Kiss is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time. They have been rocking the world for over 50 years with their explosive live shows, catchy songs, and outrageous costumes. But which songs are the best of the best?
Top 10 Kiss Songs of All time
Here is our list of the top 10 Kiss songs, based on popularity, quality, and impact.
10. Rock and Roll All Nite
This is the ultimate anthem for rock fans who want to party every day and night. Released in 1975, this song became Kiss’s first top 20 hit and a staple of their live shows. The song captures the spirit of Kiss and their fans, who live for the music and the fun.
9. Beth
This is a rare ballad from Kiss, sung by drummer Peter Criss. The song tells the story of a lonely musician who misses his girlfriend while he is on tour. The song was a huge hit in 1976, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming the band’s highest-charting single in the US. The song showcases Criss’s soulful voice and the softer side of Kiss.
8. Detroit Rock City
This is a hard-rocking tribute to the city that gave Kiss one of their biggest fan bases. The song opens with a car crash sound effect, inspired by the death of a fan who was killed on his way to a Kiss concert. The song then launches into a fast-paced riff and a catchy chorus that celebrates the power of rock and roll. The song was released in 1976 as the lead single from their classic album Destroyer.
7. I Was Made for Lovin’ You
This is one of Kiss’s most successful and controversial songs. Released in 1979, this song marked a departure from their usual hard rock style and embraced the disco craze that was popular at the time. The song features a disco beat, synthesizers, and a falsetto chorus sung by Paul Stanley. The song was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number 11 in the US and number 1 in many countries. However, some fans and critics accused Kiss of selling out and betraying their roots.
6. Heaven’s on Fire
This is one of Kiss’s most popular songs from their non-makeup era. Released in 1984, this song is a fiery love song that showcases Stanley’s powerful vocals and catchy hooks. The song also features a memorable guitar solo by Bruce Kulick and a harmonized chorus that invites the listeners to sing along. The song was a hit on both rock and pop charts, reaching number 49 in the US and number 4 in Sweden.
5. Lick It Up
This is the title track from Kiss’s first album without their signature makeup. Released in 1983, this song is a simple but effective rocker that urges the listeners to enjoy life and have fun. The song also features a catchy guitar riff by Vinnie Vincent and a memorable chorus that repeats the title phrase. The song was a hit on both rock and pop charts, reaching number 66 in the US and number 31 in the UK.
4. Love Gun
This is one of Kiss’s most iconic songs, featuring one of their most suggestive metaphors. Released in 1977, this song is about Stanley’s sexual prowess and his ability to please women with his “love gun”. The song also features a powerful guitar solo by Ace Frehley and a vocal duet between Stanley and Simmons. The song was a hit on both rock and pop charts, reaching number 61 in the US and number 22 in Canada.
3. Shout It Out Loud
This is another anthem for rock fans who want to let loose and have fun. Released in 1976, this song is about expressing yourself through music and ignoring the critics and naysayers. The song features a catchy chorus that encourages the listeners to shout it out loud, as well as a guitar solo by Frehley and a vocal trio by Stanley, Simmons, and Criss. The song was a hit on both rock and pop charts, reaching number 31 in the US and number 15 in Canada.
2. God of Thunder
This is one of Kiss’s heaviest and darkest songs, featuring Simmons as the God of Thunder who rules over rock and roll and sex. Released in 1976, this song features a thunderous riff, eerie sound effects, distorted vocals, and demonic lyrics. The song also features Simmons spitting blood during his live performances, adding to his sinister persona. The song was a hit on both rock and metal charts, reaching number 22 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.
1. Crazy Crazy Nights
This is our pick for the best Kiss song ever. Released in 1987, this song is an uplifting anthem that celebrates life, love, and music. The song features an infectious chorus that invites the listeners to join the party, as well as a soaring guitar solo by Kulick and a passionate vocal performance by Stanley. The song was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number 65 in the US and number 4 in the UK. The song also became a fan favorite and a live staple, often closing their shows with a bang.
Conclusion
These are our top 10 Kiss songs, but of course, there are many more great songs by this legendary band. Kiss has been one of the most influential and successful rock bands of all time, with over 100 million albums sold, 30 gold albums, and countless awards and honors. They have also been one of the most entertaining and spectacular live acts, with their pyrotechnics, costumes, makeup, and stage antics. They have inspired generations of fans and musicians with their music and their attitude. They are truly the kings of rock and roll.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Here are some of the most asked questions about Kiss and their songs, along with our answers.
Q: When did Kiss start wearing makeup?
A: Kiss started wearing makeup in 1973, when they decided to create distinctive personas and costumes for each member. Stanley became the Starchild, Simmons became the Demon, Frehley became the Spaceman, and Criss became the Catman.
Q: When did Kiss stop wearing makeup?
A: Kiss stopped wearing makeup in 1983, when they decided to reveal their true faces on MTV. They wanted to reinvent themselves and adapt to the changing musical trends. They also faced legal issues with Frehley and Criss over the rights to their makeup designs.
Q: When did Kiss start wearing makeup again?
A: Kiss started wearing makeup again in 1996, when they reunited with Frehley and Criss for a successful reunion tour. They wanted to recapture the magic and nostalgia of their classic era. They also realized that their makeup was a big part of their appeal and identity.
Q: Who are the current members of Kiss?
A: The current members of Kiss are Stanley, Simmons, Thayer, and Singer. Thayer replaced Frehley in 2002 as the Spaceman, and Singer replaced Criss in 2004 as the Catman. They both wear the original makeup designs of their predecessors.
Q: How many members have been in Kiss?
A: There have been 10 members in Kiss over the years. The original four were Stanley, Simmons, Frehley, and Criss. They were followed by Vincent, Carr, Kulick, St. John, Thayer, and Singer.
Q: What is the meaning of Kiss?
A: The meaning of Kiss is not clear. Some say it stands for “Knights in Satan’s Service”, but this is a rumor spread by religious groups who accused Kiss of being satanic. Others say it stands for “Keep It Simple Stupid”, but this is a joke made by Simmons. The band has never confirmed or denied any meaning for their name.
Q: What is the best-selling Kiss album?
A: The best-selling Kiss album is Alive!, released in 1975. This is a live album that captures the energy and excitement of their concerts. It features many of their classic songs and helped them break into the mainstream. It has sold over 9 million copies worldwide.
Q: What is the worst-selling Kiss album?
A: The worst-selling Kiss album is Music from “The Elder”, released in 1981. This is a concept album that tells a fantasy story about a young hero who must save the world from evil. It features orchestral arrangements and progressive rock elements that alienated their fans and critics. It has sold less than 500,000 copies worldwide.
Q: What is the most controversial Kiss song?
A: The most controversial Kiss song is I Was Made for Lovin’ You, released in 1979. This is a disco song that deviated from their hard rock style and angered many of their fans who felt betrayed by their change of direction. It also sparked a backlash from some rock purists who hated disco music.
Q: What is the most popular Kiss song?
A: The most popular Kiss song is Rock and Roll All Nite, released in 1975. This is a rock anthem that expresses the spirit and lifestyle of Kiss and their fans. It has become their signature song and a staple of their live shows. It has also been covered by many artists and featured in many movies and TV shows.