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Nothin' to Lose: The Making of KISS (1972-1975) – An Oral History Through Original Interviews About the Music Scene They Changed Forever
An indelible and irresistible portrait of the crucial formative years of the legendary rock band KISS and the music scene they changed forever—culminating with the groundbreaking success of their classic 1975 album Alive! and the smash single "Rock and Roll All Nite" Including original interviews Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Peter Criss, Bob Seger, Alice Cooper, and Ted Nugent, as well as members of Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, Rush, Slade, Blue Öyster Cult, Mott the Hoople, Journey, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Raspberries, the James Gang, the New York Dolls, Iggy & the Stooges, the Ramones, Suzi Quatro, Argent, and Uriah Heep.
592 pages, Paperback
First published August 14, 2012
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December 15, 2021
"This band comes on strong, and we were struck with the fact that KISS play like the demons they resemble rather than four villains from a vintage Batman comic book. Their muscle is the hardest of hard rock - macho glitter, if you can get through the apparent ambiguity. Some call it 'thunder rock' . . . Theirs is a kind of mood music, if you happen to be in the mood to blow up buildings or wreck cars. You'll either love or hate KISS, but the odds are that they're going to be a big act whether you like them or not." -- Warner Brothers Records publicity manager Bob Merlis
Nothing to Lose could've been a schlocky, shocking, and egomaniacal glurge-fest about that divisive hard-rocking band of the 1970's - especially with the founding members Gene Simmons (quite an interesting guy, but not always known for his modesty) and Paul Stanley having a lot of control over the input of this project - but author Ken Sharp mostly steers clear of the potential and/or expected pitfalls. Done in the alternating 'taking head'/paragraph style that is increasingly popular these days for many movie/music/TV-related books, the narrative covers the salad days of the group when they formed in New York City and were known for being one of the few local rock bands that performed original compositions in their sets. (It was noted a few times that venues / clubs instead preferred acts that played cover versions of recent hit songs.) The band soon snares a contract - from the upstart Casablanca Records, more known for their disco artists like Donna Summer and the Village People on their roster - and they incessantly toured across North America while churning out three adequately-selling albums in less than two years. But their big break came in two parts, 1.) building a solid fan base by performing all sorts of mostly sincere and well-received publicity events, like their celebrated all-day appearance at a Cadillac, Michigan high school and 2.) releasing the live double-album Alive!, which captured the excitement of their concert performances AND finally earned them double-platinum sales success. Featuring detailed observations from all four original members plus their production staff and a number of rare photographs, Nothing to Lose was a fun and informative 'behind-the-scenes' look at just what it took to make it as a rock band in that heady and unique era.
Nothing to Lose could've been a schlocky, shocking, and egomaniacal glurge-fest about that divisive hard-rocking band of the 1970's - especially with the founding members Gene Simmons (quite an interesting guy, but not always known for his modesty) and Paul Stanley having a lot of control over the input of this project - but author Ken Sharp mostly steers clear of the potential and/or expected pitfalls. Done in the alternating 'taking head'/paragraph style that is increasingly popular these days for many movie/music/TV-related books, the narrative covers the salad days of the group when they formed in New York City and were known for being one of the few local rock bands that performed original compositions in their sets. (It was noted a few times that venues / clubs instead preferred acts that played cover versions of recent hit songs.) The band soon snares a contract - from the upstart Casablanca Records, more known for their disco artists like Donna Summer and the Village People on their roster - and they incessantly toured across North America while churning out three adequately-selling albums in less than two years. But their big break came in two parts, 1.) building a solid fan base by performing all sorts of mostly sincere and well-received publicity events, like their celebrated all-day appearance at a Cadillac, Michigan high school and 2.) releasing the live double-album Alive!, which captured the excitement of their concert performances AND finally earned them double-platinum sales success. Featuring detailed observations from all four original members plus their production staff and a number of rare photographs, Nothing to Lose was a fun and informative 'behind-the-scenes' look at just what it took to make it as a rock band in that heady and unique era.
November 15, 2013
I am probably the wrong guy to "review" this book. A piece of literature that focuses on the 1st 3 years of KISS would be pretty hard for me to not enjoy. But luckily this book has a positive, cool, informative fun vibe with no putting people down or whining. Makes you feel good to read it. Plus killer pictures too!
October 6, 2013
Yes, I admit it, I'm a huge KISS fan. Have been since my Uncle Sonny (1who managed the Bayou nightclub in Wash DC) brought home their first album after the band played the 300 seat club. I was hooked from the first cords of "Deuce". After seeing them live in 76, 77, and 78, I was double done.
This book isn't written that well...it's really just a compilation of interviews with the band, their management, their roadies, and a variety of other artists.
It's a great look at those first three years right before "Alive" came out and they rocketed to stardom.
One of the most interesting and surprising pieces of detail in the book was the interviews with the bands KISS played with, many of which opened for them after KISS became headliners. The most delightful surprise was hearing these bands, almost unanimously, talking about how gracious and woe coming KISS was. In this age of rock n roll, most headliners treated their opening acts like shit. KISS, recalling how they themselves were treated, did a 180 and did all they could to help and support the bands opening for them.
It was nice to learn this, especially understanding Gene Simmons less than stellar rep in the business. Some say this is keeping them out of the Rock hall of Fame. Some say its Jann Wenner form Rolling Stone.
In any event, an easy read and a great piece of history if you are a fan of the band.
This book isn't written that well...it's really just a compilation of interviews with the band, their management, their roadies, and a variety of other artists.
It's a great look at those first three years right before "Alive" came out and they rocketed to stardom.
One of the most interesting and surprising pieces of detail in the book was the interviews with the bands KISS played with, many of which opened for them after KISS became headliners. The most delightful surprise was hearing these bands, almost unanimously, talking about how gracious and woe coming KISS was. In this age of rock n roll, most headliners treated their opening acts like shit. KISS, recalling how they themselves were treated, did a 180 and did all they could to help and support the bands opening for them.
It was nice to learn this, especially understanding Gene Simmons less than stellar rep in the business. Some say this is keeping them out of the Rock hall of Fame. Some say its Jann Wenner form Rolling Stone.
In any event, an easy read and a great piece of history if you are a fan of the band.
September 17, 2013
Nothin' to Lose: The Making of KISS (1972-1975) by Ken Sharp with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley is an IT/ HarperCollins publication. This book was released in September 2013. There are 560 pages with photographs.
Before I had a baby
I didn't care anyway
I thought about the backdoor
I didn't know what to say
But, once I got a baby
I tried anyway
She didn't want to do it
She did it anyway
But, baby please don't refuse
You know you got Nothin to lose
Lyrics to Nothin to Lose by KISS
The book starts way back when Paul and Gene first meet. The first group they were in- Wicked Lester, then the formation of KISS. The influence of groups like "The Brats" and "The New York Dolls" on them.
Slowly we work our way up to the release of KISS ALIVE!, and the hit song "Rock and Roll All Night".
For many diehard KISS fans that have read everything they could get their hands on, this book might be just a rehash of the same old, same old. But, although I was a KISS fan from way back, I didn't read any books about the band before this one. So, for me this book was like a trip down memory lane. It had the feel of a group of guys and gals sitting around talking about the good ole days.
This book wasn't really written in the dry biography fashion so many performance arts books are written in. The majority of the book was a collage of interviews and stories from the people that lived through that time with the band. The roadies, the managers, the promoters, the opening acts, the bands the group opened for, the road experience, the first recording contract, the issues with the label, the slow process of making it in the music business is all covered. KISS was a very hard working band. Their makeup and costumes worked for them with the fans that were blown away by the live shows, but worked against them when it came to getting air play on the radio. People didn't know what to make of them.
There was also the criticism of other musicians that felt that the group's outrageous stage show and the entertainment first attitude was putting music way down the list. KISS was never thought of as a band that broke ground musically. In my opinion though I thought their music was no worse, (or better) than other hard rock type music you heard in the seventies.
KISS was a group that was needed for that time. The sixties and the seriousness of the lyrics in music, such as war and violence etc. was beginning to lose it's passion and people were ready to kick off the social conscience of the times and party a little bit. KISS was perfect for that. Sometimes people just want to have a good time and see a show and be entertained. There are lots of groups and singers etc. that are more focused on the music and when we want that we will buy that music or go to those concerts.
KISS put on one hell of a good show. Early on they realized the fans were what it would be about for them. The music industry has never acknowledged KISS in that way. Sort of like the Academy Awards will never give a blockbuster action movie that raked in millions at the box office, a nomination for an award.
But, there has never been a band like this one before or since.
My favorite story in the book was about the visit to Cadillac High School.
The writing wasn't really "writing" if you will, since it was a mainly a collection of stories from people involved with the group.
Most of the stories were told by Gene and Paul and I guess that's way their names are on the cover as co-authors. (They didn't really write anything, but they were obviously the main contributors)
I also enjoyed the stories about the group Rush and the help KISS gave the group in terms of how things should work on the road and so forth.
There were also some really good pictures in here as well. Old photos of the band from way back and other bits of nostalgia.
I found the book entertaining and for me many of these stories were new. I have read some reviews of this book that stated this was nothing new to them. But, if you are that big of a fan, you may want to at least give the book a try since so many of these stories are told by the actual people who were there. These are actual quotes and told in first person.
The book is rather long and there were times when I had to put it down and read something else for a while. I think some things could have been edited out without compromising anything, but I think all the stories were chosen for a reason by either the main author or the members of the band.
Overall I give this one an A.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the DRC of this book.
Before I had a baby
I didn't care anyway
I thought about the backdoor
I didn't know what to say
But, once I got a baby
I tried anyway
She didn't want to do it
She did it anyway
But, baby please don't refuse
You know you got Nothin to lose
Lyrics to Nothin to Lose by KISS
The book starts way back when Paul and Gene first meet. The first group they were in- Wicked Lester, then the formation of KISS. The influence of groups like "The Brats" and "The New York Dolls" on them.
Slowly we work our way up to the release of KISS ALIVE!, and the hit song "Rock and Roll All Night".
For many diehard KISS fans that have read everything they could get their hands on, this book might be just a rehash of the same old, same old. But, although I was a KISS fan from way back, I didn't read any books about the band before this one. So, for me this book was like a trip down memory lane. It had the feel of a group of guys and gals sitting around talking about the good ole days.
This book wasn't really written in the dry biography fashion so many performance arts books are written in. The majority of the book was a collage of interviews and stories from the people that lived through that time with the band. The roadies, the managers, the promoters, the opening acts, the bands the group opened for, the road experience, the first recording contract, the issues with the label, the slow process of making it in the music business is all covered. KISS was a very hard working band. Their makeup and costumes worked for them with the fans that were blown away by the live shows, but worked against them when it came to getting air play on the radio. People didn't know what to make of them.
There was also the criticism of other musicians that felt that the group's outrageous stage show and the entertainment first attitude was putting music way down the list. KISS was never thought of as a band that broke ground musically. In my opinion though I thought their music was no worse, (or better) than other hard rock type music you heard in the seventies.
KISS was a group that was needed for that time. The sixties and the seriousness of the lyrics in music, such as war and violence etc. was beginning to lose it's passion and people were ready to kick off the social conscience of the times and party a little bit. KISS was perfect for that. Sometimes people just want to have a good time and see a show and be entertained. There are lots of groups and singers etc. that are more focused on the music and when we want that we will buy that music or go to those concerts.
KISS put on one hell of a good show. Early on they realized the fans were what it would be about for them. The music industry has never acknowledged KISS in that way. Sort of like the Academy Awards will never give a blockbuster action movie that raked in millions at the box office, a nomination for an award.
But, there has never been a band like this one before or since.
My favorite story in the book was about the visit to Cadillac High School.
The writing wasn't really "writing" if you will, since it was a mainly a collection of stories from people involved with the group.
Most of the stories were told by Gene and Paul and I guess that's way their names are on the cover as co-authors. (They didn't really write anything, but they were obviously the main contributors)
I also enjoyed the stories about the group Rush and the help KISS gave the group in terms of how things should work on the road and so forth.
There were also some really good pictures in here as well. Old photos of the band from way back and other bits of nostalgia.
I found the book entertaining and for me many of these stories were new. I have read some reviews of this book that stated this was nothing new to them. But, if you are that big of a fan, you may want to at least give the book a try since so many of these stories are told by the actual people who were there. These are actual quotes and told in first person.
The book is rather long and there were times when I had to put it down and read something else for a while. I think some things could have been edited out without compromising anything, but I think all the stories were chosen for a reason by either the main author or the members of the band.
Overall I give this one an A.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the DRC of this book.
January 7, 2020
Wow, this was a fascinating book! It's a behind the scenes look at the creation of KISS and their rise to fame, circa 1972-1975. It's co-authored by two band members, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, so you see a lot more of their viewpoints than others, but they have good stuff to share, so it works out. It's interestingly presented in that it's 99% interviews. The primary author, Ken Sharp, sets up a chapter or section with a brief paragraph and then there is page after page of interviews with band members, managers, record company owners and employees, producers, DJs, fans, concert attendees, and other bands, some of whom liked KISS and some of whom hated them. Very interesting.
KISS got its start in Queens with Gene and Paul wanting to start a band. They found Peter Criss, their drummer, through a newspaper/magazine ad, and I think they found Ace by guitarists trying out and him standing out to them. The band started out named Wicked Lester and they only played at the Coventry. Apparently, in the early '70s, there were only three clubs in all of NYC that would take bands playing original music -- all of the rest wanted covers. KISS wasn't about covers. KISS was about heavy metal partying. They were about girls and love and lust and life. Nothing subtle. Nothing to think about. Not your thinking man's band. But they played the hell out of the Coventry. Then they got a gig at a club in Amnityville, out on Long Island. Yep, that Amnityville. And by this time, they were wearing early versions of their makeup, although Paul was just wearing red lipstick and rouge. (Even after reading this book, it still isn't clear to me who came up with the kubuki makeup thing. It happened early. It was obviously a gimmick. I just don't know.) Glam was popular at the time, and KISS wanted to out-glam all of them. They found a manager and then started doing gigs at an old hotel in NYC, a place where other decent bands had played, but was run down. By then, several people had heard of them and were started to come see their shows. Their manager sent them on the road. To tiny little places no one's ever heard of to play at places like high school cafeterias and barns. I'm not kidding. And they went all out, pretending they were at Madison Square Garden every time. They thought they owed it to the audience and they were trying to build an audience one person at a time. They went on a three city Canadian tour and froze their pants off. Again, they played in odd places. They were glad to get home.
A fellow came into their lives named Neil Bogart, who was a record company owner. He loved KISS and could envision big things for them, so he started a new company called Casablanca, aligned it with Warner, and signed KISS. KISS made a record. The record didn't sell. They continued to tour. They opened for just about anyone. They opened for folk artists. They opened for comedians. They opened for Manfred Mann, who hated them. They opened for ZZ Top. They opened for Slade. They opened for Black Oak Arkansas, which was a strange combo. They hated each other. They opened for Black Sabbath. Sabbath hated them and dropped them from the tour midway through. Still, they soldiered on.
By this time, their show had gotten big. They had their makeup and costumes. Gene was breathing fire and spitting blood. They had huge amps and could blow the sound of just about anyone off the stage. They had drums on risers. It was pretty professional, especially for an opening act. It got to the point where not many bands wanted KISS to open for them cause they were concerned about being upstaged.
A side note. The band were not partiers. Gene and Paul didn't drink or do drugs. Ace drank a lot, but kept to himself. Peter enjoyed the girls. They all enjoyed the girls, actually. The rumors about the groupies are apparently true. Lines and lines of girls waiting to be let into the hotel rooms of these guys just for a quickie. Bizarre. I've never understood groupies. Still, they didn't trash hotel rooms or do crazy things like Zeppelin did and other bands.
A second album came out. Sold about the same amount as the first. Not much. They couldn't get radio airplay. They weren't a singles band. They also couldn't get press. Rolling Stone detested them. About the only magazine to cover them was Creem, based in Detroit, the city KISS made their home. They considered themselves to be a blue collar rock and roll band playing gritty, real life stuff and they thought they would appeal to blue collar workers who had shitty jobs who would like to bang heads for a few hours. And they were right.
Sometime along the way, Neil cut ties with Warner because he didn't think they were promoting KISS sufficiently, so he took a big gamble and mortgaged his house and maxed out his credit cards. KISS was losing money like crazy. Still, everyone thought they'd make it. Big. It was just a matter of time. There were more and more fans. The shows were getting sold out. You'd see t-shirts and posters. People would call up radio stations and ask for KISS.
Third album -- Dressed to Kill. Had "Rock and Roll All Nite" on it. Didn't chart. They couldn't buy radio airtime. It did sell better than the first two albums, but not enough to generate enough money so that they'd go into the black. What to do?
Someone came up with the idea to capture the intensity of their live shows on an album, because they just didn't think it was happening with the albums they had put out so far. So Alive was born. It was a double live album and had a great cover shot of the band and it sold -- in the millions! And "Rock and Roll All Nite" (live) made the top 20. All of a sudden, they were international stars. Someone in middle America, a schoolboy, decided to start the KISS Army, to which I belonged as a kid, and it grew to become huge. All of a sudden, they were headliners. Pre-Steve Perry Journey opened for them. Rush opened for them. Rush and KISS came out about the same time, KISS perhaps a year or two earlier, so they could each relate to how things were going for each other. KISS loved Rush and Rush loved KISS. They had nothing but great things to say about each other in this book. Some kids at a high school in the midwest wrote KISS to ask if they'd come to their homecoming and they did! The whole town came out for it. Everyone dressed as a KISS member, babies and old people. The mayor gave them the key to the city. This, after the local clergy had taken him to task for allowing them to come to town. Hah! It was fun to read about.
One of the great things about this book is all of the pictures. There are hundreds of pictures of KISS, of liner notes, scrawled lyrics, fliers from early shows, etc. Real collector item stuff. The reason I'm giving this book four stars instead of five, however, is the incredible redundancy. The author would raise an issue, there would be an interview quote about it and then something like 10-15 more just like it. It's like he was beating you over the head with it. It really ticked me off. Just give us a few. Some of these interview quotes were completely unnecessary. Did he have a page count he had to make? It just went on and on. The book gets a five for the photos and a three for the redundancy and a four plus for the story, so a solid four overall. Recommended.
KISS got its start in Queens with Gene and Paul wanting to start a band. They found Peter Criss, their drummer, through a newspaper/magazine ad, and I think they found Ace by guitarists trying out and him standing out to them. The band started out named Wicked Lester and they only played at the Coventry. Apparently, in the early '70s, there were only three clubs in all of NYC that would take bands playing original music -- all of the rest wanted covers. KISS wasn't about covers. KISS was about heavy metal partying. They were about girls and love and lust and life. Nothing subtle. Nothing to think about. Not your thinking man's band. But they played the hell out of the Coventry. Then they got a gig at a club in Amnityville, out on Long Island. Yep, that Amnityville. And by this time, they were wearing early versions of their makeup, although Paul was just wearing red lipstick and rouge. (Even after reading this book, it still isn't clear to me who came up with the kubuki makeup thing. It happened early. It was obviously a gimmick. I just don't know.) Glam was popular at the time, and KISS wanted to out-glam all of them. They found a manager and then started doing gigs at an old hotel in NYC, a place where other decent bands had played, but was run down. By then, several people had heard of them and were started to come see their shows. Their manager sent them on the road. To tiny little places no one's ever heard of to play at places like high school cafeterias and barns. I'm not kidding. And they went all out, pretending they were at Madison Square Garden every time. They thought they owed it to the audience and they were trying to build an audience one person at a time. They went on a three city Canadian tour and froze their pants off. Again, they played in odd places. They were glad to get home.
A fellow came into their lives named Neil Bogart, who was a record company owner. He loved KISS and could envision big things for them, so he started a new company called Casablanca, aligned it with Warner, and signed KISS. KISS made a record. The record didn't sell. They continued to tour. They opened for just about anyone. They opened for folk artists. They opened for comedians. They opened for Manfred Mann, who hated them. They opened for ZZ Top. They opened for Slade. They opened for Black Oak Arkansas, which was a strange combo. They hated each other. They opened for Black Sabbath. Sabbath hated them and dropped them from the tour midway through. Still, they soldiered on.
By this time, their show had gotten big. They had their makeup and costumes. Gene was breathing fire and spitting blood. They had huge amps and could blow the sound of just about anyone off the stage. They had drums on risers. It was pretty professional, especially for an opening act. It got to the point where not many bands wanted KISS to open for them cause they were concerned about being upstaged.
A side note. The band were not partiers. Gene and Paul didn't drink or do drugs. Ace drank a lot, but kept to himself. Peter enjoyed the girls. They all enjoyed the girls, actually. The rumors about the groupies are apparently true. Lines and lines of girls waiting to be let into the hotel rooms of these guys just for a quickie. Bizarre. I've never understood groupies. Still, they didn't trash hotel rooms or do crazy things like Zeppelin did and other bands.
A second album came out. Sold about the same amount as the first. Not much. They couldn't get radio airplay. They weren't a singles band. They also couldn't get press. Rolling Stone detested them. About the only magazine to cover them was Creem, based in Detroit, the city KISS made their home. They considered themselves to be a blue collar rock and roll band playing gritty, real life stuff and they thought they would appeal to blue collar workers who had shitty jobs who would like to bang heads for a few hours. And they were right.
Sometime along the way, Neil cut ties with Warner because he didn't think they were promoting KISS sufficiently, so he took a big gamble and mortgaged his house and maxed out his credit cards. KISS was losing money like crazy. Still, everyone thought they'd make it. Big. It was just a matter of time. There were more and more fans. The shows were getting sold out. You'd see t-shirts and posters. People would call up radio stations and ask for KISS.
Third album -- Dressed to Kill. Had "Rock and Roll All Nite" on it. Didn't chart. They couldn't buy radio airtime. It did sell better than the first two albums, but not enough to generate enough money so that they'd go into the black. What to do?
Someone came up with the idea to capture the intensity of their live shows on an album, because they just didn't think it was happening with the albums they had put out so far. So Alive was born. It was a double live album and had a great cover shot of the band and it sold -- in the millions! And "Rock and Roll All Nite" (live) made the top 20. All of a sudden, they were international stars. Someone in middle America, a schoolboy, decided to start the KISS Army, to which I belonged as a kid, and it grew to become huge. All of a sudden, they were headliners. Pre-Steve Perry Journey opened for them. Rush opened for them. Rush and KISS came out about the same time, KISS perhaps a year or two earlier, so they could each relate to how things were going for each other. KISS loved Rush and Rush loved KISS. They had nothing but great things to say about each other in this book. Some kids at a high school in the midwest wrote KISS to ask if they'd come to their homecoming and they did! The whole town came out for it. Everyone dressed as a KISS member, babies and old people. The mayor gave them the key to the city. This, after the local clergy had taken him to task for allowing them to come to town. Hah! It was fun to read about.
One of the great things about this book is all of the pictures. There are hundreds of pictures of KISS, of liner notes, scrawled lyrics, fliers from early shows, etc. Real collector item stuff. The reason I'm giving this book four stars instead of five, however, is the incredible redundancy. The author would raise an issue, there would be an interview quote about it and then something like 10-15 more just like it. It's like he was beating you over the head with it. It really ticked me off. Just give us a few. Some of these interview quotes were completely unnecessary. Did he have a page count he had to make? It just went on and on. The book gets a five for the photos and a three for the redundancy and a four plus for the story, so a solid four overall. Recommended.
August 28, 2021
Nothin' To Lose - The Making Of Kiss (1972-1974) - Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons & Ken Sharp
"Although we all came from different points of view and different backgrounds, in our own way we all wanted the same thing. But at this point it was really still about the four of us and this mountain we all wanted to climb."
Nothin'To Lose es una crónica muy detallada, hecha a base de entrevistas, sobre los años formativos de Kiss. Desde que Paul Stanley y Gene Simmons se conocieron hasta el gran quiebre que resultó el éxito del disco doble Alive!
Arrancando con los inicios de Wicked Lester, la incorporación de Peter Criss y luego de Ace Frehley, los cambios de imagen hasta llegar al maquillaje conocido por todos, los primeros conciertos para 7 personas, la llegada de Bill Aucoin como manager y después la apuesta de Neil Bogart que recién arrancaba con el sello Casablanca.
El libro no cuenta solo con los testimonios de la banda y allegados, también son de la partida los músicos que también la peleaban en esa época, Ramones, Blue Oyster Cult, Ted Nugent, New York Dolls, Bob Seger, Rush; como también algunos ya consagrados: Alice Cooper, The Who, Slade entre otros. Quizás estos comentarios son los que más me gustaron del libro, porque refleja varias imágenes, la de los músicos que se reían de estos cuatro locos y la de otros que no tienen más que buenos recuerdos de cómo fueron tratados por la banda.
Nothin'To Lose incluye también muchísimas fotos, algunas inéditas hasta el momento de la publicación del libro. Mi favorita es la Geddy Lee de Rush, siendo asistido por Gene y Paul después de una guerra de pasteles en pleno recital de Rush, los tres muertos de risa.
Una gran libro, que sin ser perfecto en algunos detalles, nos brinda la posibilidad de conocer los inicios llenos de penurias y con todo el mundo en contra, de estos cuatro muchachos que compartían un sueño y que nunca bajaron los brazos. Con los años las cosas fueron cambiando, pero es parte de otra historia, me quedo con esta, la de esos cuatro que tiraban para el mismo lado, haciendo buena música mientras tanto.
🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
"Although we all came from different points of view and different backgrounds, in our own way we all wanted the same thing. But at this point it was really still about the four of us and this mountain we all wanted to climb."
Nothin'To Lose es una crónica muy detallada, hecha a base de entrevistas, sobre los años formativos de Kiss. Desde que Paul Stanley y Gene Simmons se conocieron hasta el gran quiebre que resultó el éxito del disco doble Alive!
Arrancando con los inicios de Wicked Lester, la incorporación de Peter Criss y luego de Ace Frehley, los cambios de imagen hasta llegar al maquillaje conocido por todos, los primeros conciertos para 7 personas, la llegada de Bill Aucoin como manager y después la apuesta de Neil Bogart que recién arrancaba con el sello Casablanca.
El libro no cuenta solo con los testimonios de la banda y allegados, también son de la partida los músicos que también la peleaban en esa época, Ramones, Blue Oyster Cult, Ted Nugent, New York Dolls, Bob Seger, Rush; como también algunos ya consagrados: Alice Cooper, The Who, Slade entre otros. Quizás estos comentarios son los que más me gustaron del libro, porque refleja varias imágenes, la de los músicos que se reían de estos cuatro locos y la de otros que no tienen más que buenos recuerdos de cómo fueron tratados por la banda.
Nothin'To Lose incluye también muchísimas fotos, algunas inéditas hasta el momento de la publicación del libro. Mi favorita es la Geddy Lee de Rush, siendo asistido por Gene y Paul después de una guerra de pasteles en pleno recital de Rush, los tres muertos de risa.
Una gran libro, que sin ser perfecto en algunos detalles, nos brinda la posibilidad de conocer los inicios llenos de penurias y con todo el mundo en contra, de estos cuatro muchachos que compartían un sueño y que nunca bajaron los brazos. Con los años las cosas fueron cambiando, pero es parte de otra historia, me quedo con esta, la de esos cuatro que tiraban para el mismo lado, haciendo buena música mientras tanto.
🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
August 10, 2013
ARC received from the publisher via Edelweiss.
As I sit to write this review, KISS is scheduled to perform where I live. Being elsewhere at the momendoesn't appears the opportunity to see the band play live has eluded me once more. I will admit, though, (and not to slight Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer) if the day does come I hope I get to see the original lineup. It would take a miracle, I know, but such sentimentality keeps me from spending money on acts that have replaced key players. When Rush puts Darren Stephens in place of Alex Lifeson, I'll know it's the end.
On this blog you'll find reviews of both Ace and Peter's memoirs. Where these books cover the entire span of KISStory and beyond, Nothin' to Lose does as advertised: it's a lengthy eyewitness account of the band's birth told in the oral history fashion similar to Sharp's other effort, Starting Over (also reviewed here). While this method of storytelling brings many voices to the forefront, I find this style risks the loss of an objective point of view. The book's introduction about KISS reads like a gushing fan letter, which didn't irritate me but did leave me wondering if any unflattering remarks or anecdotes didn't make the cut under the watchful eyes of Gene and Paul.
Nothin' compiles the memories of a huge cast involved in the band's genesis as Wicked Lester through their early association with Casablanca Records. More than thirty years after his death, Neil Bogart represents an enthusiasm for KISS's showmanship and drive through archived interviews - you also hear from early fans (many relatives and close friends of the original members), early road crew, former managers, and other musicians. Yes, I do give them points for an extensive section on the Rush/KISS connection, the Bag Man story, and an amusing picture of Geddy Lee covered in whipped cream that a few people I know will want to see.
You might wonder, how are Peter and Ace represented here? They do have voices, though Peter's contribution to Nothin' isn't as large as Gene and Paul's, and Ace appears less frequently. Nothin' to Lose offers a view of the early days of KISS with little evidence of in-fighting - maybe a few vocal concerns about drug and alcohol, but otherwise everybody plays nice. This doesn't mean you won't find gossipy bits to enjoy; I came away from the book with the perfect Boogie Nights image in my head about Casablanca. Nobody can accuse the 70s of being boring, and despite the healthy size of the book I wanted to read more. 1975, where the book technically ends, marks the beginning of the golden age of KISS. Tales of the humble start, from the tiny clubs and an odd Seinfeld connection, provide a wealth of memories for fans - perhaps this book's success will inspire a second volume.
As I sit to write this review, KISS is scheduled to perform where I live. Being elsewhere at the momendoesn't appears the opportunity to see the band play live has eluded me once more. I will admit, though, (and not to slight Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer) if the day does come I hope I get to see the original lineup. It would take a miracle, I know, but such sentimentality keeps me from spending money on acts that have replaced key players. When Rush puts Darren Stephens in place of Alex Lifeson, I'll know it's the end.
On this blog you'll find reviews of both Ace and Peter's memoirs. Where these books cover the entire span of KISStory and beyond, Nothin' to Lose does as advertised: it's a lengthy eyewitness account of the band's birth told in the oral history fashion similar to Sharp's other effort, Starting Over (also reviewed here). While this method of storytelling brings many voices to the forefront, I find this style risks the loss of an objective point of view. The book's introduction about KISS reads like a gushing fan letter, which didn't irritate me but did leave me wondering if any unflattering remarks or anecdotes didn't make the cut under the watchful eyes of Gene and Paul.
Nothin' compiles the memories of a huge cast involved in the band's genesis as Wicked Lester through their early association with Casablanca Records. More than thirty years after his death, Neil Bogart represents an enthusiasm for KISS's showmanship and drive through archived interviews - you also hear from early fans (many relatives and close friends of the original members), early road crew, former managers, and other musicians. Yes, I do give them points for an extensive section on the Rush/KISS connection, the Bag Man story, and an amusing picture of Geddy Lee covered in whipped cream that a few people I know will want to see.
You might wonder, how are Peter and Ace represented here? They do have voices, though Peter's contribution to Nothin' isn't as large as Gene and Paul's, and Ace appears less frequently. Nothin' to Lose offers a view of the early days of KISS with little evidence of in-fighting - maybe a few vocal concerns about drug and alcohol, but otherwise everybody plays nice. This doesn't mean you won't find gossipy bits to enjoy; I came away from the book with the perfect Boogie Nights image in my head about Casablanca. Nobody can accuse the 70s of being boring, and despite the healthy size of the book I wanted to read more. 1975, where the book technically ends, marks the beginning of the golden age of KISS. Tales of the humble start, from the tiny clubs and an odd Seinfeld connection, provide a wealth of memories for fans - perhaps this book's success will inspire a second volume.
July 30, 2013
Nothin' to Lose: The Making of KISS (1972-1975) is an anecdotal memoir of the early years of this iconic band. Told primarily by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, it details their beginnings in the New York City area. The book is filled with stories from early fans, promoters, record company executives, and musicians who performed alongside them.
This telling of their story is not as interesting as it could have been. Quite a bit of the book is given to stories about the formation and early years of Casablanca records. While it is an interesting story in its own right, all of the story does not really pertain to the history of KISS. It was interesting to read of their struggles and determination, as well as a few escapades. I think most fans would enjoy more of the personal stories and less of the record company business. One of the most enjoyable parts was the story of how the band went to Cadillac High School in 1975. The memories shared by those who were there in that small town that day were fascinating.
For hard-core fans, this will be a must-read.
3 stars
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Edelweiss review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
This telling of their story is not as interesting as it could have been. Quite a bit of the book is given to stories about the formation and early years of Casablanca records. While it is an interesting story in its own right, all of the story does not really pertain to the history of KISS. It was interesting to read of their struggles and determination, as well as a few escapades. I think most fans would enjoy more of the personal stories and less of the record company business. One of the most enjoyable parts was the story of how the band went to Cadillac High School in 1975. The memories shared by those who were there in that small town that day were fascinating.
For hard-core fans, this will be a must-read.
3 stars
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Edelweiss review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
November 13, 2013
I'm a big KISS fan and feel like I have a pretty solid handle on their history. This book was entertaining and taught me a little bit of KISS-tory that I was unfamiliar with. I enjoyed the technique of using different individuals discussing an event to tell a story (like Please Kill Me - Punk history book did). It gives different perspectives and tells the story through different voices. The only gripe I have is that the writing and recording of Hotter Than Hell and Dressed To Kill were glossed over. I think there must have been some interesting and entertaining stories from those sessions that were missed. If they would have taken out 5 to 10 percent about how novel what they were doing was and the groupie adoration and added more about the musical process, this would have probably been a 5 star book.
December 24, 2022
A decent oral history of KISS's early years: This felt a *little* bit too curated by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, but there is quite a bit of detail about the band at the time and interesting pictures, so if you're a big fan you'll probably enjoy this book a lot.
June 30, 2019
The first book I read was Ace's autobiography and I really enjoyed it. Then I read Peter's book which was a lot like Ace's but Peter came off as being a bit of a bitch and I actually started empathizing with Gene and Paul after reading it. I always was from the camp that Gene and Paul were controlling dickheads and Ace and Peter got a raw deal. Seems that I was a bit mistaken in regards to that situation. I still think Gene would sell his mothers toe-nail clippings if he thought he could make a buck. As for this book - this was a great look back at the band and it's early beginnings playing small clubs in New York, touring endlessly playing small venues all over North America to their eventual success that came with the release of Alive! Lots of quotes from people who were there - members of other bands, road crew, Casablanca staff, friends, etc. If you grew up listening to KISS like I did I'm pretty sure you'd enjoy this book.
March 25, 2021
Last year, I read books by Gene Simmons (Sex Money Kiss, and KISS and Make-up) that unveiled KISS history, as told by Gene's perspective.
It was interesting to read them, despite Gene's obnoxiousness and ego. However, the biggest flaw of those books is that they brought a too partial perspective.
For example, you can read Gene's complaints about other people, but you never get to hear their side of the history.
Nothin' to lose is very different in this regard, since it is comprised of interviews with the band members, and also everyone who was part of their entourage: from managers to fans, including record label representatives, other musicians, album cover designers, and even roadies.
The book is not really cohesive or organized: it is more or less a chronological review of the first years of KISS. However, it makes for good entertainment, without the lopsidedness of counting with only one point of view. For me, this is a solid and entertaining book, which gets a 5/5.
It was interesting to read them, despite Gene's obnoxiousness and ego. However, the biggest flaw of those books is that they brought a too partial perspective.
For example, you can read Gene's complaints about other people, but you never get to hear their side of the history.
Nothin' to lose is very different in this regard, since it is comprised of interviews with the band members, and also everyone who was part of their entourage: from managers to fans, including record label representatives, other musicians, album cover designers, and even roadies.
The book is not really cohesive or organized: it is more or less a chronological review of the first years of KISS. However, it makes for good entertainment, without the lopsidedness of counting with only one point of view. For me, this is a solid and entertaining book, which gets a 5/5.
December 6, 2024
Free with Kindle Unlimited so why not give it a go? I really like 70's Kiss and some of the later stuff so this was an interesting read for me. Paul and Gene aren't the bad guys people make out and their friendship with Rush, another band who were incredible in the 70's, is cool to read about in here.
It's a pretty long book so you're getting good value, and if you know nothing about the band's origins it's a good place to start. I would like to read a part 2 covering the late 70s!
It's a pretty long book so you're getting good value, and if you know nothing about the band's origins it's a good place to start. I would like to read a part 2 covering the late 70s!
July 19, 2022
An absolute MUST READ for anyone and everyone that claims to be a KISS fan! Practically a day-by-day account of their early years ... from high school to the ALIVE explosion. Very much a "fly on the wall" account of high school nobodies to the worldwide phenomenon known as KISS! Five full blown balls of fire ... 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥!
August 11, 2018
Great book covering the creation and first 3 years of KISS. Great pictures and comments from several people around at that time.
November 7, 2013
Straight up, Nothin' to Lose: The Making of KISS - 1972-1975 is aimed squarely at die-hard KISS fans that want to get even more inside information that has never been readily available till now. When I first heard about this book coming out, I figured at best I would get a few stories that were new. So imagine my shock after reading the book that about 95% of everything in this 550 page book is stuff that I had never heard about and that goes for the pictures that are scattered through the book.
I consider myself to be a true die-hard fan of KISS as I have followed them from the mid 70's onward and have never stopped being a fan, even during the lean years that saw them lose popularity with the masses. I thought I had seen and heard it all. With Ken Sharp's new book I realize that there was so much more to the story. Along with Ken, we get insight from Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley who helped write the book. Not surprising though is how very little input we get from Peter Criss and Ace Frehley. Yes, they contribute some stuff, but it's clear that a lot was cut out for whatever reason. It took all of 15 pages before Gene and Paul rip into Peter and Ace....again. The attacks are the one negatives in the book. We all know the story as Gene and Paul have beaten this dead horse into glue. It's time to just let it go and move on guys!
As for the books construction, I love it. It follows in the same steps as Ken's other book KISS: Behind the Mask, written with a series of anecdotes, allowing everyone in and around KISS, including fans, to have their own voice heard within the pages. The way the books is put together and how the stories are told actually do a much better job of painting a picture then if it were told from the perspective of Ken. Reading the book really does put you in their shoes and transport you back to the mid 70's.
There are so many stories from those that worked closely with the band, including Bill Aucoin to Sean Delaney to Neil Bogart to bands and singers that influenced them to fans that were there from the get go, it will enthrall you hearing what they have to say. There are a lot of great stories to be read, which had me reading at a feverish pace. I was actually trying to force myself to not read so fast as I wanted to savor it all. I think any KISS fan will get a kick out of the pie fight with Rush and Geddy Lee on stage at the final show of their tour in San Diego. It's also fun to see pictures of said pie fight, which is something I have never seen before. Any fan that has ever worshiped KISS Alive! and stared at the cover (front and back) will totally dig hearing about he two kids and their sign, not to mention Chad Smith (Red Hot Chilli Peppers) story of being there when they took that infamous photo. There's more to his story as well, but you're just gonna have to read the book to find out. I'm not gonna spoil it here. It's worth the price of the book.
I haven't look into or done any research on Ken Sharp, but I strongly believe that Nothing To Lose is the first of many Volumes coming our way with each new Volume covering a specific era in KISSTORY. With this book only covering everything from Wicked Lester all the way to KISS Alive!, the band is primed to dish out more stuff and have 40 years worth of material to make it a reality. My speculation has Volume II covering Destroyer (1976) to Unmasked(1980), Volume III covering Music from "The Elder" (1981) to Carnival of Souls (1996), Volume IV covering Kiss Unplugged (1996) to Monster (2013). Like I said, a lot of information is out there that the KISS Army would be willing to shell out hard earned cash for, myself included.
Nothing to Lose is worth every penny and KISS fans will enjoy the book. Definitely a Buy. For causal fans, it's still worth it to check out from your Library, but may not care much for the pages that are devoted to Casablanca Records. This book gets the rare 10 Stars out of 10.
You can find more of my Book, DVD, TV and Movie reviews at my Forum (Penny Can) at...
http://pennycan.createaforum.com/book...
Feel free to stop by and contribute your 2 cents.
I consider myself to be a true die-hard fan of KISS as I have followed them from the mid 70's onward and have never stopped being a fan, even during the lean years that saw them lose popularity with the masses. I thought I had seen and heard it all. With Ken Sharp's new book I realize that there was so much more to the story. Along with Ken, we get insight from Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley who helped write the book. Not surprising though is how very little input we get from Peter Criss and Ace Frehley. Yes, they contribute some stuff, but it's clear that a lot was cut out for whatever reason. It took all of 15 pages before Gene and Paul rip into Peter and Ace....again. The attacks are the one negatives in the book. We all know the story as Gene and Paul have beaten this dead horse into glue. It's time to just let it go and move on guys!
As for the books construction, I love it. It follows in the same steps as Ken's other book KISS: Behind the Mask, written with a series of anecdotes, allowing everyone in and around KISS, including fans, to have their own voice heard within the pages. The way the books is put together and how the stories are told actually do a much better job of painting a picture then if it were told from the perspective of Ken. Reading the book really does put you in their shoes and transport you back to the mid 70's.
There are so many stories from those that worked closely with the band, including Bill Aucoin to Sean Delaney to Neil Bogart to bands and singers that influenced them to fans that were there from the get go, it will enthrall you hearing what they have to say. There are a lot of great stories to be read, which had me reading at a feverish pace. I was actually trying to force myself to not read so fast as I wanted to savor it all. I think any KISS fan will get a kick out of the pie fight with Rush and Geddy Lee on stage at the final show of their tour in San Diego. It's also fun to see pictures of said pie fight, which is something I have never seen before. Any fan that has ever worshiped KISS Alive! and stared at the cover (front and back) will totally dig hearing about he two kids and their sign, not to mention Chad Smith (Red Hot Chilli Peppers) story of being there when they took that infamous photo. There's more to his story as well, but you're just gonna have to read the book to find out. I'm not gonna spoil it here. It's worth the price of the book.
I haven't look into or done any research on Ken Sharp, but I strongly believe that Nothing To Lose is the first of many Volumes coming our way with each new Volume covering a specific era in KISSTORY. With this book only covering everything from Wicked Lester all the way to KISS Alive!, the band is primed to dish out more stuff and have 40 years worth of material to make it a reality. My speculation has Volume II covering Destroyer (1976) to Unmasked(1980), Volume III covering Music from "The Elder" (1981) to Carnival of Souls (1996), Volume IV covering Kiss Unplugged (1996) to Monster (2013). Like I said, a lot of information is out there that the KISS Army would be willing to shell out hard earned cash for, myself included.
Nothing to Lose is worth every penny and KISS fans will enjoy the book. Definitely a Buy. For causal fans, it's still worth it to check out from your Library, but may not care much for the pages that are devoted to Casablanca Records. This book gets the rare 10 Stars out of 10.
You can find more of my Book, DVD, TV and Movie reviews at my Forum (Penny Can) at...
http://pennycan.createaforum.com/book...
Feel free to stop by and contribute your 2 cents.
November 2, 2019
Every KISS fan should read this book. However, you're going to read a big chunk of stuff you probably already knew. On the other hand, there are also many stories you have probably not heard. It's definitely worth the read to refresh your memory as to why KISS is in the RnR Hall of Fame should've been a lot sooner than they were. (Thanks, Jann Wenner.)
There are times when the book gets repetitive, saying the same things over and over in different ways by different people. It definitely drags a bit at times - like an entire chapter dedicated to their friendship with the band Rush probably wasn't necessary.
But all in all - I'm glad I read it.
There are times when the book gets repetitive, saying the same things over and over in different ways by different people. It definitely drags a bit at times - like an entire chapter dedicated to their friendship with the band Rush probably wasn't necessary.
But all in all - I'm glad I read it.
December 9, 2015
KISS being one of my favourite rock bands in the world, this was a must read for me. The story was told in very well detail from all the interviews conducted with the band members, crew members, family & friends and even other legendary musicians. If you're a die hard KISS fan like me whether you've been around as long as they have or you're new to the KISS Army then this is a book for you. If you want to know how it all began then you have to read this. Once I started reading this book I couldn't put it down. All I can say is if you read this and didn't like it, it's your loss because the story of KISS's pathway to success is all about determination told from the perspective of many including Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley and even some parts with former members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss (who will forever be missed even though there are too many people on this planet that refuse to grasp the fact that they're not returning to the band). Speaking of which I don't think any shit was thrown at them in this book to be honest, they just started to have problems and well that's just life.
Anyway, there were lots of tense moments in this book and even some funny parts. I really enjoyed reading about KISS's early club shows, how they put together their show, and some of their first big shows like in Cadillac High.
This book was well-written in a unique way and KISS holds a place in my heart forever. As Alice Cooper said: Read this book or KISS off!
Anyway, there were lots of tense moments in this book and even some funny parts. I really enjoyed reading about KISS's early club shows, how they put together their show, and some of their first big shows like in Cadillac High.
This book was well-written in a unique way and KISS holds a place in my heart forever. As Alice Cooper said: Read this book or KISS off!
October 25, 2013
What an awesome book! I have been a huge KISS fan for years and have read just about everything there is about the band over the years. This is the first book that I have seen that chronicles the first few years of the band. You get so many great details in this book that haven't ever been available before. Any fan of the band really needs to read this book. I hope they do another book sometime soon that covers the rest of the 70's and then a book on the 80's and then another book on the 90's. I am sure there is so much more hidden details in their career that can and should come out.
October 14, 2013
Love 'em or leave 'em, KISS is a super group with a super story. Hence, theirs is one that warrants the near endless slew of tell-alls over the years. Light on authorship, yet big on story, "Nothin' to Lose" is a treasure trove of insightful insider/outsider commentary from a compelling cast of characters. From firsthand accounts of band members to managers, producers, agents, promoters, record execs and the like, this one delivers -- BIG!
July 6, 2015
I really really enjoyed this book. It covers the era of the band up until just after KISS ALIVE breaks the band out big. The author digs deep into finding out anybody and everyone who ever crossed paths with the band in the early 70s. Lots of good stories and insight into what it took to get the band off the ground.
October 29, 2013
This oral history does a great job of not recycling all of the information from previous KISS books. It focuses on the behind the scenes mechanisms that allowed the band to prosper: management, road crew, promotions etc. Definitely worth a read for any KISS fan.
September 23, 2013
Lifelong fan. I'd say about 65% of the material I didn't know. great never before seen pictures. I hope there will be a sequel.
Read
October 3, 2013Great book. Tells you the history of KISS from the beginning. When Gene and Paul first met.
Read
May 6, 2025if you live KISS, you’ll love this.
August 5, 2025
Excellent book focused on the first few years of Kiss. The book is a series of interviews with people involved with the band in the first few years.
February 19, 2019
I not what you would call a hardcore KISS 'fanatic,' but I've always been a fan and enjoyed their music for the most part; and let's face it, they're never boring.
The band has had quite a bit written about them, but this book is a little different in that it focuses on the first few years of the band when it was trying to get a foothold in the music world, and ends as the members are enjoying the fruits of their labors after the legendary 'Alive' album broke them as rock headliners.
The book is done in an oral history format, which I've always liked, and includes input from the band members, their co-managers, various road crew members and record company workers, and several musicians that played with KISS in the early years and attended shows at the beginning.
Most of the quotes come from Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley (to be expected since they're billed as the c0-authors), and manager Bill Aucoin.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was interesting to see how it all started for the band and the difficulties they had to get their name and music out there in the early '70s amid skepticism from critics and record labels alike and the weak record sales from their first three albums.
It was also cool to hear from the crew members and read about the part they played (and the idea of how important a road crew is) in the rise of the band and how they set up the stage shows that became the band's calling card.
I had a couple quibbles with the book. One was, although I liked the oral history format, at times the author seemed to hit us with about 3-4 straight entries that essentially said the same thing, as if it was just to get someone's name in there for the heck of it. Also, while Gene and Paul had a lot of good insight, the habit tends to be to take what they say with a grain of salt sometimes.
However, I did enjoy the retelling of how the band got their legs. Any fan of KISS should find this compelling reading.
The band has had quite a bit written about them, but this book is a little different in that it focuses on the first few years of the band when it was trying to get a foothold in the music world, and ends as the members are enjoying the fruits of their labors after the legendary 'Alive' album broke them as rock headliners.
