Rock legends KISS are set to be celebrated at the Kennedy Center Honors this year, with President Donald Trump hosting the ceremony on December 8. The band joins a star-studded lineup that also includes George Strait, Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, and Gloria Gaynor.
Trump praised the original four members—Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Peter Criss, and Ace Frehley—calling them “incredible” and hard-working, highlighting their massive global impact: over 100 million records sold, 30 gold albums, and decades of influence in rock music. He hinted that KISS would do “something very special” at the event, though it appears the band won’t be performing together.
Radio host Eddie Trunk confirmed via Twitter that only the original members are being honored and all have agreed to attend.
The Kennedy Center Honors recognize individuals who’ve made major contributions to American culture through the performing arts. KISS’s inclusion underscores their lasting legacy in rock history. Interestingly, Trump has been openly critical of the Kennedy Center in the past, calling some selections “radical left lunatics,” and even replaced board members from the previous administration during his tenure.
Last year’s honorees included the Grateful Dead, Francis Ford Coppola, Bonnie Raitt, jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, and the Apollo Theater—so KISS is in prestigious company for this special recognition.
SOURCE: LoudWire