Face the Music: A Life Exposed (53 page)

I’m objective enough about myself to realize that no matter how good I am—and I think I’m damn good—there’s somebody else out there who can do something equally valid. I think that being replaced would be a huge compliment, not a detriment. It’s part of what I hope we’ve built—an ideal that goes far beyond me.

Causes go on. Political parties go on without their founders. I think someone could come along who would be capable of carrying the flag just as well if not better—someone who can build on the foundation. I look forward to the day that I’m replaced in KISS. Not because I want to leave, but because it will prove I’m right:
KISS is bigger than any of its members
.

I’ve always said that I’m not just a member of KISS; I’m a member of the KISS Army. I look forward to watching the band I love continue to rock and roll all night long after my body is too shot to make it to the party every day.

Playing Tompkins Square Park in the East Village with “The Baby Boom.”

© Maury Englander

Me in my bedroom at age sixteen with big plans.

I’m eighteen, living on 75th Road. That was my turquoise Ford Fairlane.

Gene, me, Peter, and Ace. In the beginning we were invincible.

© Neil Zlozower

Japan, 1977. The fans would make me all these dolls.

A young Starchild on the Destroyer Tour.

© Barry Levine

On tour in 1977; a spur-of-the-moment decision to dress like Elvis. Cool and all shook up.

1977: Goodbye Uriah Heap, hello Linda

I dreamed up this insanity.

© Mark Weiss

No wires. No tricks.

© Denis O’Regan

Defying gravity in Europe on the Sonic Boom Tour 2008.

© Denis O’Regan

Preaching from the pulpit. Can I get a hallelujah?!

© Denis O’Regan