Kiss received Kennedy Center honors on Saturday, accepting medals from President Trump in the Oval Office. In addition to Kiss, this year’s distinguished honorees included George Strait, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and Sylvester Stallone.
Presidential Recognition
During the presentation, President Trump praised the honorees, stating, “These are incredible people — among the greatest artists and actors, performers, musicians, singers, and songwriters ever to walk the face of the Earth.” He emphasized their widespread appeal, noting that “billions and billions of people have watched them over the years.”
Kiss Honored with Musical Tributes
The official ceremony took place on Sunday evening at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The surviving members of Kiss, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss, graced the red carpet. The band’s original guitarist, Ace Frehley, sadly passed away in October at the age of 74.
Reflecting on Frehley’s legacy, Stanley remarked, “We can mourn him, and celebrate what we accomplished.” Meanwhile, Simmons shared his long-standing connection with President Trump, revealing that they have known each other for over two decades, both having roots in Queens, New York City.
Simmons commented on Trump’s entertaining persona, stating, “Whether you’re a fan of the president or not, he’s never boring. The worst thing is to have some bloated person get up there and make long speeches. No matter what he does, this president’s going to be entertaining.”
Musical Performances
At the Kennedy Center ceremony, country music star Garth Brooks opened the tribute with heartfelt words about Kiss. He highlighted the band’s iconic makeup, which made them instantly recognizable, and performed their classic hit “Shout It Out Loud” from the 1976 album *Destroyer*.
Brooks acknowledged the challenge of performing in front of an unfamiliar audience, stating, “You take the stage in front of people you don’t know. You bare your soul not knowing what you’re going to get back. That takes courage, people. Now try that in six-inch platform shoes.”
Closing the evening, Cheap Trick delivered a lively rendition of “Rock and Roll All Nite,” bringing the celebration to a high-energy conclusion.
A Historic Ceremony
This year’s Kennedy Center Honors was particularly significant, marking the first time a sitting president hosted the event, as they typically only attend. The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony will be broadcast on CBS on Tuesday, Dec. 23, from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM ET/PT.
Conclusion
Kiss’s recognition at the Kennedy Center Honors not only celebrates their monumental impact on music but also highlights their enduring legacy in popular culture. The event was a fitting tribute to a band that has captivated audiences for decades and a poignant moment to remember their late member, Ace Frehley.
FAQs
Who were the other honorees alongside Kiss?
Along with Kiss, this year’s honorees included George Strait, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and Sylvester Stallone.
When will the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony be broadcast?
The ceremony will be broadcast on CBS on Tuesday, Dec. 23, from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM ET/PT.
Who performed at the Kennedy Center ceremony?
Garth Brooks and Cheap Trick performed at the ceremony, paying tribute to Kiss with their iconic songs.
What did President Trump say about the honorees?
President Trump referred to the honorees as “incredible people” and acknowledged their vast impact on entertainment, stating that “billions and billions of people have watched them over the years.”
