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The Kiss Interviews: Fred Sokolow

Colin Richardson

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Fred Sokolow is a musician and songwriter best known for his time as a member of the iconic rock band Kiss. He played lead guitar and sang backing vocals on the band's first two albums, Kiss (1974) and Hotter Than Hell (1974),before being replaced by Ace Frehley. Sokolow has since gone on to have a successful career as a solo artist and session musician.

In this in-depth interview, Sokolow discusses his early life, his time with Kiss, and his current projects. He also shares his thoughts on the band's legacy and his own place in rock history.

The Kiss Interviews

by Fred Sokolow

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1147 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

Early Life

Fred Sokolow was born on August 23, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York. He began playing guitar at the age of 10 and was soon playing in local bands. In 1972, he met Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, who were looking for a guitarist for their new band, Kiss. Sokolow auditioned for the band and was immediately offered the job.

Kiss released their self-titled debut album in 1974. The album was a commercial success, and the band quickly became one of the most popular rock bands in the world. Sokolow played on the band's next album, Hotter Than Hell, which was released in 1974. However, he was replaced by Ace Frehley before the album was released.

Time with Kiss

Sokolow's time with Kiss was brief, but he made a significant contribution to the band's sound. He played lead guitar on the band's first two albums, and his songwriting credits include the songs "Strutter" and "Deuce." Sokolow also sang backing vocals on many of the band's early songs.

Sokolow was fired from Kiss in 1974, shortly after the release of Hotter Than Hell. The band's management felt that he was not a good fit for the band's image. Sokolow was replaced by Ace Frehley, who would go on to become one of the most iconic guitarists in rock history.

Post-Kiss Career

After being fired from Kiss, Sokolow went on to have a successful career as a solo artist and session musician. He has released several solo albums, and he has also played guitar on albums by artists such as Alice Cooper, Meat Loaf, and Ted Nugent.

In recent years, Sokolow has reunited with Kiss on several occasions. He played guitar on the band's 1996 reunion album, Psycho Circus, and he has also appeared with the band at several live shows.

Legacy

Fred Sokolow is a significant figure in the history of Kiss. He played lead guitar on the band's first two albums, and his songwriting credits include some of the band's most iconic songs. Although he was only with the band for a short time, Sokolow's contributions to Kiss are undeniable.

Sokolow is a talented musician and songwriter who has made a significant contribution to rock music. He is a true unsung hero of the rock world.

The Kiss Interviews

by Fred Sokolow

4.2 out of 5