Gene Simmons
👤 PersonPodcast Appearances
Yeah. I guess the LBGTXYPTSXYZ allodocious people are, in fact, accurate. Men can give birth. Yeah.
Yeah. I guess the LBGTXYPTSXYZ allodocious people are, in fact, accurate. Men can give birth. Yeah.
Gene Simmons' band, about a year ago, we sold Kiss to a company called Pop House for $100 billion.
Gene Simmons' band, about a year ago, we sold Kiss to a company called Pop House for $100 billion.
Well, you sold all of it. The underlying rights and the songs.
Well, you sold all of it. The underlying rights and the songs.
And your likeness, too, as well, right? Not under the makeup. Oh. Oh.
And your likeness, too, as well, right? Not under the makeup. Oh. Oh.
I've heard that before, too. What?
I've heard that before, too. What?
No. It happened... You know, they call it a singularity in science. 52 years ago, something like that, where four knuckleheads off the streets of New York with... No experience, no resume, no qualification. And I remember even back then, we had this strange notion, let's put together the band we never saw on stage.
No. It happened... You know, they call it a singularity in science. 52 years ago, something like that, where four knuckleheads off the streets of New York with... No experience, no resume, no qualification. And I remember even back then, we had this strange notion, let's put together the band we never saw on stage.
No, because, and chicks understand this, but they don't talk about it. You want to go to a club. It's okay if I call you a chick because it's very complex with you guys. I'm a woman, I'm a chick, I'm a girl. Don't call me a girl. We're just like assholes. We don't care. So you get a phone call. Come on down to the club. It's a lot of fun. Oh, good. What's everybody wearing?
No, because, and chicks understand this, but they don't talk about it. You want to go to a club. It's okay if I call you a chick because it's very complex with you guys. I'm a woman, I'm a chick, I'm a girl. Don't call me a girl. We're just like assholes. We don't care. So you get a phone call. Come on down to the club. It's a lot of fun. Oh, good. What's everybody wearing?
Oh, they're all dressed in little black dresses. So what are you going to do? You're going to put on a red outfit because you want to stand out in the crowd. I don't ask, what are the guys wearing? You just show up. Yeah. Yeah. So you want to stand out in the crowd because we're visually stimulated. Ever since we roamed... the flat plains of Africa as Australopithecines.
Oh, they're all dressed in little black dresses. So what are you going to do? You're going to put on a red outfit because you want to stand out in the crowd. I don't ask, what are the guys wearing? You just show up. Yeah. Yeah. So you want to stand out in the crowd because we're visually stimulated. Ever since we roamed... the flat plains of Africa as Australopithecines.
Australopithecus africanus then changed to Australopithecus afarensis, which was found in what was then known as the Olduvai Gorge in Tanganyika by L.S. Leakey. I told you I was a teacher. Yeah, so we are visually stimulated. And all the stuff in the past, we still have. The tail and, you know, all that stuff.
Australopithecus africanus then changed to Australopithecus afarensis, which was found in what was then known as the Olduvai Gorge in Tanganyika by L.S. Leakey. I told you I was a teacher. Yeah, so we are visually stimulated. And all the stuff in the past, we still have. The tail and, you know, all that stuff.
Oh, so it happened one day. One of us, nobody knows who, said, let's go down to Woolworths, which was kind of a department store. And it was close to Halloween. And so all the fun bits, the whoopee cushions and the ice cubes with plastic ice cubes with flies in it. So you can...
Oh, so it happened one day. One of us, nobody knows who, said, let's go down to Woolworths, which was kind of a department store. And it was close to Halloween. And so all the fun bits, the whoopee cushions and the ice cubes with plastic ice cubes with flies in it. So you can...
I'm always fascinated by you guys, you know, because it's a different culture. You go out there without effects, without screens and things and all that stuff, and you're out there bare. So I'm going to turn the tables on you. At some point in your life, you overcame that thing of, I don't want to be judged, right? Oh. Right? Because everybody at a certain age, very young. And then you broke free.
I'm always fascinated by you guys, you know, because it's a different culture. You go out there without effects, without screens and things and all that stuff, and you're out there bare. So I'm going to turn the tables on you. At some point in your life, you overcame that thing of, I don't want to be judged, right? Oh. Right? Because everybody at a certain age, very young. And then you broke free.
do that and the frogs that made that so you can put it under the girls dresses because we like to hear them go like that and we went in that section and i remember all four of us for no reason at all bought stein's clown white i'd never heard of it seen it anything we just oh clown white put it on the white we didn't have an idea how do i look oh there we go and Makeup artist.
do that and the frogs that made that so you can put it under the girls dresses because we like to hear them go like that and we went in that section and i remember all four of us for no reason at all bought stein's clown white i'd never heard of it seen it anything we just oh clown white put it on the white we didn't have an idea how do i look oh there we go and Makeup artist.
Who's Kat and who's Patty?
Who's Kat and who's Patty?
Nothing to do with us. We always put our own makeup on. But the fans kept doing that. Anyway, and you can see Lenny Kravitz when he was a kid. All kinds of people. He was thrown out of school for coming. for coming to school dressed in my face.
Nothing to do with us. We always put our own makeup on. But the fans kept doing that. Anyway, and you can see Lenny Kravitz when he was a kid. All kinds of people. He was thrown out of school for coming. for coming to school dressed in my face.
Nobody knew what they were doing. It's like kids playing in mud. Yeah, nobody can lay claim to it. It just happened. And we didn't have experience or anything, but somehow we knew we have to protect this. And so for the first time ever... In all of pop culture, actors, actresses, everything, we trademarked the designs of our faces. Wow, that's so smart.
Nobody knew what they were doing. It's like kids playing in mud. Yeah, nobody can lay claim to it. It just happened. And we didn't have experience or anything, but somehow we knew we have to protect this. And so for the first time ever... In all of pop culture, actors, actresses, everything, we trademarked the designs of our faces. Wow, that's so smart.
So you could have face masks like our current president or any president, Johnny Carson, whoever, and they don't get a penny. You put my face mask on you, I take your firstborn.
So you could have face masks like our current president or any president, Johnny Carson, whoever, and they don't get a penny. You put my face mask on you, I take your firstborn.
The four of them. You read. I'm Jewish, so we're people of the book. You read a lot. And all the information, this is before it was here. Yeah. All the information of mankind. And I think it's fair to say mankind because we didn't allow you to do anything. It's true. Yes. So all the highways, everything created. This was invented in Israel by Motorola. Yeah, the technology. Really?
The four of them. You read. I'm Jewish, so we're people of the book. You read a lot. And all the information, this is before it was here. Yeah. All the information of mankind. And I think it's fair to say mankind because we didn't allow you to do anything. It's true. Yes. So all the highways, everything created. This was invented in Israel by Motorola. Yeah, the technology. Really?
One of the top three patent invention trademarks on the planet. Star Wars technology, pills that you can swallow and you don't have to open up a body. It's exploratory. Yeah. Those clever Jews. By the way, you know, I finally figured out why all the chicks love Jesus.
One of the top three patent invention trademarks on the planet. Star Wars technology, pills that you can swallow and you don't have to open up a body. It's exploratory. Yeah. Those clever Jews. By the way, you know, I finally figured out why all the chicks love Jesus.
Well, he's hung like this. So...
Well, he's hung like this. So...
No, you're funny. I don't think about it. Just life's kind of a joke and you have to have a sense of humor about it and then you die.
No, you're funny. I don't think about it. Just life's kind of a joke and you have to have a sense of humor about it and then you die.
But he's a much nicer person.
But he's a much nicer person.
No, it's all Shannon. The heartbeat, the moral compass, our mothers.
No, it's all Shannon. The heartbeat, the moral compass, our mothers.
You want to hear something crazy? Please. So... We start, it's kind of crazy.
You want to hear something crazy? Please. So... We start, it's kind of crazy.
So we started about, anyway, the first show, we came out, as it were, New Year's Eve, 1973, 74, the Academy of Music, New York City. Within one year and a half, within a year and a half, even before we were signed, we were headlining Anaheim Stadium.
So we started about, anyway, the first show, we came out, as it were, New Year's Eve, 1973, 74, the Academy of Music, New York City. Within one year and a half, within a year and a half, even before we were signed, we were headlining Anaheim Stadium.
On top of bands that had been around for 20 years and all that. A year and a half. Now, by the way, this is before cell phones, before MTV. You still had to put coins. I think at that point it was 10 cents and with a rotary thing. And you should see modern day kids trying to figure out what that is. I know. They're pressing and all that stuff.
On top of bands that had been around for 20 years and all that. A year and a half. Now, by the way, this is before cell phones, before MTV. You still had to put coins. I think at that point it was 10 cents and with a rotary thing. And you should see modern day kids trying to figure out what that is. I know. They're pressing and all that stuff.
No, no, there is such a thing. We didn't know what the word marketing meant. If you have the right thing, even though you think it's for that, and you're at the right place and the right time, your chances are much higher. So we happen to be this idea of putting on makeup with the things and looking different. Mm-hmm. Than what everybody else is.
No, no, there is such a thing. We didn't know what the word marketing meant. If you have the right thing, even though you think it's for that, and you're at the right place and the right time, your chances are much higher. So we happen to be this idea of putting on makeup with the things and looking different. Mm-hmm. Than what everybody else is.
And for no reason in the world, sticking my tongue out, I have no idea what I was doing. Except that in sixth or seventh grade, I used to do that because the chicks, you know, would make that sound that turkeys make when they're about to get their heads chopped off.
And for no reason in the world, sticking my tongue out, I have no idea what I was doing. Except that in sixth or seventh grade, I used to do that because the chicks, you know, would make that sound that turkeys make when they're about to get their heads chopped off.
But I didn't know when I stuck my tongue out. You want me to put what? Where? I didn't know that.
But I didn't know when I stuck my tongue out. You want me to put what? Where? I didn't know that.
And I had to be careful when I stuck my tongue out because not all the floors were clean. Did you get that one? Yes. Yes. Some were dirty. And... That was a great laugh. So... Nobody can lay claim to it. We just happen to find each other. And in retrospect, it's fair to say not every person is designed to run a marathon.
And I had to be careful when I stuck my tongue out because not all the floors were clean. Did you get that one? Yes. Yes. Some were dirty. And... That was a great laugh. So... Nobody can lay claim to it. We just happen to find each other. And in retrospect, it's fair to say not every person is designed to run a marathon.
So the two original guys, Ace and Peter, were great in the beginning, but it didn't last long. You know, once... In the beginning, there was no drugs and alcohol, maybe outside the band. But once they got money and the money came in fast, we used to put in order forms in the albums. So you can put $5, $10, $20 before the post office became, you know, a crook haven.
So the two original guys, Ace and Peter, were great in the beginning, but it didn't last long. You know, once... In the beginning, there was no drugs and alcohol, maybe outside the band. But once they got money and the money came in fast, we used to put in order forms in the albums. So you can put $5, $10, $20 before the post office became, you know, a crook haven.
And night and day, we would open these envelopes for T-shirts, belts. We had four envelopes. warehouses operating 24 hours a day in the valley in 1976, fulfilling orders. Nobody's ever done that before, during, or since. No. Well, during, we did. And in 1979, 20th Century Fox's... Top two licensing and merchandising things were Star Wars and Kiss.
And night and day, we would open these envelopes for T-shirts, belts. We had four envelopes. warehouses operating 24 hours a day in the valley in 1976, fulfilling orders. Nobody's ever done that before, during, or since. No. Well, during, we did. And in 1979, 20th Century Fox's... Top two licensing and merchandising things were Star Wars and Kiss.
At 7-Eleven, they had Slurpee Kiss cups.
At 7-Eleven, they had Slurpee Kiss cups.
We were going to do a Kiss Barbie. We had Kiss. You kissed dolls.
We were going to do a Kiss Barbie. We had Kiss. You kissed dolls.
Marriage select. You want to mount all the females.
Marriage select. You want to mount all the females.
There have been more items. Here comes the joke. This is true. We have had kiss condoms, kiss caskets. We got you coming and we got you going. But it's true. Dimebag Darrell, the guitar player in Pantera, passed away on stage. Some idiot, a psycho, shot him on stage while they were doing a show. And his last will and testament was to be buried in a kiss casket. Wow. Yeah, we sent it to him. Yeah.
There have been more items. Here comes the joke. This is true. We have had kiss condoms, kiss caskets. We got you coming and we got you going. But it's true. Dimebag Darrell, the guitar player in Pantera, passed away on stage. Some idiot, a psycho, shot him on stage while they were doing a show. And his last will and testament was to be buried in a kiss casket. Wow. Yeah, we sent it to him. Yeah.
That's crazy. Are you going to be buried in a kiss casket? I don't think I'll know. But you know what I'd like to do is to have the biggest party in the world invite everybody just to have a party and forget about the problems of the world. And if you want to talk about me, celebrate my life, not my death. We're all going to have a turn.
That's crazy. Are you going to be buried in a kiss casket? I don't think I'll know. But you know what I'd like to do is to have the biggest party in the world invite everybody just to have a party and forget about the problems of the world. And if you want to talk about me, celebrate my life, not my death. We're all going to have a turn.
So actually Jews, I think, have a better idea than Roman Catholics, which is... You have an open casket so everybody can really be miserable and see how awful it is. And in Judaism, you must cover the body immediately and bury it within 24 hours. But don't you sit shiver? You do. But you don't have a corpse looking at you.
So actually Jews, I think, have a better idea than Roman Catholics, which is... You have an open casket so everybody can really be miserable and see how awful it is. And in Judaism, you must cover the body immediately and bury it within 24 hours. But don't you sit shiver? You do. But you don't have a corpse looking at you.
No, you're not allowed. That's just for the family. Because if you're Bedouins and you come from the desert, anything is fair game for predators. So you had to bury it. Immediately. Yeah, because they could smell it and all that.
No, you're not allowed. That's just for the family. Because if you're Bedouins and you come from the desert, anything is fair game for predators. So you had to bury it. Immediately. Yeah, because they could smell it and all that.
Except for that first time, apparently, where I blew you off. Well, that's better than I blew you. Actually, it might not be.
Except for that first time, apparently, where I blew you off. Well, that's better than I blew you. Actually, it might not be.
Well, that was probably not the place because all the chicks who were lifted and separated and pointed in my general direction probably were only interested in what room after the show.
Well, that was probably not the place because all the chicks who were lifted and separated and pointed in my general direction probably were only interested in what room after the show.
It was rare. For real? Yeah. Well, they were not the highest form, but you can't have the stuff and the stuff. Shannon's got it. Yes, she does. Well...
It was rare. For real? Yeah. Well, they were not the highest form, but you can't have the stuff and the stuff. Shannon's got it. Yes, she does. Well...
So that's funny because she told me to fuck off right away.
So that's funny because she told me to fuck off right away.
Yeah, but there's a backstory that's very bizarre. Accidentally, I started living with Cher. And she... It's funny, at a certain age, the kids don't know the famous fleeting. And... So two years or whatever on, I had to move back to New York. We lived in Malibu at her place. And I had to go buy a Christmas present. I go, I don't know what to buy you. You have everything.
Yeah, but there's a backstory that's very bizarre. Accidentally, I started living with Cher. And she... It's funny, at a certain age, the kids don't know the famous fleeting. And... So two years or whatever on, I had to move back to New York. We lived in Malibu at her place. And I had to go buy a Christmas present. I go, I don't know what to buy you. You have everything.
She said, go and call my best friend, Diana Ross. She'll tell you. She'll take you shopping. OK. Well, it didn't take long. And Diana gave me chocolate cake and then a second slice. And then we started a thing and they stopped being friends for a while. And then, you know, Kiss was touring and all that. And then I was shooting a film. I was a bad guy in a movie called Runaway.
She said, go and call my best friend, Diana Ross. She'll tell you. She'll take you shopping. OK. Well, it didn't take long. And Diana gave me chocolate cake and then a second slice. And then we started a thing and they stopped being friends for a while. And then, you know, Kiss was touring and all that. And then I was shooting a film. I was a bad guy in a movie called Runaway.
I watched that movie. Well, Michael Crichton wrote it.
I watched that movie. Well, Michael Crichton wrote it.
That's ahead of its time. Those things are now pretty commonplace. They go ahead of the cars and they short circuit the cars they're chasing so that they stop going.
That's ahead of its time. Those things are now pretty commonplace. They go ahead of the cars and they short circuit the cars they're chasing so that they stop going.
You're very kind. So during a weekend, I'd be bringing chicks up to Vancouver where we shot. And one of them said, you know, I miss October or something. There's going to be a Playboy party at the mansion called Midsummer Night's Dream. I go there and I get, I'm going to shortcut the story. I get introduced to Shannon and Tracy Tweed, who both appeared on Playboy.
You're very kind. So during a weekend, I'd be bringing chicks up to Vancouver where we shot. And one of them said, you know, I miss October or something. There's going to be a Playboy party at the mansion called Midsummer Night's Dream. I go there and I get, I'm going to shortcut the story. I get introduced to Shannon and Tracy Tweed, who both appeared on Playboy.
And Shannon's been on, she was a Playmate of the Year at that time. And so I met them, and my silk pajamas, you could tell what religion I was in. You understand?
And Shannon's been on, she was a Playmate of the Year at that time. And so I met them, and my silk pajamas, you could tell what religion I was in. You understand?
And otherwise, we would be the biggest, you know, because they cut half of it off. And that's why Jewish women cannot, cannot stay away from Jewish men. Anything with 20% off. So... That's interesting. So I am bewitched by this chick. She's six feet tall, blonde hair and all that stuff, but a farm girl.
And otherwise, we would be the biggest, you know, because they cut half of it off. And that's why Jewish women cannot, cannot stay away from Jewish men. Anything with 20% off. So... That's interesting. So I am bewitched by this chick. She's six feet tall, blonde hair and all that stuff, but a farm girl.
She comes from a family of seven, and we're talking, talking, and she takes me by the hand and leads me into the main house. And just like in James Bond, you've got books and everything, and she presses a button, and it opens up, and we start going down the stairs. Underneath that, where there's like a pool table, only room for two or three people.
She comes from a family of seven, and we're talking, talking, and she takes me by the hand and leads me into the main house. And just like in James Bond, you've got books and everything, and she presses a button, and it opens up, and we start going down the stairs. Underneath that, where there's like a pool table, only room for two or three people.
Normally, I would have mounted that before you spelled out my name. But I was fascinated by Shannon. You know, who are they? Where you come from? And all we did was talk. I didn't even kiss her or hold her hand or anything. Oh, really? That's really interesting. You know, we're just finding out about each other. She comes over and gives me her phone number. And I said, I'm gonna call you tomorrow.
Normally, I would have mounted that before you spelled out my name. But I was fascinated by Shannon. You know, who are they? Where you come from? And all we did was talk. I didn't even kiss her or hold her hand or anything. Oh, really? That's really interesting. You know, we're just finding out about each other. She comes over and gives me her phone number. And I said, I'm gonna call you tomorrow.
And so I went back to the Beverly Hills Hotel and I always stay in single rooms, no suites, none of that stuff. It's interesting, if you're not Jewish, it's frugal. But if you're Jewish, yeah, cheap. But I never threw the money around, I still don't. And I'm sitting, the next day, early in the morning,
And so I went back to the Beverly Hills Hotel and I always stay in single rooms, no suites, none of that stuff. It's interesting, if you're not Jewish, it's frugal. But if you're Jewish, yeah, cheap. But I never threw the money around, I still don't. And I'm sitting, the next day, early in the morning,
You know, the single rooms, the bed is here and the door is right there and the bathroom is right there. And you see this photo coming under the thing because previous to that, I kept calling the phone number. Hello. Hi, it's Gene Simmons. It's Shannon. No, it's not here. Oh, come on. She told me to call her. This is a phone number, you know, 9445. And let's put her on. She said to call her.
You know, the single rooms, the bed is here and the door is right there and the bathroom is right there. And you see this photo coming under the thing because previous to that, I kept calling the phone number. Hello. Hi, it's Gene Simmons. It's Shannon. No, it's not here. Oh, come on. She told me to call her. This is a phone number, you know, 9445. And let's put her on. She said to call her.
I know nothing about that.
I know nothing about that.
No, I don't know what you're talking about. And he hung up the phone. And I kept calling a few times. I go, holy fuck, what the hell? Couldn't figure it out. And I'm watching TV in front of me, and I see the photo being stuck under the table. What happened to your meeting, by the way?
No, I don't know what you're talking about. And he hung up the phone. And I kept calling a few times. I go, holy fuck, what the hell? Couldn't figure it out. And I'm watching TV in front of me, and I see the photo being stuck under the table. What happened to your meeting, by the way?
So the photo comes underneath, and it's her Playmate of the Year photo. And on the back, it's clearly handwritten, well... I'm used to gentlemen, and a gentleman, if he gets a phone number of a woman who puts it, at least calls her. And I'm thinking to myself, what's she talking about? I called her a few times, never got through. And on the bottom, the last number was different.
So the photo comes underneath, and it's her Playmate of the Year photo. And on the back, it's clearly handwritten, well... I'm used to gentlemen, and a gentleman, if he gets a phone number of a woman who puts it, at least calls her. And I'm thinking to myself, what's she talking about? I called her a few times, never got through. And on the bottom, the last number was different.
It was four instead of five. I go, what the fuck? So I finally called her on the phone. You know, the phone number was four. Yeah. And she completely ignores everything and goes, yeah, whatever. So what are you going to do? You're going to come over or what? Yeah. In those days, I didn't drive. I had a guy who drove me around. I was 34. I didn't know how to drive. But if you...
It was four instead of five. I go, what the fuck? So I finally called her on the phone. You know, the phone number was four. Yeah. And she completely ignores everything and goes, yeah, whatever. So what are you going to do? You're going to come over or what? Yeah. In those days, I didn't drive. I had a guy who drove me around. I was 34. I didn't know how to drive. But if you...
And it's not even a joke. You were a New York kid. Yeah, what do you do in New York? You hop a cab or go to Subway. So I go back to New York, and I arrange for Shannon to be flown to New York to be with me. I lived on Fifth Avenue, and Diana lived one of her places a few blocks on Fifth Avenue, also a few blocks away. And I find out that...
And it's not even a joke. You were a New York kid. Yeah, what do you do in New York? You hop a cab or go to Subway. So I go back to New York, and I arrange for Shannon to be flown to New York to be with me. I lived on Fifth Avenue, and Diana lived one of her places a few blocks on Fifth Avenue, also a few blocks away. And I find out that...
Shannon is related in a familiar way by Diana, with Diana. In other words, Shannon is her sister-in-law because unbeknownst to me, Diana's brother, Chico, was secretly married to Shannon's sister, Tracy. What? What are the chances?
Shannon is related in a familiar way by Diana, with Diana. In other words, Shannon is her sister-in-law because unbeknownst to me, Diana's brother, Chico, was secretly married to Shannon's sister, Tracy. What? What are the chances?
Holy crap. That is insane.
Holy crap. That is insane.
I like a lot of new bands, but it saddens my heart. They will never have the chance that we did because there's no music industry. The fans killed it. They allowed... the industry to die, the thing that they love the most. So you can download and file share and do all that stuff for nothing. So new bands don't have a chance, except Nick and Sophie are both very successful.
I like a lot of new bands, but it saddens my heart. They will never have the chance that we did because there's no music industry. The fans killed it. They allowed... the industry to die, the thing that they love the most. So you can download and file share and do all that stuff for nothing. So new bands don't have a chance, except Nick and Sophie are both very successful.
Sophie's written songs for Train and Rick Ross, you know, rock band, everything. And yeah, she has billboards. Here, put up Sophie Simmons billboards. It's around the world. She's a big deal. See up on top? You went too fast. One back. There you go. Yeah. Wow. See Amortage? That's currently the number one record in Asia. Sophie wrote that. Amazing.
Sophie's written songs for Train and Rick Ross, you know, rock band, everything. And yeah, she has billboards. Here, put up Sophie Simmons billboards. It's around the world. She's a big deal. See up on top? You went too fast. One back. There you go. Yeah. Wow. See Amortage? That's currently the number one record in Asia. Sophie wrote that. Amazing.
Never asked my opinion. Nothing. It's very pop, sort of Rihanna kind of thing. She's beautiful. Like Chaperone. Never asked my opinion. She writes every day. She releases songs, produces, manages, does the whole thing. And Nick. has got his own band called Sim Fera, S-Y-M-F-E-R-A. And their music is on Ozark and Prodigal Son and everything. And I have nothing to do with it. There we go.
Never asked my opinion. Nothing. It's very pop, sort of Rihanna kind of thing. She's beautiful. Like Chaperone. Never asked my opinion. She writes every day. She releases songs, produces, manages, does the whole thing. And Nick. has got his own band called Sim Fera, S-Y-M-F-E-R-A. And their music is on Ozark and Prodigal Son and everything. And I have nothing to do with it. There we go.
And you should, just for a second, put up Evan Stanley. Is that Paul Stanley's son? Yes. All of a sudden, they're making a record together. Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons. Oh, really? Yeah.
And you should, just for a second, put up Evan Stanley. Is that Paul Stanley's son? Yes. All of a sudden, they're making a record together. Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons. Oh, really? Yeah.
Well, sure. They came out on the road. Can you play just a heartbeat of Sounds of Silence?
Well, sure. They came out on the road. Can you play just a heartbeat of Sounds of Silence?
Yeah, play that. I want to hear that. Evan went to Nick's house and just whipped out an acoustic guitar. They were always pals. They have their own music. And you'll hear it. It's unbelievable. Hello, Dr. Smiles.
Yeah, play that. I want to hear that. Evan went to Nick's house and just whipped out an acoustic guitar. They were always pals. They have their own music. And you'll hear it. It's unbelievable. Hello, Dr. Smiles.
Wow. There's such a thing called chemistry, and you don't know what that means until you hear it.
Wow. There's such a thing called chemistry, and you don't know what that means until you hear it.
It beat Cleopatra on channel seven, ABC with Elizabeth Taylor. Wow. Yeah.
It beat Cleopatra on channel seven, ABC with Elizabeth Taylor. Wow. Yeah.
She's holding on to that.
She's holding on to that.
Oh, not even. Hundreds and hundreds of one penny. Yeah. And the big secret is licensing and merchandising. is a financial source that other bands didn't have. Yeah. You can't get a Bruce Springsteen comic book or a Radiohead anything.
Oh, not even. Hundreds and hundreds of one penny. Yeah. And the big secret is licensing and merchandising. is a financial source that other bands didn't have. Yeah. You can't get a Bruce Springsteen comic book or a Radiohead anything.
Neil Bogart... got a record deal, distribution deal with Warner Brothers. So he wanted to, he had Kama Sutra records and... Yummy, yummy, yummy, I got love in my tummy. 1910 Fruit Gum Company, Gladys Knight, The Pips, and Curtis Mayfield, you know, not rock. And he wanted to start a new company and eventually settled on Casablanca, after he wanted to call it Emerald City.
Neil Bogart... got a record deal, distribution deal with Warner Brothers. So he wanted to, he had Kama Sutra records and... Yummy, yummy, yummy, I got love in my tummy. 1910 Fruit Gum Company, Gladys Knight, The Pips, and Curtis Mayfield, you know, not rock. And he wanted to start a new company and eventually settled on Casablanca, after he wanted to call it Emerald City.
And he asked me what I thought of it. And I'm going, sounds like a disco... Label, I don't like that. So he started Casablanca Records. A kiss is just a kiss. A sigh is just a, you know, Casablanca. So he signed us. We didn't write hit singles. We didn't look like anybody and everything. And we started to make noise. But he made all his money as the king of disco.
And he asked me what I thought of it. And I'm going, sounds like a disco... Label, I don't like that. So he started Casablanca Records. A kiss is just a kiss. A sigh is just a, you know, Casablanca. So he signed us. We didn't write hit singles. We didn't look like anybody and everything. And we started to make noise. But he made all his money as the king of disco.
Donna Summer and the Village People and Parliament Funkadelic and just all these bands, which he started the EP called Love to love you, baby. The Donna Summer song. He said this one disc jockey locked himself away for 24 hours and played that song over and over again. So he called Giorgio Moroder in Germany. Producer says, I need to make this song longer because people are making love to it.
Donna Summer and the Village People and Parliament Funkadelic and just all these bands, which he started the EP called Love to love you, baby. The Donna Summer song. He said this one disc jockey locked himself away for 24 hours and played that song over and over again. So he called Giorgio Moroder in Germany. Producer says, I need to make this song longer because people are making love to it.
And so he made it longer, and they put out the first EP, a slightly smaller version of an album with just that one song with an extended middle, you know, like that. Yeah. And the girls also went like that. See, that was a joke.
And so he made it longer, and they put out the first EP, a slightly smaller version of an album with just that one song with an extended middle, you know, like that. Yeah. And the girls also went like that. See, that was a joke.
Different time. And now there's... Look, I've done this before to a few people. So from 1988, I beg your pardon, from 1958 until 1988 is 30 years. During that time, you had Elvis, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, you name it. In disco, you had Donna Summer. With the heavy bands, you had Metallica, ACDC, maybe us, Aerosmith, on and on and on and on.
Different time. And now there's... Look, I've done this before to a few people. So from 1988, I beg your pardon, from 1958 until 1988 is 30 years. During that time, you had Elvis, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, you name it. In disco, you had Donna Summer. With the heavy bands, you had Metallica, ACDC, maybe us, Aerosmith, on and on and on and on.
Motown, Bowie, Prince, you name it, they all came out in that 30-year period. From 1988 until today, it's almost 40 years, where's the Beatles? Where's anything? And it bears noting that in 1988, Napster is where it started. And people never got... The analogy is... If you're a supermarket and you're selling, let's say, fruits and vegetables, you have this much and it costs five bucks.
Motown, Bowie, Prince, you name it, they all came out in that 30-year period. From 1988 until today, it's almost 40 years, where's the Beatles? Where's anything? And it bears noting that in 1988, Napster is where it started. And people never got... The analogy is... If you're a supermarket and you're selling, let's say, fruits and vegetables, you have this much and it costs five bucks.
So that five bucks pays for the rent and the people that work there. It also pays for the trucks that bring the produce there. It also pays for the farmer and the people that work there and everything. Now imagine somebody can walk into the supermarket
So that five bucks pays for the rent and the people that work there. It also pays for the trucks that bring the produce there. It also pays for the farmer and the people that work there and everything. Now imagine somebody can walk into the supermarket
Six in the morning? Probably. That was not me. You're not thinking of Gene Simmons. You're thinking of Richard Simmons.
Six in the morning? Probably. That was not me. You're not thinking of Gene Simmons. You're thinking of Richard Simmons.
put a penny down and walk out with the same amount of fruits and vegetables, how long would the farmer stay in business, the trucking company, and the supermarket? And that's what's happened to the record business because the fans aren't willing to pay for the music. And that's the saddest part because there's certainly as much talent today as there was back then, but there is no structure.
put a penny down and walk out with the same amount of fruits and vegetables, how long would the farmer stay in business, the trucking company, and the supermarket? And that's what's happened to the record business because the fans aren't willing to pay for the music. And that's the saddest part because there's certainly as much talent today as there was back then, but there is no structure.
There's no business model that works.
There's no business model that works.
Oh, Steely Dan. By the way, Jackson, who I know, not on that level. Nowhere close.
Oh, Steely Dan. By the way, Jackson, who I know, not on that level. Nowhere close.
Chicks. No, the Eagles, yes, one of the top bands. selling bands of all time. Yeah, for sure.
Chicks. No, the Eagles, yes, one of the top bands. selling bands of all time. Yeah, for sure.
So the pop music stuff is exploding. Nobody's as good, as big as Taylor. I'm a Swifty. Would you mind bringing up Taylor Swift? 100 million albums worldwide. Button pushing guy? Can you bring up Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Kiss, and play the video, please? What? Wait. You can forward about 10, 15 seconds.
So the pop music stuff is exploding. Nobody's as good, as big as Taylor. I'm a Swifty. Would you mind bringing up Taylor Swift? 100 million albums worldwide. Button pushing guy? Can you bring up Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Kiss, and play the video, please? What? Wait. You can forward about 10, 15 seconds.
This is where Taylor and the whole band come out dressed as Kiss.
This is where Taylor and the whole band come out dressed as Kiss.
Go to the bump. There we go.
Go to the bump. There we go.
And it's going to get beyond anything we ever imagined, because Pop House, which bought the underlying rights, is spending... Just a lot of money and doing something that nobody's ever experienced before. I don't mean see. So imagine a caveman and you can speak the same language and you're telling the caveman what you're about to experience. Don't think you're going crazy.
And it's going to get beyond anything we ever imagined, because Pop House, which bought the underlying rights, is spending... Just a lot of money and doing something that nobody's ever experienced before. I don't mean see. So imagine a caveman and you can speak the same language and you're telling the caveman what you're about to experience. Don't think you're going crazy.
It's not religious, but put these virtual reality glasses on and And all of a sudden, reality, as you know, it disappears. The ground is different. You're in space or you're in the mouth of a dinosaur or you're in a fire pit. And no matter where you look, you're in a different reality. Yeah. Now imagine that with no glasses. And imagine you can smell it and feel the heat.
It's not religious, but put these virtual reality glasses on and And all of a sudden, reality, as you know, it disappears. The ground is different. You're in space or you're in the mouth of a dinosaur or you're in a fire pit. And no matter where you look, you're in a different reality. Yeah. Now imagine that with no glasses. And imagine you can smell it and feel the heat.
Where is this going to happen? Within two years. Is this the Avatar show? Yes.
Where is this going to happen? Within two years. Is this the Avatar show? Yes.
Oh, they won't know what hit them. It's beyond. And we've been trying to do this. We played at Dodger Stadium 2000. And it was the first 3D concert. Not all of it. You've got your glasses and at certain points you put them on. So if I spit fire, you'd see the fire coming out into the audience. But it was far too expensive to do it all. And nobody wanted to wear glasses for the whole show.
Oh, they won't know what hit them. It's beyond. And we've been trying to do this. We played at Dodger Stadium 2000. And it was the first 3D concert. Not all of it. You've got your glasses and at certain points you put them on. So if I spit fire, you'd see the fire coming out into the audience. But it was far too expensive to do it all. And nobody wanted to wear glasses for the whole show.
And it cost a fortune. We didn't make a dime on that show. But technology has changed so fast that future concerts are going to be unlike anything anybody's ever imagined. We're already almost there. There's this fear in Las Vegas that, And what you're seeing is unbelievable, except you don't lose yourself. If you look down, you see the hangnail that you had that morning.
And it cost a fortune. We didn't make a dime on that show. But technology has changed so fast that future concerts are going to be unlike anything anybody's ever imagined. We're already almost there. There's this fear in Las Vegas that, And what you're seeing is unbelievable, except you don't lose yourself. If you look down, you see the hangnail that you had that morning.
And you see the next, you know, the chick. I should grab her number before I go. And then when you look up, you see all that. Virtual glasses are closer to that because this world disappears. Wow. But you don't feel the heat if there's a fire.
And you see the next, you know, the chick. I should grab her number before I go. And then when you look up, you see all that. Virtual glasses are closer to that because this world disappears. Wow. But you don't feel the heat if there's a fire.
We could be in a wall. We could be in the underworld. We could be, yeah.
We could be in a wall. We could be in the underworld. We could be, yeah.
No glasses. No glasses. I remember seeing a minority report. Did you ever see that Tom Cruise movie?
No glasses. No glasses. I remember seeing a minority report. Did you ever see that Tom Cruise movie?
And he goes like this. And then he's got like a computer thing and he's moving things. I saw a real one that the Air Force was using in doubt. I know some friends in the military. Yeah. It exists. Really? Yeah. There's nothing in front of you. And they're moving things. Well, I mean, what the fuck is the cloud? Right?
And he goes like this. And then he's got like a computer thing and he's moving things. I saw a real one that the Air Force was using in doubt. I know some friends in the military. Yeah. It exists. Really? Yeah. There's nothing in front of you. And they're moving things. Well, I mean, what the fuck is the cloud? Right?
There's a million things of information. Where is it? It's in the cloud. Where?
There's a million things of information. Where is it? It's in the cloud. Where?
And right, I've got, there's a person in Africa, in Namibia, I think. an investment guy. Was it Nabil? I don't know. But not too long ago, I got a phone call, crystal clear on my cell, like he's next door to you. Crazy.
And right, I've got, there's a person in Africa, in Namibia, I think. an investment guy. Was it Nabil? I don't know. But not too long ago, I got a phone call, crystal clear on my cell, like he's next door to you. Crazy.
Oh, what's happening now, as you know, Elon believes that, and I believe him, that AI is going to surpass humankind knowledge and also have a sense of self-awareness. self-aware in five years.
Oh, what's happening now, as you know, Elon believes that, and I believe him, that AI is going to surpass humankind knowledge and also have a sense of self-awareness. self-aware in five years.
But it's happening so fast that algorithm, military, I mean, right now you're watching a few wars, but especially the Ukraine war, where it's all drones.
But it's happening so fast that algorithm, military, I mean, right now you're watching a few wars, but especially the Ukraine war, where it's all drones.
He's a member of the tribe, yeah. Hey, what was this broadcast on? FX. FX. The X show on FX.
He's a member of the tribe, yeah. Hey, what was this broadcast on? FX. FX. The X show on FX.
Now apply drones to tanks, apply drones to anything, and you're playing video games.
Now apply drones to tanks, apply drones to anything, and you're playing video games.
Rescheduling some of the shows up and down. The economy is really bad. People are hurting, losing their jobs. But yeah, there's going to be, oh, maybe 15 up and down the East Coast and everything. And then stopping for a while because I've got a film company, Simmons Hamilton. Our first film is an action adventure called Deepwater with Sir Ben Kingsley and Aaron Eckhart. Whoa.
Rescheduling some of the shows up and down. The economy is really bad. People are hurting, losing their jobs. But yeah, there's going to be, oh, maybe 15 up and down the East Coast and everything. And then stopping for a while because I've got a film company, Simmons Hamilton. Our first film is an action adventure called Deepwater with Sir Ben Kingsley and Aaron Eckhart. Whoa.
Rennie Harlan is directing, who did one of the Die Hard films. Then a second movie called The Canyon with Mel Gibson and Bella Thorne. So a few of these movies coming up. And the restaurant chain, you know about that? No, I don't. Rock and Brews, as in B-R-E-W. There's two at LAX and across America.
Rennie Harlan is directing, who did one of the Die Hard films. Then a second movie called The Canyon with Mel Gibson and Bella Thorne. So a few of these movies coming up. And the restaurant chain, you know about that? No, I don't. Rock and Brews, as in B-R-E-W. There's two at LAX and across America.
I didn't know it was yours. Is that in the Delta Terminal? Number one. Yeah, there's one.
I didn't know it was yours. Is that in the Delta Terminal? Number one. Yeah, there's one.
I didn't know that was yours.
I didn't know that was yours.
I have vodkas, sodas, wines, anything.
I have vodkas, sodas, wines, anything.
Oh, no, no, no. I mean, as my brand, I own the money bag logo. Can you go to money bag? I think I saw that on a hat one time. Vodka. Yeah. Money bag vodka. So you see on the top left. So I'm literally the only one. That's your bottle of vodka? That's brilliant. That's an old one, but the one on the right or the one upper left. See, I literally own the logo.
Oh, no, no, no. I mean, as my brand, I own the money bag logo. Can you go to money bag? I think I saw that on a hat one time. Vodka. Yeah. Money bag vodka. So you see on the top left. So I'm literally the only one. That's your bottle of vodka? That's brilliant. That's an old one, but the one on the right or the one upper left. See, I literally own the logo.
And so if you buy, you see that you had some booze over there. There you go. There's a bottle.
And so if you buy, you see that you had some booze over there. There you go. There's a bottle.
Okay. Now, that's terrific. Now, you know what I can do that you can't do anything about? I can take the shape of that bottle and take off the other stuff. Well, you did smart. You did something special with the actual bottle. But the shape of the bottle is not trademarked.
Okay. Now, that's terrific. Now, you know what I can do that you can't do anything about? I can take the shape of that bottle and take off the other stuff. Well, you did smart. You did something special with the actual bottle. But the shape of the bottle is not trademarked.
No. The shape of my bottle is around the world. So if you did whatever you want to call it, if you go near that trademark, I own you.
No. The shape of my bottle is around the world. So if you did whatever you want to call it, if you go near that trademark, I own you.
200 plus. If you put up... I literally, I know this is going to sound crazy. I own the pound sign or the English pound.
200 plus. If you put up... I literally, I know this is going to sound crazy. I own the pound sign or the English pound.
I own that trademark as approved by the... As long as it's in the bag... I own the euro. I'm the only one on earth that owns the euro, the E sign. Yeah. As long as it's in the bag. I own the rupee.
I own that trademark as approved by the... As long as it's in the bag... I own the euro. I'm the only one on earth that owns the euro, the E sign. Yeah. As long as it's in the bag. I own the rupee.
The rupee, I own Bitcoin and Dogecoin.
The rupee, I own Bitcoin and Dogecoin.
We looked into it and the legal ramifications, the exposure, it's too litigious. Everybody sues everybody.
We looked into it and the legal ramifications, the exposure, it's too litigious. Everybody sues everybody.
It's like getting into food. One person swallows the wrong way. I mean, you go to McDonald's, a woman's coffee is too hot and then she sues you. Of course, she can't tell that it's hot because there's smoke coming up or just that you're holding it. But she did win some money.
It's like getting into food. One person swallows the wrong way. I mean, you go to McDonald's, a woman's coffee is too hot and then she sues you. Of course, she can't tell that it's hot because there's smoke coming up or just that you're holding it. But she did win some money.
Yeah, because she didn't know it was hot.
Yeah, because she didn't know it was hot.
But I saw a photo of her. It's probably the only hot thing she's had down there for a while. You know.
But I saw a photo of her. It's probably the only hot thing she's had down there for a while. You know.
Gene, I could talk to you forever. As a matter of fact, there she was. Go back one, please. I'm going to get sued. There she is. Nah. You want to do something crazy? Please. Can I call Nick? Please. The question is what to call him. Big guy. I like this one. She laughs at the stupidest ones I have.
