Paul Stanley (b. 1952)

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Biography

Paul Stanley is an American musician. He was the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and a founding member of the hard rock band Kiss, which was active from 1973 to 2023. He was the writer or co-writer of many of the band's most popular songs. Stanley established the Starchild character for his Kiss persona.

Timeline

The story of Paul Stanley, told in moments.

1952 Birth

Born Stanley Bert Eisen in Manhattan. He was born with a condition called microtia. His right ear was underdeveloped. He was effectively deaf on that side.

How did being deaf on one side shape your relationship with music? Did microtia make you feel like an outsider? Was the star over your eye a mask or a declaration?

1973 Event

Co-founded KISS with Gene Simmons. Stanley adopted the "Starchild" persona. He painted a black star over his right eye.

What made you and Gene Simmons work? Where did the Starchild persona come from? Did KISS feel like an act or your true self?

1975 Event

KISS released Alive!, a live album that broke the band. It went on to sell over four million copies. The band's theatrical stage show became legendary.

Was Alive! really the album that broke everything open? What was it like watching KISS go from clubs to arenas? Did the theatrics ever overshadow the music for you?

1996 Life

Reunited with the original KISS lineup for a worldwide tour. The reunion grossed over $143 million. It was the highest-grossing tour of 1996.

Why did the reunion work so well financially? Did getting back together feel like closure or continuation? Was $143 million a surprise?

2023 Event

KISS played their final concert at Madison Square Garden. The End of the Road World Tour had run for five years and 260 shows.

How did you know it was time for the final show? What went through your mind at Madison Square Garden? Can you really walk away from KISS?