The KISS Songs That Prove Ace Frehley Was the Soul of the Band

Ace Frehley was not just KISS’s first lead guitarist; he was also a major reason why the band became so famous. The band’s rock edge came from his keen guitar playing, smart songwriting, and quirky personality. While the other members of KISS experimented with pop and disco to gain popularity, Ace remained committed to the hard rock sound that made them renowned in the first place.

At first, he seemed content just playing riffs in the background. But as time went on, the “Spaceman” began to take center stage, singing lead vocals and changing the band’s sound in ways that couldn’t be missed. Ace left his mark on KISStory with songs about space jams and difficult breakups.

Here’s a rocket-fueled list of the Top 10 Ace Frehley KISS songs. These tracks really demonstrate what made him such a unique and important member of the band.

10. “Parasite” from Hotter Than Hell (1974)

Ace was already writing great tunes before he started singing on KISS records. “Parasite” is a powerful, raw song full of energy and attitude. It’s basically a message to an ex-girlfriend who won’t leave you alone. Gene Simmons sang the vocals, but Ace’s style is all over it—from the heavy chords to the sarcastic tone. The song became a hit during live shows, helping the band establish their tough, streetwise image early on.

9. “Into the Void” from Psycho Circus (1998)

Let’s skip ahead to the late 1990s. The original KISS band reunited for Psycho Circus after being apart for years. The album was all over the place, but Ace’s “Into the Void” was the standout track. It was the only one that sounded like vintage KISS. The song features big guitars, spaced-out lyrics, and that unmistakable Ace charm. It’s a return to his roots—full of style and toughness. Sadly, it was also the last real thing he did for the band before they parted ways for good.

8. “Fractured Mirror” from Ace Frehley (1978)

Ace’s solo album was by far the best of the four KISS members’ solo releases in 1978. The last track, “Fractured Mirror,” was an eerie instrumental showcasing a more serious and reflective side of him. There are no words here—only layers of shimmering guitar melodies that seem both sad and lovely. The song feels like a journey through space, which is perfect for the creator of the Spaceman character.

7. “Dark Light” from Music from “The Elder” (1981)

By the time Music from “The Elder” came out, Ace was becoming frustrated. KISS was moving away from their raw rock roots and experimenting with weird concept albums. “Dark Light” was his way of fighting back: a hard-hitting tune packed with guitar power. His solo here is long, wild, and full of attitude—almost like a musical farewell. Unfortunately, personal problems and accidents slowed down his solo career after that. However, this song remains one of his most daring moments.

6. “Torpedo Girl” from Unmasked (1980)

This one is a little-known treasure. “Torpedo Girl” is fun, strange, and utterly Ace. While the rest of KISS was making glossy pop music at the time, he was still writing weird rock tunes that didn’t take themselves too seriously. This sea voyage showcases Ace at his most carefree and imaginative, with playful lyrics and irresistible “oooh-wahhh-oooh” hooks. It shows that he could write songs that rocked, even if they were a little silly.

5. “Weird Ways” from Hotter Than Hell (1974)

“Weird Ways,” another early KISS track, has a dark, deep groove and guitar effects that make it feel like it’s coming from another planet. Peter Criss sang lead vocals, but Ace’s guitar solo is what really stands out. It’s a wild, swirling piece of art that demonstrated how creative he was even then.

4. “Rip It Out” from Ace Frehley (1978)

“Rip It Out” is the song that most captures Ace’s solo energy. After years of touring and clashing with KISS, he finally got to say what he wanted to say. The song starts with one of his most powerful riffs and delivers a strong message to an ex-lover. It’s rough, catchy, and full of attitude—everything that made Ace Frehley a rock star in his own right.

3. “Cold Gin” from Kiss (1974)

Ace proved he was more than just a dazzling guitarist on KISS’s debut record. He wrote only “Cold Gin” for the band’s first album, but it quickly became one of their most popular live songs. It’s bluesy and gritty, telling the story of a drinker struggling to get through another day. Ironically, Gene Simmons, who didn’t drink at all, often sang the song. Ace’s own problems with alcohol eventually led him away from the band.

2. “New York Groove” from Ace Frehley (1978)

“New York Groove” isn’t an original song by Ace Frehley; it’s a cover of a track by the British band Hello. But Ace made it completely his own. With its disco-rock beat and metropolitan swagger, it became his biggest solo hit. His voice fits perfectly, and the song’s tribute to his city still rings true decades later. Fans know they’re in for something spectacular when he walks on stage to those opening rhythms.

1. “Shock Me” from Love Gun (1977)

“Shock Me,” the first KISS song Ace ever sang lead on, tops the list. It’s also the track that really cemented his legend. The song turned a terrifying moment—a real electric shock on stage—into one of KISS’s best songs. The riff is pure, gritty rock ’n’ roll, and his singing is a little rough but quite charming. For years, “Shock Me” was the highlight of his live shows, complete with grandiose guitar solos and smoke-filled theatrics.

The Long-Term Effect of Ace

Ace Frehley’s time with KISS may not have been easy, but his impact is undeniable. His blend of honesty, humor, and cosmic cool gave the band its heart and attitude. Ace always sounded like himself, whether shredding through a solo or singing about space travel. That’s what made him so memorable.