Gene, I could talk to you forever. As a matter of fact, there she was. Go back one, please. I'm going to get sued. There she is. Nah. You want to do something crazy? Please. Can I call Nick? Please. The question is what to call him. Big guy. I like this one. She laughs at the stupidest ones I have.
Hey, Nick. Hello. All right, Nick. Somebody wants to talk to you. You want to hold on?
Hey, Nick. Hello. All right, Nick. Somebody wants to talk to you. You want to hold on?
Did we get him canceled today?
Did we get him canceled today?
You know that my son's like a man's man kind of guy. He's become a cat person. He worships his cat.
You know that my son's like a man's man kind of guy. He's become a cat person. He worships his cat.
It'll be funny to see the YMH They tore me a new asshole.
It'll be funny to see the YMH They tore me a new asshole.
They told me, you know you're the worst guest on YMH when the guy who comes the next week is a guy who drinks his own piss and he's a better guest than you.
They told me, you know you're the worst guest on YMH when the guy who comes the next week is a guy who drinks his own piss and he's a better guest than you.
One of the YMH guys. They had come on there, like the bald guy who does weird sex videos and he came on short lists and whatever. And they're like, that guy was better than Nick. So, you know, he's really bad.
One of the YMH guys. They had come on there, like the bald guy who does weird sex videos and he came on short lists and whatever. And they're like, that guy was better than Nick. So, you know, he's really bad.
hey buddy you can come on my podcast and i'll interrupt you all day long anytime all right let's do it i'm gonna set it up i'm gonna set it up only it'll be uh it's funny to have the uh hey you've seen the main event now see uh some kid who's kind of related to him that'll be fine we can team up we'll have you as a guest pair one time
hey buddy you can come on my podcast and i'll interrupt you all day long anytime all right let's do it i'm gonna set it up i'm gonna set it up only it'll be uh it's funny to have the uh hey you've seen the main event now see uh some kid who's kind of related to him that'll be fine we can team up we'll have you as a guest pair one time
Yeah, because your castle is oh so poor that you're modern. There's room. There's room, he says. I'm allergic to cats, though. Okay, he's kicking me out. It was good to talk to me. They do. Right now, they didn't plan it because life happens to you while you're busy making your plans. No, these are my plans. Life doesn't care. So they were buds, Evan and Nick. And what you saw just happened.
Yeah, because your castle is oh so poor that you're modern. There's room. There's room, he says. I'm allergic to cats, though. Okay, he's kicking me out. It was good to talk to me. They do. Right now, they didn't plan it because life happens to you while you're busy making your plans. No, these are my plans. Life doesn't care. So they were buds, Evan and Nick. And what you saw just happened.
He's got a camera set up. And he started some Hello, Doc. You know that song? And what you heard is there's no recording or anything. It's just what they sound like. And now they've written songs and they're busy recording their first record with the producer of the year who produced... I don't know, Green Day and all kinds of stuff. Yeah. That's crazy. That's amazing.
He's got a camera set up. And he started some Hello, Doc. You know that song? And what you heard is there's no recording or anything. It's just what they sound like. And now they've written songs and they're busy recording their first record with the producer of the year who produced... I don't know, Green Day and all kinds of stuff. Yeah. That's crazy. That's amazing.
And now record companies are vying for it. And they did not plan any of this. This is kind of like Crosby, Sills, and Nash meets Simon and Garfunkel kind of stuff. Yeah. And Nick's stuff is more like Radiohead meets Pink Floyd. And Sophie is pop.
And now record companies are vying for it. And they did not plan any of this. This is kind of like Crosby, Sills, and Nash meets Simon and Garfunkel kind of stuff. Yeah. And Nick's stuff is more like Radiohead meets Pink Floyd. And Sophie is pop.
And I'm done. What are you? Worship Satan now? No. Wait a minute. You've only been...
And I'm done. What are you? Worship Satan now? No. Wait a minute. You've only been...
And Evan was in a kind of a pop rock band.
And Evan was in a kind of a pop rock band.
Hug? They're settling on, you know, Evan and Nick Simmons.
Hug? They're settling on, you know, Evan and Nick Simmons.
You know, Simon and Garfunkel kind of thing.
You know, Simon and Garfunkel kind of thing.
Went to the dark side only six times?
Went to the dark side only six times?
Did your schmeckle fall off? What happened?
Did your schmeckle fall off? What happened?
Oh, you came very fast. Very fast. I'm flummoxed.
Oh, you came very fast. Very fast. I'm flummoxed.
Come on in, Leanne. Come on in, Leanne. Come in here.
Come on in, Leanne. Come on in, Leanne. Come in here.
Always do what I say. We'll get along better. Sit down, Leanne. He told you all this stuff?
Always do what I say. We'll get along better. Sit down, Leanne. He told you all this stuff?
A guy that tells his chick all this stuff. Wow. That's almost gay.
A guy that tells his chick all this stuff. Wow. That's almost gay.
So before you got serious, how do you like this interview? So before you got serious, you knew that he's only been up to bat six times?
So before you got serious, how do you like this interview? So before you got serious, you knew that he's only been up to bat six times?
Can I just tell you one of the big secrets? What do I know? You don't go in there with the stuff that makes you happy. First, you've got to make her happy. And if you're not sure what, because every single one of them is like a different combination on a lock. We have one. That's it. She likes the A. I don't like the C. So you go through the alphabet. With your mouth schmeckle.
Can I just tell you one of the big secrets? What do I know? You don't go in there with the stuff that makes you happy. First, you've got to make her happy. And if you're not sure what, because every single one of them is like a different combination on a lock. We have one. That's it. She likes the A. I don't like the C. So you go through the alphabet. With your mouth schmeckle.
Which I've never heard before, a mouth schmeckle. So neither of you, right? So you try the A, and then when you find, I like the C. Okay, then you keep doing the C until she goes to hell. And then she doesn't care. And then you can jump on it. And then, you know what the perfect date is? Oh, I'm done. Get out. You see that?
Which I've never heard before, a mouth schmeckle. So neither of you, right? So you try the A, and then when you find, I like the C. Okay, then you keep doing the C until she goes to hell. And then she doesn't care. And then you can jump on it. And then, you know what the perfect date is? Oh, I'm done. Get out. You see that?
Oh, absolutely. Yeah, I know.
Oh, absolutely. Yeah, I know.
So you see what I did there?
So you see what I did there?
These are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. So they have sex up here. Yeah. We have sex there. It doesn't. What does it mean? Do I have my mother's hips? Why won't she call me? We don't care. Which is why in jail, if you close your eyes, it doesn't count. But they have to. What sign are you and all this? Oh, shit. Yeah. He has a good sense of humor. OK, I'll give him some.
These are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. So they have sex up here. Yeah. We have sex there. It doesn't. What does it mean? Do I have my mother's hips? Why won't she call me? We don't care. Which is why in jail, if you close your eyes, it doesn't count. But they have to. What sign are you and all this? Oh, shit. Yeah. He has a good sense of humor. OK, I'll give him some.
You could be a deaf mute and we'll pop one on you.
You could be a deaf mute and we'll pop one on you.
Who cares? Now that we're done, I'd like to. How was I?
Who cares? Now that we're done, I'd like to. How was I?
I had some good teachers. I have to say, one of my first experiences, I was a newspaper delivery boy. I was 13. Just a knucklehead. It was dead of winter.
I had some good teachers. I have to say, one of my first experiences, I was a newspaper delivery boy. I was 13. Just a knucklehead. It was dead of winter.
He didn't want to do his newspaper route, so I took over his route, and I was delivering in the snow and everything just to make 30 bucks a week, which was a lot of money back then when the people had two sticks together with the fire and everything. And once a week, I'd have to go and collect the money, you know, 25 cents, 15, 50 cents, and all that. And the Sunday edition was a dollar newspaper.
He didn't want to do his newspaper route, so I took over his route, and I was delivering in the snow and everything just to make 30 bucks a week, which was a lot of money back then when the people had two sticks together with the fire and everything. And once a week, I'd have to go and collect the money, you know, 25 cents, 15, 50 cents, and all that. And the Sunday edition was a dollar newspaper.
It was, like, really thick. And it was Christmas time, and it was a few days before Christmas. I'll shorten it because you have a meeting to go to.
It was, like, really thick. And it was Christmas time, and it was a few days before Christmas. I'll shorten it because you have a meeting to go to.
Yeah. I'm kind of a big deal. You are a huge deal.
Yeah. I'm kind of a big deal. You are a huge deal.
I love your music. Your mom was a fan and everything?
I love your music. Your mom was a fan and everything?
But your mom's around. Yeah, she's around.
But your mom's around. Yeah, she's around.
Judy. Oh, yeah. Say hello for me.
Judy. Oh, yeah. Say hello for me.
Yeah, that's right. Yeah. I don't know. I'm going to hell anyway. Tell me about the... Yeah, so one of the first times... I go to collect, and I had one of those stupid hats with the earmuffs, you know, you put it all, but if you do it up there, it pushes your ears out like, you know, airplane wings or whatever. So your ears are like that, like a knucklehead.
Yeah, that's right. Yeah. I don't know. I'm going to hell anyway. Tell me about the... Yeah, so one of the first times... I go to collect, and I had one of those stupid hats with the earmuffs, you know, you put it all, but if you do it up there, it pushes your ears out like, you know, airplane wings or whatever. So your ears are like that, like a knucklehead.
And I go to collect it from Mrs. You know what? I was about to blur her name because I always remember. And she was an unhappily married, very young, hot as a pistol woman. And she was home alone. I don't know where the guy was or anything, but it's Friday night after school. And I'm going to collect $3.75. I'll never forget it for the full week's newspapers. And I walk up, hi, it's Gene Klein.
And I go to collect it from Mrs. You know what? I was about to blur her name because I always remember. And she was an unhappily married, very young, hot as a pistol woman. And she was home alone. I don't know where the guy was or anything, but it's Friday night after school. And I'm going to collect $3.75. I'll never forget it for the full week's newspapers. And I walk up, hi, it's Gene Klein.
I was Gene Klein then. Collecting blah, blah, blah. She said, come on in. So I walk in the door and you just smell the pheromones and she comes out in a nightgown. A see-through. And I'm going, ooga, ooga. You know, see the headlights and and you see it all happening. And she's You know, makeup, everything, she's all alone in her house.
I was Gene Klein then. Collecting blah, blah, blah. She said, come on in. So I walk in the door and you just smell the pheromones and she comes out in a nightgown. A see-through. And I'm going, ooga, ooga. You know, see the headlights and and you see it all happening. And she's You know, makeup, everything, she's all alone in her house.
It must have been drinking, I guess, because she was very free with her words and her voobah. And she kind of slinkered over, snake-like. And I was always big for my age, so I didn't look 13. I must have looked 16. It's funny, I was always invited to the sweet 16 parties. And since I didn't drink, I'd wait for all the guys to get bonkers and just... Mount the girls that were left.
It must have been drinking, I guess, because she was very free with her words and her voobah. And she kind of slinkered over, snake-like. And I was always big for my age, so I didn't look 13. I must have looked 16. It's funny, I was always invited to the sweet 16 parties. And since I didn't drink, I'd wait for all the guys to get bonkers and just... Mount the girls that were left.
It doesn't matter. And so she said, I'll get right over. And then she came in and she said, here, you must be tired. Lie down on the couch. And I didn't know what was going on. I was just sort of, and then she unzippered my pants and sat on me. Gave you some education. You know, I didn't know what was going on. But I figured it out pretty fast. Yeah, and I dared not go back.
It doesn't matter. And so she said, I'll get right over. And then she came in and she said, here, you must be tired. Lie down on the couch. And I didn't know what was going on. I was just sort of, and then she unzippered my pants and sat on me. Gave you some education. You know, I didn't know what was going on. But I figured it out pretty fast. Yeah, and I dared not go back.
I gave up my buddy's newspaper route because, you know, who knows? The guy might be there. One of my first. Really? That's a great one. And then a very brutal experience with a guy named Jim. No, that was not true. Not true.
I gave up my buddy's newspaper route because, you know, who knows? The guy might be there. One of my first. Really? That's a great one. And then a very brutal experience with a guy named Jim. No, that was not true. Not true.
That's a very enticing image.
That's a very enticing image.
Yeah. I guess the LBGTXYPTSXYZ allodocious people are, in fact, accurate. Men can give birth. Yeah.
Gene Simmons' band, about a year ago, we sold Kiss to a company called Pop House for $100 billion.
Well, you sold all of it. The underlying rights and the songs.
And your likeness, too, as well, right? Not under the makeup. Oh. Oh.
I've heard that before, too. What?
No. It happened... You know, they call it a singularity in science. 52 years ago, something like that, where four knuckleheads off the streets of New York with... No experience, no resume, no qualification. And I remember even back then, we had this strange notion, let's put together the band we never saw on stage.
No, because, and chicks understand this, but they don't talk about it. You want to go to a club. It's okay if I call you a chick because it's very complex with you guys. I'm a woman, I'm a chick, I'm a girl. Don't call me a girl. We're just like assholes. We don't care. So you get a phone call. Come on down to the club. It's a lot of fun. Oh, good. What's everybody wearing?
Oh, they're all dressed in little black dresses. So what are you going to do? You're going to put on a red outfit because you want to stand out in the crowd. I don't ask, what are the guys wearing? You just show up. Yeah. Yeah. So you want to stand out in the crowd because we're visually stimulated. Ever since we roamed... the flat plains of Africa as Australopithecines.
Australopithecus africanus then changed to Australopithecus afarensis, which was found in what was then known as the Olduvai Gorge in Tanganyika by L.S. Leakey. I told you I was a teacher. Yeah, so we are visually stimulated. And all the stuff in the past, we still have. The tail and, you know, all that stuff.
Oh, so it happened one day. One of us, nobody knows who, said, let's go down to Woolworths, which was kind of a department store. And it was close to Halloween. And so all the fun bits, the whoopee cushions and the ice cubes with plastic ice cubes with flies in it. So you can...
I'm always fascinated by you guys, you know, because it's a different culture. You go out there without effects, without screens and things and all that stuff, and you're out there bare. So I'm going to turn the tables on you. At some point in your life, you overcame that thing of, I don't want to be judged, right? Oh. Right? Because everybody at a certain age, very young. And then you broke free.
do that and the frogs that made that so you can put it under the girls dresses because we like to hear them go like that and we went in that section and i remember all four of us for no reason at all bought stein's clown white i'd never heard of it seen it anything we just oh clown white put it on the white we didn't have an idea how do i look oh there we go and Makeup artist.
Who's Kat and who's Patty?
Nothing to do with us. We always put our own makeup on. But the fans kept doing that. Anyway, and you can see Lenny Kravitz when he was a kid. All kinds of people. He was thrown out of school for coming. for coming to school dressed in my face.
Nobody knew what they were doing. It's like kids playing in mud. Yeah, nobody can lay claim to it. It just happened. And we didn't have experience or anything, but somehow we knew we have to protect this. And so for the first time ever... In all of pop culture, actors, actresses, everything, we trademarked the designs of our faces. Wow, that's so smart.
So you could have face masks like our current president or any president, Johnny Carson, whoever, and they don't get a penny. You put my face mask on you, I take your firstborn.
The four of them. You read. I'm Jewish, so we're people of the book. You read a lot. And all the information, this is before it was here. Yeah. All the information of mankind. And I think it's fair to say mankind because we didn't allow you to do anything. It's true. Yes. So all the highways, everything created. This was invented in Israel by Motorola. Yeah, the technology. Really?
One of the top three patent invention trademarks on the planet. Star Wars technology, pills that you can swallow and you don't have to open up a body. It's exploratory. Yeah. Those clever Jews. By the way, you know, I finally figured out why all the chicks love Jesus.
Well, he's hung like this. So...
No, you're funny. I don't think about it. Just life's kind of a joke and you have to have a sense of humor about it and then you die.
But he's a much nicer person.
No, it's all Shannon. The heartbeat, the moral compass, our mothers.
You want to hear something crazy? Please. So... We start, it's kind of crazy.
So we started about, anyway, the first show, we came out, as it were, New Year's Eve, 1973, 74, the Academy of Music, New York City. Within one year and a half, within a year and a half, even before we were signed, we were headlining Anaheim Stadium.
On top of bands that had been around for 20 years and all that. A year and a half. Now, by the way, this is before cell phones, before MTV. You still had to put coins. I think at that point it was 10 cents and with a rotary thing. And you should see modern day kids trying to figure out what that is. I know. They're pressing and all that stuff.
No, no, there is such a thing. We didn't know what the word marketing meant. If you have the right thing, even though you think it's for that, and you're at the right place and the right time, your chances are much higher. So we happen to be this idea of putting on makeup with the things and looking different. Mm-hmm. Than what everybody else is.
And for no reason in the world, sticking my tongue out, I have no idea what I was doing. Except that in sixth or seventh grade, I used to do that because the chicks, you know, would make that sound that turkeys make when they're about to get their heads chopped off.
But I didn't know when I stuck my tongue out. You want me to put what? Where? I didn't know that.
And I had to be careful when I stuck my tongue out because not all the floors were clean. Did you get that one? Yes. Yes. Some were dirty. And... That was a great laugh. So... Nobody can lay claim to it. We just happen to find each other. And in retrospect, it's fair to say not every person is designed to run a marathon.
So the two original guys, Ace and Peter, were great in the beginning, but it didn't last long. You know, once... In the beginning, there was no drugs and alcohol, maybe outside the band. But once they got money and the money came in fast, we used to put in order forms in the albums. So you can put $5, $10, $20 before the post office became, you know, a crook haven.
And night and day, we would open these envelopes for T-shirts, belts. We had four envelopes. warehouses operating 24 hours a day in the valley in 1976, fulfilling orders. Nobody's ever done that before, during, or since. No. Well, during, we did. And in 1979, 20th Century Fox's... Top two licensing and merchandising things were Star Wars and Kiss.
At 7-Eleven, they had Slurpee Kiss cups.
We were going to do a Kiss Barbie. We had Kiss. You kissed dolls.
Marriage select. You want to mount all the females.
There have been more items. Here comes the joke. This is true. We have had kiss condoms, kiss caskets. We got you coming and we got you going. But it's true. Dimebag Darrell, the guitar player in Pantera, passed away on stage. Some idiot, a psycho, shot him on stage while they were doing a show. And his last will and testament was to be buried in a kiss casket. Wow. Yeah, we sent it to him. Yeah.
That's crazy. Are you going to be buried in a kiss casket? I don't think I'll know. But you know what I'd like to do is to have the biggest party in the world invite everybody just to have a party and forget about the problems of the world. And if you want to talk about me, celebrate my life, not my death. We're all going to have a turn.
So actually Jews, I think, have a better idea than Roman Catholics, which is... You have an open casket so everybody can really be miserable and see how awful it is. And in Judaism, you must cover the body immediately and bury it within 24 hours. But don't you sit shiver? You do. But you don't have a corpse looking at you.
No, you're not allowed. That's just for the family. Because if you're Bedouins and you come from the desert, anything is fair game for predators. So you had to bury it. Immediately. Yeah, because they could smell it and all that.
Except for that first time, apparently, where I blew you off. Well, that's better than I blew you. Actually, it might not be.
Well, that was probably not the place because all the chicks who were lifted and separated and pointed in my general direction probably were only interested in what room after the show.
It was rare. For real? Yeah. Well, they were not the highest form, but you can't have the stuff and the stuff. Shannon's got it. Yes, she does. Well...
So that's funny because she told me to fuck off right away.
Yeah, but there's a backstory that's very bizarre. Accidentally, I started living with Cher. And she... It's funny, at a certain age, the kids don't know the famous fleeting. And... So two years or whatever on, I had to move back to New York. We lived in Malibu at her place. And I had to go buy a Christmas present. I go, I don't know what to buy you. You have everything.
She said, go and call my best friend, Diana Ross. She'll tell you. She'll take you shopping. OK. Well, it didn't take long. And Diana gave me chocolate cake and then a second slice. And then we started a thing and they stopped being friends for a while. And then, you know, Kiss was touring and all that. And then I was shooting a film. I was a bad guy in a movie called Runaway.
I watched that movie. Well, Michael Crichton wrote it.
That's ahead of its time. Those things are now pretty commonplace. They go ahead of the cars and they short circuit the cars they're chasing so that they stop going.
You're very kind. So during a weekend, I'd be bringing chicks up to Vancouver where we shot. And one of them said, you know, I miss October or something. There's going to be a Playboy party at the mansion called Midsummer Night's Dream. I go there and I get, I'm going to shortcut the story. I get introduced to Shannon and Tracy Tweed, who both appeared on Playboy.
And Shannon's been on, she was a Playmate of the Year at that time. And so I met them, and my silk pajamas, you could tell what religion I was in. You understand?
And otherwise, we would be the biggest, you know, because they cut half of it off. And that's why Jewish women cannot, cannot stay away from Jewish men. Anything with 20% off. So... That's interesting. So I am bewitched by this chick. She's six feet tall, blonde hair and all that stuff, but a farm girl.
She comes from a family of seven, and we're talking, talking, and she takes me by the hand and leads me into the main house. And just like in James Bond, you've got books and everything, and she presses a button, and it opens up, and we start going down the stairs. Underneath that, where there's like a pool table, only room for two or three people.
Normally, I would have mounted that before you spelled out my name. But I was fascinated by Shannon. You know, who are they? Where you come from? And all we did was talk. I didn't even kiss her or hold her hand or anything. Oh, really? That's really interesting. You know, we're just finding out about each other. She comes over and gives me her phone number. And I said, I'm gonna call you tomorrow.
And so I went back to the Beverly Hills Hotel and I always stay in single rooms, no suites, none of that stuff. It's interesting, if you're not Jewish, it's frugal. But if you're Jewish, yeah, cheap. But I never threw the money around, I still don't. And I'm sitting, the next day, early in the morning,
You know, the single rooms, the bed is here and the door is right there and the bathroom is right there. And you see this photo coming under the thing because previous to that, I kept calling the phone number. Hello. Hi, it's Gene Simmons. It's Shannon. No, it's not here. Oh, come on. She told me to call her. This is a phone number, you know, 9445. And let's put her on. She said to call her.
I know nothing about that.
No, I don't know what you're talking about. And he hung up the phone. And I kept calling a few times. I go, holy fuck, what the hell? Couldn't figure it out. And I'm watching TV in front of me, and I see the photo being stuck under the table. What happened to your meeting, by the way?
So the photo comes underneath, and it's her Playmate of the Year photo. And on the back, it's clearly handwritten, well... I'm used to gentlemen, and a gentleman, if he gets a phone number of a woman who puts it, at least calls her. And I'm thinking to myself, what's she talking about? I called her a few times, never got through. And on the bottom, the last number was different.
It was four instead of five. I go, what the fuck? So I finally called her on the phone. You know, the phone number was four. Yeah. And she completely ignores everything and goes, yeah, whatever. So what are you going to do? You're going to come over or what? Yeah. In those days, I didn't drive. I had a guy who drove me around. I was 34. I didn't know how to drive. But if you...
And it's not even a joke. You were a New York kid. Yeah, what do you do in New York? You hop a cab or go to Subway. So I go back to New York, and I arrange for Shannon to be flown to New York to be with me. I lived on Fifth Avenue, and Diana lived one of her places a few blocks on Fifth Avenue, also a few blocks away. And I find out that...
Shannon is related in a familiar way by Diana, with Diana. In other words, Shannon is her sister-in-law because unbeknownst to me, Diana's brother, Chico, was secretly married to Shannon's sister, Tracy. What? What are the chances?
Holy crap. That is insane.
I like a lot of new bands, but it saddens my heart. They will never have the chance that we did because there's no music industry. The fans killed it. They allowed... the industry to die, the thing that they love the most. So you can download and file share and do all that stuff for nothing. So new bands don't have a chance, except Nick and Sophie are both very successful.
Sophie's written songs for Train and Rick Ross, you know, rock band, everything. And yeah, she has billboards. Here, put up Sophie Simmons billboards. It's around the world. She's a big deal. See up on top? You went too fast. One back. There you go. Yeah. Wow. See Amortage? That's currently the number one record in Asia. Sophie wrote that. Amazing.
Never asked my opinion. Nothing. It's very pop, sort of Rihanna kind of thing. She's beautiful. Like Chaperone. Never asked my opinion. She writes every day. She releases songs, produces, manages, does the whole thing. And Nick. has got his own band called Sim Fera, S-Y-M-F-E-R-A. And their music is on Ozark and Prodigal Son and everything. And I have nothing to do with it. There we go.
And you should, just for a second, put up Evan Stanley. Is that Paul Stanley's son? Yes. All of a sudden, they're making a record together. Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons. Oh, really? Yeah.
Well, sure. They came out on the road. Can you play just a heartbeat of Sounds of Silence?
Yeah, play that. I want to hear that. Evan went to Nick's house and just whipped out an acoustic guitar. They were always pals. They have their own music. And you'll hear it. It's unbelievable. Hello, Dr. Smiles.
Wow. There's such a thing called chemistry, and you don't know what that means until you hear it.
It beat Cleopatra on channel seven, ABC with Elizabeth Taylor. Wow. Yeah.
She's holding on to that.
Oh, not even. Hundreds and hundreds of one penny. Yeah. And the big secret is licensing and merchandising. is a financial source that other bands didn't have. Yeah. You can't get a Bruce Springsteen comic book or a Radiohead anything.
Neil Bogart... got a record deal, distribution deal with Warner Brothers. So he wanted to, he had Kama Sutra records and... Yummy, yummy, yummy, I got love in my tummy. 1910 Fruit Gum Company, Gladys Knight, The Pips, and Curtis Mayfield, you know, not rock. And he wanted to start a new company and eventually settled on Casablanca, after he wanted to call it Emerald City.
And he asked me what I thought of it. And I'm going, sounds like a disco... Label, I don't like that. So he started Casablanca Records. A kiss is just a kiss. A sigh is just a, you know, Casablanca. So he signed us. We didn't write hit singles. We didn't look like anybody and everything. And we started to make noise. But he made all his money as the king of disco.
Donna Summer and the Village People and Parliament Funkadelic and just all these bands, which he started the EP called Love to love you, baby. The Donna Summer song. He said this one disc jockey locked himself away for 24 hours and played that song over and over again. So he called Giorgio Moroder in Germany. Producer says, I need to make this song longer because people are making love to it.
And so he made it longer, and they put out the first EP, a slightly smaller version of an album with just that one song with an extended middle, you know, like that. Yeah. And the girls also went like that. See, that was a joke.
Different time. And now there's... Look, I've done this before to a few people. So from 1988, I beg your pardon, from 1958 until 1988 is 30 years. During that time, you had Elvis, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, you name it. In disco, you had Donna Summer. With the heavy bands, you had Metallica, ACDC, maybe us, Aerosmith, on and on and on and on.
Motown, Bowie, Prince, you name it, they all came out in that 30-year period. From 1988 until today, it's almost 40 years, where's the Beatles? Where's anything? And it bears noting that in 1988, Napster is where it started. And people never got... The analogy is... If you're a supermarket and you're selling, let's say, fruits and vegetables, you have this much and it costs five bucks.
So that five bucks pays for the rent and the people that work there. It also pays for the trucks that bring the produce there. It also pays for the farmer and the people that work there and everything. Now imagine somebody can walk into the supermarket
Six in the morning? Probably. That was not me. You're not thinking of Gene Simmons. You're thinking of Richard Simmons.
put a penny down and walk out with the same amount of fruits and vegetables, how long would the farmer stay in business, the trucking company, and the supermarket? And that's what's happened to the record business because the fans aren't willing to pay for the music. And that's the saddest part because there's certainly as much talent today as there was back then, but there is no structure.
There's no business model that works.
Oh, Steely Dan. By the way, Jackson, who I know, not on that level. Nowhere close.
Chicks. No, the Eagles, yes, one of the top bands. selling bands of all time. Yeah, for sure.
So the pop music stuff is exploding. Nobody's as good, as big as Taylor. I'm a Swifty. Would you mind bringing up Taylor Swift? 100 million albums worldwide. Button pushing guy? Can you bring up Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Kiss, and play the video, please? What? Wait. You can forward about 10, 15 seconds.
This is where Taylor and the whole band come out dressed as Kiss.
Go to the bump. There we go.
And it's going to get beyond anything we ever imagined, because Pop House, which bought the underlying rights, is spending... Just a lot of money and doing something that nobody's ever experienced before. I don't mean see. So imagine a caveman and you can speak the same language and you're telling the caveman what you're about to experience. Don't think you're going crazy.
It's not religious, but put these virtual reality glasses on and And all of a sudden, reality, as you know, it disappears. The ground is different. You're in space or you're in the mouth of a dinosaur or you're in a fire pit. And no matter where you look, you're in a different reality. Yeah. Now imagine that with no glasses. And imagine you can smell it and feel the heat.
Where is this going to happen? Within two years. Is this the Avatar show? Yes.
Oh, they won't know what hit them. It's beyond. And we've been trying to do this. We played at Dodger Stadium 2000. And it was the first 3D concert. Not all of it. You've got your glasses and at certain points you put them on. So if I spit fire, you'd see the fire coming out into the audience. But it was far too expensive to do it all. And nobody wanted to wear glasses for the whole show.
And it cost a fortune. We didn't make a dime on that show. But technology has changed so fast that future concerts are going to be unlike anything anybody's ever imagined. We're already almost there. There's this fear in Las Vegas that, And what you're seeing is unbelievable, except you don't lose yourself. If you look down, you see the hangnail that you had that morning.
And you see the next, you know, the chick. I should grab her number before I go. And then when you look up, you see all that. Virtual glasses are closer to that because this world disappears. Wow. But you don't feel the heat if there's a fire.
We could be in a wall. We could be in the underworld. We could be, yeah.
No glasses. No glasses. I remember seeing a minority report. Did you ever see that Tom Cruise movie?
And he goes like this. And then he's got like a computer thing and he's moving things. I saw a real one that the Air Force was using in doubt. I know some friends in the military. Yeah. It exists. Really? Yeah. There's nothing in front of you. And they're moving things. Well, I mean, what the fuck is the cloud? Right?
There's a million things of information. Where is it? It's in the cloud. Where?
And right, I've got, there's a person in Africa, in Namibia, I think. an investment guy. Was it Nabil? I don't know. But not too long ago, I got a phone call, crystal clear on my cell, like he's next door to you. Crazy.
Oh, what's happening now, as you know, Elon believes that, and I believe him, that AI is going to surpass humankind knowledge and also have a sense of self-awareness. self-aware in five years.
But it's happening so fast that algorithm, military, I mean, right now you're watching a few wars, but especially the Ukraine war, where it's all drones.
He's a member of the tribe, yeah. Hey, what was this broadcast on? FX. FX. The X show on FX.
Now apply drones to tanks, apply drones to anything, and you're playing video games.
Rescheduling some of the shows up and down. The economy is really bad. People are hurting, losing their jobs. But yeah, there's going to be, oh, maybe 15 up and down the East Coast and everything. And then stopping for a while because I've got a film company, Simmons Hamilton. Our first film is an action adventure called Deepwater with Sir Ben Kingsley and Aaron Eckhart. Whoa.
Rennie Harlan is directing, who did one of the Die Hard films. Then a second movie called The Canyon with Mel Gibson and Bella Thorne. So a few of these movies coming up. And the restaurant chain, you know about that? No, I don't. Rock and Brews, as in B-R-E-W. There's two at LAX and across America.
I didn't know it was yours. Is that in the Delta Terminal? Number one. Yeah, there's one.
I didn't know that was yours.
I have vodkas, sodas, wines, anything.
Oh, no, no, no. I mean, as my brand, I own the money bag logo. Can you go to money bag? I think I saw that on a hat one time. Vodka. Yeah. Money bag vodka. So you see on the top left. So I'm literally the only one. That's your bottle of vodka? That's brilliant. That's an old one, but the one on the right or the one upper left. See, I literally own the logo.
And so if you buy, you see that you had some booze over there. There you go. There's a bottle.
Okay. Now, that's terrific. Now, you know what I can do that you can't do anything about? I can take the shape of that bottle and take off the other stuff. Well, you did smart. You did something special with the actual bottle. But the shape of the bottle is not trademarked.
No. The shape of my bottle is around the world. So if you did whatever you want to call it, if you go near that trademark, I own you.
200 plus. If you put up... I literally, I know this is going to sound crazy. I own the pound sign or the English pound.
I own that trademark as approved by the... As long as it's in the bag... I own the euro. I'm the only one on earth that owns the euro, the E sign. Yeah. As long as it's in the bag. I own the rupee.
The rupee, I own Bitcoin and Dogecoin.
We looked into it and the legal ramifications, the exposure, it's too litigious. Everybody sues everybody.
It's like getting into food. One person swallows the wrong way. I mean, you go to McDonald's, a woman's coffee is too hot and then she sues you. Of course, she can't tell that it's hot because there's smoke coming up or just that you're holding it. But she did win some money.
Yeah, because she didn't know it was hot.
But I saw a photo of her. It's probably the only hot thing she's had down there for a while. You know.
Gene, I could talk to you forever. As a matter of fact, there she was. Go back one, please. I'm going to get sued. There she is. Nah. You want to do something crazy? Please. Can I call Nick? Please. The question is what to call him. Big guy. I like this one. She laughs at the stupidest ones I have.
Hey, Nick. Hello. All right, Nick. Somebody wants to talk to you. You want to hold on?
Did we get him canceled today?
You know that my son's like a man's man kind of guy. He's become a cat person. He worships his cat.
It'll be funny to see the YMH They tore me a new asshole.
They told me, you know you're the worst guest on YMH when the guy who comes the next week is a guy who drinks his own piss and he's a better guest than you.
One of the YMH guys. They had come on there, like the bald guy who does weird sex videos and he came on short lists and whatever. And they're like, that guy was better than Nick. So, you know, he's really bad.
hey buddy you can come on my podcast and i'll interrupt you all day long anytime all right let's do it i'm gonna set it up i'm gonna set it up only it'll be uh it's funny to have the uh hey you've seen the main event now see uh some kid who's kind of related to him that'll be fine we can team up we'll have you as a guest pair one time
Yeah, because your castle is oh so poor that you're modern. There's room. There's room, he says. I'm allergic to cats, though. Okay, he's kicking me out. It was good to talk to me. They do. Right now, they didn't plan it because life happens to you while you're busy making your plans. No, these are my plans. Life doesn't care. So they were buds, Evan and Nick. And what you saw just happened.
He's got a camera set up. And he started some Hello, Doc. You know that song? And what you heard is there's no recording or anything. It's just what they sound like. And now they've written songs and they're busy recording their first record with the producer of the year who produced... I don't know, Green Day and all kinds of stuff. Yeah. That's crazy. That's amazing.
And now record companies are vying for it. And they did not plan any of this. This is kind of like Crosby, Sills, and Nash meets Simon and Garfunkel kind of stuff. Yeah. And Nick's stuff is more like Radiohead meets Pink Floyd. And Sophie is pop.
And I'm done. What are you? Worship Satan now? No. Wait a minute. You've only been...
And Evan was in a kind of a pop rock band.
Hug? They're settling on, you know, Evan and Nick Simmons.
You know, Simon and Garfunkel kind of thing.
Went to the dark side only six times?
Did your schmeckle fall off? What happened?
Oh, you came very fast. Very fast. I'm flummoxed.
Come on in, Leanne. Come on in, Leanne. Come in here.
Always do what I say. We'll get along better. Sit down, Leanne. He told you all this stuff?
A guy that tells his chick all this stuff. Wow. That's almost gay.
So before you got serious, how do you like this interview? So before you got serious, you knew that he's only been up to bat six times?
Can I just tell you one of the big secrets? What do I know? You don't go in there with the stuff that makes you happy. First, you've got to make her happy. And if you're not sure what, because every single one of them is like a different combination on a lock. We have one. That's it. She likes the A. I don't like the C. So you go through the alphabet. With your mouth schmeckle.
Which I've never heard before, a mouth schmeckle. So neither of you, right? So you try the A, and then when you find, I like the C. Okay, then you keep doing the C until she goes to hell. And then she doesn't care. And then you can jump on it. And then, you know what the perfect date is? Oh, I'm done. Get out. You see that?
Oh, absolutely. Yeah, I know.
So you see what I did there?
These are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. So they have sex up here. Yeah. We have sex there. It doesn't. What does it mean? Do I have my mother's hips? Why won't she call me? We don't care. Which is why in jail, if you close your eyes, it doesn't count. But they have to. What sign are you and all this? Oh, shit. Yeah. He has a good sense of humor. OK, I'll give him some.
You could be a deaf mute and we'll pop one on you.
Who cares? Now that we're done, I'd like to. How was I?
I had some good teachers. I have to say, one of my first experiences, I was a newspaper delivery boy. I was 13. Just a knucklehead. It was dead of winter.
He didn't want to do his newspaper route, so I took over his route, and I was delivering in the snow and everything just to make 30 bucks a week, which was a lot of money back then when the people had two sticks together with the fire and everything. And once a week, I'd have to go and collect the money, you know, 25 cents, 15, 50 cents, and all that. And the Sunday edition was a dollar newspaper.
It was, like, really thick. And it was Christmas time, and it was a few days before Christmas. I'll shorten it because you have a meeting to go to.
Yeah. I'm kind of a big deal. You are a huge deal.
I love your music. Your mom was a fan and everything?
But your mom's around. Yeah, she's around.
Judy. Oh, yeah. Say hello for me.
Yeah, that's right. Yeah. I don't know. I'm going to hell anyway. Tell me about the... Yeah, so one of the first times... I go to collect, and I had one of those stupid hats with the earmuffs, you know, you put it all, but if you do it up there, it pushes your ears out like, you know, airplane wings or whatever. So your ears are like that, like a knucklehead.
And I go to collect it from Mrs. You know what? I was about to blur her name because I always remember. And she was an unhappily married, very young, hot as a pistol woman. And she was home alone. I don't know where the guy was or anything, but it's Friday night after school. And I'm going to collect $3.75. I'll never forget it for the full week's newspapers. And I walk up, hi, it's Gene Klein.
I was Gene Klein then. Collecting blah, blah, blah. She said, come on in. So I walk in the door and you just smell the pheromones and she comes out in a nightgown. A see-through. And I'm going, ooga, ooga. You know, see the headlights and and you see it all happening. And she's You know, makeup, everything, she's all alone in her house.
It must have been drinking, I guess, because she was very free with her words and her voobah. And she kind of slinkered over, snake-like. And I was always big for my age, so I didn't look 13. I must have looked 16. It's funny, I was always invited to the sweet 16 parties. And since I didn't drink, I'd wait for all the guys to get bonkers and just... Mount the girls that were left.
It doesn't matter. And so she said, I'll get right over. And then she came in and she said, here, you must be tired. Lie down on the couch. And I didn't know what was going on. I was just sort of, and then she unzippered my pants and sat on me. Gave you some education. You know, I didn't know what was going on. But I figured it out pretty fast. Yeah, and I dared not go back.
I gave up my buddy's newspaper route because, you know, who knows? The guy might be there. One of my first. Really? That's a great one. And then a very brutal experience with a guy named Jim. No, that was not true. Not true.
That's a very enticing image.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick and decided to put on makeup. If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on the You know, Mount Rushmore. Who's that? I have no idea. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh, yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick and decided to put on makeup. If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on the You know, Mount Rushmore. Who's that? I have no idea. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh, yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band.
People are allowed to live and decide for themselves what makes sense for themselves. And if you like being around them, that's fine. But hi, nice to see you. I'm Gene. Are you a supporter of Donald Trump? Well, you're not going to get very far.
People are allowed to live and decide for themselves what makes sense for themselves. And if you like being around them, that's fine. But hi, nice to see you. I'm Gene. Are you a supporter of Donald Trump? Well, you're not going to get very far.
You just figured out the secret. Ego, ego, ego. You just fed the beast. Good job, Ben. Good job. Well, I had nothing to do with it. My father, unfortunately, left us. And yours truly. I'm an only child for my mother, who has always been my hero, my moral compass. Without her, I would have veered right into darkness. So by the time I was seven...
You just figured out the secret. Ego, ego, ego. You just fed the beast. Good job, Ben. Good job. Well, I had nothing to do with it. My father, unfortunately, left us. And yours truly. I'm an only child for my mother, who has always been my hero, my moral compass. Without her, I would have veered right into darkness. So by the time I was seven...
My mother found herself having to get up at the crack of dawn and working six days a week from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. at night. And Israel, in those early days, we didn't have an infrastructure. You'd go once a week down to the place where the government officials are, and they'd give you a newspaper that's cut out, and you'd get a slab of butter. And I remember this.
My mother found herself having to get up at the crack of dawn and working six days a week from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. at night. And Israel, in those early days, we didn't have an infrastructure. You'd go once a week down to the place where the government officials are, and they'd give you a newspaper that's cut out, and you'd get a slab of butter. And I remember this.
With the print falling off onto the food, you'd get bread cut. A slab of meat and so on, that was supposed to, you know, some other stuff, fruits, vegetables, that was supposed to last you for a week. There were no paved roads or anything. I never saw a television set, never heard of it. We didn't have a radio. There was an outhouse, literally a hole outside the front door.
With the print falling off onto the food, you'd get bread cut. A slab of meat and so on, that was supposed to, you know, some other stuff, fruits, vegetables, that was supposed to last you for a week. There were no paved roads or anything. I never saw a television set, never heard of it. We didn't have a radio. There was an outhouse, literally a hole outside the front door.
It's my pleasure. You're actually better looking than I thought you were.
It's my pleasure. You're actually better looking than I thought you were.
We had a one-bedroom house. I remember as a kid, and there was a big hole right above the, well, the living room was the bedroom, was the kitchen. The kitchen was over there. It was just a sink. There was no refrigerator. There was an icebox. Once a week, you'd get ice, and that was it. I know it sounds like another century, but most new countries start that way.
We had a one-bedroom house. I remember as a kid, and there was a big hole right above the, well, the living room was the bedroom, was the kitchen. The kitchen was over there. It was just a sink. There was no refrigerator. There was an icebox. Once a week, you'd get ice, and that was it. I know it sounds like another century, but most new countries start that way.
