Following years of criticism by KISS members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons about the validity of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame and the people who run it, Rock Hall CEO Joel Pereseman has accused Stanley of being “almost borderline racist” in some of his remarks about the institution.
In a new interview with Radio.com, Pereseman was asked to share his thoughts on the 2014 event, which saw the original KISS lineup inducted but not perform due to a disagreement with the Hall’s induction practices.
Speaking about Simmons’ speech, Pereseman said, “It was a lovely speech, it was actually kind of classy, as opposed to Paul’s. That speech was the best advertisement for [pointing out that] what we did was right. He’s been almost borderline racist, not in that speech, but in other interviews talking about how hip-hop artists shouldn’t be inducted because they don’t play instruments. It’s like, ‘What are you, kidding?’”
“And he [Stanley] talks about the nominating committee, and how those guys don’t buy records,” continued Pereseman. “Those guys buy records! They’re f—ing fans! Those guys are writers and critics and musicians. Those are the people who buy records and got into the business because they love music.”
Pereseman wasn’t specific about which interview(s) Stanley gave that led him to believe racism may be a part of the rocker’s stance, but both KISS members have been vocal opponents through the years to the Rock Hall’s inclusion of rap and disco artists based on the musical genres themselves.
During KISS’ induction speeches at New York’s Barclays Center on April 10, Stanley said music fans deserve more from Rock Hall organizers.
"The people, I believe, are speaking to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and what they're saying is, 'We want more.',” he said. “They deserve more. They want to be a part of the induction. They want to be a part of the nomination. They don't want to be spoon-fed by a handful of people. Choices. The people pay for tickets. The people buy albums. The people who nominate do not. Let's not forget that these are the people that make it all possible. We just benefit from it."
This past week, KISS released a new compilation, “KISS 40”, in honor of the band’s 40-year career.
The 2-CD package features one track from every major album release, live selections and “Reputation”, an unreleased demo from 1977.
KISS and Def Leppard will launch a co-headlining summer tour of North America on June 23rd in West Valley City, Utah.
See also:
Ace Frehley releases new single Gimme A Feelin’
Paul Stanley of KISS continues to slam Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame
VIDEO: KISS performs with American Idol winner Caleb Johnson
KISS preview KISS 40 compilation
Search KISS at hennemusic
