Paul Stanley’s Gibson Flying V Number #1 (KISS)
Paul Stanley’s Gibson Flying V Number #1 (KISS)
The musical legacy of KISS is measured not only by their extravagant costumes and eccentric makeup but also by their impressive discography and spectacular concerts. As the band took their final bow in New York in December 2023, this guitar holds an important place in the band’s history. It was the main Flying V of Paul Stanley, modified by his luthier in several places and played during the band’s last-ever concert in New York. From the modified jack cable to the guitar strap, and including the potentiometer altered for better grip, this Flying V, identified by Paul as #1, was crafted specifically for the stage.
This beautiful guitar thus bears all the playing marks of the “Starchild” — as many physical signs of his immense legacy.
Paul Stanley – KISS, More Than a Band. Paul Stanley, More Than the Starchild
In the United States, KISS goes far beyond being just a rock band: it’s a true cult, a cultural phenomenon of staggering proportions. Their fan club, the famous KISS Army, even counts unexpected figures among its members, such as former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Every American has a story linked to the band: the first time they heard their songs, the day they recreated Starchild or Demon makeup for Halloween, or the moment they decided to pick up a guitar after discovering them.
The band members literally invented the spectacle concert, with pyrotechnics and choreographed effects, while their sense of merchandising remains a lesson for any band or manager, even the most opportunistic.
The founders Gene Simmons (bass/vocals) and Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar/vocals) form the indestructible heart of the band. Present since the project’s inception in 1973, they were still there in December 2023 for their farewell show in New York. Together, they embody a kind of Lennon/McCartney of glam rock duo, as their songwriting talents have produced an impressive number of classics. Stanley, with his voice both high-pitched and bluesy, has an immediately recognizable timbre. His guitar playing remains simple, but he has what so many musicians envy: a right hand made for the riff, capable of moving an entire stadium. Where Ace Frehley shone with flamboyant solos, Stanley commands the stage with his presence and wall of sound.
Over the years, Paul Stanley has amassed an impressive collection of instruments, including several bursts reserved for studio work. On stage, he quickly shaped guitars in his image to suit his performance style. Long associated with his Ibanez Iceman, almost an extension of his silhouette, he later moved to Washburn and Gibson, who crafted excellent signature models for him. With iconic finishes such as broken mirror or rhinestones, Paul Stanley understood all the secrets of a stage guitar: it must sound great, but also command attention and engage the audience.
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