And when we, my mother had two brothers who escaped Nazi Germany, all that, before World War II, and succeeded. My uncle George, my mother's brother, became a periodontist. It's a big word. Basically, he made bridges, fake teeth. I have to tell you, one of the first impressions when we landed with El Al Airlines,
And when we, my mother had two brothers who escaped Nazi Germany, all that, before World War II, and succeeded. My uncle George, my mother's brother, became a periodontist. It's a big word. Basically, he made bridges, fake teeth. I have to tell you, one of the first impressions when we landed with El Al Airlines,
We got out, and I think it must have been close to winter, because there was a big billboard, and there was Santa Claus, who I'd never heard of before. I'd never heard of Jesus or Santa Claus, any of that. And he's sort of leaning back, holding a cigarette over here. And in the background, I'll never forget this, there were reindeer over there with the with a chariot or whatever they pull.
We got out, and I think it must have been close to winter, because there was a big billboard, and there was Santa Claus, who I'd never heard of before. I'd never heard of Jesus or Santa Claus, any of that. And he's sort of leaning back, holding a cigarette over here. And in the background, I'll never forget this, there were reindeer over there with the with a chariot or whatever they pull.
And he's like that, smiling with a big beard. All I knew was, oh, that's a rabbi. That rabbi is smoking a cigarette. And I didn't know that. And then when we came to my Aunt Magda's house, the wife of my mother's brother, Larry, who, bless him, had his own bakery and made a small fortune. And my waistline is proof of that.
And he's like that, smiling with a big beard. All I knew was, oh, that's a rabbi. That rabbi is smoking a cigarette. And I didn't know that. And then when we came to my Aunt Magda's house, the wife of my mother's brother, Larry, who, bless him, had his own bakery and made a small fortune. And my waistline is proof of that.
Well, as we both know, these are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic.
Well, as we both know, these are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic.
And I want to tell you that I saw my first television set at Aunt Magda's house. And it must have been at the right time in the afternoon. They turned it on, and I had a spoon in a schmucker's jar, and I was eating the jam because I'd never tasted anything like that in my life. And both my aunt and my mom were laughing, tears and everything. I never saw a refrigerator.
And I want to tell you that I saw my first television set at Aunt Magda's house. And it must have been at the right time in the afternoon. They turned it on, and I had a spoon in a schmucker's jar, and I was eating the jam because I'd never tasted anything like that in my life. And both my aunt and my mom were laughing, tears and everything. I never saw a refrigerator.
I know this all sounds like, hey, I never saw a fridge. I said, in a Hungarian, because my Aunt Magda spoke Hungarian, not Hebrew. Mios! Mios! you know, like, I want a little bit of that. Can I taste it? And she said, of course. And she gave me a spoon expecting me to just take a little bit. And I put a little bit in my mouth and I thought she said, sure, you can have that.
I know this all sounds like, hey, I never saw a fridge. I said, in a Hungarian, because my Aunt Magda spoke Hungarian, not Hebrew. Mios! Mios! you know, like, I want a little bit of that. Can I taste it? And she said, of course. And she gave me a spoon expecting me to just take a little bit. And I put a little bit in my mouth and I thought she said, sure, you can have that.
So, you know, I started eating that and they turned on the television and I put down the jar because what I saw was a guy flying through the air with a cape. I'll never forget that. And I, no matter how good this was, I What is that? Look up in the sky. It's a bird. It's a plane. This amazing land where you had movies and images and people flying through the air and big buildings. I was afraid.
So, you know, I started eating that and they turned on the television and I put down the jar because what I saw was a guy flying through the air with a cape. I'll never forget that. And I, no matter how good this was, I What is that? Look up in the sky. It's a bird. It's a plane. This amazing land where you had movies and images and people flying through the air and big buildings. I was afraid.
I swear to you, I was afraid to cross the street at my Aunt Magda's house because there were cars going by. I was scared to death. Anyway, I could go on forever.
I swear to you, I was afraid to cross the street at my Aunt Magda's house because there were cars going by. I was scared to death. Anyway, I could go on forever.
First, my mother, to keep me off the streets, put me in yeshiva. I was a Lubavitch. Well, what can I say? It kept me off the streets, but then I discovered girls. And it's been... the bane of my existence ever since. On the other hand, you could take a look at it biblically. All the chasing, the skirt, is really biblical if you think of it. It said, spread thy seed.
First, my mother, to keep me off the streets, put me in yeshiva. I was a Lubavitch. Well, what can I say? It kept me off the streets, but then I discovered girls. And it's been... the bane of my existence ever since. On the other hand, you could take a look at it biblically. All the chasing, the skirt, is really biblical if you think of it. It said, spread thy seed.
And that's what I've been doing. I was just doing the Lord's work. That's what it says. See what I did there? And so I'm minding my own business. I always had a job delivering newspapers, working at a butcher store, and just, you know, always worked. Even when I was six years old in Israel, picking cactus fruit and selling it with Shlomo, my Moroccan friend, Solomon in English,
And that's what I've been doing. I was just doing the Lord's work. That's what it says. See what I did there? And so I'm minding my own business. I always had a job delivering newspapers, working at a butcher store, and just, you know, always worked. Even when I was six years old in Israel, picking cactus fruit and selling it with Shlomo, my Moroccan friend, Solomon in English,
to bring some pruta, you know, the shekels, the Israeli pennies of the time, and bought my first ice cream when I was a little kid, six and a half years old, and I still remember That taste, I'll never forget that as long as I live. Because nothing is as sweet as something you, you know, by the sweat of thy brow, it says in the good book.
to bring some pruta, you know, the shekels, the Israeli pennies of the time, and bought my first ice cream when I was a little kid, six and a half years old, and I still remember That taste, I'll never forget that as long as I live. Because nothing is as sweet as something you, you know, by the sweat of thy brow, it says in the good book.
Well, I think it's fair to say that I'm completely unqualified in the body politic, especially worldwide body politic, because our perceptions, perhaps yours, mine, and the rest of the populace is based on what we see, hear, and feel emotionally from social media. Having said that, why anybody would care what I have to say about anything other than the fact that I stick my tongue out for a living?
Well, I think it's fair to say that I'm completely unqualified in the body politic, especially worldwide body politic, because our perceptions, perhaps yours, mine, and the rest of the populace is based on what we see, hear, and feel emotionally from social media. Having said that, why anybody would care what I have to say about anything other than the fact that I stick my tongue out for a living?
Nothing is as sweet and rewarding as something you worked for. You don't have to thank anybody. It's all yours. And then I put all the rest of the money on the table in front of my mother. And she was amazed. I remember her hugging me and saying, that's my little man. And ever since then, I've been working for women. Without the money, I don't get much attention.
Nothing is as sweet and rewarding as something you worked for. You don't have to thank anybody. It's all yours. And then I put all the rest of the money on the table in front of my mother. And she was amazed. I remember her hugging me and saying, that's my little man. And ever since then, I've been working for women. Without the money, I don't get much attention.
So I must have been 13 or something, and it was a Sunday night. And of course, Sunday, I went around getting everybody's money for delivering the newspapers and all that. And by the early evening, I was at home at my mother's apartment. And the Ed Sullivan show came up. And the Ed Sullivan show, for those of you that don't know what it was, was the biggest show on television.
So I must have been 13 or something, and it was a Sunday night. And of course, Sunday, I went around getting everybody's money for delivering the newspapers and all that. And by the early evening, I was at home at my mother's apartment. And the Ed Sullivan show came up. And the Ed Sullivan show, for those of you that don't know what it was, was the biggest show on television.
When the Beatles were on, literally 75 million people were watching this. At the time, half the population of the United States of America. The total population at that point, 64, 60 something, was about 160 million. So, Again, I put my, I remember what I had. I had faschirt, which is Hungarian hamburger, and peas, which I hated.
When the Beatles were on, literally 75 million people were watching this. At the time, half the population of the United States of America. The total population at that point, 64, 60 something, was about 160 million. So, Again, I put my, I remember what I had. I had faschirt, which is Hungarian hamburger, and peas, which I hated.
And I remember putting, my mother always treated me like a king, so I had like a a little stand with legs on it so I could stand in front of the TV, sit in front of the TV and watch it. And I'm watching the Ed Sullivan show. And, you know, they're singing and stuff. And I, I never saw or heard anything like that.
And I remember putting, my mother always treated me like a king, so I had like a a little stand with legs on it so I could stand in front of the TV, sit in front of the TV and watch it. And I'm watching the Ed Sullivan show. And, you know, they're singing and stuff. And I, I never saw or heard anything like that.
They looked very feminine, little guys with cutesy haircuts and, you know, hair above their ears. I've got some hair left as well. And I, that sound, that high-pitched sound of girls in the audience screaming like turkeys about to be let, you know, to get their heads cut off. I'd never heard anything like that in my life. What the hell is that? And the cameras kept panning to their faces.
They looked very feminine, little guys with cutesy haircuts and, you know, hair above their ears. I've got some hair left as well. And I, that sound, that high-pitched sound of girls in the audience screaming like turkeys about to be let, you know, to get their heads cut off. I'd never heard anything like that in my life. What the hell is that? And the cameras kept panning to their faces.
You know, they looked like they were having a conniption. Outside of New York City, you think it's a connish. No, it's not. They were like having seizures. I never saw anything like that. And then I figured, that's probably not a bad job to have. And then right after that, by about 14, I joined a band. I couldn't play an instrument then. And I started to talk like that, you know.
You know, they looked like they were having a conniption. Outside of New York City, you think it's a connish. No, it's not. They were like having seizures. I never saw anything like that. And then I figured, that's probably not a bad job to have. And then right after that, by about 14, I joined a band. I couldn't play an instrument then. And I started to talk like that, you know.
Yeah, you know, I started to put on an accent, and I got the response. You know, the girls were saying, oh, you're not from here. No, not from here. And they go, oh, and all of a sudden you get more attention. Basically, Ben, dress British, think Yiddish. See what I did there? And the Beatles changed my life because I didn't realize it. I didn't know how to verbalize it.
Yeah, you know, I started to put on an accent, and I got the response. You know, the girls were saying, oh, you're not from here. No, not from here. And they go, oh, and all of a sudden you get more attention. Basically, Ben, dress British, think Yiddish. See what I did there? And the Beatles changed my life because I didn't realize it. I didn't know how to verbalize it.
early on, but they made it okay to be different. They spoke with an accent, and so did I. Tuk like this, you know, like Israelis with clipped vowels. And they looked different, and I sure didn't look like I came from Sweden. They made it okay to be different. Not only okay, they were the top of the pile. And so I...
early on, but they made it okay to be different. They spoke with an accent, and so did I. Tuk like this, you know, like Israelis with clipped vowels. And they looked different, and I sure didn't look like I came from Sweden. They made it okay to be different. Not only okay, they were the top of the pile. And so I...
taught myself how to play guitar initially, and then pragmatism rules, big word like gymnasium, I picked up a bass guitar because, a cheap Japanese version, because I realized everybody wanted to be a guitar player or drummer. Nobody wanted to be a bass player, but every band had a bass player. So increase your chances of being in a band, play bass.
taught myself how to play guitar initially, and then pragmatism rules, big word like gymnasium, I picked up a bass guitar because, a cheap Japanese version, because I realized everybody wanted to be a guitar player or drummer. Nobody wanted to be a bass player, but every band had a bass player. So increase your chances of being in a band, play bass.
Sure enough, everybody wanted me to be in their band because I could sing. It's a matter of opinion. And thump away at the bass guitar, and it's made me a pretty good living since then. I was thinking of buying Rhode Island, as a matter of fact.
Sure enough, everybody wanted me to be in their band because I could sing. It's a matter of opinion. And thump away at the bass guitar, and it's made me a pretty good living since then. I was thinking of buying Rhode Island, as a matter of fact.
By the way, I would have done that for you right away, but the floor is a little dirty. So I think it's fair to say that the powerful and attractive man you see before you votes on issues rather than political parties or personalities. So, by the way, some of the things you've said I completely disagree with, and other things just make sense to me.
By the way, I would have done that for you right away, but the floor is a little dirty. So I think it's fair to say that the powerful and attractive man you see before you votes on issues rather than political parties or personalities. So, by the way, some of the things you've said I completely disagree with, and other things just make sense to me.
Well, initially, what I noticed about being in a band was in the patois of the street, there were a lot of chicks. I mean, if I announced or held a sign, I'm studying to be a dentist, they're just not going to care. Later on, they do, once they realize you're making good living, and that's what it's about. And so the payoff was immediate.
Well, initially, what I noticed about being in a band was in the patois of the street, there were a lot of chicks. I mean, if I announced or held a sign, I'm studying to be a dentist, they're just not going to care. Later on, they do, once they realize you're making good living, and that's what it's about. And so the payoff was immediate.
You get more popular, you get more girls and all that, because That's our primordial, you know, the urge to merge. That's what we... Well, I'm giving you a lot of stuff here. You're going to be able to use this in political discussions. And so... At the same time, I was working.
You get more popular, you get more girls and all that, because That's our primordial, you know, the urge to merge. That's what we... Well, I'm giving you a lot of stuff here. You're going to be able to use this in political discussions. And so... At the same time, I was working.
I became the assistant to the director of the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, a government research and demonstration project. I was the only Jew there, but because it was a government research and demonstration project, there was a percentage of non-Puerto Ricans who had to be there. And I was the one because I took typing classes in high school, pragmatism, because all the girls...
I became the assistant to the director of the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, a government research and demonstration project. I was the only Jew there, but because it was a government research and demonstration project, there was a percentage of non-Puerto Ricans who had to be there. And I was the one because I took typing classes in high school, pragmatism, because all the girls...
We're taking the typing classes. So I signed up. I also signed up for another class where only girls took it. Greg and Pittman. It was called Shorthand. I signed up. And that gave me the ability to get hired by Kelly Girls, which became Kelly Services, that hired me out for lawyers, real estate companies, all that. In fact, I became...
We're taking the typing classes. So I signed up. I also signed up for another class where only girls took it. Greg and Pittman. It was called Shorthand. I signed up. And that gave me the ability to get hired by Kelly Girls, which became Kelly Services, that hired me out for lawyers, real estate companies, all that. In fact, I became...
the assistant to the director of the research and demonstration project. And then I became the man Friday to the editor of Vogue magazine. Again, on a floor where there are only girls, bottles and everything else. Then it was terrible. I got to tell you, it was just torture. Couldn't wait to get out of there. And at the same time, decided to get serious about putting a band together.
the assistant to the director of the research and demonstration project. And then I became the man Friday to the editor of Vogue magazine. Again, on a floor where there are only girls, bottles and everything else. Then it was terrible. I got to tell you, it was just torture. Couldn't wait to get out of there. And at the same time, decided to get serious about putting a band together.
and happened to accidentally meet another member of the tribe. That's failed language for the rest of the world, may not know what that means. And Stanley Eisen became Paul Stanley, and we put a band together. And the idea was, even though we weren't able to verbalize it, let's put together the band we never saw on stage, almost the way girls, really have it in their DNA.
and happened to accidentally meet another member of the tribe. That's failed language for the rest of the world, may not know what that means. And Stanley Eisen became Paul Stanley, and we put a band together. And the idea was, even though we weren't able to verbalize it, let's put together the band we never saw on stage, almost the way girls, really have it in their DNA.
There's a club and she calls ahead because she wants to know what's going on. And she gets the word, uh-oh, just beware, all the girls are wearing short black minis. So she thinks and goes, I think I'm going to put on a red short miniskirt.
There's a club and she calls ahead because she wants to know what's going on. And she gets the word, uh-oh, just beware, all the girls are wearing short black minis. So she thinks and goes, I think I'm going to put on a red short miniskirt.
many so that you stand out shakespeare figured it out the whole world's a stage and you know figure it out how to get people to look at you once you get the attention it's what you do with it and kiss was formed way before you were born in uh 19 at the end of 1972 By New Year's Eve 1973, we played our first show. We didn't have a record contract. The first record came out in February 1974.
many so that you stand out shakespeare figured it out the whole world's a stage and you know figure it out how to get people to look at you once you get the attention it's what you do with it and kiss was formed way before you were born in uh 19 at the end of 1972 By New Year's Eve 1973, we played our first show. We didn't have a record contract. The first record came out in February 1974.
Within a year and a half before MTV, before voicemail, before digital, before anything, no cell phones, Rock was not heard on radio or anything. We were headlining Anaheim Stadium in California. It just exploded. In those days, magazines and imagery was the way it impacted stuff in the same way that TikTok is the modern version of stuff. You know, like, how do you become Mr. Beast? Well, go on.
Within a year and a half before MTV, before voicemail, before digital, before anything, no cell phones, Rock was not heard on radio or anything. We were headlining Anaheim Stadium in California. It just exploded. In those days, magazines and imagery was the way it impacted stuff in the same way that TikTok is the modern version of stuff. You know, like, how do you become Mr. Beast? Well, go on.
You know who that is? I do. Yep. Yeah. Or how do you become Ben Shapiro? Well, do this stuff. And that's the modern version of it. So KISS exploded. And that's been I know it's difficult to believe that was about 53 years ago. But for 50 years and we finally sold our IP and all that in December a year ago to an amazing company called Pop House. And they paid a pretty shekel, Ben.
You know who that is? I do. Yep. Yeah. Or how do you become Ben Shapiro? Well, do this stuff. And that's the modern version of it. So KISS exploded. And that's been I know it's difficult to believe that was about 53 years ago. But for 50 years and we finally sold our IP and all that in December a year ago to an amazing company called Pop House. And they paid a pretty shekel, Ben.
And that's what I highly recommend to the rest of the populace of this third stone from the sun. which is to say that life gives you a menu and you're lucky and blessed to be living in a free society, pick and choose the items that make sense for you. You're not in, you may not be changing lots of stuff, but at least you'll be voting your conscience. So am I essential?
And that's what I highly recommend to the rest of the populace of this third stone from the sun. which is to say that life gives you a menu and you're lucky and blessed to be living in a free society, pick and choose the items that make sense for you. You're not in, you may not be changing lots of stuff, but at least you'll be voting your conscience. So am I essential?
And we continue on. You know, we're doing new stuff and everything. But during the course of Kiss's active years, every year we tour and stuff and kept breaking the rules by making toys and games and licensing and merchandising where other bands were concerned about things like credibility. that never entered into our minds. That's for losers.
And we continue on. You know, we're doing new stuff and everything. But during the course of Kiss's active years, every year we tour and stuff and kept breaking the rules by making toys and games and licensing and merchandising where other bands were concerned about things like credibility. that never entered into our minds. That's for losers.
Credibility, you never even went to music school to learn how to to learn the basics of music. You can't read or write music. Lennon, McCartney, Hendrix, the Stone, they can't read or write music. You just kind of make it up. You're completely unqualified to do that, but you're concerned about credibility. Get out of here. You know, it's noise.
Credibility, you never even went to music school to learn how to to learn the basics of music. You can't read or write music. Lennon, McCartney, Hendrix, the Stone, they can't read or write music. You just kind of make it up. You're completely unqualified to do that, but you're concerned about credibility. Get out of here. You know, it's noise.
You're lucky enough if you can make some money and the chicks chase you, and then you die. That's all there is. What does it mean? Where is this going? Do I have my mother's hips? Shut up. Just be lucky you didn't have to join a symphony orchestra where you'd have to pay your dues to learn about Tchaikovsky and Chopin and music.
You're lucky enough if you can make some money and the chicks chase you, and then you die. That's all there is. What does it mean? Where is this going? Do I have my mother's hips? Shut up. Just be lucky you didn't have to join a symphony orchestra where you'd have to pay your dues to learn about Tchaikovsky and Chopin and music.
You know, just an idiot like me picks up a thing, and like a caveman, you sort of fumble through it. And if you can't sing, then write a song called Wild Thing. It goes like this. Wild Thing, you make my heart sing. You make everything. You know, you don't have to sing well. Ask any rapper. Going to 7-Eleven, going to go to heaven and stuff. You know, you're not talking about musical mindsets.
You know, just an idiot like me picks up a thing, and like a caveman, you sort of fumble through it. And if you can't sing, then write a song called Wild Thing. It goes like this. Wild Thing, you make my heart sing. You make everything. You know, you don't have to sing well. Ask any rapper. Going to 7-Eleven, going to go to heaven and stuff. You know, you're not talking about musical mindsets.
But you can be enormously popular and wealthy. Just scientists call it a singularity, having the right thing. And the right thing can be as idiotic as Gangnam Style. which was billions and billions of downloads, not the Beatles. No, not Beethoven. No, it's this guy with the Gangnam style, you know, who came from Korea, could barely speak English, but it caught on. You know, became a thing. And,
But you can be enormously popular and wealthy. Just scientists call it a singularity, having the right thing. And the right thing can be as idiotic as Gangnam Style. which was billions and billions of downloads, not the Beatles. No, not Beethoven. No, it's this guy with the Gangnam style, you know, who came from Korea, could barely speak English, but it caught on. You know, became a thing. And,
And there was also one about the shark. And the shark said, or is it the fox? I think the fox said.
And there was also one about the shark. And the shark said, or is it the fox? I think the fox said.
Of course. Yes, and my kids. Yep. Absolutely. Yeah. Yeah, because you didn't memorize that yourself. No, no, no.
Of course. Yes, and my kids. Yep. Absolutely. Yeah. Yeah, because you didn't memorize that yourself. No, no, no.
Either as if I was a rich man. So it's, I think the scientific version of it, the headlines are having the right thing. at the right place and the right time. So before the advent of sort of modern social thought, you know, there's things you, no matter how good looking you are with a kippah on your head would have tried this a few decades ago, wouldn't be as easy.
Either as if I was a rich man. So it's, I think the scientific version of it, the headlines are having the right thing. at the right place and the right time. So before the advent of sort of modern social thought, you know, there's things you, no matter how good looking you are with a kippah on your head would have tried this a few decades ago, wouldn't be as easy.
It's a more, except culture is a moving target as people get more, um, educated to the idea that not everybody looks like you, walks like you, or talks like you. You have an advantage. Yeah.
It's a more, except culture is a moving target as people get more, um, educated to the idea that not everybody looks like you, walks like you, or talks like you. You have an advantage. Yeah.
I think part of everything that we do is part of the puzzle of our DNA and our experiences early on. And I happen to have been born with a prodigious oral appendage. Ben, you wouldn't believe it. It's a hideous looking thing. Yeah. And I mean, I would do it now except the floor is dirty. I would show it to you. And, you know, it seems to have a life of its own.
I think part of everything that we do is part of the puzzle of our DNA and our experiences early on. And I happen to have been born with a prodigious oral appendage. Ben, you wouldn't believe it. It's a hideous looking thing. Yeah. And I mean, I would do it now except the floor is dirty. I would show it to you. And, you know, it seems to have a life of its own.
I don't like labels because they limit who and what you are. A free spirit generally is, very liberal in terms of humanism. Generally speaking, love thy neighbor as thyself. Most of the time, I don't treat Nazis the same way as I would perhaps you. you know, love thy neighbor, you know, don't, what's that phrase, do unto others what they would unto you.
I don't like labels because they limit who and what you are. A free spirit generally is, very liberal in terms of humanism. Generally speaking, love thy neighbor as thyself. Most of the time, I don't treat Nazis the same way as I would perhaps you. you know, love thy neighbor, you know, don't, what's that phrase, do unto others what they would unto you.
And I remember in sixth grade, should I pause, pregnant pause while you want to laugh? Okay. So I was always the tallest kid in class and a clown because I wanted attention. And they'd stick me in the back of the room. Of course, Stella and Irene, I remember their names, sixth or seventh grade,
And I remember in sixth grade, should I pause, pregnant pause while you want to laugh? Okay. So I was always the tallest kid in class and a clown because I wanted attention. And they'd stick me in the back of the room. Of course, Stella and Irene, I remember their names, sixth or seventh grade,
in the middle of the class, I'd get in trouble because they'd whisper, hey, Gene, do that funny thing you do when you stick your tongue out. And I thought it was like, oh, you know, like a funny face. So I'd stick it out and wiggle it and make it twirl around because, you know, it can do those things and yours can't. And they'd go, okay, Mr. Klein, get
in the middle of the class, I'd get in trouble because they'd whisper, hey, Gene, do that funny thing you do when you stick your tongue out. And I thought it was like, oh, you know, like a funny face. So I'd stick it out and wiggle it and make it twirl around because, you know, it can do those things and yours can't. And they'd go, okay, Mr. Klein, get
my mother's maiden name, get over here, what were you doing? I was just sticking it out. Show the class what you were doing. I'd stick it out and they would all laugh. And so again, Singularity, the four original members of KISS, John, Paul, George, oh no, that was another band. Myself, Paul, Ace, and Peter, we were lucky enough to find each other in the beginning.
my mother's maiden name, get over here, what were you doing? I was just sticking it out. Show the class what you were doing. I'd stick it out and they would all laugh. And so again, Singularity, the four original members of KISS, John, Paul, George, oh no, that was another band. Myself, Paul, Ace, and Peter, we were lucky enough to find each other in the beginning.
And not everything lasts forever. Not everybody's designed to run a marathon. It's just life. But in the beginning, all for one, one for all, we had written some songs, pretty good. We found the right guys. We were in a rat-infested loft, 10 East 23rd Street, only 10 blocks from 33rd Street, Madison Square Garden.
And not everything lasts forever. Not everybody's designed to run a marathon. It's just life. But in the beginning, all for one, one for all, we had written some songs, pretty good. We found the right guys. We were in a rat-infested loft, 10 East 23rd Street, only 10 blocks from 33rd Street, Madison Square Garden.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth, which was a New York store, and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick, and decided to put on makeup, bought some mirrors. And pretty much on that very first day, what became possibly the four most recognized faces on the planet, more recognized than Mount Rushmore. Yeah, that's a marketing truism.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth, which was a New York store, and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick, and decided to put on makeup, bought some mirrors. And pretty much on that very first day, what became possibly the four most recognized faces on the planet, more recognized than Mount Rushmore. Yeah, that's a marketing truism.
If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on Mount Rushmore, and say, who's that? They have no idea. Well, who's on Mount Rushmore? Elvis? No. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band. And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band.
If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on Mount Rushmore, and say, who's that? They have no idea. Well, who's on Mount Rushmore? Elvis? No. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band. And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band.
It just means that the imagery connected in ways no other band connected. You don't know what everybody in Farner looks like. You just don't. And they had hit records and all that stuff. So there was a decided difference in who and what KISS was, which enabled us to have literally thousands and thousands of licensed and merchandise products.
It just means that the imagery connected in ways no other band connected. You don't know what everybody in Farner looks like. You just don't. And they had hit records and all that stuff. So there was a decided difference in who and what KISS was, which enabled us to have literally thousands and thousands of licensed and merchandise products.
Well, music changes because new generations come along. And when my mother and I first came to America, this was pre-Beatles in 1958. Sometimes I think it's 1858. The first music I heard was Chuck Berry, even though I couldn't speak English. Chuck Berry, Little Richard. As a matter of fact, ironically and strangely, I did the eulogy for Chuck Berry's open casket when he passed away.
Well, music changes because new generations come along. And when my mother and I first came to America, this was pre-Beatles in 1958. Sometimes I think it's 1858. The first music I heard was Chuck Berry, even though I couldn't speak English. Chuck Berry, Little Richard. As a matter of fact, ironically and strangely, I did the eulogy for Chuck Berry's open casket when he passed away.
In other words, don't do the stuff you think will hurt. Well, that also generally applies. A sadomasochist might slap you in the face and I'm going, what are you doing that for? He goes, well, I'm a sadomasochist. I like that. I thought you'd like it too. So we can apply, everything's just general. There's always an exception to it. So the short answer, although
In other words, don't do the stuff you think will hurt. Well, that also generally applies. A sadomasochist might slap you in the face and I'm going, what are you doing that for? He goes, well, I'm a sadomasochist. I like that. I thought you'd like it too. So we can apply, everything's just general. There's always an exception to it. So the short answer, although
The Berry family asked me to do that. It's on YouTube. And... Again, when the Beatles came along, it was a seismic shift. So before the Beatles, there was a sound. Before Chuck Berry and everything. My darling. Music used to be that way. It was called doo-wop. Doo-wop because it was New York-based. Wop was a derogatory term for Italians. The passports, W-O-P, without papers, a WAP.
The Berry family asked me to do that. It's on YouTube. And... Again, when the Beatles came along, it was a seismic shift. So before the Beatles, there was a sound. Before Chuck Berry and everything. My darling. Music used to be that way. It was called doo-wop. Doo-wop because it was New York-based. Wop was a derogatory term for Italians. The passports, W-O-P, without papers, a WAP.
And even Little Richard, a WAP, Babaloo WAP, a WAP, Bamboo, Tutti Frutti, you know, all that. So music kept changing based on the way the ears were tuned, what people heard. And soon as Elvis started doing black music, it changed white music. It was doing, in those days, it was called race music. You couldn't hear that stuff on radio.
And even Little Richard, a WAP, Babaloo WAP, a WAP, Bamboo, Tutti Frutti, you know, all that. So music kept changing based on the way the ears were tuned, what people heard. And soon as Elvis started doing black music, it changed white music. It was doing, in those days, it was called race music. You couldn't hear that stuff on radio.
And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band. It just means that the imagery connected in ways. no other band connected.
And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band. It just means that the imagery connected in ways. no other band connected.
Elvis opened the doors for black music that was shamefully not allowed to be played on regular radio. So as you go through the different eras, there was the big band era, the so-and-so era, populations and tastes change. And even through rock and roll came in, based on Chuck Berry, and they stopped doing that, and it became riffs. You know, the Zeppelin thing.
Elvis opened the doors for black music that was shamefully not allowed to be played on regular radio. So as you go through the different eras, there was the big band era, the so-and-so era, populations and tastes change. And even through rock and roll came in, based on Chuck Berry, and they stopped doing that, and it became riffs. You know, the Zeppelin thing.
That moved it a little to bigger sound, less complex, bigger riffs. And so we're a product of all those English bands, actually. But even during our reign, As the Gallup pulled number one band on the planet three years in a row, 77, 78, 79, above the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and the Bee Gees, there was something going on. It was called grunge.
That moved it a little to bigger sound, less complex, bigger riffs. And so we're a product of all those English bands, actually. But even during our reign, As the Gallup pulled number one band on the planet three years in a row, 77, 78, 79, above the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and the Bee Gees, there was something going on. It was called grunge.
It came out of Seattle, and it was a different form of music. Then there was new romance, new wave alternative. Music keeps changing. There was once something called big band. It was, you know, they had the template, which is lots of horns and that's what you did. And the Beatles came along and all of a sudden it was less about the temptations and four or five guys
It came out of Seattle, and it was a different form of music. Then there was new romance, new wave alternative. Music keeps changing. There was once something called big band. It was, you know, they had the template, which is lots of horns and that's what you did. And the Beatles came along and all of a sudden it was less about the temptations and four or five guys
moving together with steps with a big band in back of them. And it was just four or five guys in the front playing their own instruments, writing their own songs. So music will continue. And now we finally come to the end of days when you can be an EDM artist and make an awful lot of money. And the expertise goes in front of 50,000 people. The expertise goes something like this.
moving together with steps with a big band in back of them. And it was just four or five guys in the front playing their own instruments, writing their own songs. So music will continue. And now we finally come to the end of days when you can be an EDM artist and make an awful lot of money. And the expertise goes in front of 50,000 people. The expertise goes something like this.
The finger presses up, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop. You see 50,000 people jumping up and down because of this computerized, pre-recorded stuff with lights and everything. But all the guy's doing is, what's up, you know, jumping up and down with them. And by the way, I fully support that. Life is short, and if music in any way, shape, or form makes the experience of living beautiful,
The finger presses up, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop. You see 50,000 people jumping up and down because of this computerized, pre-recorded stuff with lights and everything. But all the guy's doing is, what's up, you know, jumping up and down with them. And by the way, I fully support that. Life is short, and if music in any way, shape, or form makes the experience of living beautiful,
you've opened up a can of worms because you can tell I love the sound of my own voice, is that I respond to issues, mull them over, and sometimes I think it makes all the sense in the world to build a wall around any sovereign state.
you've opened up a can of worms because you can tell I love the sound of my own voice, is that I respond to issues, mull them over, and sometimes I think it makes all the sense in the world to build a wall around any sovereign state.
at this planet for another day, I'm all for it. It doesn't have to make sense for me or be my taste. I never understood rap. That's just, in my day, it was talking. You know, it is just talking. And culturally, I don't understand and don't care. But... There is music for everybody, including the guy who picks up his finger. Oh, see this finger? He's about to press it. Here we go.
at this planet for another day, I'm all for it. It doesn't have to make sense for me or be my taste. I never understood rap. That's just, in my day, it was talking. You know, it is just talking. And culturally, I don't understand and don't care. But... There is music for everybody, including the guy who picks up his finger. Oh, see this finger? He's about to press it. Here we go.
Boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop. And by the way, with the future, which is right around the corner, you won't have to do the thing. You'll just say, go. I've got a modern, massive place here. Ben, I'm really rich. So I've got a huge place in Malibu, one of six houses, God bless America. And this thing is so computerized and so everything, I talk to it.
Boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop. And by the way, with the future, which is right around the corner, you won't have to do the thing. You'll just say, go. I've got a modern, massive place here. Ben, I'm really rich. So I've got a huge place in Malibu, one of six houses, God bless America. And this thing is so computerized and so everything, I talk to it.
Let me see if it goes, hey, Josh, turn off all lights. Well, I'm in the back bedroom, so maybe it didn't hear. But there's literally, you just talk to it. And, hey, Josh, get me a hot fudge sundae and a back rub. And all of a sudden...
Let me see if it goes, hey, Josh, turn off all lights. Well, I'm in the back bedroom, so maybe it didn't hear. But there's literally, you just talk to it. And, hey, Josh, get me a hot fudge sundae and a back rub. And all of a sudden...
It's worth noting that that you don't even need three chords. Bo Diddley by Bo Diddley is one chord. It never veers away. There's no bridge. There's no nothing. And Funky Broadway... Never veers away from that one chord.
It's worth noting that that you don't even need three chords. Bo Diddley by Bo Diddley is one chord. It never veers away. There's no bridge. There's no nothing. And Funky Broadway... Never veers away from that one chord.
Oh, come on. You got to give me a little bit. How did it go?
Oh, come on. You got to give me a little bit. How did it go?
Have you ever heard somebody make the observation that you're like the Flash Barry Allen. You probably should have been doing commercials because you talk so fast. Oh, man.
Have you ever heard somebody make the observation that you're like the Flash Barry Allen. You probably should have been doing commercials because you talk so fast. Oh, man.
But when you're making a political or observational point to somebody who doesn't like you, those of us who are slower, the pregnant pause, it doesn't respectfully impregnate my slow mind until after you're done.
But when you're making a political or observational point to somebody who doesn't like you, those of us who are slower, the pregnant pause, it doesn't respectfully impregnate my slow mind until after you're done.
And it's interesting to note, by the way, that not too long ago, the Pope, who I'm a big fan of, I think is good for humanity and generally speaking, provides uplifting messages, said, and I'm almost quoting, that building a wall, especially between America and Mexico, is not humane. It's not good, it's not nice, and all that stuff.
And it's interesting to note, by the way, that not too long ago, the Pope, who I'm a big fan of, I think is good for humanity and generally speaking, provides uplifting messages, said, and I'm almost quoting, that building a wall, especially between America and Mexico, is not humane. It's not good, it's not nice, and all that stuff.
Well, I have to be completely upfront. I was raised by my mother and I've always worshipped the ground that women, especially single mothers, walk on. because there's so much pressure. Not only do they create life, but once the man walks out, they've gotta earn a living and be mother and father and protector and all that stuff. So the highest form of life on the planet is a single mother.
Well, I have to be completely upfront. I was raised by my mother and I've always worshipped the ground that women, especially single mothers, walk on. because there's so much pressure. Not only do they create life, but once the man walks out, they've gotta earn a living and be mother and father and protector and all that stuff. So the highest form of life on the planet is a single mother.
You and I just work here. We can't create life. So my mother has always been my moral compass But I was aware that I was the male of the species. And I never wanted to get married. I mean, I always had the appetite. Some of us have a larger appetite, some not. But we're attracted, the heterosexuals among us, which is predominantly the life form on the planet.
You and I just work here. We can't create life. So my mother has always been my moral compass But I was aware that I was the male of the species. And I never wanted to get married. I mean, I always had the appetite. Some of us have a larger appetite, some not. But we're attracted, the heterosexuals among us, which is predominantly the life form on the planet.
Predominantly, the vast majority are heterosexuals. There might be 10% or so, but, you know, males going after females. biological. And I think it's worth noting that I didn't figure this out until much later in life. I didn't want to turn into my father. I didn't want to start something. Now I can verbalize it, but then it was just a feeling. And the feeling was, well, let me put it this way.
Predominantly, the vast majority are heterosexuals. There might be 10% or so, but, you know, males going after females. biological. And I think it's worth noting that I didn't figure this out until much later in life. I didn't want to turn into my father. I didn't want to start something. Now I can verbalize it, but then it was just a feeling. And the feeling was, well, let me put it this way.
I lived under the did everything so she was able to lay down the laws. Don't do this, don't lie, don't this. And of course, without that, I would have been in darkness. So you can't wait because you think you're so important and know everything to get out from under your mother's roof. And no sooner do you leave your mom's house than you meet a girl.
I lived under the did everything so she was able to lay down the laws. Don't do this, don't lie, don't this. And of course, without that, I would have been in darkness. So you can't wait because you think you're so important and know everything to get out from under your mother's roof. And no sooner do you leave your mom's house than you meet a girl.
And if you decide to move in with her, same questions. Where are you going? Where have you been? And I'm going, when do I get to be free and who wants to know? Well, I don't want you to see another girl. Why not? So there were all those new rules. You ever live with your mom? There are these rules. And then there were new rules.
And if you decide to move in with her, same questions. Where are you going? Where have you been? And I'm going, when do I get to be free and who wants to know? Well, I don't want you to see another girl. Why not? So there were all those new rules. You ever live with your mom? There are these rules. And then there were new rules.
So I was too busy and too selfish and arrogant, but it made business sense. You can't have it all. How many hours in the daytime? Totally devote all the man hours to myself. because sometimes, what's more important, your band or me? Well, actually the band, because you're not going to pay my rent, and first I got to make money, and then I can afford you.
So I was too busy and too selfish and arrogant, but it made business sense. You can't have it all. How many hours in the daytime? Totally devote all the man hours to myself. because sometimes, what's more important, your band or me? Well, actually the band, because you're not going to pay my rent, and first I got to make money, and then I can afford you.
Except for the fact that the Vatican has a massive wall around itself. So, I believe good fences make good neighbors. And you're talking to an immigrant, a legal immigrant. I know I don't look Swiss. I was born in Israel. And in a lot of ways, I... Consider myself American. You know, this idea of Jewish American or Israeli American or African American. So, you know, get used to it.
Except for the fact that the Vatican has a massive wall around itself. So, I believe good fences make good neighbors. And you're talking to an immigrant, a legal immigrant. I know I don't look Swiss. I was born in Israel. And in a lot of ways, I... Consider myself American. You know, this idea of Jewish American or Israeli American or African American. So, you know, get used to it.
These are not romantic notions, but pragmatism has always been the key. And so I never wanted kids. I never wanted to get married. And But along the way, I was attracted to women, Cher and Diana Ross, you know, no greater, classier women. The best, I'm the luckiest guy to have ever known them, much less living with them. But I actually, and it always comes back to you.
These are not romantic notions, but pragmatism has always been the key. And so I never wanted kids. I never wanted to get married. And But along the way, I was attracted to women, Cher and Diana Ross, you know, no greater, classier women. The best, I'm the luckiest guy to have ever known them, much less living with them. But I actually, and it always comes back to you.
It's not about self-aggrandizement or anything. It's just about the realization, do you know yourself? Who are you? And I'm finally comfortable in my own self to realize that my father was one person. I don't have to be my father. I can be my own ethical, moral, loving father, husband, all that. I never imagined that I'd be that I could be like that.
It's not about self-aggrandizement or anything. It's just about the realization, do you know yourself? Who are you? And I'm finally comfortable in my own self to realize that my father was one person. I don't have to be my father. I can be my own ethical, moral, loving father, husband, all that. I never imagined that I'd be that I could be like that.
You're American if you love it. And I should probably stop. Otherwise, it's going to be the Gene Simmons show, not the Ben. By the way, you know what? You know, I speak Hebrew, Hungarian, German, English, a few other languages. You know what your name means, don't you? In Hebrew?
You're American if you love it. And I should probably stop. Otherwise, it's going to be the Gene Simmons show, not the Ben. By the way, you know what? You know, I speak Hebrew, Hungarian, German, English, a few other languages. You know what your name means, don't you? In Hebrew?
Well, full name is Benjamin. Literal translation is son of Jamin, which would be the family of Jamin. Shortened means Ben. Most people don't know that Ben. And by the way, our Semitic brethren use a similar word, Bin. Like Bin Laden is the same thing. It's the son of the family of Laden. So when people watch Ben-Hur, You're 12, right? So you're not familiar with that movie? Never heard of it?
Well, full name is Benjamin. Literal translation is son of Jamin, which would be the family of Jamin. Shortened means Ben. Most people don't know that Ben. And by the way, our Semitic brethren use a similar word, Bin. Like Bin Laden is the same thing. It's the son of the family of Laden. So when people watch Ben-Hur, You're 12, right? So you're not familiar with that movie? Never heard of it?
Yeah. It's really about a Jewish guy who tried to survive in Roman times, but the literal translation of his name is the son of the family of her.
Yeah. It's really about a Jewish guy who tried to survive in Roman times, but the literal translation of his name is the son of the family of her.
I notice you're speaking semi-American Sfaradit. Exactly. Instead of Ashkenazi.
I notice you're speaking semi-American Sfaradit. Exactly. Instead of Ashkenazi.
Well, always do what your wife says. You know why men die younger than their wives? Because they want to. Don't tell your wife that.
Well, always do what your wife says. You know why men die younger than their wives? Because they want to. Don't tell your wife that.
Well, in the full interest of full disclosure before the fact, I knew the gentlemen somewhat, ran into each other and spent a little time talking, with Mr. Trump, and in some ways I'm a big fan, in other ways I have a problem.
