KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley Remembered By Bandmates, Rock Legends

Ace FrehleyKISS's first lead guitarist has died after being taken off a ventilator following a horrific fall and brain hemorrhage… and tributes are pouring in from scores of rockers, including his KISS bandmates. Gene Simmons And Paul Stanley.

In a statement to TMZ, Jean and Paul said: “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an important and irreplaceable rock soldier throughout some of the most formative, foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be part of the KISS legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and everyone who loved him, including our fans around the world.”

Former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick “Ace's passing is devastating to the rock world. It has deeply impacted me as well. He was one of a kind and truly an iconic guitarist. His undeniable role in the creation and success of KISS cannot be forgotten. Not only was he loved by everyone, he influenced millions of guitarists around the world.”

Bret Michaels says he can't thank Ace enough for the years of great music and he reminisces about all the festivals they held… sending love and respect.

Andy Biersack pays tribute to Ace for being in what he considers the most important American rock 'n' roll band of all time.

Touring guitarist for Mötley Crüe John 5 says… “I'm so shocked and saddened that this happened to my hero and my friend. I've known Ace since 1988 and we've been very close ever since. Ace changed the world. He impacted millions of people and changed my life.”

Guitarist Tom Morello says Ace was his “first guitar hero”. He says Ace “inspired generations to love rock 'n' roll and to love rock 'n' roll guitar playing. His timeless riffs and solos, the billowing smoke coming from his Les Paul, the rockets shooting out of the fretboard, his cool cosmic swing on stage and his unforgettable crazy laugh will be missed but never forgotten.”

We broke the story… Ace was hospitalized and on life supportbreathes through a ventilator after falling in the studio and suffering a cerebral hemorrhage.

Ace's family took him off the ventilator on Thursday, and he died. He was 74.