The book is done in an oral history format, which I've always liked, and includes input from the band members, their co-managers, various road crew members and record company workers, and several musicians that played with KISS in the early years and attended shows at the beginning.
Most of the quotes come from Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley (to be expected since they're billed as the c0-authors), and manager Bill Aucoin.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was interesting to see how it all started for the band and the difficulties they had to get their name and music out there in the early '70s amid skepticism from critics and record labels alike and the weak record sales from their first three albums.
It was also cool to hear from the crew members and read about the part they played (and the idea of how important a road crew is) in the rise of the band and how they set up the stage shows that became the band's calling card.
I had a couple quibbles with the book. One was, although I liked the oral history format, at times the author seemed to hit us with about 3-4 straight entries that essentially said the same thing, as if it was just to get someone's name in there for the heck of it. Also, while Gene and Paul had a lot of good insight, the habit tends to be to take what they say with a grain of salt sometimes.
However, I did enjoy the retelling of how the band got their legs. Any fan of KISS should find this compelling reading.
November 9, 2018
Disclaimer - I have been a fan for over 40 years (slightly biased review).
I found this narrative engaging, honest, balanced, and extremely informative. I was fascinated by the group’s experiences, along with the amazing amount of belief and perseverance it took to realize their vision.
In a fashion similar to Keith Richard’s autobiography, the book was broad in scope - offering insights on how the music industry looked in the early 70s, what music was considered appropriate at the time, and what it took to break into the “big time.” For example, the group and their investors lost over a quarter of a million dollars before they actually started making money. Not only that, but I was amazed at the dedication of the friends, managers, and roadies that dedicated everything to helping the group realize their dream of becoming one of the biggest rock entertainment franchises ever.
Yes, arrogance is the undercurrent to this narrative, a little much at times, but doesn’t interfere with the discussion.
No, I don’t agree with a lot of the themes that undergird the group’s music, and there are some cringe-worthy aspects of the book, and the group’s history - especially as I work out my own reasons for continuing to love their shows in spite of the music. However, this book offered some great insights that have helped me understand some of my own rationalizations; yes, I confess that in some ways I’m still a teenager at heart.
Long story short - I really found this book a fascinating read.
I found this narrative engaging, honest, balanced, and extremely informative. I was fascinated by the group’s experiences, along with the amazing amount of belief and perseverance it took to realize their vision.
In a fashion similar to Keith Richard’s autobiography, the book was broad in scope - offering insights on how the music industry looked in the early 70s, what music was considered appropriate at the time, and what it took to break into the “big time.” For example, the group and their investors lost over a quarter of a million dollars before they actually started making money. Not only that, but I was amazed at the dedication of the friends, managers, and roadies that dedicated everything to helping the group realize their dream of becoming one of the biggest rock entertainment franchises ever.
Yes, arrogance is the undercurrent to this narrative, a little much at times, but doesn’t interfere with the discussion.
No, I don’t agree with a lot of the themes that undergird the group’s music, and there are some cringe-worthy aspects of the book, and the group’s history - especially as I work out my own reasons for continuing to love their shows in spite of the music. However, this book offered some great insights that have helped me understand some of my own rationalizations; yes, I confess that in some ways I’m still a teenager at heart.
Long story short - I really found this book a fascinating read.
February 10, 2022
Nästan 550 sidor om åren 1972-1975 i KISS historia? Självklart!
Boken berättas med citat från de intervjuade, som förutom medlemmarna är managers, medlemmar från andra band, skivbolagsfolk, musikjournalister etc. Och egentligen börjar återgivningen av historien redan 1970 när Paul och Gene träffas för första gången - ett ganska kylslaget möte...
Här går man på djupet i de tidiga åren: de trevande stegen med Wicked Lester och den långdragna inspelningen av ett album som inte ges ut och som leder till att Paul och Gene går sin egen väg. De första åren där man söker medlemmar och harvar runt och lirar på lokala hak i New York med omnejd. Tills managern Bill Aucoin och skivbolagschefen Neil Bogart kommer in i handlingen, vilket leder till att man spelar in skivor och turnera intensivt mellan 1974 och 1975. Oftast under extremt primitiva förhållanden och hot om ekonomisk ruin för såväl band, management som skivbolag. Sagan slutar här när dubbelalbumet ”Alive!” släpps och blir en rejäl storsäljare, som även får fart på den dittills blygsamma försäljningen av de tre föregående studioalbumen.
Det finns många intressanta epoker i de sminkade hjältarnas historia, men när man läser den här boken slås man av att kanske den beskrivna perioden blivit den enda om det inte vore för succén med ”Alive!”.
Vet faktiskt ingen annan bok som så utförligt skildrar de här åren, vilket innebär att det är lästvång om man har något som helst intresse för det här bandet.
Boken berättas med citat från de intervjuade, som förutom medlemmarna är managers, medlemmar från andra band, skivbolagsfolk, musikjournalister etc. Och egentligen börjar återgivningen av historien redan 1970 när Paul och Gene träffas för första gången - ett ganska kylslaget möte...
Här går man på djupet i de tidiga åren: de trevande stegen med Wicked Lester och den långdragna inspelningen av ett album som inte ges ut och som leder till att Paul och Gene går sin egen väg. De första åren där man söker medlemmar och harvar runt och lirar på lokala hak i New York med omnejd. Tills managern Bill Aucoin och skivbolagschefen Neil Bogart kommer in i handlingen, vilket leder till att man spelar in skivor och turnera intensivt mellan 1974 och 1975. Oftast under extremt primitiva förhållanden och hot om ekonomisk ruin för såväl band, management som skivbolag. Sagan slutar här när dubbelalbumet ”Alive!” släpps och blir en rejäl storsäljare, som även får fart på den dittills blygsamma försäljningen av de tre föregående studioalbumen.
Det finns många intressanta epoker i de sminkade hjältarnas historia, men när man läser den här boken slås man av att kanske den beskrivna perioden blivit den enda om det inte vore för succén med ”Alive!”.
Vet faktiskt ingen annan bok som så utförligt skildrar de här åren, vilket innebär att det är lästvång om man har något som helst intresse för det här bandet.
June 17, 2019
KISS changed the pop culture game so fundamentally that most people don't realize what the game used to be. "Nothin' to Lose" captured how four kids from NYC willed themselves into becoming Rock n' Roll superheroes and covers my favorite era of KISS; when they were wearing homemade costumes and their stage show was dry ice and fire sirens. One thing you should know is that this book is DENSE. This thing really goes into the weeds. I would've recommended this to anyone interested in Classic Rock history or Pop Culture, but there's so much minutia here that it even strained my interest at times. The number of people who contribute to this oral history of the early years of KISS really add a lot to the proceedings, and no one seems to be censored or encouraged to blow smoke. Many fellow musicians interviewed speak freely about their low opinion of the songwriting and musicianship of KISS, and the creative debt they owe Alice Cooper, even Alice himself contributes anecdotes about his early encounters with the band. This was on my "to-read" list for years, and I enjoyed getting through it, even though some sections were a slog.
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