Well, in the full interest of full disclosure before the fact, I knew the gentlemen somewhat, ran into each other and spent a little time talking, with Mr. Trump, and in some ways I'm a big fan, in other ways I have a problem.
I would say that the extreme left has taken over the left, and the extreme right has taken over the right, and the vast majority of us, which is why the polls got it wrong again, and they will continue to get it, because the big swath, that big middle, don't really want to get into arguments and stuff.
I would say that the extreme left has taken over the left, and the extreme right has taken over the right, and the vast majority of us, which is why the polls got it wrong again, and they will continue to get it, because the big swath, that big middle, don't really want to get into arguments and stuff.
They just want to do what the founding fathers in America designed when we used to have curtains and you voted. You vote your conscience and it's nobody's damn business who you're voting for. Nowadays, families get split down the middle when the kids vote one way and dad votes another way. But I think it's a wake-up call for everybody. It's twofold. One is... Have a sense of humor.
They just want to do what the founding fathers in America designed when we used to have curtains and you voted. You vote your conscience and it's nobody's damn business who you're voting for. Nowadays, families get split down the middle when the kids vote one way and dad votes another way. But I think it's a wake-up call for everybody. It's twofold. One is... Have a sense of humor.
You know, just laugh a little bit. You're not going to die tomorrow. It's going to be okay. Two, it bears noting that no matter how extreme somebody's views are in America to you, in the same way that American currency has two completely different parts that don't resemble each other, it's their America as well, certainly as well as yours. So we can agree to disagree.
You know, just laugh a little bit. You're not going to die tomorrow. It's going to be okay. Two, it bears noting that no matter how extreme somebody's views are in America to you, in the same way that American currency has two completely different parts that don't resemble each other, it's their America as well, certainly as well as yours. So we can agree to disagree.
And I would prefer to have conversations that don't start off politically and find out what makes us... you know, Americans, which is, hey, you like burgers? I love them. And you like, you know, find the stuff that you go to.
And I would prefer to have conversations that don't start off politically and find out what makes us... you know, Americans, which is, hey, you like burgers? I love them. And you like, you know, find the stuff that you go to.
When you have a camera that goes across a football field or a baseball field or any public thing, you'll find people of all kinds of denominations, races, political views, and all that stuff. Everybody's allowed to be in that game. Or do you have to sign in and say, Are you a Republican? Are you a Trumpian? Are you a thisian? Are you a thatian? Mostly it's Armenians that have the I-A-N.
When you have a camera that goes across a football field or a baseball field or any public thing, you'll find people of all kinds of denominations, races, political views, and all that stuff. Everybody's allowed to be in that game. Or do you have to sign in and say, Are you a Republican? Are you a Trumpian? Are you a thisian? Are you a thatian? Mostly it's Armenians that have the I-A-N.
Or north or south, depends. It could be a Y-A-N. I'm here with life lessons. So I would recommend some of my best friends are toe the line Republicans. the cult of personality, basically, from step one to step 10, whatever our current president says they fall in line with. And I'm kind of in the middle. I'm Gladys president. My crypto holdings in the millions are doing very well. Thank you.
Or north or south, depends. It could be a Y-A-N. I'm here with life lessons. So I would recommend some of my best friends are toe the line Republicans. the cult of personality, basically, from step one to step 10, whatever our current president says they fall in line with. And I'm kind of in the middle. I'm Gladys president. My crypto holdings in the millions are doing very well. Thank you.
Dow Jones industrials are way up. And I think that has a lot to do with perception. And so far, It's been very good. I think it bears noting, and most people don't know this, is that our current president, and I think it bears noting that before he became a political animal, because once you become a politician, your tail grows and your fangs come out and it's adversarial stuff.
Dow Jones industrials are way up. And I think that has a lot to do with perception. And so far, It's been very good. I think it bears noting, and most people don't know this, is that our current president, and I think it bears noting that before he became a political animal, because once you become a politician, your tail grows and your fangs come out and it's adversarial stuff.
That's what it's all about. He was actually a big supporter of Democrats. And Bill and Hillary Clinton went to his wedding and they were pals. And if you take a look at when Barbara and the original cast of The View were on and Donald Trump came on, kissy-kissy, hug-hug, they loved him, even whoopee. I knew Whoopi a little bit.
That's what it's all about. He was actually a big supporter of Democrats. And Bill and Hillary Clinton went to his wedding and they were pals. And if you take a look at when Barbara and the original cast of The View were on and Donald Trump came on, kissy-kissy, hug-hug, they loved him, even whoopee. I knew Whoopi a little bit.
So I think people have a mistaken sense of what the body politic is all about. So I would recommend everybody start off with, before, you can easily list what you don't like about somebody. I don't like what Trump said here. I don't like what, well, first of all, Use the word president, because if you don't like the person in office, at least respect the office he was elected to.
So I think people have a mistaken sense of what the body politic is all about. So I would recommend everybody start off with, before, you can easily list what you don't like about somebody. I don't like what Trump said here. I don't like what, well, first of all, Use the word president, because if you don't like the person in office, at least respect the office he was elected to.
He is President Trump. If you don't like it, next time vote for somebody else. That's democracy. So find good things to say about Trump. other people. He's not a Nazi. My mother was a concentration camp survivor of Nazi Germany. The rest of our family wiped out. I know what a Nazi is. He's not a Nazi.
He is President Trump. If you don't like it, next time vote for somebody else. That's democracy. So find good things to say about Trump. other people. He's not a Nazi. My mother was a concentration camp survivor of Nazi Germany. The rest of our family wiped out. I know what a Nazi is. He's not a Nazi.
It may not align with your version of what it is to be liberal and stuff, but maybe I don't either. And trust me, I'm not a Nazi. His children, well, none of them smoke, drink, get high, any of that stuff. Neither do I. I've never been high, never been drunk, never smoked cigarettes. That's a pretty good indication.
It may not align with your version of what it is to be liberal and stuff, but maybe I don't either. And trust me, I'm not a Nazi. His children, well, none of them smoke, drink, get high, any of that stuff. Neither do I. I've never been high, never been drunk, never smoked cigarettes. That's a pretty good indication.
If you come to Hollywood, the most liberal, most progressive folks have really messed up kids. Some. Rehab, shmehab, on and on and on. The permissive society, wokeism, and all that. So I think it's a fair statement to say that yours truly is, I take up a lot of space in the middle. And then in the menu of life, I choose the things that make sense for me.
If you come to Hollywood, the most liberal, most progressive folks have really messed up kids. Some. Rehab, shmehab, on and on and on. The permissive society, wokeism, and all that. So I think it's a fair statement to say that yours truly is, I take up a lot of space in the middle. And then in the menu of life, I choose the things that make sense for me.
Well, he had a kind of a take-no-prisoners attitude. I know the guy who created the show, Mark Burnett, who early on, I'm sure, realized it's difficult to get a tiger in a cage and, okay, now behave. Now you're in the middle of a cage. He's a tiger. Those are the stripes on the animal. So he basically said what he wanted to say. And he was kind enough.
Well, he had a kind of a take-no-prisoners attitude. I know the guy who created the show, Mark Burnett, who early on, I'm sure, realized it's difficult to get a tiger in a cage and, okay, now behave. Now you're in the middle of a cage. He's a tiger. Those are the stripes on the animal. So he basically said what he wanted to say. And he was kind enough.
I had a roast where all kinds of comedians cut me a new one, and he was kind enough to send his five or ten jokes that made fun of me. Look, at the end of the day, if you didn't know somebody and they didn't talk about politics, you'd have no problem sitting down because you probably recognize somebody the human part of that.
I had a roast where all kinds of comedians cut me a new one, and he was kind enough to send his five or ten jokes that made fun of me. Look, at the end of the day, if you didn't know somebody and they didn't talk about politics, you'd have no problem sitting down because you probably recognize somebody the human part of that.
And I would urge everybody to, when you first meet somebody, it's not a litmus test. Don't start talking about, do you want to transition? Or don't start the conversation. Wait, it'll come up. Don't worry. Don't talk politics, religion, There's always going to be something you're going to object to, and you're not going to win the argument.
And I would urge everybody to, when you first meet somebody, it's not a litmus test. Don't start talking about, do you want to transition? Or don't start the conversation. Wait, it'll come up. Don't worry. Don't talk politics, religion, There's always going to be something you're going to object to, and you're not going to win the argument.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick and decided to put on makeup. If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on the You know, Mount Rushmore. Who's that? I have no idea. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh, yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band.
People are allowed to live and decide for themselves what makes sense for themselves. And if you like being around them, that's fine. But hi, nice to see you. I'm Gene. Are you a supporter of Donald Trump? Well, you're not going to get very far.
You just figured out the secret. Ego, ego, ego. You just fed the beast. Good job, Ben. Good job. Well, I had nothing to do with it. My father, unfortunately, left us. And yours truly. I'm an only child for my mother, who has always been my hero, my moral compass. Without her, I would have veered right into darkness. So by the time I was seven...
My mother found herself having to get up at the crack of dawn and working six days a week from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. at night. And Israel, in those early days, we didn't have an infrastructure. You'd go once a week down to the place where the government officials are, and they'd give you a newspaper that's cut out, and you'd get a slab of butter. And I remember this.
With the print falling off onto the food, you'd get bread cut. A slab of meat and so on, that was supposed to, you know, some other stuff, fruits, vegetables, that was supposed to last you for a week. There were no paved roads or anything. I never saw a television set, never heard of it. We didn't have a radio. There was an outhouse, literally a hole outside the front door.
It's my pleasure. You're actually better looking than I thought you were.
We had a one-bedroom house. I remember as a kid, and there was a big hole right above the, well, the living room was the bedroom, was the kitchen. The kitchen was over there. It was just a sink. There was no refrigerator. There was an icebox. Once a week, you'd get ice, and that was it. I know it sounds like another century, but most new countries start that way.
And when we, my mother had two brothers who escaped Nazi Germany, all that, before World War II, and succeeded. My uncle George, my mother's brother, became a periodontist. It's a big word. Basically, he made bridges, fake teeth. I have to tell you, one of the first impressions when we landed with El Al Airlines,
We got out, and I think it must have been close to winter, because there was a big billboard, and there was Santa Claus, who I'd never heard of before. I'd never heard of Jesus or Santa Claus, any of that. And he's sort of leaning back, holding a cigarette over here. And in the background, I'll never forget this, there were reindeer over there with the with a chariot or whatever they pull.
And he's like that, smiling with a big beard. All I knew was, oh, that's a rabbi. That rabbi is smoking a cigarette. And I didn't know that. And then when we came to my Aunt Magda's house, the wife of my mother's brother, Larry, who, bless him, had his own bakery and made a small fortune. And my waistline is proof of that.
Well, as we both know, these are semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic.
And I want to tell you that I saw my first television set at Aunt Magda's house. And it must have been at the right time in the afternoon. They turned it on, and I had a spoon in a schmucker's jar, and I was eating the jam because I'd never tasted anything like that in my life. And both my aunt and my mom were laughing, tears and everything. I never saw a refrigerator.
I know this all sounds like, hey, I never saw a fridge. I said, in a Hungarian, because my Aunt Magda spoke Hungarian, not Hebrew. Mios! Mios! you know, like, I want a little bit of that. Can I taste it? And she said, of course. And she gave me a spoon expecting me to just take a little bit. And I put a little bit in my mouth and I thought she said, sure, you can have that.
So, you know, I started eating that and they turned on the television and I put down the jar because what I saw was a guy flying through the air with a cape. I'll never forget that. And I, no matter how good this was, I What is that? Look up in the sky. It's a bird. It's a plane. This amazing land where you had movies and images and people flying through the air and big buildings. I was afraid.
I swear to you, I was afraid to cross the street at my Aunt Magda's house because there were cars going by. I was scared to death. Anyway, I could go on forever.
First, my mother, to keep me off the streets, put me in yeshiva. I was a Lubavitch. Well, what can I say? It kept me off the streets, but then I discovered girls. And it's been... the bane of my existence ever since. On the other hand, you could take a look at it biblically. All the chasing, the skirt, is really biblical if you think of it. It said, spread thy seed.
And that's what I've been doing. I was just doing the Lord's work. That's what it says. See what I did there? And so I'm minding my own business. I always had a job delivering newspapers, working at a butcher store, and just, you know, always worked. Even when I was six years old in Israel, picking cactus fruit and selling it with Shlomo, my Moroccan friend, Solomon in English,
to bring some pruta, you know, the shekels, the Israeli pennies of the time, and bought my first ice cream when I was a little kid, six and a half years old, and I still remember That taste, I'll never forget that as long as I live. Because nothing is as sweet as something you, you know, by the sweat of thy brow, it says in the good book.
Well, I think it's fair to say that I'm completely unqualified in the body politic, especially worldwide body politic, because our perceptions, perhaps yours, mine, and the rest of the populace is based on what we see, hear, and feel emotionally from social media. Having said that, why anybody would care what I have to say about anything other than the fact that I stick my tongue out for a living?
Nothing is as sweet and rewarding as something you worked for. You don't have to thank anybody. It's all yours. And then I put all the rest of the money on the table in front of my mother. And she was amazed. I remember her hugging me and saying, that's my little man. And ever since then, I've been working for women. Without the money, I don't get much attention.
So I must have been 13 or something, and it was a Sunday night. And of course, Sunday, I went around getting everybody's money for delivering the newspapers and all that. And by the early evening, I was at home at my mother's apartment. And the Ed Sullivan show came up. And the Ed Sullivan show, for those of you that don't know what it was, was the biggest show on television.
When the Beatles were on, literally 75 million people were watching this. At the time, half the population of the United States of America. The total population at that point, 64, 60 something, was about 160 million. So, Again, I put my, I remember what I had. I had faschirt, which is Hungarian hamburger, and peas, which I hated.
And I remember putting, my mother always treated me like a king, so I had like a a little stand with legs on it so I could stand in front of the TV, sit in front of the TV and watch it. And I'm watching the Ed Sullivan show. And, you know, they're singing and stuff. And I, I never saw or heard anything like that.
They looked very feminine, little guys with cutesy haircuts and, you know, hair above their ears. I've got some hair left as well. And I, that sound, that high-pitched sound of girls in the audience screaming like turkeys about to be let, you know, to get their heads cut off. I'd never heard anything like that in my life. What the hell is that? And the cameras kept panning to their faces.
You know, they looked like they were having a conniption. Outside of New York City, you think it's a connish. No, it's not. They were like having seizures. I never saw anything like that. And then I figured, that's probably not a bad job to have. And then right after that, by about 14, I joined a band. I couldn't play an instrument then. And I started to talk like that, you know.
Yeah, you know, I started to put on an accent, and I got the response. You know, the girls were saying, oh, you're not from here. No, not from here. And they go, oh, and all of a sudden you get more attention. Basically, Ben, dress British, think Yiddish. See what I did there? And the Beatles changed my life because I didn't realize it. I didn't know how to verbalize it.
early on, but they made it okay to be different. They spoke with an accent, and so did I. Tuk like this, you know, like Israelis with clipped vowels. And they looked different, and I sure didn't look like I came from Sweden. They made it okay to be different. Not only okay, they were the top of the pile. And so I...
taught myself how to play guitar initially, and then pragmatism rules, big word like gymnasium, I picked up a bass guitar because, a cheap Japanese version, because I realized everybody wanted to be a guitar player or drummer. Nobody wanted to be a bass player, but every band had a bass player. So increase your chances of being in a band, play bass.
Sure enough, everybody wanted me to be in their band because I could sing. It's a matter of opinion. And thump away at the bass guitar, and it's made me a pretty good living since then. I was thinking of buying Rhode Island, as a matter of fact.
By the way, I would have done that for you right away, but the floor is a little dirty. So I think it's fair to say that the powerful and attractive man you see before you votes on issues rather than political parties or personalities. So, by the way, some of the things you've said I completely disagree with, and other things just make sense to me.
Well, initially, what I noticed about being in a band was in the patois of the street, there were a lot of chicks. I mean, if I announced or held a sign, I'm studying to be a dentist, they're just not going to care. Later on, they do, once they realize you're making good living, and that's what it's about. And so the payoff was immediate.
You get more popular, you get more girls and all that, because That's our primordial, you know, the urge to merge. That's what we... Well, I'm giving you a lot of stuff here. You're going to be able to use this in political discussions. And so... At the same time, I was working.
I became the assistant to the director of the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, a government research and demonstration project. I was the only Jew there, but because it was a government research and demonstration project, there was a percentage of non-Puerto Ricans who had to be there. And I was the one because I took typing classes in high school, pragmatism, because all the girls...
We're taking the typing classes. So I signed up. I also signed up for another class where only girls took it. Greg and Pittman. It was called Shorthand. I signed up. And that gave me the ability to get hired by Kelly Girls, which became Kelly Services, that hired me out for lawyers, real estate companies, all that. In fact, I became...
the assistant to the director of the research and demonstration project. And then I became the man Friday to the editor of Vogue magazine. Again, on a floor where there are only girls, bottles and everything else. Then it was terrible. I got to tell you, it was just torture. Couldn't wait to get out of there. And at the same time, decided to get serious about putting a band together.
and happened to accidentally meet another member of the tribe. That's failed language for the rest of the world, may not know what that means. And Stanley Eisen became Paul Stanley, and we put a band together. And the idea was, even though we weren't able to verbalize it, let's put together the band we never saw on stage, almost the way girls, really have it in their DNA.
There's a club and she calls ahead because she wants to know what's going on. And she gets the word, uh-oh, just beware, all the girls are wearing short black minis. So she thinks and goes, I think I'm going to put on a red short miniskirt.
many so that you stand out shakespeare figured it out the whole world's a stage and you know figure it out how to get people to look at you once you get the attention it's what you do with it and kiss was formed way before you were born in uh 19 at the end of 1972 By New Year's Eve 1973, we played our first show. We didn't have a record contract. The first record came out in February 1974.
Within a year and a half before MTV, before voicemail, before digital, before anything, no cell phones, Rock was not heard on radio or anything. We were headlining Anaheim Stadium in California. It just exploded. In those days, magazines and imagery was the way it impacted stuff in the same way that TikTok is the modern version of stuff. You know, like, how do you become Mr. Beast? Well, go on.
You know who that is? I do. Yep. Yeah. Or how do you become Ben Shapiro? Well, do this stuff. And that's the modern version of it. So KISS exploded. And that's been I know it's difficult to believe that was about 53 years ago. But for 50 years and we finally sold our IP and all that in December a year ago to an amazing company called Pop House. And they paid a pretty shekel, Ben.
And that's what I highly recommend to the rest of the populace of this third stone from the sun. which is to say that life gives you a menu and you're lucky and blessed to be living in a free society, pick and choose the items that make sense for you. You're not in, you may not be changing lots of stuff, but at least you'll be voting your conscience. So am I essential?
And we continue on. You know, we're doing new stuff and everything. But during the course of Kiss's active years, every year we tour and stuff and kept breaking the rules by making toys and games and licensing and merchandising where other bands were concerned about things like credibility. that never entered into our minds. That's for losers.
Credibility, you never even went to music school to learn how to to learn the basics of music. You can't read or write music. Lennon, McCartney, Hendrix, the Stone, they can't read or write music. You just kind of make it up. You're completely unqualified to do that, but you're concerned about credibility. Get out of here. You know, it's noise.
You're lucky enough if you can make some money and the chicks chase you, and then you die. That's all there is. What does it mean? Where is this going? Do I have my mother's hips? Shut up. Just be lucky you didn't have to join a symphony orchestra where you'd have to pay your dues to learn about Tchaikovsky and Chopin and music.
You know, just an idiot like me picks up a thing, and like a caveman, you sort of fumble through it. And if you can't sing, then write a song called Wild Thing. It goes like this. Wild Thing, you make my heart sing. You make everything. You know, you don't have to sing well. Ask any rapper. Going to 7-Eleven, going to go to heaven and stuff. You know, you're not talking about musical mindsets.
But you can be enormously popular and wealthy. Just scientists call it a singularity, having the right thing. And the right thing can be as idiotic as Gangnam Style. which was billions and billions of downloads, not the Beatles. No, not Beethoven. No, it's this guy with the Gangnam style, you know, who came from Korea, could barely speak English, but it caught on. You know, became a thing. And,
And there was also one about the shark. And the shark said, or is it the fox? I think the fox said.
Of course. Yes, and my kids. Yep. Absolutely. Yeah. Yeah, because you didn't memorize that yourself. No, no, no.
Either as if I was a rich man. So it's, I think the scientific version of it, the headlines are having the right thing. at the right place and the right time. So before the advent of sort of modern social thought, you know, there's things you, no matter how good looking you are with a kippah on your head would have tried this a few decades ago, wouldn't be as easy.
It's a more, except culture is a moving target as people get more, um, educated to the idea that not everybody looks like you, walks like you, or talks like you. You have an advantage. Yeah.
I think part of everything that we do is part of the puzzle of our DNA and our experiences early on. And I happen to have been born with a prodigious oral appendage. Ben, you wouldn't believe it. It's a hideous looking thing. Yeah. And I mean, I would do it now except the floor is dirty. I would show it to you. And, you know, it seems to have a life of its own.
I don't like labels because they limit who and what you are. A free spirit generally is, very liberal in terms of humanism. Generally speaking, love thy neighbor as thyself. Most of the time, I don't treat Nazis the same way as I would perhaps you. you know, love thy neighbor, you know, don't, what's that phrase, do unto others what they would unto you.
And I remember in sixth grade, should I pause, pregnant pause while you want to laugh? Okay. So I was always the tallest kid in class and a clown because I wanted attention. And they'd stick me in the back of the room. Of course, Stella and Irene, I remember their names, sixth or seventh grade,
in the middle of the class, I'd get in trouble because they'd whisper, hey, Gene, do that funny thing you do when you stick your tongue out. And I thought it was like, oh, you know, like a funny face. So I'd stick it out and wiggle it and make it twirl around because, you know, it can do those things and yours can't. And they'd go, okay, Mr. Klein, get
my mother's maiden name, get over here, what were you doing? I was just sticking it out. Show the class what you were doing. I'd stick it out and they would all laugh. And so again, Singularity, the four original members of KISS, John, Paul, George, oh no, that was another band. Myself, Paul, Ace, and Peter, we were lucky enough to find each other in the beginning.
And not everything lasts forever. Not everybody's designed to run a marathon. It's just life. But in the beginning, all for one, one for all, we had written some songs, pretty good. We found the right guys. We were in a rat-infested loft, 10 East 23rd Street, only 10 blocks from 33rd Street, Madison Square Garden.
And then one day, I can't remember who, said, hey, let's go downstairs to Woolworth, which was a New York store, and bought makeup and black lipstick and red lipstick, and decided to put on makeup, bought some mirrors. And pretty much on that very first day, what became possibly the four most recognized faces on the planet, more recognized than Mount Rushmore. Yeah, that's a marketing truism.
If you ask people on the street, just a close-up of Teddy Roosevelt on Mount Rushmore, and say, who's that? They have no idea. Well, who's on Mount Rushmore? Elvis? No. But as soon as you show those faces, they go, oh yeah, Kiss. Even if you hate the band. And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band.
It just means that the imagery connected in ways no other band connected. You don't know what everybody in Farner looks like. You just don't. And they had hit records and all that stuff. So there was a decided difference in who and what KISS was, which enabled us to have literally thousands and thousands of licensed and merchandise products.
Well, music changes because new generations come along. And when my mother and I first came to America, this was pre-Beatles in 1958. Sometimes I think it's 1858. The first music I heard was Chuck Berry, even though I couldn't speak English. Chuck Berry, Little Richard. As a matter of fact, ironically and strangely, I did the eulogy for Chuck Berry's open casket when he passed away.
In other words, don't do the stuff you think will hurt. Well, that also generally applies. A sadomasochist might slap you in the face and I'm going, what are you doing that for? He goes, well, I'm a sadomasochist. I like that. I thought you'd like it too. So we can apply, everything's just general. There's always an exception to it. So the short answer, although
The Berry family asked me to do that. It's on YouTube. And... Again, when the Beatles came along, it was a seismic shift. So before the Beatles, there was a sound. Before Chuck Berry and everything. My darling. Music used to be that way. It was called doo-wop. Doo-wop because it was New York-based. Wop was a derogatory term for Italians. The passports, W-O-P, without papers, a WAP.
And even Little Richard, a WAP, Babaloo WAP, a WAP, Bamboo, Tutti Frutti, you know, all that. So music kept changing based on the way the ears were tuned, what people heard. And soon as Elvis started doing black music, it changed white music. It was doing, in those days, it was called race music. You couldn't hear that stuff on radio.
And I'm talking Africa, Southeast Asia, anywhere you go. It doesn't mean it's the best band. It just means that the imagery connected in ways. no other band connected.
Elvis opened the doors for black music that was shamefully not allowed to be played on regular radio. So as you go through the different eras, there was the big band era, the so-and-so era, populations and tastes change. And even through rock and roll came in, based on Chuck Berry, and they stopped doing that, and it became riffs. You know, the Zeppelin thing.
That moved it a little to bigger sound, less complex, bigger riffs. And so we're a product of all those English bands, actually. But even during our reign, As the Gallup pulled number one band on the planet three years in a row, 77, 78, 79, above the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and the Bee Gees, there was something going on. It was called grunge.
It came out of Seattle, and it was a different form of music. Then there was new romance, new wave alternative. Music keeps changing. There was once something called big band. It was, you know, they had the template, which is lots of horns and that's what you did. And the Beatles came along and all of a sudden it was less about the temptations and four or five guys
moving together with steps with a big band in back of them. And it was just four or five guys in the front playing their own instruments, writing their own songs. So music will continue. And now we finally come to the end of days when you can be an EDM artist and make an awful lot of money. And the expertise goes in front of 50,000 people. The expertise goes something like this.
The finger presses up, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop, boom, bop. You see 50,000 people jumping up and down because of this computerized, pre-recorded stuff with lights and everything. But all the guy's doing is, what's up, you know, jumping up and down with them. And by the way, I fully support that. Life is short, and if music in any way, shape, or form makes the experience of living beautiful,
you've opened up a can of worms because you can tell I love the sound of my own voice, is that I respond to issues, mull them over, and sometimes I think it makes all the sense in the world to build a wall around any sovereign state.
at this planet for another day, I'm all for it. It doesn't have to make sense for me or be my taste. I never understood rap. That's just, in my day, it was talking. You know, it is just talking. And culturally, I don't understand and don't care. But... There is music for everybody, including the guy who picks up his finger. Oh, see this finger? He's about to press it. Here we go.
Boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop, boom, pop. And by the way, with the future, which is right around the corner, you won't have to do the thing. You'll just say, go. I've got a modern, massive place here. Ben, I'm really rich. So I've got a huge place in Malibu, one of six houses, God bless America. And this thing is so computerized and so everything, I talk to it.
Let me see if it goes, hey, Josh, turn off all lights. Well, I'm in the back bedroom, so maybe it didn't hear. But there's literally, you just talk to it. And, hey, Josh, get me a hot fudge sundae and a back rub. And all of a sudden...
It's worth noting that that you don't even need three chords. Bo Diddley by Bo Diddley is one chord. It never veers away. There's no bridge. There's no nothing. And Funky Broadway... Never veers away from that one chord.
Oh, come on. You got to give me a little bit. How did it go?
Have you ever heard somebody make the observation that you're like the Flash Barry Allen. You probably should have been doing commercials because you talk so fast. Oh, man.
But when you're making a political or observational point to somebody who doesn't like you, those of us who are slower, the pregnant pause, it doesn't respectfully impregnate my slow mind until after you're done.
And it's interesting to note, by the way, that not too long ago, the Pope, who I'm a big fan of, I think is good for humanity and generally speaking, provides uplifting messages, said, and I'm almost quoting, that building a wall, especially between America and Mexico, is not humane. It's not good, it's not nice, and all that stuff.
Well, I have to be completely upfront. I was raised by my mother and I've always worshipped the ground that women, especially single mothers, walk on. because there's so much pressure. Not only do they create life, but once the man walks out, they've gotta earn a living and be mother and father and protector and all that stuff. So the highest form of life on the planet is a single mother.
You and I just work here. We can't create life. So my mother has always been my moral compass But I was aware that I was the male of the species. And I never wanted to get married. I mean, I always had the appetite. Some of us have a larger appetite, some not. But we're attracted, the heterosexuals among us, which is predominantly the life form on the planet.
Predominantly, the vast majority are heterosexuals. There might be 10% or so, but, you know, males going after females. biological. And I think it's worth noting that I didn't figure this out until much later in life. I didn't want to turn into my father. I didn't want to start something. Now I can verbalize it, but then it was just a feeling. And the feeling was, well, let me put it this way.
I lived under the did everything so she was able to lay down the laws. Don't do this, don't lie, don't this. And of course, without that, I would have been in darkness. So you can't wait because you think you're so important and know everything to get out from under your mother's roof. And no sooner do you leave your mom's house than you meet a girl.
And if you decide to move in with her, same questions. Where are you going? Where have you been? And I'm going, when do I get to be free and who wants to know? Well, I don't want you to see another girl. Why not? So there were all those new rules. You ever live with your mom? There are these rules. And then there were new rules.
So I was too busy and too selfish and arrogant, but it made business sense. You can't have it all. How many hours in the daytime? Totally devote all the man hours to myself. because sometimes, what's more important, your band or me? Well, actually the band, because you're not going to pay my rent, and first I got to make money, and then I can afford you.
Except for the fact that the Vatican has a massive wall around itself. So, I believe good fences make good neighbors. And you're talking to an immigrant, a legal immigrant. I know I don't look Swiss. I was born in Israel. And in a lot of ways, I... Consider myself American. You know, this idea of Jewish American or Israeli American or African American. So, you know, get used to it.
These are not romantic notions, but pragmatism has always been the key. And so I never wanted kids. I never wanted to get married. And But along the way, I was attracted to women, Cher and Diana Ross, you know, no greater, classier women. The best, I'm the luckiest guy to have ever known them, much less living with them. But I actually, and it always comes back to you.
It's not about self-aggrandizement or anything. It's just about the realization, do you know yourself? Who are you? And I'm finally comfortable in my own self to realize that my father was one person. I don't have to be my father. I can be my own ethical, moral, loving father, husband, all that. I never imagined that I'd be that I could be like that.
You're American if you love it. And I should probably stop. Otherwise, it's going to be the Gene Simmons show, not the Ben. By the way, you know what? You know, I speak Hebrew, Hungarian, German, English, a few other languages. You know what your name means, don't you? In Hebrew?
Well, full name is Benjamin. Literal translation is son of Jamin, which would be the family of Jamin. Shortened means Ben. Most people don't know that Ben. And by the way, our Semitic brethren use a similar word, Bin. Like Bin Laden is the same thing. It's the son of the family of Laden. So when people watch Ben-Hur, You're 12, right? So you're not familiar with that movie? Never heard of it?
Yeah. It's really about a Jewish guy who tried to survive in Roman times, but the literal translation of his name is the son of the family of her.
I notice you're speaking semi-American Sfaradit. Exactly. Instead of Ashkenazi.
Well, always do what your wife says. You know why men die younger than their wives? Because they want to. Don't tell your wife that.
Well, in the full interest of full disclosure before the fact, I knew the gentlemen somewhat, ran into each other and spent a little time talking, with Mr. Trump, and in some ways I'm a big fan, in other ways I have a problem.
I would say that the extreme left has taken over the left, and the extreme right has taken over the right, and the vast majority of us, which is why the polls got it wrong again, and they will continue to get it, because the big swath, that big middle, don't really want to get into arguments and stuff.
They just want to do what the founding fathers in America designed when we used to have curtains and you voted. You vote your conscience and it's nobody's damn business who you're voting for. Nowadays, families get split down the middle when the kids vote one way and dad votes another way. But I think it's a wake-up call for everybody. It's twofold. One is... Have a sense of humor.
You know, just laugh a little bit. You're not going to die tomorrow. It's going to be okay. Two, it bears noting that no matter how extreme somebody's views are in America to you, in the same way that American currency has two completely different parts that don't resemble each other, it's their America as well, certainly as well as yours. So we can agree to disagree.
And I would prefer to have conversations that don't start off politically and find out what makes us... you know, Americans, which is, hey, you like burgers? I love them. And you like, you know, find the stuff that you go to.
When you have a camera that goes across a football field or a baseball field or any public thing, you'll find people of all kinds of denominations, races, political views, and all that stuff. Everybody's allowed to be in that game. Or do you have to sign in and say, Are you a Republican? Are you a Trumpian? Are you a thisian? Are you a thatian? Mostly it's Armenians that have the I-A-N.
Or north or south, depends. It could be a Y-A-N. I'm here with life lessons. So I would recommend some of my best friends are toe the line Republicans. the cult of personality, basically, from step one to step 10, whatever our current president says they fall in line with. And I'm kind of in the middle. I'm Gladys president. My crypto holdings in the millions are doing very well. Thank you.
Dow Jones industrials are way up. And I think that has a lot to do with perception. And so far, It's been very good. I think it bears noting, and most people don't know this, is that our current president, and I think it bears noting that before he became a political animal, because once you become a politician, your tail grows and your fangs come out and it's adversarial stuff.
That's what it's all about. He was actually a big supporter of Democrats. And Bill and Hillary Clinton went to his wedding and they were pals. And if you take a look at when Barbara and the original cast of The View were on and Donald Trump came on, kissy-kissy, hug-hug, they loved him, even whoopee. I knew Whoopi a little bit.
So I think people have a mistaken sense of what the body politic is all about. So I would recommend everybody start off with, before, you can easily list what you don't like about somebody. I don't like what Trump said here. I don't like what, well, first of all, Use the word president, because if you don't like the person in office, at least respect the office he was elected to.
He is President Trump. If you don't like it, next time vote for somebody else. That's democracy. So find good things to say about Trump. other people. He's not a Nazi. My mother was a concentration camp survivor of Nazi Germany. The rest of our family wiped out. I know what a Nazi is. He's not a Nazi.
It may not align with your version of what it is to be liberal and stuff, but maybe I don't either. And trust me, I'm not a Nazi. His children, well, none of them smoke, drink, get high, any of that stuff. Neither do I. I've never been high, never been drunk, never smoked cigarettes. That's a pretty good indication.
If you come to Hollywood, the most liberal, most progressive folks have really messed up kids. Some. Rehab, shmehab, on and on and on. The permissive society, wokeism, and all that. So I think it's a fair statement to say that yours truly is, I take up a lot of space in the middle. And then in the menu of life, I choose the things that make sense for me.
Well, he had a kind of a take-no-prisoners attitude. I know the guy who created the show, Mark Burnett, who early on, I'm sure, realized it's difficult to get a tiger in a cage and, okay, now behave. Now you're in the middle of a cage. He's a tiger. Those are the stripes on the animal. So he basically said what he wanted to say. And he was kind enough.
I had a roast where all kinds of comedians cut me a new one, and he was kind enough to send his five or ten jokes that made fun of me. Look, at the end of the day, if you didn't know somebody and they didn't talk about politics, you'd have no problem sitting down because you probably recognize somebody the human part of that.
And I would urge everybody to, when you first meet somebody, it's not a litmus test. Don't start talking about, do you want to transition? Or don't start the conversation. Wait, it'll come up. Don't worry. Don't talk politics, religion, There's always going to be something you're going to object to, and you're not going to win the argument.
Coming up next on The Jordan Harbinger Show. If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album. It makes fans. Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
Coming up next on The Jordan Harbinger Show. If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album. It makes fans. Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
So if I was, quote, African-American and I lived in Harlem, I'd never think about being black because almost all my friends and almost everybody around me is black. And I don't want to talk for other white people, but there are varying degrees of who your mother was, who your grandmother was. You can be mixed or not mixed or all that stuff.
So if I was, quote, African-American and I lived in Harlem, I'd never think about being black because almost all my friends and almost everybody around me is black. And I don't want to talk for other white people, but there are varying degrees of who your mother was, who your grandmother was. You can be mixed or not mixed or all that stuff.
At the end of the day, you try to go through the stop signs and the different lanes of life, and then you die. So there's not much going on except trying to figure out how to be comfortable in your skin, whether anybody else gets it or not. So I've always been delusional about myself. Yeah.
At the end of the day, you try to go through the stop signs and the different lanes of life, and then you die. So there's not much going on except trying to figure out how to be comfortable in your skin, whether anybody else gets it or not. So I've always been delusional about myself. Yeah.
How about this? I know Mike Tyson a little bit. We've spent time over the years. And to hear Mike talk, if you just turn off the visuals and the history, you would never imagine that that voice was the most dangerous person on two legs that ever stepped into the ring. That's true. Mindset and will dominates. In fact, if you're about to die in the hospital, doctors try to talk you.
How about this? I know Mike Tyson a little bit. We've spent time over the years. And to hear Mike talk, if you just turn off the visuals and the history, you would never imagine that that voice was the most dangerous person on two legs that ever stepped into the ring. That's true. Mindset and will dominates. In fact, if you're about to die in the hospital, doctors try to talk you.
There's such a thing as will to survive, will to live. And you can be self-destruct in your mind and release toxins. And you hurry up the clock where you die. What do they die from? A broken heart. What the fuck does that mean? Yeah, I don't know. No, actually, your body releases negative toxins which kill you from the inside. So Tyson, well, he was always too short to be a heavyweight.
There's such a thing as will to survive, will to live. And you can be self-destruct in your mind and release toxins. And you hurry up the clock where you die. What do they die from? A broken heart. What the fuck does that mean? Yeah, I don't know. No, actually, your body releases negative toxins which kill you from the inside. So Tyson, well, he was always too short to be a heavyweight.
He didn't have a long reach because he was short. He never had the girth or the strength early on. He used to get picked on. I don't want to go into how he survived. He'll tell you that himself. And he doesn't have the lowest voice. And there was an impediment, you know, all that kith and all that.
He didn't have a long reach because he was short. He never had the girth or the strength early on. He used to get picked on. I don't want to go into how he survived. He'll tell you that himself. And he doesn't have the lowest voice. And there was an impediment, you know, all that kith and all that.
He decided at whatever point in his life that he's going to be the champion of champions of all time. And the rest is just hard work. I mean, that's the hardest part. But without lighting the fire, the spark, you're never going to get the forest fire. So it's mindset. Mindset is everything. You're about to walk a tightrope. You know what that is, right?
He decided at whatever point in his life that he's going to be the champion of champions of all time. And the rest is just hard work. I mean, that's the hardest part. But without lighting the fire, the spark, you're never going to get the forest fire. So it's mindset. Mindset is everything. You're about to walk a tightrope. You know what that is, right?
Yeah. I don't know if it's 50%, but there's a chance you're going to fall off. Yeah. Now, you can think about it in two ways. One is thinking to yourself, well, there's a tightrope and there's nothing holding, there's no net. You know, there's a pretty decent chance I'm going to fall, and I don't know if I'll get to the other side and all that stuff. Or you can do what champions do, delusionally.
Yeah. I don't know if it's 50%, but there's a chance you're going to fall off. Yeah. Now, you can think about it in two ways. One is thinking to yourself, well, there's a tightrope and there's nothing holding, there's no net. You know, there's a pretty decent chance I'm going to fall, and I don't know if I'll get to the other side and all that stuff. Or you can do what champions do, delusionally.
There's no way I'm not going to get double negative, which means absolutely I'm going to get to the other side. What do boxers do? in the dressing rooms. I'm going to kill that guy when I get in there. What does a coach do when he gets into the dressing room and sees all these guys with towels? Oh, nice dick. No, that's another kind of coach. What does he do? He immediately starts yelling at them.
There's no way I'm not going to get double negative, which means absolutely I'm going to get to the other side. What do boxers do? in the dressing rooms. I'm going to kill that guy when I get in there. What does a coach do when he gets into the dressing room and sees all these guys with towels? Oh, nice dick. No, that's another kind of coach. What does he do? He immediately starts yelling at them.
Who are you going to kill? Who are you going to do? You know, you get, it's called mindset. Yeah. And that's
Who are you going to kill? Who are you going to do? You know, you get, it's called mindset. Yeah. And that's
I had an advantage. Yeah. I didn't have to compete with anybody. It was just my mother and I. And even if you're dealt unfair cards- You can still get up in the morning and work at jobs you hate. Sure. I worked the night shift at Williamson & Williamson, a legal firm in New York City, going at 8.30 at night, come out 12 hours later.
I had an advantage. Yeah. I didn't have to compete with anybody. It was just my mother and I. And even if you're dealt unfair cards- You can still get up in the morning and work at jobs you hate. Sure. I worked the night shift at Williamson & Williamson, a legal firm in New York City, going at 8.30 at night, come out 12 hours later.
I could type really fast because I took typing and dictaphone in high school because the rest of the class were all girls.
I could type really fast because I took typing and dictaphone in high school because the rest of the class were all girls.
Did I pronounce that correctly? I think you nailed it. What's up? Yeah, nailed it. Despite the fact that it's a T at the end and not an S, but I still pronounce it S. Yeah. That's incorrect, isn't it?
Did I pronounce that correctly? I think you nailed it. What's up? Yeah, nailed it. Despite the fact that it's a T at the end and not an S, but I still pronounce it S. Yeah. That's incorrect, isn't it?
I want to tell you the actual. You want to hear something crazy? Yeah.
I want to tell you the actual. You want to hear something crazy? Yeah.
You tried a vernacular? That's a Dracula, right? Yeah, you start saying what's up in a big corporate event, see how far that gets you. I think you could get away with it.
You tried a vernacular? That's a Dracula, right? Yeah, you start saying what's up in a big corporate event, see how far that gets you. I think you could get away with it.
Oh, I could get away with it, but only because of the fame and the money. Somebody who's looking for job security, not going to work.
Oh, I could get away with it, but only because of the fame and the money. Somebody who's looking for job security, not going to work.
I guess the doctor pulled me out by the wrong appendage. Yeah, maybe.
I guess the doctor pulled me out by the wrong appendage. Yeah, maybe.
Yeah, it was. That checks the box. See what I did there? We actually went and visited there because there's a dildo post office. She hates it when I mention this. And we ate at the dildo cafe. Overlooking Placentia Bay. No. Look it up on Google and Schmoogle. And there's Captain Dildo. It's a fascia, in other words, a two-dimensional thing of a guy with a beard, just like you'd expect.
