The world of rock and roll lost one of its most iconic figures when Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist of KISS, passed away.

Known as “Space Ace,” Frehley was not just a founding member of one of the most influential rock bands in history but also a beloved friend and inspiration to many musicians, including John 5, the acclaimed guitarist known for his work with Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie.

In a heartfelt conversation, John 5 shared intimate memories and stories about Ace, shedding light on the man behind the makeup and the music, and the tragic circumstances surrounding his untimely death.

John 5 opened up about the deep friendship he shared with Ace Frehley, describing him as a “great guy” and an immortal figure in rock history.

Their bond was forged through mutual respect and a shared love for music and unique personalities.

John 5 is a self-professed die-hard KISS fan and collector, which made his relationship with Ace even more special.

He recalled how Ace was always excited about the future, despite the hardships he faced.

One of the most heartbreaking parts of John 5’s recollection was the story of Ace’s final days.

Ace had suffered a fall, which led to a medical checkup that surprisingly showed him to be healthy.

He was optimistic and looking forward to upcoming projects and events. However, fate had other plans.

The accident, described by John 5 as a terrible and sudden event, cut short Ace’s life.

It was a crushing blow not only to his family and friends but also to the entire rock community.

John 5 emphasized the importance of caution in life, reflecting on how unpredictable and fragile it can be.

He expressed his ongoing grief and how difficult it still is to talk about Ace, underscoring the profound impact Ace had on those around him.

John 5 also delved into the legacy of KISS and Ace’s unique place within it.

Unlike many other classic rock bands, KISS was more than just a musical group; they were an empire, a cultural phenomenon that transcended music.

John 5 compared KISS to global brands like Coca-Cola and McDonald’s, highlighting their massive influence and iconic status.

Ace Frehley, with his signature space-themed persona and electrifying guitar work, was a key part of this empire.

His influence extended beyond KISS to inspire countless musicians, including Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, and Nikki Sixx.

John 5 shared anecdotes about their admiration for Ace and KISS, cementing the guitarist’s status as a rock legend.

In a lighter moment, John 5 shared stories about the quirky and fascinating side of Ace Frehley’s personality.

Ace had a penchant for collecting unusual items and loved tinkering with gadgets and technology.

John 5 recounted how they would visit pawn shops together, where Ace would spend thousands of dollars on the most random and bizarre items—from radios to telescopes to vintage guitars.

These stories painted a picture of a man who was not only a rock star but also a curious and playful soul who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life.

John 5’s anecdotes revealed Ace’s love for the eccentric and his constant quest for new things to explore.

The conversation also touched on KISS’s famous live albums, particularly the “KISS Alive” series.

John 5 gave his personal rankings, placing the original “KISS Alive” as the best, followed by “Alive 2,” and then “Alive 3,” which came out in the early 1990s.

He noted that other musicians, including the late Dimebag Darrell and Snake Sabo, had similar opinions, showing the enduring respect for KISS’s live performances.

John 5’s respect for Ace’s musical contributions was clear.

He spoke about Ace’s unique guitar techniques, such as his use of the bridge pickup and his love for vintage gear, which often wasn’t even plugged in properly but still produced that iconic sound.

John 5 reminisced about the 20th anniversary of KISS and their induction into the Hollywood Rock Walk, an event that celebrated the band’s 20 years of rock and roll excellence.

He recalled how Ace was present at the event, along with other band members in full makeup, marking a significant milestone in their careers.

This event symbolized the lasting impact KISS had on the music industry and popular culture.

It was a celebration of their achievements and a reminder of the legacy Ace Frehley helped build.

Beyond the stage persona, John 5 revealed the human side of Ace Frehley—a man who was passionate about music, technology, and life.

Despite the fame and larger-than-life image, Ace remained grounded and approachable, always ready to share a story or a laugh.

John 5’s reflections offer a touching tribute to Ace Frehley, capturing the essence of a man who was much more than just the “Space Ace.” He was a friend, an innovator, and a true rock and roll icon whose spirit will live on forever.

Ace Frehley’s passing left a void in the rock world, but through the memories shared by friends like John 5, his legacy continues to inspire and captivate.

From his groundbreaking work with KISS to his eccentric hobbies and heartfelt friendships, Ace was a multifaceted legend whose influence transcended generations.

His story is one of triumph, tragedy, and timeless rock and roll spirit—a story that will never be forgotten.