Gene Simmons, the iconic KISS bassist, reignited a feud with Carlos Santana, criticizing the guitarist's stage presence in a resurfaced 2009 interview. Simmons, now 75, called out Santana's performance style, arguing it lacks the energy of a true rock concert. The comments, originally aired on Las Vegas' KVVU-TV, highlight a clash between two music legends with contrasting approaches to live shows.
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In the interview, Simmons responded to a question about KISS's future by taking aim at Santana, now 77. "I'm sick of bands like Carlos Santana looking at his shoes and calling that a rock concert," Simmons said. "Get off the stage."
Known for KISS's theatrical makeup, costumes, and pyrotechnics, Simmons contrasted his band's high-octane performances with Santana's soulful blend of Latin, rock, blues, and jazz.
The tension traces back to 2005, when Santana labeled KISS "Las Vegas entertainment" in an interview reported by Blabbermouth.
"Gene Simmons is an entertainer, not a musician," Santana said. "KISS wears masks and mascara, but a real musician doesn't need that." Simmons initially brushed off the jab, telling Far Out Magazine, "Not everyone likes the same meal." His later remarks, however, showed less restraint.
KISS vs. Santana: A Tale of Style
KISS, formed by Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer, and Tommy Thayer, built a legacy on spectacle. Their shows feature fire-breathing, levitating platforms, and larger-than-life visuals, captivating fans for decades. Santana, by contrast, delivers introspective performances, focusing on intricate guitar work and emotional depth. Both artists have thrived, but their visions of a rock concert couldn't be more different.
The debate resurfaced as both musicians continue performing. KISS, after wrapping their End of the Road farewell tour in December 2023, announced a return to the stage. The band will perform in Las Vegas starting in November 2025, a fitting venue given Santana's earlier dig. Santana, meanwhile, is touring the U.S. and will play multiple shows at Las Vegas' House of Blues in 2025.
What Defines a Rock Concert?
Simmons' comments raise broader questions about live music. Is a rock concert defined by theatricality or musicality? For KISS fans, the band's over-the-top production is the draw. Santana's audience, however, values his raw, soulful connection. Both have earned acclaim, proving there's room for varied styles.
As KISS and Santana take the stage in Las Vegas, their rivalry underscores a timeless debate in rock music. Fans can catch both acts and decide for themselves what makes a concert unforgettable.
