Ibanez PS 2000 Ex Paul Stanley / Kiss 2013-2022

Paul Stanley
(1952)

Band: Kiss
Main guitar: Washburn Signature
Must-hear track: *Love Gun*

In the United States, Kiss is much more than just a band: it's a religion, a cultural phenomenon of outrageous proportions (their fan club, the infamous Kiss Army, even includes former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice among its members). Every American has a story with Kiss—how they discovered the band's music, how they dressed up as the Starchild or the Demon for Halloween, and often how they were inspired to pick up an instrument after hearing Kiss for the first time.

The band members basically invented the pyrotechnic stage show, and their mastery of merchandising could inspire even the most shameless manager.

Founding members Gene Simmons (bass/vocals) and Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar/vocals) are the cornerstone of the band. They were there in 1973, and they’re still here for yet another farewell tour. Together, they form a Lennon–McCartney kind of duo for hard rock, with undeniable songwriting talent—so many of their songs have become enduring hits. Paul Stanley is the one with the higher, bluesier voice, and a tone that's instantly recognizable. His guitar playing is basic, but he holds the secret weapon every rock musician dreams of: a right hand built for riffing, capable of making an entire stadium stomp in rhythm. While Ace Frehley was the ultimate flamboyant lead guitarist, Stanley commands the stage with his charisma and the huge Marshall-driven tone of his guitars.

Over the years, Paul has built a great guitar collection, including a few Bursts that he uses only in the studio. On stage, he was long associated with the Ibanez Iceman, and later switched to Washburn, who now crafts his excellent signature models. Platform boots not included—but strongly recommended.