Skid Row guitarist Snake Sabo shared insights about his band’s unique relationship with KISS in an interview with Scott Michael Nathan. He emphasized Skid Row’s unique position as the only band to perform on both of KISS’s farewell tours.
“We’ve been greatly fortunate to play a lot with them [KISS], ” Sabo said. “And I think we have the honor of being the only band that played on both of their farewell tours.”
“We played in 2000 with the original band doing their farewell tour, and then a couple of years ago their farewell tour in Europe we played with them on a bunch of dates as well,” he continued. “We’re very fortunate to have become friendly with them and they’ve been so kind and generous to us throughout the years.”
Sabo described his personal dynamic with Gene Simmons: “Gene lets me get away with everything. I’m just so verbally abusive and he lets me get away with it because I guess he gets a kick out of it from me. I just I’m so thankful that he is that way with me.”
This recent revelation adds another chapter to the relationship between Skid Row and KISS. Their connection spans decades of collaboration and occasional controversy.
Historical Tour Connections
Documentation from Ultimate Classic Rock revealed Skid Row’s consideration as opening acts for KISS’s reunion tour in the late 1990s. This opportunity created unexpected tension within the band.
Then-vocalist Sebastian Bach made an independent decision to accept the touring offer. His choice, made without consulting bandmates, later contributed to internal conflicts within Skid Row.
Sebastian Bach’s KISS Connection
Music journalists at May The Rock Be With You documented Bach’s profound admiration for Gene Simmons and KISS. This admiration made the potential touring opportunity particularly significant for the former frontman.
Bach’s personal connection to KISS influenced the band’s professional dynamics during that era. It became a defining factor in their relationship.
Current Dynamic
The relationship between Skid Row and KISS has transformed since their early days. Sabo’s recent comments about Gene Simmons reflect this evolution. Their participation in both farewell tours demonstrates the strength of their professional bond despite past challenges.
This lasting connection has become significant in both bands’ histories. It shows how professional relationships in rock music can strengthen over time.
