Gene Simmons , bassist for Kiss , explained in a recent interview what qualities former members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss to remain in the band, in comparison to current members Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer .
In a conversation on The Adam Carolla Show, transcribed by Ultimate Guitar, the musician spoke about rock stars who lack gratitude for the financial and personal privileges of being in that position.
Simmons observed that, in such a populous world, "anyone lucky enough to have more money than they could spend in a lifetime" or with "more girls chasing after you than you deserve because you're not that attractive" should express gratitude.
“It’s not fair to point fingers, everyone has their own way of dealing with life and different experiences,” he reflected. “[But] not realizing how blessed you are [in these circumstances] is delusional, it’s criminal. Because there are millions of people who would kiss the ground you walk on just to have this chance.”
Continuing along these lines, Gene Simmons commented on how Thayer and Singer are good examples of rock stars with what he considers an exemplary attitude. "They show up on time, they're grateful and professional – no drugs, no alcohol, nothing," he remarked.
Comparisons with his former bandmates from the original lineup soon arose. “And I can’t say the same about – I always want to shut my mouth – Ace, who I still love to this day, and Peter. They were as important as Paul Stanley and I in forming the band, but not everyone has the DNA to run a marathon. Some people are shooting stars, they’re good for a short period of time and then, goodbye.”