In a shocking twist, legendary rock band Kiss reveals their plans to continue performing for their devoted fans, albeit in a digital form. Instead of hanging up their boots, the iconic quartet, including Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, will don digital avatars to captivate audiences for decades to come.
The news mirrors the success of ABBA's "ABBA Voyage" show in London, which utilized digital avatars to continue the Swedish pop giants' reign in the music industry. Kiss, noting the audience's response to this unique approach, decided to follow suit. The band played their last concert on stage at New York's Madison Square Garden last Saturday, but the end was far from the end.
The transformation into digital avatars marks a "new era" for Kiss, as they aim to bridge the gap between physical and digital performance. A short video - titled "KISS - A New Era Begins" - offers a glimpse into the creation process of these digital doppelgangers. Industrial Light & Magic, best known for its work on "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones," is responsible for bringing these avatars to life.
Gene Simmons, who is 74, had previously hinted at the band's separation during his interview with Rolling Stone, insisting, "It will be the last Kiss performance in makeup." However, future Kiss concerts without masks and costumes remain a possibility.
The Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment, which has already worked on the ABBA avatar project, ensures that Kiss can keep their popularity alive for years to come. According to a Music Week report, the ABBA avatar digital show boasts over one million visitors a year after its launch, with shows slated to run until the end of 2024.
As Kiss embarks on this digital journey, it's an exciting time for rock music and music culture. The band's iconic image will remain relevant, connecting with current and future generations of fans in innovative and dynamic ways. With AI technology expected to play a significant role in live and virtual performances, the collaboration with Pophouse Entertainment and Industrial Light & Magic sets the stage for an extraordinary future.
