10 Rock Bands People Love To Hate
4. KISS
The longest running band featured on this list, Kiss clearly pay little attention to the staunch criticism they’ve received throughout their careers. Ever since their formation in 1973, the band have been branded a gimmick, manufactured and insincere by critics at every turn. A review published in the Seattle Daily Times in 1978 suggested that members of the band should start ‘putting money away for the future’ because ‘Kiss won’t be around long’.
A fair portion of the criticism Kiss receives in the modern scene derives from Gene Simmons’ derogative and (perhaps intentionally) provoking comments. An example of Simmons stirring up tension came in 2014 when he confidently stated that ‘rock is dead’. Kiss are also criticised for their extensive merchandise range, which includes caskets, inflatable Gene Simmons replica tongues, a pinball machine and air guitar strings (yes, really).
Despite the setbacks, Kiss remains one of the most successful and enduring acts in rock music history, having sold over 100 million records worldwide and owning one of the best live shows of all time.