfelt letter from the road — a promise to loved ones that he’ll be back once the show’s over. It’s a catchy throwback to classic KISS storytelling, but from Ace’s personal point of view.

18. “Off My Back”
Album: Spaceman (2018)

Ace sounds fed up here — and that’s part of the fun. Over a bouncy riff, he calls out a failing relationship and decides it’s time to move on. The song mixes vintage Frehley humor with his trademark crunch, proving he can still sound fresh decades into his career.

17. “Something Moved”
Album: Frehley’s Comet (1987)

While Frehley’s Comet was designed as a full band project, Ace’s personality still shines through. Vocalist Tod Howarth takes the lead here, and his soaring delivery blends nicely with Ace’s heavier touch. It’s a strong team effort that expanded Frehley’s musical world.

16. “Breakout”
Album: Frehley’s Comet (1987)

Originally co-written with KISS drummer Eric Carr, this track is pure rock adrenaline. It’s loud, fast, and fun — with Ace dedicating the song to his late friend in concert. You can hear the energy of both musicians bursting through every beat.

Out of This World: The Space Years

15. “Walkin’ on the Moon”
Album: 10,000 Volts (2024)

Decades after first calling himself the “Spaceman,” Ace was still writing songs that reached for the stars. This one takes intergalactic romance to new heights — a love so strong it can’t be contained by gravity. It’s catchy, dreamy, and surprisingly tender.

14. “Calling to You”
Album: Frehley’s Comet (1987)

This synth-tinged anthem feels like a slice of late-’80s nostalgia — glossy production, big hooks, and a soaring chorus. It’s more pop-metal than classic Ace, but it’s also one of the most polished things he’s ever put his name on.

13. “Up in the Sky”
Album: 10,000 Volts (2024)

Here, Ace gets reflective about the world’s chaos while holding out hope for a little cosmic salvation. It’s thoughtful, grounded, and surprisingly optimistic — not bad for a guy known for UFO stories and wild stage antics.

12. “Genghis Khan”
Album: Anomaly (2009)

Nobody does weird like Ace Frehley, and this instrumental epic is proof. Six minutes of wild guitar work, crunchy riffs, and Ace muttering good wishes to a long-dead Mongol warlord. It’s bizarre, funny, and absolutely awesome.

11. “Immortal Pleasures”
Album: Space Invader (2014)

This one shows a more reflective side of Ace. Over big, sweeping riffs, he looks back on his career and life with a sense of pride and wonder. It’s heavy but heartfelt — a song from a rock veteran who’s still dreaming big.

Rising Again: The Comeback Years

10. “Shot Full of Rock”
Album: Trouble Walkin’ (1989)

The opening track from Trouble Walkin’ explodes right out of the gate. Ace is in full command here — sharp vocals, tight production, and a riff that hits like a freight train. It’s one of his purest rock moments, proving he didn’t need KISS to make killer music.

9. “Change”
Album: Space Invader (2014)

After years of hard living, Ace turned his personal journey into a message of redemption. “Change” is a motivational anthem about turning life around, and it hits hard — both lyrically and musically.

8. “Rock Soldiers”
Album: Frehley’s Comet (1987)

A true-life tale of survival, this song recounts Ace’s near-fatal 1983 car crash. It’s a confessional wrapped in pounding drums and roaring guitars, reminding fans just how close he came to burning out — and how grateful he is to still be here.

7. “Words Are Not Enough”
Album: Live + 1 (1988)

Sure, it’s drenched in ’80s keyboards, but this melodic rock tune still packs a punch. Underneath the shiny production, Ace’s guitar work brings warmth and emotion to a pop-friendly sound that surprisingly holds up.

6. “Outer Space”
Album: Anomaly (2009)

This song feels like vintage Frehley — big riffs, space themes, and no gimmicks. After years of silence, Ace came back swinging with Anomaly, and “Outer Space” announced that the Spaceman was back in orbit for good.

Timeless Highlights: The Ultimate Ace

5. “Foxy and Free”
Album: Anomaly (2009)

Kicking off with a thunderous groove and plenty of cowbell, this track is loose, loud, and pure fun. It’s Ace doing what he does best: rocking out without overthinking it.

4. “Into the Night”
Album: Frehley’s Comet (1987)

Originally written by Russ Ballard, this sleek rocker became Ace’s first big solo hit after KISS. Unlike the party vibe of “New York Groove,” it’s darker and more mature, showing that Ace could mix depth with radio-ready polish.

3. “Past the Milky Way”
Album: Space Invader (2014)

Romantic, trippy, and beautifully layered, this one finds Ace giving credit to love for helping him stay grounded. It’s a mix of cosmic wonder and personal reflection — one of his most heartfelt songs.

2. “Remember Me”
Album: Trouble Walkin’ (1989)

Ace goes bluesy here, stripping things back for a change. The song’s simplicity lets his voice and guitar shine through. It’s emotional, soulful, and arguably his most underrated track.

1. “Inside the Vortex”
Album: Space Invader (2014)

This powerhouse tune captures everything great about Ace Frehley — the larger-than-life riffs, the spaced-out lyrics, and the unmistakable swagger. It’s heavy, hypnotic, and full of life, proving that even decades later, the Spaceman still knows how to launch a killer track.

The Final Frontier

Ace Frehley’s post-KISS journey has been anything but smooth, but it’s been one heck of a ride. Through ups, downs, and endless comebacks, he’s stayed true to who he is: a fearless guitarist with a sense of humor, a taste for adventure, and a love of loud, unapologetic rock. Half a century later, the Spaceman’s still orbiting — and showing no signs of burning out anytime soon.