Yeah, it was. That checks the box. See what I did there? We actually went and visited there because there's a dildo post office. She hates it when I mention this. And we ate at the dildo cafe. Overlooking Placentia Bay. No. Look it up on Google and Schmoogle. And there's Captain Dildo. It's a fascia, in other words, a two-dimensional thing of a guy with a beard, just like you'd expect.
Well, as girls will tell you, they don't like to discuss it with other guys, but they'll talk to themselves about it. It's the movement. Mine is blessed with having the ability to have a spin and dry cycle and whip up a good goddamn froth. But by and large, the mystery of women is that no two are alike. I mean, men are as simple as ABC. Not even. You don't even get to see.
Well, as girls will tell you, they don't like to discuss it with other guys, but they'll talk to themselves about it. It's the movement. Mine is blessed with having the ability to have a spin and dry cycle and whip up a good goddamn froth. But by and large, the mystery of women is that no two are alike. I mean, men are as simple as ABC. Not even. You don't even get to see.
There's one movement you can make with your hand. Done. I figured out all men. No, soft, fast, too slow, too fast. And also to unlock the honeypot. The best you can hope for is to start spelling the alphabet. A, B, C. Oh, she likes the C. Okay, there's it. Every girl's different.
There's one movement you can make with your hand. Done. I figured out all men. No, soft, fast, too slow, too fast. And also to unlock the honeypot. The best you can hope for is to start spelling the alphabet. A, B, C. Oh, she likes the C. Okay, there's it. Every girl's different.
Well, it's worth noting that the two original guys who did partake... We're in and out of the band three times and then eventually out of the band. You can't be an Olympic athlete or a football player in something and be high. It doesn't work.
Well, it's worth noting that the two original guys who did partake... We're in and out of the band three times and then eventually out of the band. You can't be an Olympic athlete or a football player in something and be high. It doesn't work.
Now, conceptually, I could almost understand the idea of using crack or whatever the hell people call it, if it makes your schmeckle bigger or if you get richer or better looking or live longer or, you know, whatever those things are. None of that happens. In fact, it costs money. And if you drink enough, your schmeckle won't work. There's guaranteed you're not going to say anything bright enough
Now, conceptually, I could almost understand the idea of using crack or whatever the hell people call it, if it makes your schmeckle bigger or if you get richer or better looking or live longer or, you know, whatever those things are. None of that happens. In fact, it costs money. And if you drink enough, your schmeckle won't work. There's guaranteed you're not going to say anything bright enough
to the chick you're with. She's judging you, remember, trying to figure out if you're worth her time. You may throw up on her shoes that she just bought for the date, and if she lets you get close to her, Your equipment's not going to work if you drink enough. Oh, by the way, the next day you'll have a headache and you'll be, what the hell? What's that? Yeah, it's a terrible sales pitch.
to the chick you're with. She's judging you, remember, trying to figure out if you're worth her time. You may throw up on her shoes that she just bought for the date, and if she lets you get close to her, Your equipment's not going to work if you drink enough. Oh, by the way, the next day you'll have a headache and you'll be, what the hell? What's that? Yeah, it's a terrible sales pitch.
So when I was 13, I'd be invited to sweet 16 parties because I was always taller and all that stuff. And, you know, they'd have spin the bottle and all that stuff and rub two sticks together and start a fire, see what I just did there. Kids didn't have no idea what spin the bottle is. That was a big thrill.
So when I was 13, I'd be invited to sweet 16 parties because I was always taller and all that stuff. And, you know, they'd have spin the bottle and all that stuff and rub two sticks together and start a fire, see what I just did there. Kids didn't have no idea what spin the bottle is. That was a big thrill.
And see, you're not allowed to laugh at that because now you're a cis.
And see, you're not allowed to laugh at that because now you're a cis.
It's fine. I don't care. I don't give a fuck either. And then what happened was... I would wait until the end of the night when the guys were drunk and passed out and like a vulture swoop in and take any chick. Because they were all drunk and passed out on the floor.
It's fine. I don't care. I don't give a fuck either. And then what happened was... I would wait until the end of the night when the guys were drunk and passed out and like a vulture swoop in and take any chick. Because they were all drunk and passed out on the floor.
I had Dick Donner, who had just started working on Superman, and Christopher Reeve, who was Superman, I think. And they both came up to my place. And we were talking about movies and stars and things. He had taken me over to Margot Kidder's house, you know, Lois Lane in L.A. when I was there. We were hanging out. And all I remember doing was playing my cartoon collection at Looney Tunes.
I had Dick Donner, who had just started working on Superman, and Christopher Reeve, who was Superman, I think. And they both came up to my place. And we were talking about movies and stars and things. He had taken me over to Margot Kidder's house, you know, Lois Lane in L.A. when I was there. We were hanging out. And all I remember doing was playing my cartoon collection at Looney Tunes.
to Donner and Christopher Reeve. And I remember Christopher saying, what is this stuff? And Donner was saying, no, no, no, this is cinematic. Look at the edit of that stuff and the subtlety of Bugs Bunny cross-dressing with lipstick. I mean, it was deep, almost Shakespearean.
to Donner and Christopher Reeve. And I remember Christopher saying, what is this stuff? And Donner was saying, no, no, no, this is cinematic. Look at the edit of that stuff and the subtlety of Bugs Bunny cross-dressing with lipstick. I mean, it was deep, almost Shakespearean.
And the kids were watching it and thought that it was funny and stuff, but wink, wink, nudge, nudge, it was kind of grown-up material.
And the kids were watching it and thought that it was funny and stuff, but wink, wink, nudge, nudge, it was kind of grown-up material.
And he's holding like a blackboard. And people write, it's about six feet tall, people write sayings. Stay where you're at and I'll come where you're to. By, you know, all kinds of new feet things. I had a dildo burger. Mm-hmm. I'm not making it up.
And he's holding like a blackboard. And people write, it's about six feet tall, people write sayings. Stay where you're at and I'll come where you're to. By, you know, all kinds of new feet things. I had a dildo burger. Mm-hmm. I'm not making it up.
Less Disney and more Fritz Freeling and Chuck Jones and Warner Brothers.
Less Disney and more Fritz Freeling and Chuck Jones and Warner Brothers.
That's a good point. There's never a Jewish parade. We need respect. Don't try to kill us. We're fine.
That's a good point. There's never a Jewish parade. We need respect. Don't try to kill us. We're fine.
Yeah. And there's more. Stay tuned, kids. Get grandma in here. I probably know her. So there's Placentia Bay. There's Come By Chance next town. And there's Spread Eagle, which is the town next to that. Really? There used to be a Spread Eagle coin. before Newfoundland joined Canada because they refused to join. They were very rebellious and stuff.
Yeah. And there's more. Stay tuned, kids. Get grandma in here. I probably know her. So there's Placentia Bay. There's Come By Chance next town. And there's Spread Eagle, which is the town next to that. Really? There used to be a Spread Eagle coin. before Newfoundland joined Canada because they refused to join. They were very rebellious and stuff.
Jews have never been accepted. And by the way, Asians have a problem in Western culture too. But I've never seen an Asian parade. Have you? I don't think so. Ever. Because they're too inclined to succeed in life and move on. And just despite what people say, go and make money. Money. James Brown said it better than anybody else. Black power is green power.
Jews have never been accepted. And by the way, Asians have a problem in Western culture too. But I've never seen an Asian parade. Have you? I don't think so. Ever. Because they're too inclined to succeed in life and move on. And just despite what people say, go and make money. Money. James Brown said it better than anybody else. Black power is green power.
Specifically, the wings that I designed for myself was a cross between Lon Chaney Sr. and London After Midnight, which is a movie that people haven't seen in decades, but I've seen photos of it, so the print has been lost. And Black Bolt from a comic group called The Inhumans. And by the way, I had the rights... to make a motion picture out of that.
Specifically, the wings that I designed for myself was a cross between Lon Chaney Sr. and London After Midnight, which is a movie that people haven't seen in decades, but I've seen photos of it, so the print has been lost. And Black Bolt from a comic group called The Inhumans. And by the way, I had the rights... to make a motion picture out of that.
Marvel gave me the rights before the superhero cycle, and I couldn't get Universal interested enough. But eventually there was a Black Bolt series. I also had Ghost Rider.
Marvel gave me the rights before the superhero cycle, and I couldn't get Universal interested enough. But eventually there was a Black Bolt series. I also had Ghost Rider.
Before Nick Cage, yeah.
Before Nick Cage, yeah.
And everybody thought, well, what do you mean? It's a burning skull that's before the superhero cycle. So specifically, a cross between... London After Midnight, the movie, Lon Chaney Sr., who played a vampire, and Black Boat. And facially, the makeup came from the shadows on Lon Chaney Sr. 's face as Mary Philbin.
And everybody thought, well, what do you mean? It's a burning skull that's before the superhero cycle. So specifically, a cross between... London After Midnight, the movie, Lon Chaney Sr., who played a vampire, and Black Boat. And facially, the makeup came from the shadows on Lon Chaney Sr. 's face as Mary Philbin.
His love interest in the opera he's playing, organ, she rips the mask off his face. And when he turns around, there's shadows on his face. And in my mind, I saw that image.
His love interest in the opera he's playing, organ, she rips the mask off his face. And when he turns around, there's shadows on his face. And in my mind, I saw that image.
One of the first covers of any magazines I got was in a magazine called One Dollar out of Toronto. We were playing there. And on the cover, it said something like the devil's disciple or something. You know, I was supposed to be evil. I don't even get high. I like cookies and girls.
One of the first covers of any magazines I got was in a magazine called One Dollar out of Toronto. We were playing there. And on the cover, it said something like the devil's disciple or something. You know, I was supposed to be evil. I don't even get high. I like cookies and girls.
Or a mephism. Yeah. See what I did there? I did. You got dad jokes. Semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. You better take your pen out and write things down.
Or a mephism. Yeah. See what I did there? I did. You got dad jokes. Semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. You better take your pen out and write things down.
Millennials, a pen is a writing utensil which you hold in your hand. This is a fake one. There's no button to put it. It doesn't go on social media. There's paper, too, which comes from trees.
Millennials, a pen is a writing utensil which you hold in your hand. This is a fake one. There's no button to put it. It doesn't go on social media. There's paper, too, which comes from trees.
Anybody who thinks, well, I'm not part of you, nobody cares who and what you think you are. There's only one contest. It's like all the different top 40 things in Billboard magazine. Top 40 alternative charts, top 40 reggae, top 40 Jewish folk songs, top 40. It's all nonsense. There is only one top 40. You're all in competition with everybody else. It doesn't matter what genre you're in.
Anybody who thinks, well, I'm not part of you, nobody cares who and what you think you are. There's only one contest. It's like all the different top 40 things in Billboard magazine. Top 40 alternative charts, top 40 reggae, top 40 Jewish folk songs, top 40. It's all nonsense. There is only one top 40. You're all in competition with everybody else. It doesn't matter what genre you're in.
Yeah, if that. No, that means nothing. Those are all delusional, self-serving numbers. There's only one rule. We're all on the same planet. We better figure out how to get along with each other. Maybe a little more seriously, maybe all our jobs... invariably, big word like gymnasium, is to leave the world a little bit better, just a little bit better than when we came into it.
Yeah, if that. No, that means nothing. Those are all delusional, self-serving numbers. There's only one rule. We're all on the same planet. We better figure out how to get along with each other. Maybe a little more seriously, maybe all our jobs... invariably, big word like gymnasium, is to leave the world a little bit better, just a little bit better than when we came into it.
Multiply that by $8 billion.
Multiply that by $8 billion.
I didn't think they joined until, oh, something like 1950. Before then, they had their own militia, their own currency. Yes. They're like the Texas of Canada. Well, different culture. They had displaced Irish with a touch of French and everything. By the way, if you go there and you want to be ingrained in it, you've got to kiss the screech. I'm not making any of this up.
I didn't think they joined until, oh, something like 1950. Before then, they had their own militia, their own currency. Yes. They're like the Texas of Canada. Well, different culture. They had displaced Irish with a touch of French and everything. By the way, if you go there and you want to be ingrained in it, you've got to kiss the screech. I'm not making any of this up.
That's smart, obviously. That's really clever. Well, you're only going to get the respect you demand. You know, you have to assume that people don't have an imagination. Right. Sinatra had the same thing happen. His manager at the time went out and got high school girls and paid them 50 bucks or something to be in the front and do all that stuff.
That's smart, obviously. That's really clever. Well, you're only going to get the respect you demand. You know, you have to assume that people don't have an imagination. Right. Sinatra had the same thing happen. His manager at the time went out and got high school girls and paid them 50 bucks or something to be in the front and do all that stuff.
And they were called Bobby Soxers, Sinatra fans, because they were in school, had those Catholic skirts. They were called that. It's not a religious thing. That was just like an Italian t-shirt. That's what it was called. And those short skirts and the socks went way up the leg. Bobby Soxers. And then nobody else did that in rock because it was not credible. I don't care about credible.
And they were called Bobby Soxers, Sinatra fans, because they were in school, had those Catholic skirts. They were called that. It's not a religious thing. That was just like an Italian t-shirt. That's what it was called. And those short skirts and the socks went way up the leg. Bobby Soxers. And then nobody else did that in rock because it was not credible. I don't care about credible.
I just care about winning. You're not supposed to do licensing and merchandising. Who said that? Can I please meet that loser? He was probably still living in his mother's basement.
I just care about winning. You're not supposed to do licensing and merchandising. Who said that? Can I please meet that loser? He was probably still living in his mother's basement.
Well, I think whether it's the least or the most, Just give me a chance. Again, because the vast majority in the world never even get the chance. So claw, do the best you can just to get up to bat. You may strike out, but if you never swing the bat, guaranteed you'll strike out. You won't even get a chance. All I want's a chance.
Well, I think whether it's the least or the most, Just give me a chance. Again, because the vast majority in the world never even get the chance. So claw, do the best you can just to get up to bat. You may strike out, but if you never swing the bat, guaranteed you'll strike out. You won't even get a chance. All I want's a chance.
Yeah. But there are people, young people especially, who's just starting in a band, who think it's called music. It was never called that. It was always called music business. That's what it's called. And if you believe in truth in advertising, business is cool. Andy Warhol, who I knew, of course, millennials have no idea what I'm talking about. What's the new generation called?
Yeah. But there are people, young people especially, who's just starting in a band, who think it's called music. It was never called that. It was always called music business. That's what it's called. And if you believe in truth in advertising, business is cool. Andy Warhol, who I knew, of course, millennials have no idea what I'm talking about. What's the new generation called?
Yes, I'm part of the YXYZ. Shut the fuck up. So Andy Warhol said business is art and making money is the highest art. I hope I'm getting that right. It's pretty much right because almost everybody can do art. Not everybody can make money legally.
Yes, I'm part of the YXYZ. Shut the fuck up. So Andy Warhol said business is art and making money is the highest art. I hope I'm getting that right. It's pretty much right because almost everybody can do art. Not everybody can make money legally.
Well, what's creative and who determines that? I let the fans determine that. There is only... Who cares? When a painting is really good, it's actually called priceless. You can't put a figure on it. Money is the judges holding up a number to tell you how well you did in your thing. That's all money is. The higher the number... supposedly, the better you're doing. The market, yeah, it's hard.
Well, what's creative and who determines that? I let the fans determine that. There is only... Who cares? When a painting is really good, it's actually called priceless. You can't put a figure on it. Money is the judges holding up a number to tell you how well you did in your thing. That's all money is. The higher the number... supposedly, the better you're doing. The market, yeah, it's hard.
It's a dead fish, and you've got to kiss this thing and do other godly things to it. That has to do with where the sun don't shine.
It's a dead fish, and you've got to kiss this thing and do other godly things to it. That has to do with where the sun don't shine.
It doesn't really lie, does it? It's what it is. What people say, how do you pay rent with that? You're the best that ever was.
It doesn't really lie, does it? It's what it is. What people say, how do you pay rent with that? You're the best that ever was.
It is tough not to. I don't understand why that's a negative.
It is tough not to. I don't understand why that's a negative.
You work hard by the sweat of thy brow. Our people gave that book to everybody in the world. It's called the Bible, even the New Testament. It's all Jews. And it says in the good book, by the sweat of thy brow. Anything that you earn by the sweat of your brow has value. When you make money without exertion, the value loses what they call gravitas. It just doesn't impact you the same.
You work hard by the sweat of thy brow. Our people gave that book to everybody in the world. It's called the Bible, even the New Testament. It's all Jews. And it says in the good book, by the sweat of thy brow. Anything that you earn by the sweat of your brow has value. When you make money without exertion, the value loses what they call gravitas. It just doesn't impact you the same.
Yeah, it does feel good to earn as opposed to just to get, eh? Yeah, because then you don't have to say thank you to anybody.
Yeah, it does feel good to earn as opposed to just to get, eh? Yeah, because then you don't have to say thank you to anybody.
Without them, I'd be asking the next person in line if they'd like some fries with that. And by the way, that's an honorable profession.
Without them, I'd be asking the next person in line if they'd like some fries with that. And by the way, that's an honorable profession.
Is this kind of a big show?
Is this kind of a big show?
It was one of the life lessons. Kiss was on one of the first real rock concert TV shows, early 1974. Dick Clark had already been a mainstay in television. He had a show called American Bandstand. Yeah, I remember that. A young teen show every day after school. People would hurry three, four o'clock in the afternoon, and they'd watch. Written by Barry Manilow, as a matter of fact.
It was one of the life lessons. Kiss was on one of the first real rock concert TV shows, early 1974. Dick Clark had already been a mainstay in television. He had a show called American Bandstand. Yeah, I remember that. A young teen show every day after school. People would hurry three, four o'clock in the afternoon, and they'd watch. Written by Barry Manilow, as a matter of fact.
And they'd listen to new music, and everybody would come on there. Madonna and Schmadonna and everybody else. And then kids would listen to new songs. How do you like that song? I give it a 95 because I can dance to it. I like the beat. You know, they don't know what they like. But that was, you know, like kid stuff. And then in concert was exactly that.
And they'd listen to new music, and everybody would come on there. Madonna and Schmadonna and everybody else. And then kids would listen to new songs. How do you like that song? I give it a 95 because I can dance to it. I like the beat. You know, they don't know what they like. But that was, you know, like kid stuff. And then in concert was exactly that.
You'd have the groups of the day playing live like a concert, and we were given a slot. First record came out, and we were so thankful for them because we didn't look or sound or walk or talk like the other bands. Melissa Manchester, Kool and the Gang, I don't remember who else was on the bill, and Kiss.
You'd have the groups of the day playing live like a concert, and we were given a slot. First record came out, and we were so thankful for them because we didn't look or sound or walk or talk like the other bands. Melissa Manchester, Kool and the Gang, I don't remember who else was on the bill, and Kiss.
Yeah, because you always do what she says.
Yeah, because you always do what she says.
I'll tell you very quickly, in the afternoon we had to do a run-through so the cameras would know who's singing. I see. who's going to be where, what are you going to do so they can cover you because it's television. Was it live? Live. Yeah, okay. And that was also, and you can't do that nowadays.
I'll tell you very quickly, in the afternoon we had to do a run-through so the cameras would know who's singing. I see. who's going to be where, what are you going to do so they can cover you because it's television. Was it live? Live. Yeah, okay. And that was also, and you can't do that nowadays.
They don't do that now, yeah.
They don't do that now, yeah.
No, you can say a potty word and the advertisers get upset. So we did a song called Firehouse, actually that Paul wrote, and then I'm supposed to spit fire and I'm talking to the cameraman right here I'm holding my hand up in the air. I'm going to be spitting fire. The guy goes, what do you mean spitting fire? I'm going, no, for real.
No, you can say a potty word and the advertisers get upset. So we did a song called Firehouse, actually that Paul wrote, and then I'm supposed to spit fire and I'm talking to the cameraman right here I'm holding my hand up in the air. I'm going to be spitting fire. The guy goes, what do you mean spitting fire? I'm going, no, for real.
Actually, there's a fire guy watching and it's going to be like this and it's going to be eight or 10 feet. He goes, okay. So the show starts and we start doing it and the cameras are all trying to pick up all the shots. And I start walking towards the camera. And if you ever see that, I start to, the camera guy jumped off the camera and the camera went up.
Actually, there's a fire guy watching and it's going to be like this and it's going to be eight or 10 feet. He goes, okay. So the show starts and we start doing it and the cameras are all trying to pick up all the shots. And I start walking towards the camera. And if you ever see that, I start to, the camera guy jumped off the camera and the camera went up.
Well, he was afraid. He was, I don't know what he was afraid of.
Well, he was afraid. He was, I don't know what he was afraid of.
Open flame and a flammable. And I've caught fire a number of times.
Open flame and a flammable. And I've caught fire a number of times.
I don't want to tell people. Don't try it. There are so many videos on YouTube with kids who are trying to do that who went up in flames.
I don't want to tell people. Don't try it. There are so many videos on YouTube with kids who are trying to do that who went up in flames.
Well, in the beginning, we protected, you know, Superman, Clark Kent. Right. Yeah, that's funny.
Well, in the beginning, we protected, you know, Superman, Clark Kent. Right. Yeah, that's funny.
Superman didn't want to talk about Clark Kent. Right. And likewise, we kept our faces hidden, our actual faces. You know, it's like beautiful women with makeup and all that stuff. They don't want you to see them in a potato sack without their makeup on.
Superman didn't want to talk about Clark Kent. Right. And likewise, we kept our faces hidden, our actual faces. You know, it's like beautiful women with makeup and all that stuff. They don't want you to see them in a potato sack without their makeup on.
In the days when $25,000 was a lot of money, there was a $25,000 reward on our heads without makeup, yeah.
In the days when $25,000 was a lot of money, there was a $25,000 reward on our heads without makeup, yeah.
No, not really. They were snippets, but no. To give you an idea of what $25,000 was, right before KISS happened, I worked on 47th Street in the jewelry district. Minimum wage was $1.25 an hour. It skyrocketed to $1.75 an hour. $100 a week was a good wage. People were making $5,000 a year or something like that? That's right. And a Volkswagen, you could get for $1,500. Wow. Brand new.
No, not really. They were snippets, but no. To give you an idea of what $25,000 was, right before KISS happened, I worked on 47th Street in the jewelry district. Minimum wage was $1.25 an hour. It skyrocketed to $1.75 an hour. $100 a week was a good wage. People were making $5,000 a year or something like that? That's right. And a Volkswagen, you could get for $1,500. Wow. Brand new.
That's mind-blowing, actually. When I was a kid earlier, 1959 possibly- I bought a movie ticket for 29 cents and I saw two movies and three cartoons. That's crazy.
That's mind-blowing, actually. When I was a kid earlier, 1959 possibly- I bought a movie ticket for 29 cents and I saw two movies and three cartoons. That's crazy.
Well, a year or two ago, I think a dozen X was a buck 50. Now it's four bucks. Yeah. Unless you shop in LA and then it's seven dollars.
Well, a year or two ago, I think a dozen X was a buck 50. Now it's four bucks. Yeah. Unless you shop in LA and then it's seven dollars.
All were female, so don't get excited.
All were female, so don't get excited.
No. I was afraid of marriage, monogamy, and children. I didn't want to turn out like my father. Tell us about your father. Well, my father ran out on us. See, even that doesn't get close to it. My father ran out on me. I was seven years old. I never had a father figure at home. I remember my father was, you know, in the army, Israel was always being attacked one way or the other.
No. I was afraid of marriage, monogamy, and children. I didn't want to turn out like my father. Tell us about your father. Well, my father ran out on us. See, even that doesn't get close to it. My father ran out on me. I was seven years old. I never had a father figure at home. I remember my father was, you know, in the army, Israel was always being attacked one way or the other.
So I remember, I don't know, five or six, there's a machine, a Russian with a Kalashnikov, I think is what it's called. And as funny as it may sound, he had a uniform and on weekends, They'd have to go to the front line. I mean, here you are in Beverly Hills. You know, Pasadena is half hour away. That would be another country that would want to kill you.
So I remember, I don't know, five or six, there's a machine, a Russian with a Kalashnikov, I think is what it's called. And as funny as it may sound, he had a uniform and on weekends, They'd have to go to the front line. I mean, here you are in Beverly Hills. You know, Pasadena is half hour away. That would be another country that would want to kill you.
I don't... Want to pour cold water in your face. But anyone who says you don't need the money is a loser. Your ears actually hear you say those things. And then you prevent your mind from literally it's been proven over and over again that the words you say will affect you either good or bad. I didn't say you didn't want the money. I said you didn't need the money.
I don't... Want to pour cold water in your face. But anyone who says you don't need the money is a loser. Your ears actually hear you say those things. And then you prevent your mind from literally it's been proven over and over again that the words you say will affect you either good or bad. I didn't say you didn't want the money. I said you didn't need the money.
And in those days, 35,000 rockets came into Haifa or in that area where I lived. And on the weekends, my father would put on his uniform, take his thing, and hitchhike. They didn't have military trucks. They still hitchhike in Israel now. Well, Israel didn't have an air force or a navy or anything, but just people with guns. And they still beat five Arab countries. We went every time.
And in those days, 35,000 rockets came into Haifa or in that area where I lived. And on the weekends, my father would put on his uniform, take his thing, and hitchhike. They didn't have military trucks. They still hitchhike in Israel now. Well, Israel didn't have an air force or a navy or anything, but just people with guns. And they still beat five Arab countries. We went every time.
And it's generational. Nothing's going to change there until there are new generations who aren't dominated by religion. You have to remember World War II as a student of history. And my mother was 14 when she was in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany. During World War II, Germans and Japanese, the entire culture, the entire people, bought the evil hook, line, and sinker. They were Nazi.
And it's generational. Nothing's going to change there until there are new generations who aren't dominated by religion. You have to remember World War II as a student of history. And my mother was 14 when she was in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany. During World War II, Germans and Japanese, the entire culture, the entire people, bought the evil hook, line, and sinker. They were Nazi.
They loved it. And even after two atom bombs were dropped on Japan, they didn't make new terrorists or anything. The next generation said, you know, we were wrong. We got to move on. And they stopped worshiping the emperor as God. The culture has to change from within. When guys sitting, self-appointed religious people become less important, happened with Christianity too.
They loved it. And even after two atom bombs were dropped on Japan, they didn't make new terrorists or anything. The next generation said, you know, we were wrong. We got to move on. And they stopped worshiping the emperor as God. The culture has to change from within. When guys sitting, self-appointed religious people become less important, happened with Christianity too.
The Pope used to be a big deal and he would say, crusades for them. After a while, they ran out of grownups and they had a children's crusade. Insane. None of them made it to Israel. They were all raped or killed before because they ran out of grownups.
The Pope used to be a big deal and he would say, crusades for them. After a while, they ran out of grownups and they had a children's crusade. Insane. None of them made it to Israel. They were all raped or killed before because they ran out of grownups.
I didn't think I had an appetite. And one second, you're nobody and girls make you go through an obstacle course. What's your name? What sign are you in? Not on the first date, first base, second base, third base, you know, all that stuff. But you're both sexual. You both want the same thing. But then there are the cultural mores. Girls, women, females have different rules. Self-imposed a lot.
I didn't think I had an appetite. And one second, you're nobody and girls make you go through an obstacle course. What's your name? What sign are you in? Not on the first date, first base, second base, third base, you know, all that stuff. But you're both sexual. You both want the same thing. But then there are the cultural mores. Girls, women, females have different rules. Self-imposed a lot.
And some guys think that. And guys have no rules. It's like two different sides of the same coin. You're both human beings, but may as well speak another language. So, you know, it's tough for a guy. I don't mean to get a girlfriend, but just to satiate himself, as they say.
And some guys think that. And guys have no rules. It's like two different sides of the same coin. You're both human beings, but may as well speak another language. So, you know, it's tough for a guy. I don't mean to get a girlfriend, but just to satiate himself, as they say.
Going from there, and overnight, on the very first show, we played South Edmonton University, and there were girls back in the hotel. We were nobody. This is Canada.
Going from there, and overnight, on the very first show, we played South Edmonton University, and there were girls back in the hotel. We were nobody. This is Canada.
Yeah, there were girls back at the hotel just because you're in a band. It doesn't happen to plumbers or dentists. and different rules. They didn't even care if you remembered their name. You see, they're bored with their humdrum small-town family life. These strangers, it's like the circus comes to town. It's exciting. You know, it's different. Yeah, and there was a lot of that for many decades.
Yeah, there were girls back at the hotel just because you're in a band. It doesn't happen to plumbers or dentists. and different rules. They didn't even care if you remembered their name. You see, they're bored with their humdrum small-town family life. These strangers, it's like the circus comes to town. It's exciting. You know, it's different. Yeah, and there was a lot of that for many decades.
No, no, everybody needs the money. And I'll explain to you why. Warren Buffett, the richest guys in the world, and they are all guys who earned it anyway, get up every day and they go to work to do one thing, make more money. You are the gerbil on the merry-go-round, but you're alive. You're supposed to move or you're dead if you don't have a reason.
No, no, everybody needs the money. And I'll explain to you why. Warren Buffett, the richest guys in the world, and they are all guys who earned it anyway, get up every day and they go to work to do one thing, make more money. You are the gerbil on the merry-go-round, but you're alive. You're supposed to move or you're dead if you don't have a reason.
Many model portfolios from the floor up to here, something like that. And then when I came clean, Shannon and I burned them together.
Many model portfolios from the floor up to here, something like that. And then when I came clean, Shannon and I burned them together.
She always saw it in the media and stuff like that. But at some point, you got to grow up. I don't think women understand that just because there's a guy who's 25 or 30 years old and he's 6'2 and weighs, I don't know, 190, 200 pounds. That's a man. He's got a low voice. No, he's not. She's smiling blankly. So you're a 14-year-old horny kid, and if she turns her back, you'll climb on her mother.
She always saw it in the media and stuff like that. But at some point, you got to grow up. I don't think women understand that just because there's a guy who's 25 or 30 years old and he's 6'2 and weighs, I don't know, 190, 200 pounds. That's a man. He's got a low voice. No, he's not. She's smiling blankly. So you're a 14-year-old horny kid, and if she turns her back, you'll climb on her mother.
You're inconsolable. You just have an appetite. I mean, it's nice if someone, hello, nice to see you. It's better to treat everybody nicely, but I don't believe for a second that men become mature enough Until their 60s. 60s? Oh, yeah. Really? Well, look at the divorce rates.
You're inconsolable. You just have an appetite. I mean, it's nice if someone, hello, nice to see you. It's better to treat everybody nicely, but I don't believe for a second that men become mature enough Until their 60s. 60s? Oh, yeah. Really? Well, look at the divorce rates.
Why do divorce rates happen? Why are they so high? Because the guys fuck around. Why do they do that? Because even though they're grown men, they desire the other women.
Why do divorce rates happen? Why are they so high? Because the guys fuck around. Why do they do that? Because even though they're grown men, they desire the other women.
Is that what you're thinking? Never thought in any of those terms, nor would I hardly ever use the word pathological. In all other ways, I thought I was responsible. I show up on time. I treat people nicely. I make money. I buy my mother houses. You know, I take care of everything. No drugs, no booze. I don't even smoke cigarettes. And I like girls. Socially acceptable vice.
Is that what you're thinking? Never thought in any of those terms, nor would I hardly ever use the word pathological. In all other ways, I thought I was responsible. I show up on time. I treat people nicely. I make money. I buy my mother houses. You know, I take care of everything. No drugs, no booze. I don't even smoke cigarettes. And I like girls. Socially acceptable vice.
I didn't care what was or what was not socially acceptable because in my delusion, it didn't matter to me what people thought of me. It still doesn't. And in this woke world, that's a problem.
I didn't care what was or what was not socially acceptable because in my delusion, it didn't matter to me what people thought of me. It still doesn't. And in this woke world, that's a problem.
Well, I've got my judge and jury over there, my media maven.
Well, I've got my judge and jury over there, my media maven.
Oh, she shakes her head every once in a while, or her legs start. No, no, no, don't do that. We did KTLA this morning.
Oh, she shakes her head every once in a while, or her legs start. No, no, no, don't do that. We did KTLA this morning.
And I started to make a comment. I don't remember what about.
And I started to make a comment. I don't remember what about.
Look, we can't give birth despite what some people may think. That's called being on crack. So we can't give birth. We don't have menstrual cycle. What else do we do except work? It's the only, oh, she's shaking her head. See, shouldn't talk about that. No, we do have menstrual cycles. No, we don't. So the only thing we can do is, you know, the cart, the horse that pulls the cart.
Look, we can't give birth despite what some people may think. That's called being on crack. So we can't give birth. We don't have menstrual cycle. What else do we do except work? It's the only, oh, she's shaking her head. See, shouldn't talk about that. No, we do have menstrual cycles. No, we don't. So the only thing we can do is, you know, the cart, the horse that pulls the cart.
I'm sorry?
I'm sorry?
It comes from the Hebrew word shatam, which is the choice question. Not an embodiment of evil. Christians made it with the horns and the tail.
It comes from the Hebrew word shatam, which is the choice question. Not an embodiment of evil. Christians made it with the horns and the tail.
Yeah. Jews created the idea, but as a choice. Just like the cartoons, you have a little horned guy on one shoulder and an angel on the other shoulder. You have the choice of evil deeds. Satan is a choice, not a two-legged horn.
Yeah. Jews created the idea, but as a choice. Just like the cartoons, you have a little horned guy on one shoulder and an angel on the other shoulder. You have the choice of evil deeds. Satan is a choice, not a two-legged horn.
Well, what happened to do not judge lest ye be judged? Let those among you who is without sin cast the first stone.
Well, what happened to do not judge lest ye be judged? Let those among you who is without sin cast the first stone.
Bitch, I know where you live. Well, because there's a holier-than-thou sickness mentally, because a little bit of information emboldens us. makes somebody think, I'm better than you are, holier than thou. I know stuff you don't. And they often use it as a battering ram to elevate their own inadequacies. So who died and made you God? Since when did you become my judge and jury?
Bitch, I know where you live. Well, because there's a holier-than-thou sickness mentally, because a little bit of information emboldens us. makes somebody think, I'm better than you are, holier than thou. I know stuff you don't. And they often use it as a battering ram to elevate their own inadequacies. So who died and made you God? Since when did you become my judge and jury?
I thought there was a personal relationship between myself and God.
I thought there was a personal relationship between myself and God.
There was a guy dressed up like what he thought Jesus looked like because there was a historical Jesus. There was a human being. And we know that because Josephus Flavius, the Hebrew scribe for the Romans, was a Jew. Hebrew because it came from Hebron. See, Heb, Hebron. Never put that together. Yeah, and Jew because they're Judean. Yeah, from Judea. Geographical location, yeah.
There was a guy dressed up like what he thought Jesus looked like because there was a historical Jesus. There was a human being. And we know that because Josephus Flavius, the Hebrew scribe for the Romans, was a Jew. Hebrew because it came from Hebron. See, Heb, Hebron. Never put that together. Yeah, and Jew because they're Judean. Yeah, from Judea. Geographical location, yeah.
And if you're not pulling the cart, what's your excuse for living? What are you supposed to do?
And if you're not pulling the cart, what's your excuse for living? What are you supposed to do?
They have to run because they're not qualified to have that discussion. They're talking with mental midgets. They know a little bit more than God. See that? God will predict. So I asked one of these guys who was dressed in what he thought Jesus looked like, straight hair. He looked like he's from Norway and blue eyes and all that. I'm going, bitch, I don't want to tell you this, but
They have to run because they're not qualified to have that discussion. They're talking with mental midgets. They know a little bit more than God. See that? God will predict. So I asked one of these guys who was dressed in what he thought Jesus looked like, straight hair. He looked like he's from Norway and blue eyes and all that. I'm going, bitch, I don't want to tell you this, but
The real human being, Rabbi Yesu ben Yosef, is in the Vatican in Josephus Flavius' handwriting. Oh, I forgot. Most people think his last name was Christ. No. Mom and Dad were not Mr. and Mrs. Christ. Joseph Christ and Mary Christ. No. That's a title that comes Christo in Latin, which means Messiah or King. That makes sense. That's why he's called the Christ. Nobody says the Simmons.
The real human being, Rabbi Yesu ben Yosef, is in the Vatican in Josephus Flavius' handwriting. Oh, I forgot. Most people think his last name was Christ. No. Mom and Dad were not Mr. and Mrs. Christ. Joseph Christ and Mary Christ. No. That's a title that comes Christo in Latin, which means Messiah or King. That makes sense. That's why he's called the Christ. Nobody says the Simmons.
Like the president. It's a title. Or the Christ child or Christ Jesus, like King James. Get it? No, his last name is son of Joseph. But you don't get taught that because it mixes you up. Wait a minute. I thought he was the son of God. But his last name is the son of Joseph. Yeah. How about that?
Like the president. It's a title. Or the Christ child or Christ Jesus, like King James. Get it? No, his last name is son of Joseph. But you don't get taught that because it mixes you up. Wait a minute. I thought he was the son of God. But his last name is the son of Joseph. Yeah. How about that?
Would he have had a Hebrew name like Ben Yosef or whatever? Yes. Even Arabs. Bin Laden. Bin is son. The British Isles. McDonald. The Mac is a son.
Would he have had a Hebrew name like Ben Yosef or whatever? Yes. Even Arabs. Bin Laden. Bin is son. The British Isles. McDonald. The Mac is a son.
Well, it was a different culture. I don't think Led Zeppelin ever had a hit single. In fact, hit single, there was radio airplay. And you could get high on the charts, but never singles. And then there were actual sales. So here's a trick question. We all know the Beach Boys had a ton of stuff, ton of songs, 20, 30 songs. that everybody knew. Help me, Rhonda. Good vibrato. Lots of them.
Well, it was a different culture. I don't think Led Zeppelin ever had a hit single. In fact, hit single, there was radio airplay. And you could get high on the charts, but never singles. And then there were actual sales. So here's a trick question. We all know the Beach Boys had a ton of stuff, ton of songs, 20, 30 songs. that everybody knew. Help me, Rhonda. Good vibrato. Lots of them.
It's a trick question. Who has actual gold singles? More of them. Gold singles. Beach Boys or Kiss? A gold single sells more than a million copies. Beach Boys or Kiss has more... I have no idea. The Beach Boys, maybe? Who knows? Tied. Tied? Beach Boys only have two gold singles. Kiss has two gold singles. But they were played a lot more...
It's a trick question. Who has actual gold singles? More of them. Gold singles. Beach Boys or Kiss? A gold single sells more than a million copies. Beach Boys or Kiss has more... I have no idea. The Beach Boys, maybe? Who knows? Tied. Tied? Beach Boys only have two gold singles. Kiss has two gold singles. But they were played a lot more...
What easy? Doing nothing is easy, but you also don't make money. It's harder. It's harder for me to do nothing.
What easy? Doing nothing is easy, but you also don't make money. It's harder. It's harder for me to do nothing.
during daytime radio because mom is at home, dad is at working. None of that loud guitar stuff. More harmonies.
during daytime radio because mom is at home, dad is at working. None of that loud guitar stuff. More harmonies.
Yes, because we were Anglophiles. So our favorite bands... or English bands, Zeppelin and so on. Of course, the favorite of them all is The Beatles, but that's an exception. Nobody could write songs like them before, during, or since. McCartney is the most successful songwriter of all time. You know what a cover is, where other artists do your covers? Yesterday alone,
Yes, because we were Anglophiles. So our favorite bands... or English bands, Zeppelin and so on. Of course, the favorite of them all is The Beatles, but that's an exception. Nobody could write songs like them before, during, or since. McCartney is the most successful songwriter of all time. You know what a cover is, where other artists do your covers? Yesterday alone,
was covered by 1,000 plus other artists. Just that song. And they also did Live and Let Die, just a ton of stuff. But you can't shine the boots of the Beatles. It's a different league. But Led Zeppelin never played the singles game. ACDC didn't care. They were an album band. So it's a different culture. Yeah. It's a good strategy though, right?
was covered by 1,000 plus other artists. Just that song. And they also did Live and Let Die, just a ton of stuff. But you can't shine the boots of the Beatles. It's a different league. But Led Zeppelin never played the singles game. ACDC didn't care. They were an album band. So it's a different culture. Yeah. It's a good strategy though, right?
Yeah. in your estimation, for your life, of having enough money where you don't need more? Not really, and that's the problem. Why is that a problem?
Yeah. in your estimation, for your life, of having enough money where you don't need more? Not really, and that's the problem. Why is that a problem?
But by the time Metallica came in, the culture was set. When we were first starting, you still had a lot of pressure to get a song on the radio, get a song on the radio. I see. And then it opened up. Maiden and Metallica and a lot of those.
But by the time Metallica came in, the culture was set. When we were first starting, you still had a lot of pressure to get a song on the radio, get a song on the radio. I see. And then it opened up. Maiden and Metallica and a lot of those.
A lot of new bands became very famous very fast and then died very famous. And I don't mean to pick on them. They're fine, I'm sure. There's a band called Wang Chung.
A lot of new bands became very famous very fast and then died very famous. And I don't mean to pick on them. They're fine, I'm sure. There's a band called Wang Chung.
They had dance hall days and And they had hits. You can't name anybody in the band, and nobody ever wore a Wang Chung T-shirt. I'm sure they're terrific and all that. So there were lots and lots of bands who had number one songs and then disappear. Because you've got to deliver on stage.
They had dance hall days and And they had hits. You can't name anybody in the band, and nobody ever wore a Wang Chung T-shirt. I'm sure they're terrific and all that. So there were lots and lots of bands who had number one songs and then disappear. Because you've got to deliver on stage.
If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album.
If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album.
Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
But you're mixing apples with pears. What has nothing to do with it? Yeah, the more you work, the less time you get with your kids. Yeah, but they're too young to give a fuck. I don't know. When they get older. I'm not sure. We have two kids.
But you're mixing apples with pears. What has nothing to do with it? Yeah, the more you work, the less time you get with your kids. Yeah, but they're too young to give a fuck. I don't know. When they get older. I'm not sure. We have two kids.
Not in music. Innovators are Elon Musk. Tell me about that. NASA, with all the hundreds of billions of dollars, couldn't figure out how to reuse a rocket. So every time they launched something, they had to throw it away. Elon Musk reused it. Can land take off, land take off. Electric cars outsold all the car companies, changed it overnight. Car companies didn't want to do it. Unions.
