Paul Stanley recently spoke out about overlooking Bruce Kulick during the KISS Kruise Vegas 2025 event, offering an apology in a statement shared through The Rock Experience with Mike Brunn.
During the cruise’s Q&A session, Stanley admitted he had not properly acknowledged Kulick, an influential member of the extended KISS family and a major figure in the band’s history. “Before we get going and we’ve got, you know, a lot of questions and answers, I just wanted to apologize to Bruce because last night with everything going on and it being exciting and it being a big adrenaline rush, first I was surprised when Bruce was out there,” Stanley said.
He continued, “I didn’t remember he was coming out and then I forgot to give him his due cuz Bruce not only is a member of the family, Bruce was an important member of the band. So, apologies for not giving him his credit last night.”
Stanley’s remarks emphasized that the high energy and rapid pace of the event contributed to the unintended oversight of Kulick’s role in the band.
By openly recognizing Kulick’s significance, Stanley drew attention to an essential era in KISS’s evolution—one that merits deeper appreciation. Kulick played a pivotal part in shaping the band’s sound and legacy during a period of major transition.
According to his official biography, Bruce Kulick served as KISS’s lead guitarist from 1984 to 1996, stepping in for Mark St. John at a crucial turning point for the group. Over those twelve years, he provided stability amid multiple lineup changes and helped solidify both the band’s live presence and studio output throughout the ’80s and early ’90s.
Kulick’s work extended beyond lead guitar. Wikipedia notes that he contributed to several key studio albums, including Animalize (1984), Asylum (1985), Crazy Nights (1987), Hot in the Shade (1989), Revenge (1992), and Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions (1997). His involvement included co-writing songs and occasionally playing bass, showcasing his versatility.
His polished guitar style meshed seamlessly with KISS’s sound during a period marked by significant internal changes. Guitar World has reported that Kulick earned numerous Platinum and Gold awards during his time with the band, underscoring the commercial impact of his contributions. His performances are also highlighted in the KISSOLOGY II and III DVD collections, which chronicle major portions of the group’s history.
Following his departure from KISS, Kulick continued to build a strong career with Union, the Eric Singer Project, and Grand Funk Railroad. Even so, his dozen years with KISS stand out as a defining era that established him as a respected figure in rock music. Stanley’s recent apology reinforces the importance of acknowledging Kulick’s legacy alongside the celebrated achievements of the band’s original lineup.
