Gene Simmons of KISS recently shared his thoughts on guitarist Johnny Marr’s reluctance to participate in a potential reunion of legendary band The Smiths. Simmons suggested that the band should move forward without Marr if he is unwilling to join in and share in the financial rewards that a reunion would bring. His comments were made during an interview with Forbes, where he discussed various topics in the music industry, including notable band reunions following KISS’ retirement announcement.
Despite Marr’s reported resistance to a Smiths reunion, singer Morrissey revealed that the band has received lucrative offers to reunite. Marr’s hesitation may stem from his disapproval of Morrissey’s recent far-right political views. Simmons proposed a simple solution to the impasse: replace Marr with another guitarist. He argued that most fans are primarily interested in hearing the band’s songs and would not necessarily be concerned about the lineup changes.
Simmons emphasized the financial aspect of a potential Smiths reunion, stating that turning down a substantial offer like $100 million would be foolish. He compared the situation to other professions where such a lucrative opportunity would be rare. Simmons drew on his own experiences with KISS, noting how he approached band conflicts by replacing members when necessary, such as with guitarist Ace Frehley.
In addition to discussing Marr and the potential Smiths reunion, Simmons also touched on his interactions with Morrissey. He praised Morrissey as a talented artist and defended his right to express his opinions, even if they are controversial. Simmons commended Morrissey for speaking his mind and noted that individuals in the music industry should be free to voice their views, regardless of public backlash.
As fans await updates on The Smiths’ future, they can catch Johnny Marr on tour with James in North America. The co-headlining tour is set to kick off in Denver on September 17th, with tickets available for purchase.
Gene Simmons’ Take on Band Reunions
Throughout the interview, Gene Simmons shared his perspective on the trend of band reunions in the music industry. He highlighted the recent reunions of bands like Oasis and Linkin Park, noting the fan anticipation and financial benefits that come with such reunions. Simmons emphasized the importance of putting aside personal differences for the sake of the music and the fans, suggesting that the opportunity to reunite should not be overlooked.
The Impact of Lineup Changes on Bands
Simmons’ suggestion to replace Johnny Marr in The Smiths raises questions about the impact of lineup changes on bands. While some fans may prefer the original lineup, others may be more interested in hearing the band’s music performed live, regardless of who is playing. The decision to replace a band member can be a difficult one, as it may affect the band’s sound and dynamic. However, as Simmons noted, sometimes it is necessary to make changes for the band to move forward.
The Power of Artistic Expression
In defending Morrissey’s right to express his opinions, Gene Simmons highlighted the importance of artistic freedom and self-expression. He acknowledged the controversial nature of Morrissey’s views but maintained that artists should be able to voice their opinions without fear of censorship. Simmons’ support for Morrissey’s outspoken nature reflects a broader commitment to protecting artists’ rights to express themselves, even if their views are not universally accepted.
In conclusion, Gene Simmons’ comments on Johnny Marr and The Smiths’ potential reunion shed light on the complexities of band dynamics and artistic expression in the music industry. While fans may hope for a reunion of the iconic band, the decision ultimately rests with the members involved. As Simmons suggested, the show must go on, even if it means making difficult choices along the way.