Not in music. Innovators are Elon Musk. Tell me about that. NASA, with all the hundreds of billions of dollars, couldn't figure out how to reuse a rocket. So every time they launched something, they had to throw it away. Elon Musk reused it. Can land take off, land take off. Electric cars outsold all the car companies, changed it overnight. Car companies didn't want to do it. Unions.
See what I did there? He doesn't care. It always takes one visionary, a futurist who doesn't care, just wants to do what they want to do. Alexander Graham Bell, Edison, even Ford at the beginning, who created this kind of assembly line thing, which didn't exist before Futurists don't look at what is. They do what they want to do. So Elon's got the boring company. He's going to have robot taxis.
See what I did there? He doesn't care. It always takes one visionary, a futurist who doesn't care, just wants to do what they want to do. Alexander Graham Bell, Edison, even Ford at the beginning, who created this kind of assembly line thing, which didn't exist before Futurists don't look at what is. They do what they want to do. So Elon's got the boring company. He's going to have robot taxis.
It's just all this stuff. It's not waiting to ask anybody what they think. He will be the first legal trillionaire.
It's just all this stuff. It's not waiting to ask anybody what they think. He will be the first legal trillionaire.
And this is not advice. I'm not a financial advisor. You have to say that full disclosure. I'm not a lawyer. I'm a lawyer, but I'm not your lawyer. It depends what kind of lawyer and which state. But probably the two safest for me are Bitcoin and Ethereum. And the rest you have to play.
And this is not advice. I'm not a financial advisor. You have to say that full disclosure. I'm not a lawyer. I'm a lawyer, but I'm not your lawyer. It depends what kind of lawyer and which state. But probably the two safest for me are Bitcoin and Ethereum. And the rest you have to play.
I've got 13 or 14 different cryptos that I play with.
I've got 13 or 14 different cryptos that I play with.
And the first five years or so is a blank. Hey, remember that time when Santa Claus got... Nope. Yeah, that trip to Disney is not for you. And again, in the old days, dad, almost without exception, would get up at the crack of dawn and go out and work. There's no such thing as, I've got to spend more time with the children. No, your job is to go out there and provide for the family.
And the first five years or so is a blank. Hey, remember that time when Santa Claus got... Nope. Yeah, that trip to Disney is not for you. And again, in the old days, dad, almost without exception, would get up at the crack of dawn and go out and work. There's no such thing as, I've got to spend more time with the children. No, your job is to go out there and provide for the family.
never really understood it because from her, you know, they were lucky. All of Europe, not just Jewish households, but right after the Great Depression, 1929 and on, people couldn't even have an egg. There are photos of Germans with wheelbarrows full of Deutschmarks trying to get enough money together, just stacks of money to get a few eggs. People have no idea the great generation.
never really understood it because from her, you know, they were lucky. All of Europe, not just Jewish households, but right after the Great Depression, 1929 and on, people couldn't even have an egg. There are photos of Germans with wheelbarrows full of Deutschmarks trying to get enough money together, just stacks of money to get a few eggs. People have no idea the great generation.
There are 100 million people that died in World War II. Even white people. I'm not even talking about black Asia or anything, just white Europeans. 100 million died. Starvation, war, killings, and all this stuff. It was insane. People who lived through that have a completely different point of view about life and the value of things.
There are 100 million people that died in World War II. Even white people. I'm not even talking about black Asia or anything, just white Europeans. 100 million died. Starvation, war, killings, and all this stuff. It was insane. People who lived through that have a completely different point of view about life and the value of things.
My mother, in the translation in Hungarian, every day above ground is a good day, is worth taking note of. Kind of corny. What do you have to complain about living here in Beverly Hills? What exactly? Riots? War? What? Yeah, I know. Some hooded teenagers break into 7-Elevens and all this kind of stuff. I know. I can't tell you how I would react because she's shaking her head.
My mother, in the translation in Hungarian, every day above ground is a good day, is worth taking note of. Kind of corny. What do you have to complain about living here in Beverly Hills? What exactly? Riots? War? What? Yeah, I know. Some hooded teenagers break into 7-Elevens and all this kind of stuff. I know. I can't tell you how I would react because she's shaking her head.
Let's just say there were different rules for the police when I was growing up. There was less crime.
Let's just say there were different rules for the police when I was growing up. There was less crime.
40s and 50s, 1940s, 1950s.
40s and 50s, 1940s, 1950s.
Once drugs became culture, we went to hell and back.
Once drugs became culture, we went to hell and back.
Yeah. But that's during the drug world. When I was growing up and I went to school, you couldn't even, you weren't allowed to have liquor, booze, beer. Out in the open. You'd have to have it in a brown paper bag. That's still the case. Oh, is it still?
Yeah. But that's during the drug world. When I was growing up and I went to school, you couldn't even, you weren't allowed to have liquor, booze, beer. Out in the open. You'd have to have it in a brown paper bag. That's still the case. Oh, is it still?
Well, they take baths in it over there.
Well, they take baths in it over there.
But never heard of a drug addict. Nobody smoked that we knew of. It was looked down on.
But never heard of a drug addict. Nobody smoked that we knew of. It was looked down on.
Well, if we landed in New York, and it was a shock to me because we're- We, your mother and yourself? My mother and myself landed in New York. I never saw tall buildings or every street was covered in concrete or asphalt. Every street in the small town and the bottom of Mount Carmel, like the biblical Carmel, that's where I was born.
Well, if we landed in New York, and it was a shock to me because we're- We, your mother and yourself? My mother and myself landed in New York. I never saw tall buildings or every street was covered in concrete or asphalt. Every street in the small town and the bottom of Mount Carmel, like the biblical Carmel, that's where I was born.
Talking about the soon-to-be trillionaire, believe it or not, Elon Musk, he will be the first trillionaire legally, not Putin or anybody else. Yeah, right. And he's got 12 kids and who knows how many... Terrible relationships with a few of them, too. Well... Unfortunately. So is life. I'm not here to judge or anything. Just make the observation that you can be a nice person or a horrible person.
Talking about the soon-to-be trillionaire, believe it or not, Elon Musk, he will be the first trillionaire legally, not Putin or anybody else. Yeah, right. And he's got 12 kids and who knows how many... Terrible relationships with a few of them, too. Well... Unfortunately. So is life. I'm not here to judge or anything. Just make the observation that you can be a nice person or a horrible person.
just like, you know, with the grapes and like those stories in the Bible. Yeah, it's a real place, and I was right at the foot of those mountains. I used to go up there and get cactus fruit. There was no infrastructure, just dirt on the road. I'd never heard of television. Literally. Never heard of it. We didn't have radio.
just like, you know, with the grapes and like those stories in the Bible. Yeah, it's a real place, and I was right at the foot of those mountains. I used to go up there and get cactus fruit. There was no infrastructure, just dirt on the road. I'd never heard of television. Literally. Never heard of it. We didn't have radio.
There was a hole in the ground outside, and you wiped with rags that my mother used to wash.
There was a hole in the ground outside, and you wiped with rags that my mother used to wash.
That's a strange connection.
That's a strange connection.
I don't know about that. No, I just wanted to say that. Okay. And two Jews talking. How are you? How am I? How should I be? Who wants to know? Why are you asking? Good Lord. Accurate. Accurate. And when we first came to America, I was in shock. People were big. The buildings were big. Everybody had cars. The sandwiches were massive.
I don't know about that. No, I just wanted to say that. Okay. And two Jews talking. How are you? How am I? How should I be? Who wants to know? Why are you asking? Good Lord. Accurate. Accurate. And when we first came to America, I was in shock. People were big. The buildings were big. Everybody had cars. The sandwiches were massive.
In Israel, you got a newspaper, used newspaper, and they'd give you a slab of meat and a little thing, a little butter. There was no brands. That was your food for the week. And cornbread, big honking pieces of stuff. There were no stuff, barely any canned goods. And the land of plenty, you bet. I remember my Aunt Magda was married to my mother's brother, who'd done well.
In Israel, you got a newspaper, used newspaper, and they'd give you a slab of meat and a little thing, a little butter. There was no brands. That was your food for the week. And cornbread, big honking pieces of stuff. There were no stuff, barely any canned goods. And the land of plenty, you bet. I remember my Aunt Magda was married to my mother's brother, who'd done well.
Both her brothers were very successful. And she, Aunt Magda, I was looking at the refrigerator because I didn't know what it was. We didn't have one. Yeah, we never had a refrigerator. Just a white kind of a thing with a handle. So I spoke Hungarian as well so much. She didn't speak Hebrew. Aunt Magda walked over and she opened the thing and I... Couldn't believe it. This box was filled with food.
Both her brothers were very successful. And she, Aunt Magda, I was looking at the refrigerator because I didn't know what it was. We didn't have one. Yeah, we never had a refrigerator. Just a white kind of a thing with a handle. So I spoke Hungarian as well so much. She didn't speak Hebrew. Aunt Magda walked over and she opened the thing and I... Couldn't believe it. This box was filled with food.
There was fruit and, you know, eggs and stuff, all this food. And I remember looking on the side To my right, I must have been eight. Actually, I was eight before I was nine. See what I just did there? There was another joke. I looked over there, and there was this kind of reddish thing, and I was attracted by the color. And I opened up the top, and my Aunt Magda gave me a spoon. It was jam.
There was fruit and, you know, eggs and stuff, all this food. And I remember looking on the side To my right, I must have been eight. Actually, I was eight before I was nine. See what I just did there? There was another joke. I looked over there, and there was this kind of reddish thing, and I was attracted by the color. And I opened up the top, and my Aunt Magda gave me a spoon. It was jam.
My Aunt Magda might have been schmuckers. And she gave me a spoon. I guess she meant for me to taste it. Sure. I'd never had jam. Tell me you ate that whole jar. I punished. I tasted it, and I went, oh, my God, it's crack. And emptied out that thing, and I couldn't stop eating. I never tasted anything like that. I bet. And both my mother and Aunt Magda were crying so hard they were in tears.
My Aunt Magda might have been schmuckers. And she gave me a spoon. I guess she meant for me to taste it. Sure. I'd never had jam. Tell me you ate that whole jar. I punished. I tasted it, and I went, oh, my God, it's crack. And emptied out that thing, and I couldn't stop eating. I never tasted anything like that. I bet. And both my mother and Aunt Magda were crying so hard they were in tears.
And I had no idea with mouthfuls of jam what they were laughing at. That's so funny. What a story.
And I had no idea with mouthfuls of jam what they were laughing at. That's so funny. What a story.
It must have been a trip for your mom to come to America, too, though. From her perspective, yes. And I remember I had never heard of television. We went to my Uncle George's house, and in those days, television screens were smaller, about the size of your head. Well, mine. Yours is a little smaller. It's a little more compact. And you'd have six-foot-long furniture.
It must have been a trip for your mom to come to America, too, though. From her perspective, yes. And I remember I had never heard of television. We went to my Uncle George's house, and in those days, television screens were smaller, about the size of your head. Well, mine. Yours is a little smaller. It's a little more compact. And you'd have six-foot-long furniture.
On both sides, you'd have liquor and stuff, sort of like a large cabinet, six feet long. And in the middle would be the television set with a smaller screen. And I remember walking in, and it must have been the news hour because there was a close-up of the guy's head, and I thought there was a guy in the box. I couldn't imagine that. No, it was being broadcast in the air.
On both sides, you'd have liquor and stuff, sort of like a large cabinet, six feet long. And in the middle would be the television set with a smaller screen. And I remember walking in, and it must have been the news hour because there was a close-up of the guy's head, and I thought there was a guy in the box. I couldn't imagine that. No, it was being broadcast in the air.
It is incredible when you think about it. I didn't understand what that was. I'd never seen a television set. And then when I understood all television stuff, one of the first things I saw, again, that blew my mind is some guy with a towel or something around his back, and he's flying through the air without an airplane. It's unbelievable. Created by Jews, of course. Didn't know that. Makes sense.
It is incredible when you think about it. I didn't understand what that was. I'd never seen a television set. And then when I understood all television stuff, one of the first things I saw, again, that blew my mind is some guy with a towel or something around his back, and he's flying through the air without an airplane. It's unbelievable. Created by Jews, of course. Didn't know that. Makes sense.
All superheroes. All the comic book companies were invented by Jews. Bob Kane, Batman, Bob Cohen, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, all those characters, Jews. It's the Moses myth of Moses, whose family were being killed. Krypton was blowing up, so they sent Kel-al, like El-al, those are Hebrew names, being sent down to the space ark. If you ever saw the imagery,
All superheroes. All the comic book companies were invented by Jews. Bob Kane, Batman, Bob Cohen, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, all those characters, Jews. It's the Moses myth of Moses, whose family were being killed. Krypton was blowing up, so they sent Kel-al, like El-al, those are Hebrew names, being sent down to the space ark. If you ever saw the imagery,
So let's say you're an asshole multi-billionaire who never gave a dime to charity. But that person who built... palaces for himself and bought schooners and other useless objects for the rest of us, still had to hire people because he's not going to build his own boat or mansion.
So let's say you're an asshole multi-billionaire who never gave a dime to charity. But that person who built... palaces for himself and bought schooners and other useless objects for the rest of us, still had to hire people because he's not going to build his own boat or mansion.
He's leaning back with a little blanket on, just like Moses. He gets adopted by the Goyim, the non-Jew, Gentiles, in this case Egyptians, and raised, and he became great. We do come full circle, don't we? Superman is the Moses mythos created by two Jews from Cleveland, Ohio. Jews of Cleveland. But they don't talk about that. The Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Jews.
He's leaning back with a little blanket on, just like Moses. He gets adopted by the Goyim, the non-Jew, Gentiles, in this case Egyptians, and raised, and he became great. We do come full circle, don't we? Superman is the Moses mythos created by two Jews from Cleveland, Ohio. Jews of Cleveland. But they don't talk about that. The Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Jews.
It's this hiding your public persona and having a secret identity. You know, the classic assimilationists. Dress British, think Yiddish. Including the movie industry. Every single, without exception, movie studio was created, invented, and designed by Jews to make non-Jewish movies. for the simple reason that there were very few Jews. You want to make money, you got to go to the market.
It's this hiding your public persona and having a secret identity. You know, the classic assimilationists. Dress British, think Yiddish. Including the movie industry. Every single, without exception, movie studio was created, invented, and designed by Jews to make non-Jewish movies. for the simple reason that there were very few Jews. You want to make money, you got to go to the market.
So a lot of movies with crosses and Christ and whatever you want, just buy tickets. Warner Brothers, those are not their names. You couldn't pronounce their names. It's probably like Livschitz Brothers or something like that. Yeah. So they changed all their names.
So a lot of movies with crosses and Christ and whatever you want, just buy tickets. Warner Brothers, those are not their names. You couldn't pronounce their names. It's probably like Livschitz Brothers or something like that. Yeah. So they changed all their names.
This guy Fox, 20th century Fox, he was an Eastern European Jew in New York buying fur coats, foxes, from Canada, shipping them down and sewing them on already made winter coats. So they became Fox fur coats and people couldn't pronounce his name. So he changed his name to fucks.
This guy Fox, 20th century Fox, he was an Eastern European Jew in New York buying fur coats, foxes, from Canada, shipping them down and sewing them on already made winter coats. So they became Fox fur coats and people couldn't pronounce his name. So he changed his name to fucks.
No, this is the American success story because as proud as I am of the historical and biblical Israel and all that, you cannot rise to this level anywhere else. We fly through the air, the computer, you're on TV, movies. It was all invented here, including the phone, by different people from different nationalities. That is the That's the wonder of this place. But we need much stronger laws.
No, this is the American success story because as proud as I am of the historical and biblical Israel and all that, you cannot rise to this level anywhere else. We fly through the air, the computer, you're on TV, movies. It was all invented here, including the phone, by different people from different nationalities. That is the That's the wonder of this place. But we need much stronger laws.
You got to get the scum off the street. Put me in charge. I'll fix it. Gene Simmons for president, 2020.
You got to get the scum off the street. Put me in charge. I'll fix it. Gene Simmons for president, 2020.
I recorded Bartender in a hotel room of a nudist resort. You're ass naked, looking out your window with a cup of coffee. There's people by the pool. Just everything's happening all at this one hotel. And you're just like, this is nice. This is nice. The hardest thing about being number one is staying number one. That stuck with me so much that I didn't even care
I recorded Bartender in a hotel room of a nudist resort. You're ass naked, looking out your window with a cup of coffee. There's people by the pool. Just everything's happening all at this one hotel. And you're just like, this is nice. This is nice. The hardest thing about being number one is staying number one. That stuck with me so much that I didn't even care
He hired people, and even though he's an asshole, he gave them jobs which enabled them to feed their families and put a roof over their head. Even the asshole that never contributed to charity is more important than you would ever imagine. They're job creators and all that. Job creator, but is that the highest? It sounded like I was finished, but I wasn't.
He hired people, and even though he's an asshole, he gave them jobs which enabled them to feed their families and put a roof over their head. Even the asshole that never contributed to charity is more important than you would ever imagine. They're job creators and all that. Job creator, but is that the highest? It sounded like I was finished, but I wasn't.
when I became number one, because I felt like I needed to work harder to stay there, and everything else was a distraction. Broke was Wells Fargo sending me emails saying, your account has reached $0. Oh, wow. Like, broke was me asking my manager, can he buy food for my kids? And this is from, like, upwards of $90 million. Wow. And then gone to pure $0. I mean, because I was young.
when I became number one, because I felt like I needed to work harder to stay there, and everything else was a distraction. Broke was Wells Fargo sending me emails saying, your account has reached $0. Oh, wow. Like, broke was me asking my manager, can he buy food for my kids? And this is from, like, upwards of $90 million. Wow. And then gone to pure $0. I mean, because I was young.
43 cars. All the gas goes bad in all of them. The Ferraris don't crank up if they're not driven every day. The Bugatti is stuck in between two Chevys. It took me nine years to lose all that money, and it took me two years to get it back. I could be a lot richer.
43 cars. All the gas goes bad in all of them. The Ferraris don't crank up if they're not driven every day. The Bugatti is stuck in between two Chevys. It took me nine years to lose all that money, and it took me two years to get it back. I could be a lot richer.
I could be going to space in a giant dick, or I could be stuffing my nose and my ears with toilet paper to make sure roaches don't get in it. I think I'm fine where I am. This seems okay. Oh, man.
I could be going to space in a giant dick, or I could be stuffing my nose and my ears with toilet paper to make sure roaches don't get in it. I think I'm fine where I am. This seems okay. Oh, man.
Well, you're either you live in the planet with other people and capitalism doesn't work if other people aren't working alongside. You know, if I make all the money in the world and I put it in a box and put it under the bed, nothing happens. In fact, inflation kicks in by less and less for the amount of money you have. It is only like running water. The fact that it runs keeps it fresh.
Well, you're either you live in the planet with other people and capitalism doesn't work if other people aren't working alongside. You know, if I make all the money in the world and I put it in a box and put it under the bed, nothing happens. In fact, inflation kicks in by less and less for the amount of money you have. It is only like running water. The fact that it runs keeps it fresh.
Capitalism is based on the idea of Let's say I don't like you and I'm not going to lend you a dime and all that stuff. You're still providing a service and you're charging for that, whatever it is that you do. No. If you're going to be an asshole, it's still better to be a rich, miserable asshole and not to be flippant because I'm not. I really do. I give to charity and philanthropy.
Capitalism is based on the idea of Let's say I don't like you and I'm not going to lend you a dime and all that stuff. You're still providing a service and you're charging for that, whatever it is that you do. No. If you're going to be an asshole, it's still better to be a rich, miserable asshole and not to be flippant because I'm not. I really do. I give to charity and philanthropy.
Last year it was about two and a half million. But a poor person never gave me a job. That's kind of a stunning, horrible thing to say. It is, yeah, but I follow. But it's the rich people that cause economies to flourish. That 1%. They create jobs. They build skyscrapers. The city doesn't have enough money. They do bonds. They work in banks.
Last year it was about two and a half million. But a poor person never gave me a job. That's kind of a stunning, horrible thing to say. It is, yeah, but I follow. But it's the rich people that cause economies to flourish. That 1%. They create jobs. They build skyscrapers. The city doesn't have enough money. They do bonds. They work in banks.
And they loan money to people who don't have enough money. What if you could get richer without spending all your time working?
And they loan money to people who don't have enough money. What if you could get richer without spending all your time working?
Is that what you think you would do if you weren't working all the time?
Is that what you think you would do if you weren't working all the time?
Well, you're mixing other people with me.
Well, you're mixing other people with me.
It's the love of labor. It's the idea that, again, not having the ability or facility to give birth, I don't have a purpose in life other than producing, making money. Even if I give all the money away or buy my mother the hip operation she needs or— Your mom's still around? No. She lived to be 94. The idea, though, applies to everybody. Without money, you can't do anything.
It's the love of labor. It's the idea that, again, not having the ability or facility to give birth, I don't have a purpose in life other than producing, making money. Even if I give all the money away or buy my mother the hip operation she needs or— Your mom's still around? No. She lived to be 94. The idea, though, applies to everybody. Without money, you can't do anything.
Love is the most powerful force on the planet is a lie. Money is the most powerful force on the planet, maybe the only one, because if you're living on a Kalahari desert and you're the, that's in Africa, if you're a loving mother and you have a child in your arms and you would give your life for your child, there's a caravan going by. If you don't have money, you're fucked.
Love is the most powerful force on the planet is a lie. Money is the most powerful force on the planet, maybe the only one, because if you're living on a Kalahari desert and you're the, that's in Africa, if you're a loving mother and you have a child in your arms and you would give your life for your child, there's a caravan going by. If you don't have money, you're fucked.
your loving child will die in your arms. Even if you're a terrible mother, but you have money, you will both survive. It's a horrible life lesson, but not if you look at money as the air that you breathe. It's neither good nor bad, or like water. You need water or you'll perish, but you can drown in water. Fire is really important.
your loving child will die in your arms. Even if you're a terrible mother, but you have money, you will both survive. It's a horrible life lesson, but not if you look at money as the air that you breathe. It's neither good nor bad, or like water. You need water or you'll perish, but you can drown in water. Fire is really important.
It warms the food, kills the bacteria, and all this kind of stuff. But you can lie to Forrest Farr. And if you think you've got enough money, anybody out there listening, I'll give my personal bank information because I want you to wire me any dollar you don't need. Because I always want more. You could do a lot with Gene Simmons' personal banking information, folks. Oh, no, just gifting is good.
It warms the food, kills the bacteria, and all this kind of stuff. But you can lie to Forrest Farr. And if you think you've got enough money, anybody out there listening, I'll give my personal bank information because I want you to wire me any dollar you don't need. Because I always want more. You could do a lot with Gene Simmons' personal banking information, folks. Oh, no, just gifting is good.
You don't need a bank. Just send it to me. It'll make me happier. I would challenge you on that, but we only have so much time. Please try. You win the lottery.
You don't need a bank. Just send it to me. It'll make me happier. I would challenge you on that, but we only have so much time. Please try. You win the lottery.
But the more money you make, the more flexibility you have with free time. I have so much. The less money you have, the less of a choice you have.
But the more money you make, the more flexibility you have with free time. I have so much. The less money you have, the less of a choice you have.
I don't want to get into that because I'm sure there are other elements in that relationship. I'm sure there are. Never just about that. No. I'm not getting into the muck and mire between you and your dad.
I don't want to get into that because I'm sure there are other elements in that relationship. I'm sure there are. Never just about that. No. I'm not getting into the muck and mire between you and your dad.
Well, over the years.
Well, over the years.
You know, they ebb and flow because... One entity might have a year window or a two-year window and so on. Nobody has an exclusive forever, but everything. You want me to do the joke, which I've done many times? Sure. We have made everything from Kiss condoms. We've made Kiss caskets. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. I said it before, but it's still funny.
You know, they ebb and flow because... One entity might have a year window or a two-year window and so on. Nobody has an exclusive forever, but everything. You want me to do the joke, which I've done many times? Sure. We have made everything from Kiss condoms. We've made Kiss caskets. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. I said it before, but it's still funny.
No. When I was a kid living with my mother in Israel because my father ran out on us or went off on his own, take your pick, when I was about seven and my poor mother had to go out and work six days a week. and do what in some racial ethnic groups, 70 to 75% of all households, married or single, are these brave, hardworking, single mothers because guys are assholes. Some guys are, that's for sure.
No. When I was a kid living with my mother in Israel because my father ran out on us or went off on his own, take your pick, when I was about seven and my poor mother had to go out and work six days a week. and do what in some racial ethnic groups, 70 to 75% of all households, married or single, are these brave, hardworking, single mothers because guys are assholes. Some guys are, that's for sure.
Predominantly, they leave. They just, one day they get up and they leave. They abandon the kids and the mother, and she's supposed to raise the child, make sure it gets to school on time, all that stuff, watch over them, and go out and make money. The real superheroes of the planet are women. Yeah, I can get behind that. Guys just work. Women give life.
Predominantly, they leave. They just, one day they get up and they leave. They abandon the kids and the mother, and she's supposed to raise the child, make sure it gets to school on time, all that stuff, watch over them, and go out and make money. The real superheroes of the planet are women. Yeah, I can get behind that. Guys just work. Women give life.
We were always, relatively speaking, dirt poor. But I never... felt poor nor ever thought about poor. Listen to the language. How did you do on the test poorly? How is that? That's poor. How is that wine? Well, that's rich. The language tells you the value of the words. Think of it this way. We have a double standard. If you work hard and dig ditches, you know that Sunset Boulevard we drove down?
We were always, relatively speaking, dirt poor. But I never... felt poor nor ever thought about poor. Listen to the language. How did you do on the test poorly? How is that? That's poor. How is that wine? Well, that's rich. The language tells you the value of the words. Think of it this way. We have a double standard. If you work hard and dig ditches, you know that Sunset Boulevard we drove down?
Somebody had to pave that pour the asphalt and all the rest of that stuff. They do that every day, vacation time if they can get it, but they get up every day and work at a job they don't like, in some cases hate, in summer, in snow, and everything else. And they hate it just for the money so that they can feed their family and survive. That's the salt of the earth.
Somebody had to pave that pour the asphalt and all the rest of that stuff. They do that every day, vacation time if they can get it, but they get up every day and work at a job they don't like, in some cases hate, in summer, in snow, and everything else. And they hate it just for the money so that they can feed their family and survive. That's the salt of the earth.
But if you're an actor or a painter or a rock star, you know, whatever you are, and you make a lot of money, you're disparaged. And that's a nice way of saying, ah, that guy's an asshole. Well, there's no credibility there. I guess a lot of people do call me an asshole. It's usually for other reasons.
But if you're an actor or a painter or a rock star, you know, whatever you are, and you make a lot of money, you're disparaged. And that's a nice way of saying, ah, that guy's an asshole. Well, there's no credibility there. I guess a lot of people do call me an asshole. It's usually for other reasons.
It's relative, depending on who's looking at you. I see. So when, as opposed to if, aliens land on the planet, they won't understand the differences. If you're in America, whatever racial group, and you come from the South... How y'all doing? What are you doing over there? You kind of go, snicker, snicker. Listen to how they talk. They're from the south. I'm from the, ah, those northern bastards.
It's relative, depending on who's looking at you. I see. So when, as opposed to if, aliens land on the planet, they won't understand the differences. If you're in America, whatever racial group, and you come from the South... How y'all doing? What are you doing over there? You kind of go, snicker, snicker. Listen to how they talk. They're from the south. I'm from the, ah, those northern bastards.
Then there's East Coast versus West Coast. And then you look at middle America. Well, nothing happens there. And they look at you. Everybody's got differences. Then there's old age, young kids. You're an amoeba. You don't know anything. Then there's black, white, Hispanic, all the differences. Even Cain and Abel didn't get along very well. So your definition of yourself is based on to whom.
Then there's East Coast versus West Coast. And then you look at middle America. Well, nothing happens there. And they look at you. Everybody's got differences. Then there's old age, young kids. You're an amoeba. You don't know anything. Then there's black, white, Hispanic, all the differences. Even Cain and Abel didn't get along very well. So your definition of yourself is based on to whom.
Coming up next on The Jordan Harbinger Show. If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album. It makes fans. Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
So if I was, quote, African-American and I lived in Harlem, I'd never think about being black because almost all my friends and almost everybody around me is black. And I don't want to talk for other white people, but there are varying degrees of who your mother was, who your grandmother was. You can be mixed or not mixed or all that stuff.
At the end of the day, you try to go through the stop signs and the different lanes of life, and then you die. So there's not much going on except trying to figure out how to be comfortable in your skin, whether anybody else gets it or not. So I've always been delusional about myself. Yeah.
How about this? I know Mike Tyson a little bit. We've spent time over the years. And to hear Mike talk, if you just turn off the visuals and the history, you would never imagine that that voice was the most dangerous person on two legs that ever stepped into the ring. That's true. Mindset and will dominates. In fact, if you're about to die in the hospital, doctors try to talk you.
There's such a thing as will to survive, will to live. And you can be self-destruct in your mind and release toxins. And you hurry up the clock where you die. What do they die from? A broken heart. What the fuck does that mean? Yeah, I don't know. No, actually, your body releases negative toxins which kill you from the inside. So Tyson, well, he was always too short to be a heavyweight.
He didn't have a long reach because he was short. He never had the girth or the strength early on. He used to get picked on. I don't want to go into how he survived. He'll tell you that himself. And he doesn't have the lowest voice. And there was an impediment, you know, all that kith and all that.
He decided at whatever point in his life that he's going to be the champion of champions of all time. And the rest is just hard work. I mean, that's the hardest part. But without lighting the fire, the spark, you're never going to get the forest fire. So it's mindset. Mindset is everything. You're about to walk a tightrope. You know what that is, right?
Yeah. I don't know if it's 50%, but there's a chance you're going to fall off. Yeah. Now, you can think about it in two ways. One is thinking to yourself, well, there's a tightrope and there's nothing holding, there's no net. You know, there's a pretty decent chance I'm going to fall, and I don't know if I'll get to the other side and all that stuff. Or you can do what champions do, delusionally.
There's no way I'm not going to get double negative, which means absolutely I'm going to get to the other side. What do boxers do? in the dressing rooms. I'm going to kill that guy when I get in there. What does a coach do when he gets into the dressing room and sees all these guys with towels? Oh, nice dick. No, that's another kind of coach. What does he do? He immediately starts yelling at them.
Who are you going to kill? Who are you going to do? You know, you get, it's called mindset. Yeah. And that's
I had an advantage. Yeah. I didn't have to compete with anybody. It was just my mother and I. And even if you're dealt unfair cards- You can still get up in the morning and work at jobs you hate. Sure. I worked the night shift at Williamson & Williamson, a legal firm in New York City, going at 8.30 at night, come out 12 hours later.
I could type really fast because I took typing and dictaphone in high school because the rest of the class were all girls.
Did I pronounce that correctly? I think you nailed it. What's up? Yeah, nailed it. Despite the fact that it's a T at the end and not an S, but I still pronounce it S. Yeah. That's incorrect, isn't it?
I want to tell you the actual. You want to hear something crazy? Yeah.
You tried a vernacular? That's a Dracula, right? Yeah, you start saying what's up in a big corporate event, see how far that gets you. I think you could get away with it.
Oh, I could get away with it, but only because of the fame and the money. Somebody who's looking for job security, not going to work.
I guess the doctor pulled me out by the wrong appendage. Yeah, maybe.
Yeah, it was. That checks the box. See what I did there? We actually went and visited there because there's a dildo post office. She hates it when I mention this. And we ate at the dildo cafe. Overlooking Placentia Bay. No. Look it up on Google and Schmoogle. And there's Captain Dildo. It's a fascia, in other words, a two-dimensional thing of a guy with a beard, just like you'd expect.
Well, as girls will tell you, they don't like to discuss it with other guys, but they'll talk to themselves about it. It's the movement. Mine is blessed with having the ability to have a spin and dry cycle and whip up a good goddamn froth. But by and large, the mystery of women is that no two are alike. I mean, men are as simple as ABC. Not even. You don't even get to see.
There's one movement you can make with your hand. Done. I figured out all men. No, soft, fast, too slow, too fast. And also to unlock the honeypot. The best you can hope for is to start spelling the alphabet. A, B, C. Oh, she likes the C. Okay, there's it. Every girl's different.
Well, it's worth noting that the two original guys who did partake... We're in and out of the band three times and then eventually out of the band. You can't be an Olympic athlete or a football player in something and be high. It doesn't work.
Now, conceptually, I could almost understand the idea of using crack or whatever the hell people call it, if it makes your schmeckle bigger or if you get richer or better looking or live longer or, you know, whatever those things are. None of that happens. In fact, it costs money. And if you drink enough, your schmeckle won't work. There's guaranteed you're not going to say anything bright enough
to the chick you're with. She's judging you, remember, trying to figure out if you're worth her time. You may throw up on her shoes that she just bought for the date, and if she lets you get close to her, Your equipment's not going to work if you drink enough. Oh, by the way, the next day you'll have a headache and you'll be, what the hell? What's that? Yeah, it's a terrible sales pitch.
So when I was 13, I'd be invited to sweet 16 parties because I was always taller and all that stuff. And, you know, they'd have spin the bottle and all that stuff and rub two sticks together and start a fire, see what I just did there. Kids didn't have no idea what spin the bottle is. That was a big thrill.
And see, you're not allowed to laugh at that because now you're a cis.
It's fine. I don't care. I don't give a fuck either. And then what happened was... I would wait until the end of the night when the guys were drunk and passed out and like a vulture swoop in and take any chick. Because they were all drunk and passed out on the floor.
I had Dick Donner, who had just started working on Superman, and Christopher Reeve, who was Superman, I think. And they both came up to my place. And we were talking about movies and stars and things. He had taken me over to Margot Kidder's house, you know, Lois Lane in L.A. when I was there. We were hanging out. And all I remember doing was playing my cartoon collection at Looney Tunes.
to Donner and Christopher Reeve. And I remember Christopher saying, what is this stuff? And Donner was saying, no, no, no, this is cinematic. Look at the edit of that stuff and the subtlety of Bugs Bunny cross-dressing with lipstick. I mean, it was deep, almost Shakespearean.
And the kids were watching it and thought that it was funny and stuff, but wink, wink, nudge, nudge, it was kind of grown-up material.
And he's holding like a blackboard. And people write, it's about six feet tall, people write sayings. Stay where you're at and I'll come where you're to. By, you know, all kinds of new feet things. I had a dildo burger. Mm-hmm. I'm not making it up.
Less Disney and more Fritz Freeling and Chuck Jones and Warner Brothers.
That's a good point. There's never a Jewish parade. We need respect. Don't try to kill us. We're fine.
Yeah. And there's more. Stay tuned, kids. Get grandma in here. I probably know her. So there's Placentia Bay. There's Come By Chance next town. And there's Spread Eagle, which is the town next to that. Really? There used to be a Spread Eagle coin. before Newfoundland joined Canada because they refused to join. They were very rebellious and stuff.
Jews have never been accepted. And by the way, Asians have a problem in Western culture too. But I've never seen an Asian parade. Have you? I don't think so. Ever. Because they're too inclined to succeed in life and move on. And just despite what people say, go and make money. Money. James Brown said it better than anybody else. Black power is green power.
Specifically, the wings that I designed for myself was a cross between Lon Chaney Sr. and London After Midnight, which is a movie that people haven't seen in decades, but I've seen photos of it, so the print has been lost. And Black Bolt from a comic group called The Inhumans. And by the way, I had the rights... to make a motion picture out of that.
Marvel gave me the rights before the superhero cycle, and I couldn't get Universal interested enough. But eventually there was a Black Bolt series. I also had Ghost Rider.
Before Nick Cage, yeah.
And everybody thought, well, what do you mean? It's a burning skull that's before the superhero cycle. So specifically, a cross between... London After Midnight, the movie, Lon Chaney Sr., who played a vampire, and Black Boat. And facially, the makeup came from the shadows on Lon Chaney Sr. 's face as Mary Philbin.
His love interest in the opera he's playing, organ, she rips the mask off his face. And when he turns around, there's shadows on his face. And in my mind, I saw that image.
One of the first covers of any magazines I got was in a magazine called One Dollar out of Toronto. We were playing there. And on the cover, it said something like the devil's disciple or something. You know, I was supposed to be evil. I don't even get high. I like cookies and girls.
Or a mephism. Yeah. See what I did there? I did. You got dad jokes. Semantics, but I'm not anti-semantic. You better take your pen out and write things down.
Millennials, a pen is a writing utensil which you hold in your hand. This is a fake one. There's no button to put it. It doesn't go on social media. There's paper, too, which comes from trees.
Anybody who thinks, well, I'm not part of you, nobody cares who and what you think you are. There's only one contest. It's like all the different top 40 things in Billboard magazine. Top 40 alternative charts, top 40 reggae, top 40 Jewish folk songs, top 40. It's all nonsense. There is only one top 40. You're all in competition with everybody else. It doesn't matter what genre you're in.
Yeah, if that. No, that means nothing. Those are all delusional, self-serving numbers. There's only one rule. We're all on the same planet. We better figure out how to get along with each other. Maybe a little more seriously, maybe all our jobs... invariably, big word like gymnasium, is to leave the world a little bit better, just a little bit better than when we came into it.
Multiply that by $8 billion.
I didn't think they joined until, oh, something like 1950. Before then, they had their own militia, their own currency. Yes. They're like the Texas of Canada. Well, different culture. They had displaced Irish with a touch of French and everything. By the way, if you go there and you want to be ingrained in it, you've got to kiss the screech. I'm not making any of this up.
That's smart, obviously. That's really clever. Well, you're only going to get the respect you demand. You know, you have to assume that people don't have an imagination. Right. Sinatra had the same thing happen. His manager at the time went out and got high school girls and paid them 50 bucks or something to be in the front and do all that stuff.
And they were called Bobby Soxers, Sinatra fans, because they were in school, had those Catholic skirts. They were called that. It's not a religious thing. That was just like an Italian t-shirt. That's what it was called. And those short skirts and the socks went way up the leg. Bobby Soxers. And then nobody else did that in rock because it was not credible. I don't care about credible.
I just care about winning. You're not supposed to do licensing and merchandising. Who said that? Can I please meet that loser? He was probably still living in his mother's basement.
Well, I think whether it's the least or the most, Just give me a chance. Again, because the vast majority in the world never even get the chance. So claw, do the best you can just to get up to bat. You may strike out, but if you never swing the bat, guaranteed you'll strike out. You won't even get a chance. All I want's a chance.
Yeah. But there are people, young people especially, who's just starting in a band, who think it's called music. It was never called that. It was always called music business. That's what it's called. And if you believe in truth in advertising, business is cool. Andy Warhol, who I knew, of course, millennials have no idea what I'm talking about. What's the new generation called?
Yes, I'm part of the YXYZ. Shut the fuck up. So Andy Warhol said business is art and making money is the highest art. I hope I'm getting that right. It's pretty much right because almost everybody can do art. Not everybody can make money legally.
Well, what's creative and who determines that? I let the fans determine that. There is only... Who cares? When a painting is really good, it's actually called priceless. You can't put a figure on it. Money is the judges holding up a number to tell you how well you did in your thing. That's all money is. The higher the number... supposedly, the better you're doing. The market, yeah, it's hard.
It's a dead fish, and you've got to kiss this thing and do other godly things to it. That has to do with where the sun don't shine.
It doesn't really lie, does it? It's what it is. What people say, how do you pay rent with that? You're the best that ever was.
It is tough not to. I don't understand why that's a negative.
You work hard by the sweat of thy brow. Our people gave that book to everybody in the world. It's called the Bible, even the New Testament. It's all Jews. And it says in the good book, by the sweat of thy brow. Anything that you earn by the sweat of your brow has value. When you make money without exertion, the value loses what they call gravitas. It just doesn't impact you the same.
Yeah, it does feel good to earn as opposed to just to get, eh? Yeah, because then you don't have to say thank you to anybody.
Without them, I'd be asking the next person in line if they'd like some fries with that. And by the way, that's an honorable profession.
Is this kind of a big show?
It was one of the life lessons. Kiss was on one of the first real rock concert TV shows, early 1974. Dick Clark had already been a mainstay in television. He had a show called American Bandstand. Yeah, I remember that. A young teen show every day after school. People would hurry three, four o'clock in the afternoon, and they'd watch. Written by Barry Manilow, as a matter of fact.
And they'd listen to new music, and everybody would come on there. Madonna and Schmadonna and everybody else. And then kids would listen to new songs. How do you like that song? I give it a 95 because I can dance to it. I like the beat. You know, they don't know what they like. But that was, you know, like kid stuff. And then in concert was exactly that.
You'd have the groups of the day playing live like a concert, and we were given a slot. First record came out, and we were so thankful for them because we didn't look or sound or walk or talk like the other bands. Melissa Manchester, Kool and the Gang, I don't remember who else was on the bill, and Kiss.
Yeah, because you always do what she says.
I'll tell you very quickly, in the afternoon we had to do a run-through so the cameras would know who's singing. I see. who's going to be where, what are you going to do so they can cover you because it's television. Was it live? Live. Yeah, okay. And that was also, and you can't do that nowadays.
They don't do that now, yeah.
No, you can say a potty word and the advertisers get upset. So we did a song called Firehouse, actually that Paul wrote, and then I'm supposed to spit fire and I'm talking to the cameraman right here I'm holding my hand up in the air. I'm going to be spitting fire. The guy goes, what do you mean spitting fire? I'm going, no, for real.
Actually, there's a fire guy watching and it's going to be like this and it's going to be eight or 10 feet. He goes, okay. So the show starts and we start doing it and the cameras are all trying to pick up all the shots. And I start walking towards the camera. And if you ever see that, I start to, the camera guy jumped off the camera and the camera went up.
Well, he was afraid. He was, I don't know what he was afraid of.
Open flame and a flammable. And I've caught fire a number of times.
I don't want to tell people. Don't try it. There are so many videos on YouTube with kids who are trying to do that who went up in flames.
Well, in the beginning, we protected, you know, Superman, Clark Kent. Right. Yeah, that's funny.
Superman didn't want to talk about Clark Kent. Right. And likewise, we kept our faces hidden, our actual faces. You know, it's like beautiful women with makeup and all that stuff. They don't want you to see them in a potato sack without their makeup on.
In the days when $25,000 was a lot of money, there was a $25,000 reward on our heads without makeup, yeah.
No, not really. They were snippets, but no. To give you an idea of what $25,000 was, right before KISS happened, I worked on 47th Street in the jewelry district. Minimum wage was $1.25 an hour. It skyrocketed to $1.75 an hour. $100 a week was a good wage. People were making $5,000 a year or something like that? That's right. And a Volkswagen, you could get for $1,500. Wow. Brand new.
That's mind-blowing, actually. When I was a kid earlier, 1959 possibly- I bought a movie ticket for 29 cents and I saw two movies and three cartoons. That's crazy.
Well, a year or two ago, I think a dozen X was a buck 50. Now it's four bucks. Yeah. Unless you shop in LA and then it's seven dollars.
All were female, so don't get excited.
No. I was afraid of marriage, monogamy, and children. I didn't want to turn out like my father. Tell us about your father. Well, my father ran out on us. See, even that doesn't get close to it. My father ran out on me. I was seven years old. I never had a father figure at home. I remember my father was, you know, in the army, Israel was always being attacked one way or the other.
So I remember, I don't know, five or six, there's a machine, a Russian with a Kalashnikov, I think is what it's called. And as funny as it may sound, he had a uniform and on weekends, They'd have to go to the front line. I mean, here you are in Beverly Hills. You know, Pasadena is half hour away. That would be another country that would want to kill you.
I don't... Want to pour cold water in your face. But anyone who says you don't need the money is a loser. Your ears actually hear you say those things. And then you prevent your mind from literally it's been proven over and over again that the words you say will affect you either good or bad. I didn't say you didn't want the money. I said you didn't need the money.
And in those days, 35,000 rockets came into Haifa or in that area where I lived. And on the weekends, my father would put on his uniform, take his thing, and hitchhike. They didn't have military trucks. They still hitchhike in Israel now. Well, Israel didn't have an air force or a navy or anything, but just people with guns. And they still beat five Arab countries. We went every time.
And it's generational. Nothing's going to change there until there are new generations who aren't dominated by religion. You have to remember World War II as a student of history. And my mother was 14 when she was in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany. During World War II, Germans and Japanese, the entire culture, the entire people, bought the evil hook, line, and sinker. They were Nazi.
They loved it. And even after two atom bombs were dropped on Japan, they didn't make new terrorists or anything. The next generation said, you know, we were wrong. We got to move on. And they stopped worshiping the emperor as God. The culture has to change from within. When guys sitting, self-appointed religious people become less important, happened with Christianity too.
The Pope used to be a big deal and he would say, crusades for them. After a while, they ran out of grownups and they had a children's crusade. Insane. None of them made it to Israel. They were all raped or killed before because they ran out of grownups.
I didn't think I had an appetite. And one second, you're nobody and girls make you go through an obstacle course. What's your name? What sign are you in? Not on the first date, first base, second base, third base, you know, all that stuff. But you're both sexual. You both want the same thing. But then there are the cultural mores. Girls, women, females have different rules. Self-imposed a lot.
And some guys think that. And guys have no rules. It's like two different sides of the same coin. You're both human beings, but may as well speak another language. So, you know, it's tough for a guy. I don't mean to get a girlfriend, but just to satiate himself, as they say.
Going from there, and overnight, on the very first show, we played South Edmonton University, and there were girls back in the hotel. We were nobody. This is Canada.
Yeah, there were girls back at the hotel just because you're in a band. It doesn't happen to plumbers or dentists. and different rules. They didn't even care if you remembered their name. You see, they're bored with their humdrum small-town family life. These strangers, it's like the circus comes to town. It's exciting. You know, it's different. Yeah, and there was a lot of that for many decades.
No, no, everybody needs the money. And I'll explain to you why. Warren Buffett, the richest guys in the world, and they are all guys who earned it anyway, get up every day and they go to work to do one thing, make more money. You are the gerbil on the merry-go-round, but you're alive. You're supposed to move or you're dead if you don't have a reason.
Many model portfolios from the floor up to here, something like that. And then when I came clean, Shannon and I burned them together.
She always saw it in the media and stuff like that. But at some point, you got to grow up. I don't think women understand that just because there's a guy who's 25 or 30 years old and he's 6'2 and weighs, I don't know, 190, 200 pounds. That's a man. He's got a low voice. No, he's not. She's smiling blankly. So you're a 14-year-old horny kid, and if she turns her back, you'll climb on her mother.
You're inconsolable. You just have an appetite. I mean, it's nice if someone, hello, nice to see you. It's better to treat everybody nicely, but I don't believe for a second that men become mature enough Until their 60s. 60s? Oh, yeah. Really? Well, look at the divorce rates.
Why do divorce rates happen? Why are they so high? Because the guys fuck around. Why do they do that? Because even though they're grown men, they desire the other women.
Is that what you're thinking? Never thought in any of those terms, nor would I hardly ever use the word pathological. In all other ways, I thought I was responsible. I show up on time. I treat people nicely. I make money. I buy my mother houses. You know, I take care of everything. No drugs, no booze. I don't even smoke cigarettes. And I like girls. Socially acceptable vice.
I didn't care what was or what was not socially acceptable because in my delusion, it didn't matter to me what people thought of me. It still doesn't. And in this woke world, that's a problem.
Well, I've got my judge and jury over there, my media maven.
Oh, she shakes her head every once in a while, or her legs start. No, no, no, don't do that. We did KTLA this morning.
And I started to make a comment. I don't remember what about.
Look, we can't give birth despite what some people may think. That's called being on crack. So we can't give birth. We don't have menstrual cycle. What else do we do except work? It's the only, oh, she's shaking her head. See, shouldn't talk about that. No, we do have menstrual cycles. No, we don't. So the only thing we can do is, you know, the cart, the horse that pulls the cart.
I'm sorry?
It comes from the Hebrew word shatam, which is the choice question. Not an embodiment of evil. Christians made it with the horns and the tail.
Yeah. Jews created the idea, but as a choice. Just like the cartoons, you have a little horned guy on one shoulder and an angel on the other shoulder. You have the choice of evil deeds. Satan is a choice, not a two-legged horn.
Well, what happened to do not judge lest ye be judged? Let those among you who is without sin cast the first stone.
Bitch, I know where you live. Well, because there's a holier-than-thou sickness mentally, because a little bit of information emboldens us. makes somebody think, I'm better than you are, holier than thou. I know stuff you don't. And they often use it as a battering ram to elevate their own inadequacies. So who died and made you God? Since when did you become my judge and jury?
I thought there was a personal relationship between myself and God.
There was a guy dressed up like what he thought Jesus looked like because there was a historical Jesus. There was a human being. And we know that because Josephus Flavius, the Hebrew scribe for the Romans, was a Jew. Hebrew because it came from Hebron. See, Heb, Hebron. Never put that together. Yeah, and Jew because they're Judean. Yeah, from Judea. Geographical location, yeah.
And if you're not pulling the cart, what's your excuse for living? What are you supposed to do?
They have to run because they're not qualified to have that discussion. They're talking with mental midgets. They know a little bit more than God. See that? God will predict. So I asked one of these guys who was dressed in what he thought Jesus looked like, straight hair. He looked like he's from Norway and blue eyes and all that. I'm going, bitch, I don't want to tell you this, but
The real human being, Rabbi Yesu ben Yosef, is in the Vatican in Josephus Flavius' handwriting. Oh, I forgot. Most people think his last name was Christ. No. Mom and Dad were not Mr. and Mrs. Christ. Joseph Christ and Mary Christ. No. That's a title that comes Christo in Latin, which means Messiah or King. That makes sense. That's why he's called the Christ. Nobody says the Simmons.
Like the president. It's a title. Or the Christ child or Christ Jesus, like King James. Get it? No, his last name is son of Joseph. But you don't get taught that because it mixes you up. Wait a minute. I thought he was the son of God. But his last name is the son of Joseph. Yeah. How about that?
Would he have had a Hebrew name like Ben Yosef or whatever? Yes. Even Arabs. Bin Laden. Bin is son. The British Isles. McDonald. The Mac is a son.
Well, it was a different culture. I don't think Led Zeppelin ever had a hit single. In fact, hit single, there was radio airplay. And you could get high on the charts, but never singles. And then there were actual sales. So here's a trick question. We all know the Beach Boys had a ton of stuff, ton of songs, 20, 30 songs. that everybody knew. Help me, Rhonda. Good vibrato. Lots of them.
It's a trick question. Who has actual gold singles? More of them. Gold singles. Beach Boys or Kiss? A gold single sells more than a million copies. Beach Boys or Kiss has more... I have no idea. The Beach Boys, maybe? Who knows? Tied. Tied? Beach Boys only have two gold singles. Kiss has two gold singles. But they were played a lot more...
What easy? Doing nothing is easy, but you also don't make money. It's harder. It's harder for me to do nothing.
during daytime radio because mom is at home, dad is at working. None of that loud guitar stuff. More harmonies.
Yes, because we were Anglophiles. So our favorite bands... or English bands, Zeppelin and so on. Of course, the favorite of them all is The Beatles, but that's an exception. Nobody could write songs like them before, during, or since. McCartney is the most successful songwriter of all time. You know what a cover is, where other artists do your covers? Yesterday alone,
was covered by 1,000 plus other artists. Just that song. And they also did Live and Let Die, just a ton of stuff. But you can't shine the boots of the Beatles. It's a different league. But Led Zeppelin never played the singles game. ACDC didn't care. They were an album band. So it's a different culture. Yeah. It's a good strategy though, right?
Yeah. in your estimation, for your life, of having enough money where you don't need more? Not really, and that's the problem. Why is that a problem?
But by the time Metallica came in, the culture was set. When we were first starting, you still had a lot of pressure to get a song on the radio, get a song on the radio. I see. And then it opened up. Maiden and Metallica and a lot of those.
A lot of new bands became very famous very fast and then died very famous. And I don't mean to pick on them. They're fine, I'm sure. There's a band called Wang Chung.
They had dance hall days and And they had hits. You can't name anybody in the band, and nobody ever wore a Wang Chung T-shirt. I'm sure they're terrific and all that. So there were lots and lots of bands who had number one songs and then disappear. Because you've got to deliver on stage.
If you have a hit single and you just sing in the microphone, they're paying more money for a ticket than they do for the album.
Michael Jackson, without all that dancing and the backwards and the stuff, not the same artist.
But you're mixing apples with pears. What has nothing to do with it? Yeah, the more you work, the less time you get with your kids. Yeah, but they're too young to give a fuck. I don't know. When they get older. I'm not sure. We have two kids.
Not in music. Innovators are Elon Musk. Tell me about that. NASA, with all the hundreds of billions of dollars, couldn't figure out how to reuse a rocket. So every time they launched something, they had to throw it away. Elon Musk reused it. Can land take off, land take off. Electric cars outsold all the car companies, changed it overnight. Car companies didn't want to do it. Unions.
See what I did there? He doesn't care. It always takes one visionary, a futurist who doesn't care, just wants to do what they want to do. Alexander Graham Bell, Edison, even Ford at the beginning, who created this kind of assembly line thing, which didn't exist before Futurists don't look at what is. They do what they want to do. So Elon's got the boring company. He's going to have robot taxis.
It's just all this stuff. It's not waiting to ask anybody what they think. He will be the first legal trillionaire.
And this is not advice. I'm not a financial advisor. You have to say that full disclosure. I'm not a lawyer. I'm a lawyer, but I'm not your lawyer. It depends what kind of lawyer and which state. But probably the two safest for me are Bitcoin and Ethereum. And the rest you have to play.
I've got 13 or 14 different cryptos that I play with.
And the first five years or so is a blank. Hey, remember that time when Santa Claus got... Nope. Yeah, that trip to Disney is not for you. And again, in the old days, dad, almost without exception, would get up at the crack of dawn and go out and work. There's no such thing as, I've got to spend more time with the children. No, your job is to go out there and provide for the family.
never really understood it because from her, you know, they were lucky. All of Europe, not just Jewish households, but right after the Great Depression, 1929 and on, people couldn't even have an egg. There are photos of Germans with wheelbarrows full of Deutschmarks trying to get enough money together, just stacks of money to get a few eggs. People have no idea the great generation.
There are 100 million people that died in World War II. Even white people. I'm not even talking about black Asia or anything, just white Europeans. 100 million died. Starvation, war, killings, and all this stuff. It was insane. People who lived through that have a completely different point of view about life and the value of things.
My mother, in the translation in Hungarian, every day above ground is a good day, is worth taking note of. Kind of corny. What do you have to complain about living here in Beverly Hills? What exactly? Riots? War? What? Yeah, I know. Some hooded teenagers break into 7-Elevens and all this kind of stuff. I know. I can't tell you how I would react because she's shaking her head.
Let's just say there were different rules for the police when I was growing up. There was less crime.
40s and 50s, 1940s, 1950s.
Once drugs became culture, we went to hell and back.
Yeah. But that's during the drug world. When I was growing up and I went to school, you couldn't even, you weren't allowed to have liquor, booze, beer. Out in the open. You'd have to have it in a brown paper bag. That's still the case. Oh, is it still?
Well, they take baths in it over there.
But never heard of a drug addict. Nobody smoked that we knew of. It was looked down on.
Well, if we landed in New York, and it was a shock to me because we're- We, your mother and yourself? My mother and myself landed in New York. I never saw tall buildings or every street was covered in concrete or asphalt. Every street in the small town and the bottom of Mount Carmel, like the biblical Carmel, that's where I was born.
Talking about the soon-to-be trillionaire, believe it or not, Elon Musk, he will be the first trillionaire legally, not Putin or anybody else. Yeah, right. And he's got 12 kids and who knows how many... Terrible relationships with a few of them, too. Well... Unfortunately. So is life. I'm not here to judge or anything. Just make the observation that you can be a nice person or a horrible person.
just like, you know, with the grapes and like those stories in the Bible. Yeah, it's a real place, and I was right at the foot of those mountains. I used to go up there and get cactus fruit. There was no infrastructure, just dirt on the road. I'd never heard of television. Literally. Never heard of it. We didn't have radio.
There was a hole in the ground outside, and you wiped with rags that my mother used to wash.
That's a strange connection.
I don't know about that. No, I just wanted to say that. Okay. And two Jews talking. How are you? How am I? How should I be? Who wants to know? Why are you asking? Good Lord. Accurate. Accurate. And when we first came to America, I was in shock. People were big. The buildings were big. Everybody had cars. The sandwiches were massive.
In Israel, you got a newspaper, used newspaper, and they'd give you a slab of meat and a little thing, a little butter. There was no brands. That was your food for the week. And cornbread, big honking pieces of stuff. There were no stuff, barely any canned goods. And the land of plenty, you bet. I remember my Aunt Magda was married to my mother's brother, who'd done well.
Both her brothers were very successful. And she, Aunt Magda, I was looking at the refrigerator because I didn't know what it was. We didn't have one. Yeah, we never had a refrigerator. Just a white kind of a thing with a handle. So I spoke Hungarian as well so much. She didn't speak Hebrew. Aunt Magda walked over and she opened the thing and I... Couldn't believe it. This box was filled with food.
There was fruit and, you know, eggs and stuff, all this food. And I remember looking on the side To my right, I must have been eight. Actually, I was eight before I was nine. See what I just did there? There was another joke. I looked over there, and there was this kind of reddish thing, and I was attracted by the color. And I opened up the top, and my Aunt Magda gave me a spoon. It was jam.
My Aunt Magda might have been schmuckers. And she gave me a spoon. I guess she meant for me to taste it. Sure. I'd never had jam. Tell me you ate that whole jar. I punished. I tasted it, and I went, oh, my God, it's crack. And emptied out that thing, and I couldn't stop eating. I never tasted anything like that. I bet. And both my mother and Aunt Magda were crying so hard they were in tears.
And I had no idea with mouthfuls of jam what they were laughing at. That's so funny. What a story.
It must have been a trip for your mom to come to America, too, though. From her perspective, yes. And I remember I had never heard of television. We went to my Uncle George's house, and in those days, television screens were smaller, about the size of your head. Well, mine. Yours is a little smaller. It's a little more compact. And you'd have six-foot-long furniture.
On both sides, you'd have liquor and stuff, sort of like a large cabinet, six feet long. And in the middle would be the television set with a smaller screen. And I remember walking in, and it must have been the news hour because there was a close-up of the guy's head, and I thought there was a guy in the box. I couldn't imagine that. No, it was being broadcast in the air.
It is incredible when you think about it. I didn't understand what that was. I'd never seen a television set. And then when I understood all television stuff, one of the first things I saw, again, that blew my mind is some guy with a towel or something around his back, and he's flying through the air without an airplane. It's unbelievable. Created by Jews, of course. Didn't know that. Makes sense.
All superheroes. All the comic book companies were invented by Jews. Bob Kane, Batman, Bob Cohen, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, all those characters, Jews. It's the Moses myth of Moses, whose family were being killed. Krypton was blowing up, so they sent Kel-al, like El-al, those are Hebrew names, being sent down to the space ark. If you ever saw the imagery,
So let's say you're an asshole multi-billionaire who never gave a dime to charity. But that person who built... palaces for himself and bought schooners and other useless objects for the rest of us, still had to hire people because he's not going to build his own boat or mansion.
He's leaning back with a little blanket on, just like Moses. He gets adopted by the Goyim, the non-Jew, Gentiles, in this case Egyptians, and raised, and he became great. We do come full circle, don't we? Superman is the Moses mythos created by two Jews from Cleveland, Ohio. Jews of Cleveland. But they don't talk about that. The Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Jews.
It's this hiding your public persona and having a secret identity. You know, the classic assimilationists. Dress British, think Yiddish. Including the movie industry. Every single, without exception, movie studio was created, invented, and designed by Jews to make non-Jewish movies. for the simple reason that there were very few Jews. You want to make money, you got to go to the market.
So a lot of movies with crosses and Christ and whatever you want, just buy tickets. Warner Brothers, those are not their names. You couldn't pronounce their names. It's probably like Livschitz Brothers or something like that. Yeah. So they changed all their names.
This guy Fox, 20th century Fox, he was an Eastern European Jew in New York buying fur coats, foxes, from Canada, shipping them down and sewing them on already made winter coats. So they became Fox fur coats and people couldn't pronounce his name. So he changed his name to fucks.
No, this is the American success story because as proud as I am of the historical and biblical Israel and all that, you cannot rise to this level anywhere else. We fly through the air, the computer, you're on TV, movies. It was all invented here, including the phone, by different people from different nationalities. That is the That's the wonder of this place. But we need much stronger laws.
You got to get the scum off the street. Put me in charge. I'll fix it. Gene Simmons for president, 2020.
I recorded Bartender in a hotel room of a nudist resort. You're ass naked, looking out your window with a cup of coffee. There's people by the pool. Just everything's happening all at this one hotel. And you're just like, this is nice. This is nice. The hardest thing about being number one is staying number one. That stuck with me so much that I didn't even care
He hired people, and even though he's an asshole, he gave them jobs which enabled them to feed their families and put a roof over their head. Even the asshole that never contributed to charity is more important than you would ever imagine. They're job creators and all that. Job creator, but is that the highest? It sounded like I was finished, but I wasn't.
when I became number one, because I felt like I needed to work harder to stay there, and everything else was a distraction. Broke was Wells Fargo sending me emails saying, your account has reached $0. Oh, wow. Like, broke was me asking my manager, can he buy food for my kids? And this is from, like, upwards of $90 million. Wow. And then gone to pure $0. I mean, because I was young.
43 cars. All the gas goes bad in all of them. The Ferraris don't crank up if they're not driven every day. The Bugatti is stuck in between two Chevys. It took me nine years to lose all that money, and it took me two years to get it back. I could be a lot richer.
I could be going to space in a giant dick, or I could be stuffing my nose and my ears with toilet paper to make sure roaches don't get in it. I think I'm fine where I am. This seems okay. Oh, man.
Well, you're either you live in the planet with other people and capitalism doesn't work if other people aren't working alongside. You know, if I make all the money in the world and I put it in a box and put it under the bed, nothing happens. In fact, inflation kicks in by less and less for the amount of money you have. It is only like running water. The fact that it runs keeps it fresh.
Capitalism is based on the idea of Let's say I don't like you and I'm not going to lend you a dime and all that stuff. You're still providing a service and you're charging for that, whatever it is that you do. No. If you're going to be an asshole, it's still better to be a rich, miserable asshole and not to be flippant because I'm not. I really do. I give to charity and philanthropy.
Last year it was about two and a half million. But a poor person never gave me a job. That's kind of a stunning, horrible thing to say. It is, yeah, but I follow. But it's the rich people that cause economies to flourish. That 1%. They create jobs. They build skyscrapers. The city doesn't have enough money. They do bonds. They work in banks.
And they loan money to people who don't have enough money. What if you could get richer without spending all your time working?
Is that what you think you would do if you weren't working all the time?
Well, you're mixing other people with me.
It's the love of labor. It's the idea that, again, not having the ability or facility to give birth, I don't have a purpose in life other than producing, making money. Even if I give all the money away or buy my mother the hip operation she needs or— Your mom's still around? No. She lived to be 94. The idea, though, applies to everybody. Without money, you can't do anything.
Love is the most powerful force on the planet is a lie. Money is the most powerful force on the planet, maybe the only one, because if you're living on a Kalahari desert and you're the, that's in Africa, if you're a loving mother and you have a child in your arms and you would give your life for your child, there's a caravan going by. If you don't have money, you're fucked.
your loving child will die in your arms. Even if you're a terrible mother, but you have money, you will both survive. It's a horrible life lesson, but not if you look at money as the air that you breathe. It's neither good nor bad, or like water. You need water or you'll perish, but you can drown in water. Fire is really important.
It warms the food, kills the bacteria, and all this kind of stuff. But you can lie to Forrest Farr. And if you think you've got enough money, anybody out there listening, I'll give my personal bank information because I want you to wire me any dollar you don't need. Because I always want more. You could do a lot with Gene Simmons' personal banking information, folks. Oh, no, just gifting is good.
You don't need a bank. Just send it to me. It'll make me happier. I would challenge you on that, but we only have so much time. Please try. You win the lottery.
But the more money you make, the more flexibility you have with free time. I have so much. The less money you have, the less of a choice you have.
I don't want to get into that because I'm sure there are other elements in that relationship. I'm sure there are. Never just about that. No. I'm not getting into the muck and mire between you and your dad.
Well, over the years.
You know, they ebb and flow because... One entity might have a year window or a two-year window and so on. Nobody has an exclusive forever, but everything. You want me to do the joke, which I've done many times? Sure. We have made everything from Kiss condoms. We've made Kiss caskets. We'll get you coming and we'll get you going. I said it before, but it's still funny.
No. When I was a kid living with my mother in Israel because my father ran out on us or went off on his own, take your pick, when I was about seven and my poor mother had to go out and work six days a week. and do what in some racial ethnic groups, 70 to 75% of all households, married or single, are these brave, hardworking, single mothers because guys are assholes. Some guys are, that's for sure.
Predominantly, they leave. They just, one day they get up and they leave. They abandon the kids and the mother, and she's supposed to raise the child, make sure it gets to school on time, all that stuff, watch over them, and go out and make money. The real superheroes of the planet are women. Yeah, I can get behind that. Guys just work. Women give life.
We were always, relatively speaking, dirt poor. But I never... felt poor nor ever thought about poor. Listen to the language. How did you do on the test poorly? How is that? That's poor. How is that wine? Well, that's rich. The language tells you the value of the words. Think of it this way. We have a double standard. If you work hard and dig ditches, you know that Sunset Boulevard we drove down?
Somebody had to pave that pour the asphalt and all the rest of that stuff. They do that every day, vacation time if they can get it, but they get up every day and work at a job they don't like, in some cases hate, in summer, in snow, and everything else. And they hate it just for the money so that they can feed their family and survive. That's the salt of the earth.
But if you're an actor or a painter or a rock star, you know, whatever you are, and you make a lot of money, you're disparaged. And that's a nice way of saying, ah, that guy's an asshole. Well, there's no credibility there. I guess a lot of people do call me an asshole. It's usually for other reasons.
It's relative, depending on who's looking at you. I see. So when, as opposed to if, aliens land on the planet, they won't understand the differences. If you're in America, whatever racial group, and you come from the South... How y'all doing? What are you doing over there? You kind of go, snicker, snicker. Listen to how they talk. They're from the south. I'm from the, ah, those northern bastards.
Then there's East Coast versus West Coast. And then you look at middle America. Well, nothing happens there. And they look at you. Everybody's got differences. Then there's old age, young kids. You're an amoeba. You don't know anything. Then there's black, white, Hispanic, all the differences. Even Cain and Abel didn't get along very well. So your definition of yourself is based on to whom.
Oh, hell no. I know that I'm not the best looking guy in the world or the smartest or anything, but I will walk into any room and I will walk out with your girlfriend. There's no doubt in my mind.
Oh, hell no. I know that I'm not the best looking guy in the world or the smartest or anything, but I will walk into any room and I will walk out with your girlfriend. There's no doubt in my mind.
I've been careful, so I win.
I've been careful, so I win.
Well, more specifically, how to be Disney without the overhead. But it's not as difficult as people think it is because unlike other countries, all information is available for free online. to anyone who wants to put in the time and it was called it's the house of god otherwise known as the library don't forget that second r in the middle it's not library it's library
Well, more specifically, how to be Disney without the overhead. But it's not as difficult as people think it is because unlike other countries, all information is available for free online. to anyone who wants to put in the time and it was called it's the house of god otherwise known as the library don't forget that second r in the middle it's not library it's library
And I used to go to the library every day after yeshiva. I was studying to be a rabbi, but then I discovered girls. So I was in school, yeshiva, which means the sitting, the whole day. And afterwards I'd go to the library, which was only a few blocks down. And I'm the only guy I've ever met or talked to who's actually read the Encyclopedia Britannica, cover to cover.
And I used to go to the library every day after yeshiva. I was studying to be a rabbi, but then I discovered girls. So I was in school, yeshiva, which means the sitting, the whole day. And afterwards I'd go to the library, which was only a few blocks down. And I'm the only guy I've ever met or talked to who's actually read the Encyclopedia Britannica, cover to cover.
I am the corniest, most boring guy at a party.
I am the corniest, most boring guy at a party.
Even during college, I went to the State University upstate New York, took out my own bank loan, paid for it myself and all that. So afternoons, I'd be the lifeguard at the Pines Hotel up in the Catskill Mountains, otherwise called the Jewish Mountains, literally. Because every weekend you'd have Jerry Lewis there and like all these guys, Milton Berle.
Even during college, I went to the State University upstate New York, took out my own bank loan, paid for it myself and all that. So afternoons, I'd be the lifeguard at the Pines Hotel up in the Catskill Mountains, otherwise called the Jewish Mountains, literally. Because every weekend you'd have Jerry Lewis there and like all these guys, Milton Berle.
And so I worked right after I'd finished classes and I'd go make some more money. And on the weekends, the Wicked, not Wicked Lester, but what was it called? Bullfrog beer. That was the college band, and we played covers and some of my original songs, which by then I learned how to write my own songs. Not very good. Two of them or so wound up being Kiss songs.
And so I worked right after I'd finished classes and I'd go make some more money. And on the weekends, the Wicked, not Wicked Lester, but what was it called? Bullfrog beer. That was the college band, and we played covers and some of my original songs, which by then I learned how to write my own songs. Not very good. Two of them or so wound up being Kiss songs.
work until late at night, six days out of the week. There was no such thing as five days, two days off. And in Israel, it's the Sabbath, Saturday that you take off. Sunday, you go right back to work. from 6 a.m. until 7, 7.30 p.m. And so both of my mother's brothers became successful in America.
work until late at night, six days out of the week. There was no such thing as five days, two days off. And in Israel, it's the Sabbath, Saturday that you take off. Sunday, you go right back to work. from 6 a.m. until 7, 7.30 p.m. And so both of my mother's brothers became successful in America.
And during one weekend, I'd make more money with the band having fun with the chicks and the attention and all that than I would the whole week working. It started to make more financial sense Yes, I had more fun. And then I graduated in 1972 from the City University at Richmond College and started teaching sixth grade in Spanish Harlem.
And during one weekend, I'd make more money with the band having fun with the chicks and the attention and all that than I would the whole week working. It started to make more financial sense Yes, I had more fun. And then I graduated in 1972 from the City University at Richmond College and started teaching sixth grade in Spanish Harlem.
Segway to being the assistant to the editor of Vogue magazine, assistant to the director of the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, a government-funded research and demonstration project, where I saved $23,000 by the time I was 23 years of age. I lived at home. Makes more sense. You want to meet in Chicago? Go to the Holiday Inn. Otherwise... Save your money. Yeah. Save your money.
Segway to being the assistant to the editor of Vogue magazine, assistant to the director of the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, a government-funded research and demonstration project, where I saved $23,000 by the time I was 23 years of age. I lived at home. Makes more sense. You want to meet in Chicago? Go to the Holiday Inn. Otherwise... Save your money. Yeah. Save your money.
lived at home when I didn't need to spend money. But of course I contributed a little bit. And we, I met another guy too. who shared the love of English music, which is really American music, anglicized. We were anglophiles, the Beatles and the Stones and Zeppelin and all that, and made our own pastiche, our own thing, like they did their own thing of American music. And by 1973,
lived at home when I didn't need to spend money. But of course I contributed a little bit. And we, I met another guy too. who shared the love of English music, which is really American music, anglicized. We were anglophiles, the Beatles and the Stones and Zeppelin and all that, and made our own pastiche, our own thing, like they did their own thing of American music. And by 1973,
We got signed to Casablanca Records, a new record label.
We got signed to Casablanca Records, a new record label.
23.
23.
22.
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Yes, it was.
Yes, it was.
We played clubs from nothing to everything. Really? Yes. We played New Year's Eve, Fourth on the Bill, at the Academy of Music in New York City, 1973-74. And two months after that, the first album came out. We were fourth on the bill. KISS, Teenage Lust, which was a local band, Iggy Pop, and Blue Oyster Cult. And on the first, by the third song, I'm Spitting Fire. We were full makeup.
We played clubs from nothing to everything. Really? Yes. We played New Year's Eve, Fourth on the Bill, at the Academy of Music in New York City, 1973-74. And two months after that, the first album came out. We were fourth on the bill. KISS, Teenage Lust, which was a local band, Iggy Pop, and Blue Oyster Cult. And on the first, by the third song, I'm Spitting Fire. We were full makeup.
My hair catches fire. And we're on the covers of all the magazines and everything. New band from Hellfire. And you know, all this kind of stuff. I was just glad to be alive.
My hair catches fire. And we're on the covers of all the magazines and everything. New band from Hellfire. And you know, all this kind of stuff. I was just glad to be alive.
but within a year and a half of coming out before mtv before cell phones we had still rotary calls superman was still going into that booth and changing of course people can't see him taking off his pants because he's in a phone booth while all this was happening within a year and a half were headlining Anaheim Stadium in Los Angeles. Wow. Yeah, just that overnight thing.
but within a year and a half of coming out before mtv before cell phones we had still rotary calls superman was still going into that booth and changing of course people can't see him taking off his pants because he's in a phone booth while all this was happening within a year and a half were headlining Anaheim Stadium in Los Angeles. Wow. Yeah, just that overnight thing.
We had no hit singles, nothing. Really? Yes, it became what the Germans called Zeitgeist, the water cooler conversation. The way you spread your brand in those days were rock magazines, circus and raves and all these colorful magazines that had posters. And we were always on the cover because the rest of the band is just boring. Yeah, they're not visual.
We had no hit singles, nothing. Really? Yes, it became what the Germans called Zeitgeist, the water cooler conversation. The way you spread your brand in those days were rock magazines, circus and raves and all these colorful magazines that had posters. And we were always on the cover because the rest of the band is just boring. Yeah, they're not visual.
So our brand and people, you know, the fans, we started selling out multiple days in arenas before we even had a gold record.
So our brand and people, you know, the fans, we started selling out multiple days in arenas before we even had a gold record.
You're giving us too much credit. We didn't know anything.
You're giving us too much credit. We didn't know anything.
But that's what happened. You were just rock and roll gypsies. Right. You were glad you didn't have to do nine to five.
But that's what happened. You were just rock and roll gypsies. Right. You were glad you didn't have to do nine to five.
And be in the same cubicle, doing the same thing.
And be in the same cubicle, doing the same thing.
None of that. Scientists either call it a singularity or an anomaly. We were rehearsing doing these songs that Paul Stanley and I wrote. Stanley Eisen. Eisenberger. Eisenberger. And I started writing and then Ace Fraley contributed a song or two. And as we heard, you know, this kind of sounds pretty good. And we had Peter Criss on drums and everybody could sing, everybody could play.
None of that. Scientists either call it a singularity or an anomaly. We were rehearsing doing these songs that Paul Stanley and I wrote. Stanley Eisen. Eisenberger. Eisenberger. And I started writing and then Ace Fraley contributed a song or two. And as we heard, you know, this kind of sounds pretty good. And we had Peter Criss on drums and everybody could sing, everybody could play.
Yes, right before World War II. My mother and my father went to Israel in 1949, and both brothers had already started working in America. And the stories I could tell you about my Uncle George,
Yes, right before World War II. My mother and my father went to Israel in 1949, and both brothers had already started working in America. And the stories I could tell you about my Uncle George,
And then instead of doing a market analysis or anything, I recall clearly, because I never got hired drunk, one of us, and I can't tell you who, said, let's go down to Woolworths, which was like a department store. And it was around Halloween, I believe, and they had a lot of gimmicky things like plastic ice cubes with fake flies in the middle that you could stick in your girlfriend's strings.
And then instead of doing a market analysis or anything, I recall clearly, because I never got hired drunk, one of us, and I can't tell you who, said, let's go down to Woolworths, which was like a department store. And it was around Halloween, I believe, and they had a lot of gimmicky things like plastic ice cubes with fake flies in the middle that you could stick in your girlfriend's strings.
Or whoopee cushions. You know what a whoopee cushion is? Yeah, yeah. Sit on it and make it part. Yeah, yeah. And we went down there and said, let's buy clown makeup. And we literally, almost like our hands were being directed, bought Steins, clown white, Steins, clown black, black stick.
Or whoopee cushions. You know what a whoopee cushion is? Yeah, yeah. Sit on it and make it part. Yeah, yeah. And we went down there and said, let's buy clown makeup. And we literally, almost like our hands were being directed, bought Steins, clown white, Steins, clown black, black stick.
Paul bought red lipstick, a few other things, and we went up to the rat-infested loft where we rehearsed and found ourselves hypnotically looking in the mirror and putting on makeup without anybody telling anybody what to do or what to think or do. It just... happened. It sounds suspicious. And then when we looked around the room, we were fascinated by, wow, that kind of... That kind of school.
Paul bought red lipstick, a few other things, and we went up to the rat-infested loft where we rehearsed and found ourselves hypnotically looking in the mirror and putting on makeup without anybody telling anybody what to do or what to think or do. It just... happened. It sounds suspicious. And then when we looked around the room, we were fascinated by, wow, that kind of... That kind of school.
One of the most influential rock bands of all time.
One of the most influential rock bands of all time.
Different. Yeah, different kind of cool. So much so that, and because I'm kind of a make a list, check it twice, find out I'm that kind of a guy, worked in offices all my life, there was no manager. So I was calling local gigs and clubs to try to get us. And then booked ourselves in for, I don't know, $35 a night to Coventry. And there was nobody there. We had my girlfriend, somebody else.
Different. Yeah, different kind of cool. So much so that, and because I'm kind of a make a list, check it twice, find out I'm that kind of a guy, worked in offices all my life, there was no manager. So I was calling local gigs and clubs to try to get us. And then booked ourselves in for, I don't know, $35 a night to Coventry. And there was nobody there. We had my girlfriend, somebody else.
There was like five people. But for us, we were at Madison Square Garden. And then the second show was at the Daisy in Amityville, where they had Jaws and all that, and the Amityville Horror and all that in Long Island. And shortly thereafter, we got signed. We barely played any shows.
There was like five people. But for us, we were at Madison Square Garden. And then the second show was at the Daisy in Amityville, where they had Jaws and all that, and the Amityville Horror and all that in Long Island. And shortly thereafter, we got signed. We barely played any shows.
until the day he passed he loved wonder bread in those days for twenty-nine cents you could buy a whole loaf he would buy a whole loaf with water and sit in a park bench in central park and to him it was like eating cake from kings he would just eat the bread and drink water because you didn't have it in Europe.
until the day he passed he loved wonder bread in those days for twenty-nine cents you could buy a whole loaf he would buy a whole loaf with water and sit in a park bench in central park and to him it was like eating cake from kings he would just eat the bread and drink water because you didn't have it in Europe.
Breaking so much so that within two years of that we're breaking the Beatles record in Japan and playing Five days I think at the largest arena Budokan and before bands were playing stadiums were doing multiple days in Australia in stadiums 1980 1980 Where do you think you'd be if you guys didn't put makeup on that first day?
Breaking so much so that within two years of that we're breaking the Beatles record in Japan and playing Five days I think at the largest arena Budokan and before bands were playing stadiums were doing multiple days in Australia in stadiums 1980 1980 Where do you think you'd be if you guys didn't put makeup on that first day?
You mean if I wasn't in a band, or would KISS have done as well without the makeup?
You mean if I wasn't in a band, or would KISS have done as well without the makeup?
Like... If I'd have to say... Not as big.
Like... If I'd have to say... Not as big.
You could ask the Beatles, what would you have gotten as far with the same songs and everything if you didn't have the matching haircuts?
You could ask the Beatles, what would you have gotten as far with the same songs and everything if you didn't have the matching haircuts?
It's always... Pieces of the puzzle that somehow fit that make the whole bigger than the sum of its parts, which are fancy words that says all of it helps.
It's always... Pieces of the puzzle that somehow fit that make the whole bigger than the sum of its parts, which are fancy words that says all of it helps.
And if you take like a house of cards, if you take any one of those, it's just one card, maybe all of it comes down. Interesting. It's so interesting to think about. I get paid a lot of money for this kind of stuff.
And if you take like a house of cards, if you take any one of those, it's just one card, maybe all of it comes down. Interesting. It's so interesting to think about. I get paid a lot of money for this kind of stuff.
I was always aware that character was not the right thing. It's persona. Persona not alter ego or alter egos and by the way I know people get so upset when I keep bringing up the juice stuff But the idea of the alter ego was created by them also, okay all the superheroes Superman yes Batman the Hulk fantastic that were all created by Jews Who dress British think Yiddish?
I was always aware that character was not the right thing. It's persona. Persona not alter ego or alter egos and by the way I know people get so upset when I keep bringing up the juice stuff But the idea of the alter ego was created by them also, okay all the superheroes Superman yes Batman the Hulk fantastic that were all created by Jews Who dress British think Yiddish?
the idea of the weak man and and the secret super-man. Der Ubermensch And all created by disenfranchised people who never felt powerful. So the superhero was created by those guys who were never lifting weights, couldn't dribble a basketball, but they owned the teams.
the idea of the weak man and and the secret super-man. Der Ubermensch And all created by disenfranchised people who never felt powerful. So the superhero was created by those guys who were never lifting weights, couldn't dribble a basketball, but they owned the teams.
No, it happened very quickly, and you react to market. The smart people react to the market. And immediately, we didn't think about it, but fans started to make homegrown T-shirts. Oh, they want T-shirts. Let's make T-shirts. And they wanted... We were aware that if you were a... I don't know, a Joe Cocker fan or somebody, you didn't necessarily want to look like Joe Cocker.
No, it happened very quickly, and you react to market. The smart people react to the market. And immediately, we didn't think about it, but fans started to make homegrown T-shirts. Oh, they want T-shirts. Let's make T-shirts. And they wanted... We were aware that if you were a... I don't know, a Joe Cocker fan or somebody, you didn't necessarily want to look like Joe Cocker.
The fact that he could eat an entire loaf of bread by himself and nobody would kill him to get a slice of bread was beyond anything. Because Europe never really recovered from the 1929 stock market crash. People were killing each other all the time. And in concentration camps, if you had a loaf of bread, they'd kill you for that. It's a different world.
The fact that he could eat an entire loaf of bread by himself and nobody would kill him to get a slice of bread was beyond anything. Because Europe never really recovered from the 1929 stock market crash. People were killing each other all the time. And in concentration camps, if you had a loaf of bread, they'd kill you for that. It's a different world.
and chose a fantastic artist. It was music. And somehow we didn't plan it. We want to be unique and all that's true, but we didn't quite understand the cultural significance of the idea that you may not be able to be in Kiss, but you can feel like it,
and chose a fantastic artist. It was music. And somehow we didn't plan it. We want to be unique and all that's true, but we didn't quite understand the cultural significance of the idea that you may not be able to be in Kiss, but you can feel like it,
How many more tennis rackets did we sell because people bought those and put on Kiss makeup and pretended when they were 13 that they were in a band? Because just as soon as you, and I'll show you photos of, Lenny Kravitz, when he was 13, like all down on these people going, what did I do? He was kicked out of school for at 13 coming to school dressed like that. That's interesting.
How many more tennis rackets did we sell because people bought those and put on Kiss makeup and pretended when they were 13 that they were in a band? Because just as soon as you, and I'll show you photos of, Lenny Kravitz, when he was 13, like all down on these people going, what did I do? He was kicked out of school for at 13 coming to school dressed like that. That's interesting.
But you wouldn't be kicked out of school for coming to school dressed like George Harrison. Right, right. Yeah. But that's not cool. No, it is cool, but it doesn't. There's nothing negative I can say about the Beatles, but market research. Market research is a strange thing. It makes assessments based on the way things actually are. So Mount Rushmore, you've heard of it.
But you wouldn't be kicked out of school for coming to school dressed like George Harrison. Right, right. Yeah. But that's not cool. No, it is cool, but it doesn't. There's nothing negative I can say about the Beatles, but market research. Market research is a strange thing. It makes assessments based on the way things actually are. So Mount Rushmore, you've heard of it.
