Paul Stanley, the iconic frontman of Kiss, is renowned for his rhythm guitar prowess, but there's a hidden gem in his musical journey that deserves the spotlight. The guitarist who left Stanley breathless was none other than Paul Kossoff of Free.
In an era that celebrated guitar heroes, Stanley's appeal lay in his ability to craft songs rather than showcase a million notes per second. He understood that the best players didn't need to be flashy, and his strength as a songwriter took center stage.
But here's where it gets controversial: Stanley's influences, while diverse, had a common thread. From Led Zeppelin to Cream, the blues were at the heart of their sound. And it was this bluesy influence that led Stanley to discover Free and, ultimately, Paul Kossoff.
Kossoff's playing was natural, raw, and unlike anything Stanley had heard before. While Jimi Hendrix had revolutionized the world, Kossoff's style was unique and captivating. Stanley recalls, "I had to pull over and catch my breath. His command of chords was deceiving; it appeared simple, but it was so much more."
And this is the part most people miss: Stanley's occasional lead guitar moments in Kiss echo Kossoff's style more than we realize. His solo album and the legendary Ace Frehley collaborations showcased a riff-heavy approach, proving that Stanley's playing was all about serving the song.
Even though 'All Right Now' was the song that blew Stanley away, Free's 'Fire and Water' offers a glimpse into the Kiss sound. Paul Rodgers' vocal leaps mirror Stanley's stratospheric reaches, creating a unique connection between the two bands.
While Kossoff's time was brief, his impact on guitar playing is undeniable. His ability to tell stories through his instrument is a lesson all guitarists should learn. So, the next time you listen to Kiss, remember the influence of Free and the magical guitar work of Paul Kossoff.
Related Topics: Guitar Legends, Blues Influence, Storytelling Through Music
