

Last Updated: 09 Oct, 2025 | Views: 1595
Age: 76
Profession: Musician
Other Profession(s): Singer, Actor, Entrepreneur, Record Producer, Song writer, Television Personality
Famous For: Rock legend and KISS co-founder
About (Profile/Biography):
Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz in 1949 in Israel, is best known as the co-founder and bassist of the iconic rock band KISS. With his fire-breathing persona, The Demon, and trademark tongue, Gene became a global symbol of rock showmanship. Beyond music, he’s a savvy businessman, reality TV star, and outspoken personality. After immigrating to the U.S. as a child, he transformed himself into a rock legend and multimillionaire. Gene has never shied away from controversy, embracing fame and financial success with open arms. Whether selling KISS merchandise or sharing blunt views on politics, he keeps audiences talking. Despite his larger-than-life image, he remains grounded in his immigrant roots and disciplined work ethic.
Early Life and Origins
• Gene was born in Haifa, Israel, and moved to New York City at age 8, barely speaking English at the time.
• His mother was a Holocaust survivor, which deeply influenced his view on survival and personal ambition.
• He adopted the name Gene Simmons in tribute to rockabilly singer Jumpin’ Gene Simmons.
Music Career with KISS
• Gene co-founded KISS in 1973, helping define glam rock with theatrical makeup, fire-breathing, and iconic costumes.
• He wrote and performed many of the band's biggest hits, including "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "Calling Dr. Love."
• Known as The Demon, Gene helped build KISS into one of the highest-grossing bands in music history.
Business Ventures
• Gene built a merchandising empire, putting the KISS brand on everything from comic books to coffins.
• He starred in Gene Simmons Family Jewels, a reality show that offered a peek into his home life.
• Gene co-founded the Rock & Brews restaurant chain, expanding his influence beyond the stage.
Controversy
• Gene was banned from Fox News HQ in 2017 after reported inappropriate behavior during a media visit.
• He has sparked outrage with his blunt takes on depression, politics, and women’s roles in music.
• Critics often accuse Gene of prioritizing profit over artistic integrity, especially in KISS’s aggressive merchandising.
Awards and Recognitions
• Gene was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 as a member of KISS.
• He received the Golden God Award from Metal Hammer for his lasting impact on rock and metal culture.
• KISS earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing Gene’s global influence.
Lesser Known Facts
• Gene speaks four languages: Hebrew, Hungarian, German, and English, showing his international roots.
• He worked as a sixth-grade teacher in Harlem before his music career took off.
• Despite his image, Gene has never drunk alcohol or used drugs, citing discipline and control as reasons.
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