Check out these new and used Kiss vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Kiss vinyl collection with the essential albums Hotter Than Hell, Dressed To Kill and Alive!. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.

KISS: The Unveiling of Rock ‘n’ Roll Excess

The Formation of a Rock Phenomenon

Genesis of KISS (1973)

KISS, an iconic rock band renowned for their flamboyant stage presence and larger-than-life personas, was formed in New York City in 1973. The original lineup comprised Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, each adopting distinctive alter egos that would become central to the band’s identity.

Debut Album: “KISS” (1974)

• Key Tracks: “Strutter,” “Deuce,” “Black Diamond”
• Influence: The self-titled debut introduced the world to KISS’s raw energy and anthemic sound. Influenced by their hard rock predecessors, the album laid the groundwork for the band’s future sonic and visual extravagance.

The Rise of Iconic Personas: “Hotter Than Hell” (1974) to “Destroyer” (1976)

“Hotter Than Hell” (1974)

• Key Tracks: “Parasite,” “Hotter Than Hell,” “Let Me Go, Rock ‘n’ Roll”
• Evolution: Despite the challenges during the recording process, “Hotter Than Hell” showcased KISS’s commitment to their gritty, hard rock roots. The album’s title track became a staple of their live performances.

“Dressed to Kill” (1975)

• Key Tracks: “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “C’mon and Love Me,” “Rock Bottom”
• Breakthrough: With “Dressed to Kill,” KISS began to attract attention. The anthem “Rock and Roll All Nite” became a rallying cry, setting the stage for their future stadium anthems.

“Destroyer” (1976)

• Key Tracks: “Detroit Rock City,” “Beth,” “Shout It Out Loud”
• Crossover Success: “Destroyer” marked a turning point with its orchestral arrangements and diverse sound. The ballad “Beth” became a surprise hit, showcasing the band’s versatility. “Detroit Rock City” exemplified KISS’s ability to craft memorable, radio-friendly rock.

The Pinnacle of Theatricality: “Love Gun” (1977) to “Dynasty” (1979)

“Love Gun” (1977)

• Key Tracks: “Love Gun,” “I Stole Your Love,” “Christine Sixteen”
• Theatrical Zenith: As KISS reached the zenith of their theatricality, “Love Gun” featured explosive anthems and showcased each member’s persona. The title track and “I Stole Your Love” became concert staples.

“Alive II” (1977)

• Key Tracks: “Detroit Rock City,” “Shout It Out Loud,” “Love Gun”
• Live Spectacle: Capturing the energy of their live performances, “Alive II” showcased KISS’s stage prowess. The album solidified their status as a premier live act.

“Dynasty” (1979)

• Key Tracks: “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” “Sure Know Something,” “Dynasty”
• Disco Exploration: “Dynasty” marked a departure with the disco-infused hit “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” While divisive among fans, the album reflected KISS’s adaptability to changing musical landscapes.

Navigating Turbulent Waters: “Unmasked” (1980) to “Lick It Up” (1983)

“Unmasked” (1980)

• Key Tracks: “Shandi,” “Is That You?,” “Tomorrow”
• Personnel Changes: Facing internal challenges, KISS released “Unmasked,” featuring a pop-oriented sound. The departure of Peter Criss led to a rotating lineup of drummers.

“Music from ‘The Elder'” (1981)

• Key Tracks: “A World Without Heroes,” “I,” “The Oath”
• Concept Album: “Music from ‘The Elder'” was a conceptual departure, telling a fantasy story. Despite being a commercial disappointment, the album has gained a cult following.

“Creatures of the Night” (1982)

• Key Tracks: “I Love It Loud,” “Creatures of the Night,” “War Machine”
• Resurgence: Returning to a heavier sound, KISS experienced a resurgence with “Creatures of the Night.” The album marked a return to their hard rock roots.

“Lick It Up” (1983)

• Key Tracks: “Lick It Up,” “All Hell’s Breakin’ Loose,” “A Million to One”
• Image Transformation: With the removal of makeup, “Lick It Up” marked a new era for KISS. The title track became a rock anthem, and the album reaffirmed their relevance.

Adaptability and Enduring Legacy: “Revenge” (1992) to Present

“Revenge” (1992)

• Key Tracks: “Unholy,” “I Just Wanna,” “Domino”
• Return to Form: “Revenge” saw a return to a heavier sound, earning critical acclaim. The album demonstrated KISS’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.

“Sonic Boom” (2009)

• Key Tracks: “Modern Day Delilah,” “Say Yeah,” “Never Enough”
• Late-Career Success: “Sonic Boom” marked KISS’s first studio album in over a decade. It showcased a blend of classic and contemporary rock, proving their enduring appeal.

Influence on Rock and Roll Culture

Musical Legacy

KISS’s impact on rock and roll culture extends beyond their music. Their theatrical stage presence, iconic makeup, and unforgettable personas have left an indelible mark on the genre.

Visual Aesthetics

The band’s visual aesthetics have influenced countless artists, setting a precedent for the marriage of music and spectacle in rock performances.

Merchandising and Branding

KISS’s unparalleled success in merchandising and branding has established them as a global rock brand. From action figures to comic books, their influence permeates popular culture.

Conclusion: KISS and the Enduring Power of Rock ‘n’ Roll

KISS’s journey from the gritty clubs of New York City to global rock stardom is a testament to their enduring power. As a band that transcends musical boundaries, KISS’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and reverberates through the very foundations of rock ‘n’ roll itself. Through makeup, pyrotechnics, and unforgettable anthems, KISS remains an unparalleled force in the annals of music history.