Watch Gene Simmons Performance Of “Stormy Weather” For New Reagan Film
via Reagan Movie / Youtube
Gene Simmons, the iconic frontman of KISS, has dropped a music video for his rendition of the 1933 jazz standard “Stormy Weather.” The song is featured in the new biopic Reagan and showcases Simmons in a completely different light.
The video shifts between shots of Simmons — casually dressed in a black shirt, flat-brim hat, and sunglasses — singing in a studio and scenes from the film. The movie stars Dennis Quaid as Ronald Reagan and Mena Suvari as his first wife, Jane Wyman.
A Timeless Tune Reimagined
“Stormy Weather,” written by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler, has a rich history. Ethel Waters first recorded it in 1933, and her version has been recognized by the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress. Over the years, legends like Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Etta James have lent their voices to the song. Now, Simmons joins this esteemed lineup with his own unique take.
Reflecting on the track’s placement in Reagan, Simmons told Newsweek:
“It seemed to me during the scenes where Ronald Reagan was sitting with Jane Wyman at the club, there would probably be music playing in the background. I was actually thrilled that the producers thought my version of the song would work in the scene.”
Simmons’ Post-KISS Journey
Simmons also praised Reagan, calling him “one of America’s great presidents.” He noted Reagan’s journey from actor to Democratic Party member to Republican, saying:
“Interestingly, and I suspect the masses didn’t know this about President Reagan, he started off as an actor, joined the Democratic Party, then became disillusioned…and joined the Republican Party.”
The release of “Stormy Weather” comes nearly a year after KISS wrapped their final show at Madison Square Garden. Simmons remains busy, touring with his solo band and working on a five-part documentary about KISS’s farewell tour.
Simmons’ version of “Stormy Weather” proves that even after decades in rock, he’s still finding new ways to surprise us.
Watch the video below:
