In the 1970s, KISS emerged as one of the most unique shock rock bands. The band wasn’t an immediate success and sparked controversy with parents across the country. Despite this, the four iconic members soon became one of the most recognizable and successful rock bands of the era. By the late 70s, the band’s popularity had peaked, though internal conflicts plagued their working relationships.

The first original member to leave the group was drummer Peter Criss on May 18, 1980. He was voted out of the band and replaced by drummer Eric Carr. The next original member to depart was iconic guitarist Ace Frehley in 1982. Given the band’s signature makeup and each member’s individual popularity within the group, this seemed like the potential end of the band.

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Instead, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons persevered, finding replacements and guiding the band through the 1980s. They took off the makeup in September 1983 during a live viewing event on MTV.…