THE BEAST

KISS Co-Founder Talks Hip-Hop, Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and the State of Music in 2026

KISS co-founder and bassist Gene Simmons has once again sparked conversation in the rock and metal world after explaining why rap and hip-hop music do not resonate with him the way classic rock and roll does. In a recent interview on the Legends N Leaders podcast with host Ben Weiss, Simmons shared his thoughts on musical relevance, the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, modern pop culture, and the future of the music industry.

Gene Simmons on Rap Music vs Rock And Roll

During the interview, Simmons made it clear that while he respects the success and influence of hip-hop artists, the genre does not connect with him personally.

Simmons explained that rap music is largely rooted in spoken-word performance over beats, whereas rock and roll is built around melody, songwriting, and musical arrangement. He added that music speaks differently to people based on background and life experience, and hip-hop simply does not speak his language in the same way rock music does.

The KISS frontman has previously made headlines for questioning whether hip-hop belongs in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and he revisited that topic during the podcast. Simmons pointed to IRON MAIDEN’s continued exclusion from the Hall despite selling out arenas and stadiums worldwide, while artists from non-rock genres have already been inducted.

Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Debate Continues

Simmons argued that the name “Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame” should mean exactly that. He questioned why hip-hop artists are honored in an institution built around rock music, while legendary rock bands have yet to be recognized. The long running debate over what qualifies as “rock and roll” remains one of the most controversial topics in modern music culture.

This discussion reflects a wider conversation among rock and metal fans who feel that heavy metal bands such as IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, and others have been historically overlooked by mainstream music institutions.

The Decline of the Music Business and Record Labels

Beyond genre debates, Simmons also spoke about what he sees as the collapse of the traditional music business model. According to Simmons, modern artists face enormous challenges due to streaming platforms, lack of label investment, and the disappearance of artist development.

He argued that future generations are unlikely to produce another band with the cultural impact of THE BEATLES, Elvis Presley, or LED ZEPPELIN because record companies no longer provide financial backing for new artists to grow, tour, and fail before finding their identity.

Simmons also criticized the short lived fame created by reality TV talent shows, noting that many gifted singers and musicians achieve brief exposure without building sustainable careers in the music industry.

Why Classic Rock Still Dominates Live Music

According to Simmons, the reason classic rock continues to dominate live music culture is simple. The songs last. Cover bands still play “Free Bird,” “Satisfaction,” and other timeless rock anthems because those songs are built on strong songwriting, melody, and emotional connection.

While modern pop hits and viral songs generate massive streaming numbers, Simmons believes they lack the long term cultural impact needed to influence new musicians to form bands, pick up instruments, and create original music rooted in tradition.

KISS Legacy, Farewell Tour, and Future Projects

KISS officially ended its touring career with two final shows in full makeup at Madison Square Garden in December 2023. The band’s “End Of The Road” farewell tour began in 2019 and concluded after delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In early 2024, KISS sold its music catalog, likeness, and brand rights to Swedish entertainment company Pophouse Entertainment. Multiple projects are currently in development, including a KISS biopic, an avatar-based concert experience, and an immersive KISS-themed attraction. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley remain directly involved in shaping these projects and preserving the band’s legacy for future generations.