Could you tell me who the four faces are? I've been there. Yeah, you've been there and you still don't know. Washington, yeah. It bears noting that market research says The four Kiss faces are more well-known on the entire planet than Mount Rushmore. That's great.
Could you tell me who the four faces are? I've been there. Yeah, you've been there and you still don't know. Washington, yeah. It bears noting that market research says The four Kiss faces are more well-known on the entire planet than Mount Rushmore. That's great.
You can go to Africa, and as soon as they see one of the four faces, they say, it's Kiss.
You can go to Africa, and as soon as they see one of the four faces, they say, it's Kiss.
If you show them one of Mount Rushmore's faces, they wouldn't know what it was. Yeah, yeah. That's astonishing, isn't it?
If you show them one of Mount Rushmore's faces, they wouldn't know what it was. Yeah, yeah. That's astonishing, isn't it?
I was a regular, normal guy with regular appetites and nothing out of the ordinary, and never veered towards self-destructive behavior, never.
I was a regular, normal guy with regular appetites and nothing out of the ordinary, and never veered towards self-destructive behavior, never.
the band elevated itself to another level because sometimes of course an idea will come from left field and they go why don't you yeah you know you're right we should be doing that so no matter who you are
the band elevated itself to another level because sometimes of course an idea will come from left field and they go why don't you yeah you know you're right we should be doing that so no matter who you are
Especially in light of the fact that times change, tastes change, and different generations come into it. Cool is a moving target. So I give ourselves kudos... to be able to be flexible and move around and do that stuff as hair metal bands came in, thrash came in, new romance came, like all through all the different things. So we started co-branding.
Especially in light of the fact that times change, tastes change, and different generations come into it. Cool is a moving target. So I give ourselves kudos... to be able to be flexible and move around and do that stuff as hair metal bands came in, thrash came in, new romance came, like all through all the different things. So we started co-branding.
Like Hello Kitty is one of the largest brands on the planet for young girls, for little girls. So Kiss Hello Kitty had about 1,500 co-licenses, everything from training bras to tissue paper to potato chips, you name it. And then we co-branded with Family Guy and Archie. We had Kiss Archie Comics and Astro Boy from Japan.
Like Hello Kitty is one of the largest brands on the planet for young girls, for little girls. So Kiss Hello Kitty had about 1,500 co-licenses, everything from training bras to tissue paper to potato chips, you name it. And then we co-branded with Family Guy and Archie. We had Kiss Archie Comics and Astro Boy from Japan.
In America, the land of plenty, even during World War II, people ate. We grew wheat.
In America, the land of plenty, even during World War II, people ate. We grew wheat.
Hello Kitty would probably be the biggest. Because there were endless... And then they changed CEOs. Actually, the CEO flew in to LA. We had dinner. And he and I are sitting next to each other. We're talking about the future. OK, we're going to ramp up this. It's clearly working and everything. And he said, as soon as I get back to Japan on Monday, it was the weekend coming up.
Hello Kitty would probably be the biggest. Because there were endless... And then they changed CEOs. Actually, the CEO flew in to LA. We had dinner. And he and I are sitting next to each other. We're talking about the future. OK, we're going to ramp up this. It's clearly working and everything. And he said, as soon as I get back to Japan on Monday, it was the weekend coming up.
I'm going to draw papers and we're going to do some big, big, big stuff. And then he passed away. And the new CEO just didn't see it. Oh, that's a bummer.
I'm going to draw papers and we're going to do some big, big, big stuff. And then he passed away. And the new CEO just didn't see it. Oh, that's a bummer.
All of it. Music less because entire generations of fans don't pay for music. They download and voucher. Both of our kids, Nick and Sophie, are massive on Spotify and Schmodify and all the other childlike things. Words. Yahoo! Google. And Sophie, for instance, is managers, co-writes. She's co-writing a song right now with the writer who wrote, Do you believe in love? You know, for Cher.
All of it. Music less because entire generations of fans don't pay for music. They download and voucher. Both of our kids, Nick and Sophie, are massive on Spotify and Schmodify and all the other childlike things. Words. Yahoo! Google. And Sophie, for instance, is managers, co-writes. She's co-writing a song right now with the writer who wrote, Do you believe in love? You know, for Cher.
What a small world. Yeah, it's just...
What a small world. Yeah, it's just...
It's a small world after all. As a matter of fact, I recorded When You Wish Upon a Star for my solo record because of how Emotionally, Jiminy Cricket affected my life. I thought when that little insect in the movie goes, Gene, when you wish upon. I thought he was singing to me. I was 12. Wow. I went out there like in a religious epiphany.
It's a small world after all. As a matter of fact, I recorded When You Wish Upon a Star for my solo record because of how Emotionally, Jiminy Cricket affected my life. I thought when that little insect in the movie goes, Gene, when you wish upon. I thought he was singing to me. I was 12. Wow. I went out there like in a religious epiphany.
I can do great things because Jiminy, your dreams come true. i can do it and that's why i like if you're not a bad guy that's why i like guys like you because sometimes some someplace in wisconsin there's somebody who can who's who possibly might do great things and the only thing holding himself back is himself and if you can just light that little fire in the belly that you know that
I can do great things because Jiminy, your dreams come true. i can do it and that's why i like if you're not a bad guy that's why i like guys like you because sometimes some someplace in wisconsin there's somebody who can who's who possibly might do great things and the only thing holding himself back is himself and if you can just light that little fire in the belly that you know that
Rock! Don't ever take from anybody. Just roll up your sleeves and go to work. Wow. What do all great champions do? They psych themselves up. I'm going to win it. I am the champion. I am the greatest. I heard Muhammad Ali doing that. I never heard a human being talk like that publicly. Like, who is this guy? Actually, he was stating fact.
Rock! Don't ever take from anybody. Just roll up your sleeves and go to work. Wow. What do all great champions do? They psych themselves up. I'm going to win it. I am the champion. I am the greatest. I heard Muhammad Ali doing that. I never heard a human being talk like that publicly. Like, who is this guy? Actually, he was stating fact.
That puts the light on. They'll do amazing things.
That puts the light on. They'll do amazing things.
No.
No.
I couldn't afford it.
I couldn't afford it.
But I'm delusional. I'm aware of it. I know that I'm not the best looking guy in the world or the smartest or anything, but I will walk into any room and I will walk out with your girlfriend.
But I'm delusional. I'm aware of it. I know that I'm not the best looking guy in the world or the smartest or anything, but I will walk into any room and I will walk out with your girlfriend.
there's no doubt in my mind and part and parcel of that has to do with a mindset that's really important that i was only able to recognize many years later you're a type of tightrope walker and various ideas and ideals can come into your mind before you walk that tightrope you might say A lot of people have tried to walk this tightrope.
there's no doubt in my mind and part and parcel of that has to do with a mindset that's really important that i was only able to recognize many years later you're a type of tightrope walker and various ideas and ideals can come into your mind before you walk that tightrope you might say A lot of people have tried to walk this tightrope.
When my mother came to America, she had to work, you know, the whole time. And I was, I remember going into my Uncle Larry's house and they had their own house with a basement and stuff. I mean, I just couldn't, and you'd look out the door and there were paved streets and cars going everywhere and people were fat. And I never saw a refrigerator.
When my mother came to America, she had to work, you know, the whole time. And I was, I remember going into my Uncle Larry's house and they had their own house with a basement and stuff. I mean, I just couldn't, and you'd look out the door and there were paved streets and cars going everywhere and people were fat. And I never saw a refrigerator.
There's a decent chance that, like, oh, and you're hearing and thinking what you're saying. So all the negativity is contributing to the chances of you failing. And what do all great champions do? They psych themselves up. I'm going to get out there and I'm going to do this. And who's listening? You're listening. I'm going to win it. I am the champion. I am the greatest.
There's a decent chance that, like, oh, and you're hearing and thinking what you're saying. So all the negativity is contributing to the chances of you failing. And what do all great champions do? They psych themselves up. I'm going to get out there and I'm going to do this. And who's listening? You're listening. I'm going to win it. I am the champion. I am the greatest.
I heard Muhammad Ali doing that. Cassius Clay at that point. I still think it's a cooler name. I never heard a human being talk like that publicly. I am the greatest. I'll sting like a butterfly. Like, who is this guy? Actually, he was stating fact. It's our problem that we thought, well, you're not supposed to say that. Why not?
I heard Muhammad Ali doing that. Cassius Clay at that point. I still think it's a cooler name. I never heard a human being talk like that publicly. I am the greatest. I'll sting like a butterfly. Like, who is this guy? Actually, he was stating fact. It's our problem that we thought, well, you're not supposed to say that. Why not?
Why not set greatness in front of you and then work towards achieving it? Yeah, that's true. So I've spent time with Mike Tyson, and I hope he considers me a friend. I consider him a friend. And when you listen to Mike's story, there's no logical reason in the world why he would become the most dangerous man who's ever been in the ring. Yes, I know four men and everybody else. He's too short.
Why not set greatness in front of you and then work towards achieving it? Yeah, that's true. So I've spent time with Mike Tyson, and I hope he considers me a friend. I consider him a friend. And when you listen to Mike's story, there's no logical reason in the world why he would become the most dangerous man who's ever been in the ring. Yes, I know four men and everybody else. He's too short.
His arms aren't long. He hates it when people do that thing. All the negatives you can imagine, except his unwavering belief in himself and the will to win. The will. Doctors still talk about people who are in a deathbed, and they can't explain why a week later they walk up and walk out the hospital, live another 10 years, except for the will to win. to win.
His arms aren't long. He hates it when people do that thing. All the negatives you can imagine, except his unwavering belief in himself and the will to win. The will. Doctors still talk about people who are in a deathbed, and they can't explain why a week later they walk up and walk out the hospital, live another 10 years, except for the will to win. to win.
And there are other people who drop dead when they just give up.
And there are other people who drop dead when they just give up.
No. The plane doors open. Go. What do you got to lose? In America, you cannot fail. You can't fail. If you lose all your money, you declare Chapter 7 or Chapter 11, and you can start all over again. And when that first chick said, would you like to go out with me? She says, no. Too many fish in the sea. There's tall, one's short, one's fat, one's thick, two. Just keep swaying that bat.
No. The plane doors open. Go. What do you got to lose? In America, you cannot fail. You can't fail. If you lose all your money, you declare Chapter 7 or Chapter 11, and you can start all over again. And when that first chick said, would you like to go out with me? She says, no. Too many fish in the sea. There's tall, one's short, one's fat, one's thick, two. Just keep swaying that bat.
You'll hit it. No means nothing.
You'll hit it. No means nothing.
Well, what choice have you got?
Well, what choice have you got?
Well, it's safer. People are lemmings because it's safer in numbers. You don't want to be that one person who says, but that's what leaders are. The leaders are the ones. Most people have a problem getting up on stage and speaking their mind because you will be judged. People don't like to be judged. Get over it. It doesn't matter. Not everybody likes Jesus either.
Well, it's safer. People are lemmings because it's safer in numbers. You don't want to be that one person who says, but that's what leaders are. The leaders are the ones. Most people have a problem getting up on stage and speaking their mind because you will be judged. People don't like to be judged. Get over it. It doesn't matter. Not everybody likes Jesus either.
Well, they're not qualified to have an opinion on yours truly. I'm qualified. I know where I've been, what I'm doing, what my dreams are, what I'm willing to work at. Anybody's other opinion is an opinion at first glance.
Well, they're not qualified to have an opinion on yours truly. I'm qualified. I know where I've been, what I'm doing, what my dreams are, what I'm willing to work at. Anybody's other opinion is an opinion at first glance.
We had a box, and if you had a piece of ice, you'd stuck it in there so you can have milk. By the way, not branded. They'd give you a sheet of newspaper and your week's piece of meat and your week's butter. It was a new country. There was nothing. There were no stores. People can't fathom that. I remember all that. And I remember just everything was new. You know, you have branding cups and
We had a box, and if you had a piece of ice, you'd stuck it in there so you can have milk. By the way, not branded. They'd give you a sheet of newspaper and your week's piece of meat and your week's butter. It was a new country. There was nothing. There were no stores. People can't fathom that. I remember all that. And I remember just everything was new. You know, you have branding cups and
you don't it sounds like but why do you think so many of the world precisely i could give a right but why do so many people care about it's safer it's safer to be in a group and you know when it's time to put frankenstein on fire when the guy didn't do anything you know there's a mob you know mob mentality you don't even have to say anything you can just let the mob carry you
you don't it sounds like but why do you think so many of the world precisely i could give a right but why do so many people care about it's safer it's safer to be in a group and you know when it's time to put frankenstein on fire when the guy didn't do anything you know there's a mob you know mob mentality you don't even have to say anything you can just let the mob carry you
It's tough to be, but those are the leaders of the world. And they don't have to be the most qualified, by the way. Some of the people I see on television using Christ's, you know, they talk, there are hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars. Some of them are not very bright people, but they have this presence
It's tough to be, but those are the leaders of the world. And they don't have to be the most qualified, by the way. Some of the people I see on television using Christ's, you know, they talk, there are hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars. Some of them are not very bright people, but they have this presence
If you take a look at the most powerful people in history, good and bad, they weren't super tall. They were usually pretty short guys.
If you take a look at the most powerful people in history, good and bad, they weren't super tall. They were usually pretty short guys.
Some illogical belief in themselves.
Some illogical belief in themselves.
Whether it's Caesar or Hitler or Napoleon, they have no right to have this, you know, and Some of them were real bad guys. Small people with, but on the inside, giants. Giant bad guys and giant good guys.
Whether it's Caesar or Hitler or Napoleon, they have no right to have this, you know, and Some of them were real bad guys. Small people with, but on the inside, giants. Giant bad guys and giant good guys.
are above and beyond anything that anybody's seen in music over 200 years easily, not since the Renaissance, which is how you say it, not the Renaissance. You have to understand they only existed seven years And they came from a place that was a pool filled with liver, liver pool, where nothing ever happened, high unemployment rate, no experience, no resume.
are above and beyond anything that anybody's seen in music over 200 years easily, not since the Renaissance, which is how you say it, not the Renaissance. You have to understand they only existed seven years And they came from a place that was a pool filled with liver, liver pool, where nothing ever happened, high unemployment rate, no experience, no resume.
know nothing and yet uh i wanna hold your hand um what she loves you yeah yeah yeah and that last chord that minor ninth is as sophisticated a chord if you know about music yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah That thing is almost like a jazz chord, unheard of in rock music. And okay, look, I'm going to give you something you'll be able to understand. Satisfaction is one of the great songs.
know nothing and yet uh i wanna hold your hand um what she loves you yeah yeah yeah and that last chord that minor ninth is as sophisticated a chord if you know about music yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah That thing is almost like a jazz chord, unheard of in rock music. And okay, look, I'm going to give you something you'll be able to understand. Satisfaction is one of the great songs.
It takes about 40 minutes, 40 seconds to get to the first thing. I can't get no satisfaction. Yeah. Yeah. or anything. Sunshine of your love. I did it backwards. It's a It takes about 50 seconds to get I've been waiting so long and all that. On and on and on. The Beatles. I just wrote a new song. What is it called? It's called Help. How does it go? It goes like this. Help! I need somebody, help!
It takes about 40 minutes, 40 seconds to get to the first thing. I can't get no satisfaction. Yeah. Yeah. or anything. Sunshine of your love. I did it backwards. It's a It takes about 50 seconds to get I've been waiting so long and all that. On and on and on. The Beatles. I just wrote a new song. What is it called? It's called Help. How does it go? It goes like this. Help! I need somebody, help!
Not even an introduction, nothing. Got another one for you. What is it called? It's called Yesterday. How does it go? It goes like this. Yesterday, God... Got another one. It's called Michelle. How's it go? Got another one for you. It's called Hey Jude. Not only does it begin with Hey Jude, the word Hey... It's before the music. Before the music. Hey Jude. And then the chords come in.
Not even an introduction, nothing. Got another one for you. What is it called? It's called Yesterday. How does it go? It goes like this. Yesterday, God... Got another one. It's called Michelle. How's it go? Got another one for you. It's called Hey Jude. Not only does it begin with Hey Jude, the word Hey... It's before the music. Before the music. Hey Jude. And then the chords come in.
Those are what's called perfect songs. Not only that, but... The title of the song is the first word of the song. It's the most memorable song. And it's the last word in the song. Yesterday. The last song. Because I believe in yesterday. Who writes songs like that? It's undeniable they're writing them. McCartney, especially, by far is the most successful songwriter in all of recorded history.
Those are what's called perfect songs. Not only that, but... The title of the song is the first word of the song. It's the most memorable song. And it's the last word in the song. Yesterday. The last song. Because I believe in yesterday. Who writes songs like that? It's undeniable they're writing them. McCartney, especially, by far is the most successful songwriter in all of recorded history.
And canned food, I never saw canned food until I got our first, until we got our first care package from the UN. And we opened up the box and there was a, I get choked up when I, and there was a can of peaches. And I never saw a can, I know people are going to think, well, he's exaggerating. No, I never saw a can of food. There were no supermarkets or grocery stores, nothing. You lived in hills.
And canned food, I never saw canned food until I got our first, until we got our first care package from the UN. And we opened up the box and there was a, I get choked up when I, and there was a can of peaches. And I never saw a can, I know people are going to think, well, he's exaggerating. No, I never saw a can of food. There were no supermarkets or grocery stores, nothing. You lived in hills.
There have been over a thousand different artists who've recorded just yesterday. Did you get to spend some time with them? With Ringo. What was that like? Well, there are two stories. In the Cher days, she used to have these disco roller skating parties where all the celebrities would go. And I didn't care. I mean, I appreciate you're lucky to be a celebrity. But oh, my God, it's Ursula Andress.
There have been over a thousand different artists who've recorded just yesterday. Did you get to spend some time with them? With Ringo. What was that like? Well, there are two stories. In the Cher days, she used to have these disco roller skating parties where all the celebrities would go. And I didn't care. I mean, I appreciate you're lucky to be a celebrity. But oh, my God, it's Ursula Andress.
I didn't care. I don't mean to be dismissive. It's just, oh, there's that person from that commercial TV show. And I'm sitting, because I didn't, you know, Jews on roller skates is hilarious. So I didn't. I just sat on the sidelines watching them, sat on top of the bowling, anyway, on the side with my legs going like this.
I didn't care. I don't mean to be dismissive. It's just, oh, there's that person from that commercial TV show. And I'm sitting, because I didn't, you know, Jews on roller skates is hilarious. So I didn't. I just sat on the sidelines watching them, sat on top of the bowling, anyway, on the side with my legs going like this.
And as everybody's roller skating, and then I saw two teenagers coming towards me. So I got up, because one of them's wearing a Kiss T-shirt with rhinestones. They're about 15. And they came up, and one's got a, I'm a big fave, you know, speak with an English accent. Oh, it's okay, sure. Doing an autograph. And then I look up, and in back of them, Ringo Starr starts coming towards them.
And as everybody's roller skating, and then I saw two teenagers coming towards me. So I got up, because one of them's wearing a Kiss T-shirt with rhinestones. They're about 15. And they came up, and one's got a, I'm a big fave, you know, speak with an English accent. Oh, it's okay, sure. Doing an autograph. And then I look up, and in back of them, Ringo Starr starts coming towards them.
And I'm, you know.
And I'm, you know.
But the Beatles, I couldn't shine their shoes. So Ringo comes up, puts his hand, puts his arms around them, and he says, I hope me boys aren't thinking. Ringo's sons are asking me for an autograph. Wow. I had to slap their little putz faces and say, how dare you talk to me? Your father's a Beatle. It happened again. We were playing.
But the Beatles, I couldn't shine their shoes. So Ringo comes up, puts his hand, puts his arms around them, and he says, I hope me boys aren't thinking. Ringo's sons are asking me for an autograph. Wow. I had to slap their little putz faces and say, how dare you talk to me? Your father's a Beatle. It happened again. We were playing.
Oh, one other time, we were having a party up in the Hollywood Hills, and Ringo had a L.A. manager at that time, a guy named Eric Gardner. And Shannon, my wifey and I, and I was eating salads. I hate salads. And I'm eating salads, and Ringo's coming up to say hello. And he sent me a birthday. He said, oh, happy birthday, Gene. If you can't tell me, you can't say how much that means to me.
Oh, one other time, we were having a party up in the Hollywood Hills, and Ringo had a L.A. manager at that time, a guy named Eric Gardner. And Shannon, my wifey and I, and I was eating salads. I hate salads. And I'm eating salads, and Ringo's coming up to say hello. And he sent me a birthday. He said, oh, happy birthday, Gene. If you can't tell me, you can't say how much that means to me.
And I'm eating. So I give her the thing. And he comes up to me. And I'm much bigger than he is. So I didn't know what to do. So I picked him up. And his feet are dank. Ringo's about 5'6", 5'7", I don't know, or maybe 5'. I'm 6'2". So I picked him up, you know, because I wanted to hold him. I don't know what else to do. I didn't want to shake his hand. And I'm smiling.
And I'm eating. So I give her the thing. And he comes up to me. And I'm much bigger than he is. So I didn't know what to do. So I picked him up. And his feet are dank. Ringo's about 5'6", 5'7", I don't know, or maybe 5'. I'm 6'2". So I picked him up, you know, because I wanted to hold him. I don't know what else to do. I didn't want to shake his hand. And I'm smiling.
I didn't even remember what I'm talking. And he said, would you put me down? So I put him down, and he walked off. All right. And I'm smiling, looking at Shannon. She goes, you got Godzilla-sized.
I didn't even remember what I'm talking. And he said, would you put me down? So I put him down, and he walked off. All right. And I'm smiling, looking at Shannon. She goes, you got Godzilla-sized.
Like a big thing sticking out. And I'm like, his face is right here. And... Yeah, just get over yourself, no matter who you are. If you're the Pope, I know you got to poop just like I do. I don't have that hierarchy thing. So I've met everybody from His Holiness to Dalai Lama to Presidents Clinton and Bush and everything. And they've achieved greatness in their field, but we all fart.
Like a big thing sticking out. And I'm like, his face is right here. And... Yeah, just get over yourself, no matter who you are. If you're the Pope, I know you got to poop just like I do. I don't have that hierarchy thing. So I've met everybody from His Holiness to Dalai Lama to Presidents Clinton and Bush and everything. And they've achieved greatness in their field, but we all fart.
If you become famous, not always, but by and large, makes a good living. The rest is how you can handle it or not. Because there are, I would say, lots of famous people, rappers, a lot of rappers, who surround themselves with yes men and yes women. a posse so that, and I admire rap, don't misunderstand, so that when you go someplace, you have that cushion of support.
If you become famous, not always, but by and large, makes a good living. The rest is how you can handle it or not. Because there are, I would say, lots of famous people, rappers, a lot of rappers, who surround themselves with yes men and yes women. a posse so that, and I admire rap, don't misunderstand, so that when you go someplace, you have that cushion of support.
It says publicly, I am somebody.
It says publicly, I am somebody.
Whereas if you didn't have the fame, they wouldn't hang out. They're parasites and vampires. They're only around you because you have money and fame and they get free booze and free chicks and free all that stuff. They're using you. You're using them also to say, look, I'm somebody.
Whereas if you didn't have the fame, they wouldn't hang out. They're parasites and vampires. They're only around you because you have money and fame and they get free booze and free chicks and free all that stuff. They're using you. You're using them also to say, look, I'm somebody.
And I remember taking the can, and they were a full-color picture of peaches dripping with the stuff. And I remember at about seven years of age looking at it, and my mother grabbed that out of my hand, and she took a big rock. There's no such thing as can openers. And she put it on the ground and banged into it and then peeled back the metal.
And I remember taking the can, and they were a full-color picture of peaches dripping with the stuff. And I remember at about seven years of age looking at it, and my mother grabbed that out of my hand, and she took a big rock. There's no such thing as can openers. And she put it on the ground and banged into it and then peeled back the metal.
So why do rappers, a lot of rappers, some sports guys, why do they go to clubs with a group to advertise that they're somebody? I won't play that game. I drive here myself. I wipe my own ass.
So why do rappers, a lot of rappers, some sports guys, why do they go to clubs with a group to advertise that they're somebody? I won't play that game. I drive here myself. I wipe my own ass.
I'm just happy I can earn a living, a good living.
I'm just happy I can earn a living, a good living.
And the rest doesn't mean anything.
And the rest doesn't mean anything.
As an athlete yourself, if you've broken the... If you're the fastest human being on two legs... And after all the cameras are out and the chicks are gone and the awards are gone and the money people, you're just there by yourself. Do you wake up at the crack of dawn the next day and try to break your own record?
As an athlete yourself, if you've broken the... If you're the fastest human being on two legs... And after all the cameras are out and the chicks are gone and the awards are gone and the money people, you're just there by yourself. Do you wake up at the crack of dawn the next day and try to break your own record?
Of course. That's what made you a champion in the first place. So I'm going to be 76. I'm 75 now. I don't know about you, but the race is closer to being over than the beginning. I don't know about you, but when it looks like the race line, the finish line is coming, I run faster. Don't you? Yeah. To finish. Finish strong. Yeah. What are you going to do?
Of course. That's what made you a champion in the first place. So I'm going to be 76. I'm 75 now. I don't know about you, but the race is closer to being over than the beginning. I don't know about you, but when it looks like the race line, the finish line is coming, I run faster. Don't you? Yeah. To finish. Finish strong. Yeah. What are you going to do?
Just or sit back and watch somebody else's ball game as they go by? No. No. That's if you appreciate life. If you love life, man, oh man, I'm glad every day I can have a hot fut Sunday and a good back rub, a lap dance every once in a while. And then you die. That's all.
Just or sit back and watch somebody else's ball game as they go by? No. No. That's if you appreciate life. If you love life, man, oh man, I'm glad every day I can have a hot fut Sunday and a good back rub, a lap dance every once in a while. And then you die. That's all.
Where should we go follow you? GeneSimmons.com. Okay. You can do Instagram, but my kids take care of that. I never go on there. Okay. 30 seconds of somebody watching, 30 seconds of somebody showing how they can pick their nose and...
Where should we go follow you? GeneSimmons.com. Okay. You can do Instagram, but my kids take care of that. I never go on there. Okay. 30 seconds of somebody watching, 30 seconds of somebody showing how they can pick their nose and...
You will never reach greatness. You shouldn't think of it that way. The hunt is always what it should be about, not the kill. Once you kill something or once you finish the, you know, it's fine, but it's fleeting. But when your blood's pumping, your heart's pumping, it's always about the hunt. That's what life is about.
You will never reach greatness. You shouldn't think of it that way. The hunt is always what it should be about, not the kill. Once you kill something or once you finish the, you know, it's fine, but it's fleeting. But when your blood's pumping, your heart's pumping, it's always about the hunt. That's what life is about.
And I'd like to think the very last breath I take is going to be like, been there, done that. In fact, I know what it's going to say on my tombstone. thank you and good night. Because I would imagine to lots of tombstones, I wish I could have, would have, should have, could have, and all that stuff. No regrets.
And I'd like to think the very last breath I take is going to be like, been there, done that. In fact, I know what it's going to say on my tombstone. thank you and good night. Because I would imagine to lots of tombstones, I wish I could have, would have, should have, could have, and all that stuff. No regrets.
Kissed a few girls, had a great family, made a good living, provided jobs for people, gave to charity and stuff. I was good for this planet. I made the planet just a wee bit better than it was before I was here. In fact,
Kissed a few girls, had a great family, made a good living, provided jobs for people, gave to charity and stuff. I was good for this planet. I made the planet just a wee bit better than it was before I was here. In fact,
Wouldn't it be great if all of humanity, and there's about 8 billion of us before we drop dead, if we could make the world just this much better times 8 billion, imagine the profound difference it would make. You don't have to give everything away, just little bits.
Wouldn't it be great if all of humanity, and there's about 8 billion of us before we drop dead, if we could make the world just this much better times 8 billion, imagine the profound difference it would make. You don't have to give everything away, just little bits.
So the sharp stuff was going there, and she gave it into my hands, and my little hands grabbed it, and I looked and saw the yellow peaches inside, and my mother said, you know, in Hungarian, because I spoke Hungarian, Hebrew, Turkish, Spanish, and those stuff. And I remember tasting it, and I Sorry, I'm getting a little verklempt here. Never tasted anything. I still taste it.
So the sharp stuff was going there, and she gave it into my hands, and my little hands grabbed it, and I looked and saw the yellow peaches inside, and my mother said, you know, in Hungarian, because I spoke Hungarian, Hebrew, Turkish, Spanish, and those stuff. And I remember tasting it, and I Sorry, I'm getting a little verklempt here. Never tasted anything. I still taste it.
Never tasted anything so sweet or anything. And I wanted to show my mother. And she was like, we were just amazed at this thing. And the fact that this, and it also had a Bugs Bunny book. colored with these going down the road and all that. I never heard of Bugs Bunny and a sweater that was all torn. My mother put it on me and it was all too big, but it was colorful and all that.
Never tasted anything so sweet or anything. And I wanted to show my mother. And she was like, we were just amazed at this thing. And the fact that this, and it also had a Bugs Bunny book. colored with these going down the road and all that. I never heard of Bugs Bunny and a sweater that was all torn. My mother put it on me and it was all too big, but it was colorful and all that.
And my mother would read me the same Bugs Bunny book every night, but she had to make up the words in Hungarian because she couldn't speak Hebrew and the words were in English. So she'd make it up and I'd just look at the pictures and I'd go to sleep with that.
And my mother would read me the same Bugs Bunny book every night, but she had to make up the words in Hungarian because she couldn't speak Hebrew and the words were in English. So she'd make it up and I'd just look at the pictures and I'd go to sleep with that.
And as a matter of fact, Mel Blanc, a Jew who did all the voices for all the warrants, who did all the voices, Daffy Duck and Mel Blanc, all that, Elmer Fudd told him the story. And he said, that's one of the reasons why I wanted to do these voices for the children whose lives had changed. And
And as a matter of fact, Mel Blanc, a Jew who did all the voices for all the warrants, who did all the voices, Daffy Duck and Mel Blanc, all that, Elmer Fudd told him the story. And he said, that's one of the reasons why I wanted to do these voices for the children whose lives had changed. And
Which is why, as soon as I got some money, I made sure that I took a bunch of money and sent it to kids in need. Originally through the Christian Child Fund, and then became the Child Fund, and to this day support 1,400 kids in Africa who, if they don't go to school... won't get close, and won't get fed. That means you'll starve, because there's nothing there. Zambia.
Which is why, as soon as I got some money, I made sure that I took a bunch of money and sent it to kids in need. Originally through the Christian Child Fund, and then became the Child Fund, and to this day support 1,400 kids in Africa who, if they don't go to school... won't get close, and won't get fed. That means you'll starve, because there's nothing there. Zambia.
It's our problem that we thought, well, you're not supposed to say that. Why not? Why not set greatness in front of you and then work towards achieving it?
It's our problem that we thought, well, you're not supposed to say that. Why not? Why not set greatness in front of you and then work towards achieving it?
You come to school, you get fed and stuff, so it teaches you at school. So I got lost, and what was the question?
You come to school, you get fed and stuff, so it teaches you at school. So I got lost, and what was the question?
I was in the kitchen with my Aunt Magda, who herself survived the camps and had some problems. And she married my Uncle Larry, who was my mother's brother. And we go into the kitchen, because there was always another room. There were bedrooms. It was like a palace. You can't believe it. And there's this big white box or something and a metal thing. And my Aunt Magda opened it.
I was in the kitchen with my Aunt Magda, who herself survived the camps and had some problems. And she married my Uncle Larry, who was my mother's brother. And we go into the kitchen, because there was always another room. There were bedrooms. It was like a palace. You can't believe it. And there's this big white box or something and a metal thing. And my Aunt Magda opened it.
And I was a little kid. I never saw anything like it. And it's just food. There's wrappers and food and cheese and things. And on the side, I'll never forget it. My Aunt Magda, I was attracted to the red because it was a jar of red. I later remembered it was Schmuckers. With a name like that, it's got to be good. It was Schmuckers Jelly. Out of Ohio.
And I was a little kid. I never saw anything like it. And it's just food. There's wrappers and food and cheese and things. And on the side, I'll never forget it. My Aunt Magda, I was attracted to the red because it was a jar of red. I later remembered it was Schmuckers. With a name like that, it's got to be good. It was Schmuckers Jelly. Out of Ohio.
And my mother said to me in Hungarian, you know, have some. And my Aunt Magda opened the can. I'd never seen that before. You don't understand. In Israel, they'd give you a slab of whatever, butter, never jelly. And that would be it for the week. You'd have to make it. There was no refrigeration or anything. So...
And my mother said to me in Hungarian, you know, have some. And my Aunt Magda opened the can. I'd never seen that before. You don't understand. In Israel, they'd give you a slab of whatever, butter, never jelly. And that would be it for the week. You'd have to make it. There was no refrigeration or anything. So...
My Aunt Magda gave me a spoon, and in broken Hebrew, she must have said, taste it, because she was fascinated that I wasn't quite sure what it was. I'm only halting because if you weren't here, I'd start bawling. And I thought she said, eat it, because she gave me a spoon. So I started like a Christmas goose.
My Aunt Magda gave me a spoon, and in broken Hebrew, she must have said, taste it, because she was fascinated that I wasn't quite sure what it was. I'm only halting because if you weren't here, I'd start bawling. And I thought she said, eat it, because she gave me a spoon. So I started like a Christmas goose.
I just started my mouth full of jam with the jam falling off, just eating it because I never tasted anything like that the entire jar. And both my mother and my Aunt Magda were laughing so much, they were in tears. And I didn't know what was going on. I just said, this is the best thing I ever had. And then I was afraid of crossing. I still have the marbles.
I just started my mouth full of jam with the jam falling off, just eating it because I never tasted anything like that the entire jar. And both my mother and my Aunt Magda were laughing so much, they were in tears. And I didn't know what was going on. I just said, this is the best thing I ever had. And then I was afraid of crossing. I still have the marbles.
If you become famous.
If you become famous.
I was afraid of crossing the street because cars were going by. I didn't understand it. So I walked around the block, and I saw other houses next to each other. I said, this is like, where are all these houses? Everybody's rich. Yeah, everybody's rich. And I went to the other side of the street, and then I had to come back and went a little further, then eventually went around.
I was afraid of crossing the street because cars were going by. I didn't understand it. So I walked around the block, and I saw other houses next to each other. I said, this is like, where are all these houses? Everybody's rich. Yeah, everybody's rich. And I went to the other side of the street, and then I had to come back and went a little further, then eventually went around.
I thought if I went around, I'd get lost. I didn't know that came around to this. I know it sounds stupid.
I thought if I went around, I'd get lost. I didn't know that came around to this. I know it sounds stupid.
And on the other side, eventually, I saw some guys walking playing marbles on the grass, which would be, I don't know if you have a marble or something. And they're throwing it like this. It's not what we did in Israel. You stood up on two legs, and you went like that, and you get really good, because you can aim it on the ground if you do the marbles like that.
And on the other side, eventually, I saw some guys walking playing marbles on the grass, which would be, I don't know if you have a marble or something. And they're throwing it like this. It's not what we did in Israel. You stood up on two legs, and you went like that, and you get really good, because you can aim it on the ground if you do the marbles like that.
You know, the ground would make the marble another thing. And what are you, stupid? Can't you speak English? I don't know. God, it's an idiot. i play i play they go yeah here they gave me a marble or two i won all their marbles they didn't laugh for long Yeah. I still have all the marbles I want, about 80 of them. Really? In an old Dutch master's cigar box.
You know, the ground would make the marble another thing. And what are you, stupid? Can't you speak English? I don't know. God, it's an idiot. i play i play they go yeah here they gave me a marble or two i won all their marbles they didn't laugh for long Yeah. I still have all the marbles I want, about 80 of them. Really? In an old Dutch master's cigar box.
To remind me, don't ever take shit from anybody. Just roll up your sleeves and go to work.
To remind me, don't ever take shit from anybody. Just roll up your sleeves and go to work.
I've never been scared, not after my mother survived Nazi Germany, but I've always felt like an outsider. I still don't feel like an outsider. Maybe that's okay. Maybe I want to be like everybody else. I want to be an ordinary guy. No, I don't want to be an ordinary guy. I want to be an extraordinary guy. I want to excel at anything that I try to do, and I'm willing to work harder than you do.
I've never been scared, not after my mother survived Nazi Germany, but I've always felt like an outsider. I still don't feel like an outsider. Maybe that's okay. Maybe I want to be like everybody else. I want to be an ordinary guy. No, I don't want to be an ordinary guy. I want to be an extraordinary guy. I want to excel at anything that I try to do, and I'm willing to work harder than you do.
And the only thing that prevented me from getting into sports and everything else is because the pragmatism in me tells me that you've got a short life. When you enter sports or things like that, if you get an ankle, you're done. But I can be a banker or a lawyer or a teacher, I think, forever. It made more sense, and therefore more dollars.
And the only thing that prevented me from getting into sports and everything else is because the pragmatism in me tells me that you've got a short life. When you enter sports or things like that, if you get an ankle, you're done. But I can be a banker or a lawyer or a teacher, I think, forever. It made more sense, and therefore more dollars.
Yes, if you're lucky, because every kid in every poor neighborhood wants to be the baseball player or the football player and stuff like that, because 50 million, Carmelo Anthony made it. And for a while, I worked with Carmelo. They make all this money.
Yes, if you're lucky, because every kid in every poor neighborhood wants to be the baseball player or the football player and stuff like that, because 50 million, Carmelo Anthony made it. And for a while, I worked with Carmelo. They make all this money.
You don't see the tens of thousands and millions of carcasses on the side of the road that wanted to put all their eggs in one basket and achieve nothing. You only see the tip of the iceberg. Yeah, the winners. Oh, that means anybody can do it. That's a fallacy.
You don't see the tens of thousands and millions of carcasses on the side of the road that wanted to put all their eggs in one basket and achieve nothing. You only see the tip of the iceberg. Yeah, the winners. Oh, that means anybody can do it. That's a fallacy.
I didn't put the two and two equals four thing together. I was more an observer on life because in America, there were so many attention deficit disorders, so many different things going by. There was sports and television and radio and all that stuff going by. And so I worked. And when I was about 13, I came home. Yes, I worked on Sundays and Sunday nights.
I didn't put the two and two equals four thing together. I was more an observer on life because in America, there were so many attention deficit disorders, so many different things going by. There was sports and television and radio and all that stuff going by. And so I worked. And when I was about 13, I came home. Yes, I worked on Sundays and Sunday nights.
I'm pretty sure it was the Ed Sullivan Show, unlike any show that's ever been on TV. At that time, in 1963, 64, population of America was 170 million people, about that. Now it's double that. It's 330 million. And the Ed Sullivan Show was so big, they had pooping elephants and comedians and puppet guys and, you know, one rock band for the kids.
I'm pretty sure it was the Ed Sullivan Show, unlike any show that's ever been on TV. At that time, in 1963, 64, population of America was 170 million people, about that. Now it's double that. It's 330 million. And the Ed Sullivan Show was so big, they had pooping elephants and comedians and puppet guys and, you know, one rock band for the kids.
My father had gone, so the provider was no longer there because my mother stayed at home while he worked. So once my father left, my mother was forced to go out there while I went to school. So when I'd come home from school at three, four, whatever it is in the afternoon, I was alone at six, seven years of age and would cry myself to sleep because my mother would
My father had gone, so the provider was no longer there because my mother stayed at home while he worked. So once my father left, my mother was forced to go out there while I went to school. So when I'd come home from school at three, four, whatever it is in the afternoon, I was alone at six, seven years of age and would cry myself to sleep because my mother would
And I remember coming home from work and my mother got one of those TV dinners. People have no idea what that is. But you buy them frozen because poor mom had to go work. She couldn't. And it was like this kind of like old shoes crunched into like burgers, peas and some mashed potatoes. And you pour the gravy and that was it. And I didn't know anything. I liked it. So I was eating it.
And I remember coming home from work and my mother got one of those TV dinners. People have no idea what that is. But you buy them frozen because poor mom had to go work. She couldn't. And it was like this kind of like old shoes crunched into like burgers, peas and some mashed potatoes. And you pour the gravy and that was it. And I didn't know anything. I liked it. So I was eating it.
And ladies and gentlemen, the Beatles. And I'm going, what is that? And by the way, I've met the biggest stars in the world, especially musicians. They all point to that pivotal moment. Scientists call it a singularity.
And ladies and gentlemen, the Beatles. And I'm going, what is that? And by the way, I've met the biggest stars in the world, especially musicians. They all point to that pivotal moment. Scientists call it a singularity.
All of a sudden, these feminine-looking guys with hair over their ears, because in those days, even shorter than your hair, you'd see the meat between the ear and the hairline above it, or like crew cuts. Yeah. and these guys talk like that here i work my fingers to the bone old like old what is that and they're small compared to ed sullivan and everything
All of a sudden, these feminine-looking guys with hair over their ears, because in those days, even shorter than your hair, you'd see the meat between the ear and the hairline above it, or like crew cuts. Yeah. and these guys talk like that here i work my fingers to the bone old like old what is that and they're small compared to ed sullivan and everything
you know, kind of feminine in a way because Americans were bigger and fatter and stuff. And these guys were all, you know, like bone thin and spoke strangely. I didn't understand. I was watching and I thought, gee, they look weird. And I remember my mother coming in and saying, gee, I think they look weird. And bango, at that moment I said, no, they're cool because my mother thinks they're weird.
you know, kind of feminine in a way because Americans were bigger and fatter and stuff. And these guys were all, you know, like bone thin and spoke strangely. I didn't understand. I was watching and I thought, gee, they look weird. And I remember my mother coming in and saying, gee, I think they look weird. And bango, at that moment I said, no, they're cool because my mother thinks they're weird.
You want your own thing. You don't want to do Lawrence Welk. You never heard of Lawrence Welk? Oh, my God. Kill me now. Oh, man. Lawrence Welk was on every Sunday, and it was mom and dad music. Okay.
You want your own thing. You don't want to do Lawrence Welk. You never heard of Lawrence Welk? Oh, my God. Kill me now. Oh, man. Lawrence Welk was on every Sunday, and it was mom and dad music. Okay.
Boy. And now we're going to do the polka.
Boy. And now we're going to do the polka.
Right.
Right.