Gene Simmons recently discussed KISS’s farewell tour and final shows
Appearing over the weekend (Sunday, June 4) on Australia’s “The Sunday Project”, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons talked about the iconic band’s decision to end their career with two shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden in early December.
Gene said in part (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): “Well, look, at a certain point Mother Nature takes over no matter what your plans are. And at a certain time you’ve gotta have the dignity and pride but also the love and admiration of your fans to know when it’s time to call it quits. We’ve all seen boxers that stay in the ring too long, and we’ve all seen bands that stay on the stage too long. So, I’m still looking pretty damn good. But that’s not the point.
“The point is the physical nature of what we do is gonna limit how long we do it. And we remember, we introduce ourselves with ‘You wanted the best. You got the best. The hottest band in the world.’ I don’t wanna be in one of those bands where the fans just say, ‘Oh, you should have seen them back in 1804 when they were really rocking.’ Right here, right now, either be a champion or get off the stage.
“So we’re gonna quit while the quitting’s good, while we’re on top. And gratefully, I don’t know how to verbalize what an amazing journey it’s been, and it’s only due to the fans. Without them, I’d be asking the next person in line if they’d like some fries with that. Don’t kid yourself.”
KISS‘s final leg of their “The End Of The Road” tour commences this September and is now set to include shows in Crandon, Wisconsin; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Cleveland, Ohio before calling it a day with two shows in New York City at Madison Square Garden.
