KISS Army Nation Podcast

Our guest is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who has become a familiar name in the KISS universe. From Kuarantine with Chris Jericho to Klassik ’78, he has helped keep the spirit of classic KISS alive for a new generation of fans. He’s collaborated with members of major rock and metal bands and contributed to standout KISS tribute recordings.Beyond covers, Joe is an accomplished musician in his own right, active in both rock and country projects.KISS Army, please welcome Joe McGinness. 

It’s that magical time of year again…when the lights go up, the eggnog flows and most importantly, everyone starts making lists…naughty lists, nice lists, wish lists, shopping lists, you name it. Tonight, we’ve gathered our panel to build the ultimate series of KISS lists.  We’re talking songs, stage moments, controversies and the “List” goes on.  

We are honored to host DRESSED 2 KILL, Atlantic Canada’s Tribute to KISS. Paul had been with us in a previous episode sharing his love for KISS, but now we are thrilled to have ¾ of the band to discuss their fandom, get their input on ongoing KISS-related topics, and also promote their upcoming shows and projects. KISS Army, please join us to welcome Paul Stephens The Starchild, Tym Deal The Demon, and Rob Francis The Catman. 

On this episode, we travel back to 1975—when KISS were still a hungry, fire-breathing club band trying to prove they belonged on the biggest stages in America. Before the costumes became iconic, before the empire took shape, there was Alive!—the album that captured the chaos, the sweat, and the electricity that words alone couldn’t describe. Fifty years later, in 2025, we’re holding a Deluxe Boxset that doesn’t just reissue history; it reframes it. This episode is our chance to revisit that turning point, explore what made Alive! so essential, and see how the new anniversary edition reshapes our understanding of the album that changed everything. 

On this episode, we have a pair of rock n’ roll newlyweds, fresh off their…TWO…Vegas trips where they celebrated love, fandom, and a whole lot of KISS.  They’re going to take us on a tour of their experiences of the Landlocked event…the concerts…the panels, the fan reunions and yes, some big KISS news that dropped while they were there. KISS Army Nation, welcome back to the show….Andy and Jessica.  

Our Cadillac Trilogy is complete.  It began with an interview with Thad Zylka discussing his Cadillac experience, owning the Key to the City and his book Unmasked: My 50 Year Journey with KISS.  We did a play by play of the KISS Cadillac 50th Anniversary event with Roger Bernard…and now at the center of it all…the coach, the teacher, the dreamer…the man who made the 1975 Cadillac experience happen….we are proud to have on our show…Mr. Jim Neff.  

As all KISS fans know, the Dressed to Kill boxset has finally dropped…but this is not just another re-issue, it’s a full-blown time machine that drops us right into the smoky clubs, the New York Hustle and pure survival instincts that fueled KISS before ALIVE changed everything.  On this episode, we are going to unbox the Dressed to Kill Era.

We are dialing up the amps to eleven as we discuss the making of ROLL OVER AND ROCK with a couple of Hooligans.  You know the drill, don’t touch that dial unless you’re turning it higher….KISS Army Nation, please welcome Al Ryan and Vincent Larussa.  

50 years ago, KISS rolled into a quiet little Michigan town and changed it forever.  Now, 5 decades later, Cadillac once again came alive as fans from around the world gathered to relive that legendary day.  Here to talk about his firsthand experience how one small town celebrated one of the biggest rock stories of all time is Roger Bernard.

Our next guest was at the Cadillac 50th Anniversary Event.  On this episode, our guest will share stories, behind the scene moments and talk about his book Unmasked: My 50 Year Journey with KISS.  Oh, did I mention he owns the KEY to the city?  KISS Army, please welcome Thad Zylka.

This show is a continuation of our Tribute to Ace from the episode…THROUGH OUR EYES on Let Me Know…A Short KISS.  On this episode, we talk about the moments that made us fall in love with him and his music.  We share our favourite songs and reflect on how his spirit changed Rock N’ Roll forever. Throughout this episode, we’ll be featuring FAN TESTIMONIALS…stories, memories and heartfelt messages from people whose lives were touched by Ace’s music and magic.

Our next guest’s passion for KISS runs deep.  With his unforgettable experiences, our guest has lived the KISS Army life to the fullest.  On this episode, we are going to dive into our guests most memorable stories.   KISS Army Nation, please welcome Robert Brodsky Jr. 

As most fans know, Eric Singer will not attend the KISS Kruise Land Locked Event in Las Vegas.  We have no inside information as to why but regardless, it’s a true shame.  It’s a shame because he has done so much for the KISS and he deserves to be there as much as any other member of the band, past or present.  So, we thought it would be fitting to pay Mr. Singer a little tribute….it’s the least we can do as KISS fans. 

Before this podcast, I did a thing called KISS Army Nation TV.  It’s basically a series of videos chronicling my KISStoric adventures from 2013 – 2018.  As I mentioned in an earlier episode, I’ve been taking one-minute snippets from these videos and putting them up on TikTok.  Well, I came across a video where I interviewed our next guest at a New Jersey KISS Expo.  That brought back some amazing memories, and I thought we needed to have her on this show to catch up after all these years.  So, KISS Army Nation, let’s catch up with my good friend…Lori Birnbaum.  

Our next guest has a story that any rock fan would appreciate.  From his early days falling in love with music, to picking up the guitar to fronting his own band, our guest has carved out a career that blends originality with homage to the bands that inspired him.On this episode, we’re going to dive into his musical journey as a fan and performer…KISS Army Nation, please welcome Nikki Sinn.

Whether it was a handshake at a meet and greet, a wild run in at a concert or a once in a lifetime chat backstage, the panel is here to share some amazing stories of what it was like to meet the larger-than-life members of KISS.

KISS have often been described as “explosive and influential”. They are definitely explosive but are they influential? On this panel, we are going to explore how KISS reshaped the music industry and inspired generations of bands that followed – from stage shows and branding to sonic style and fan culture. Tonight, we are going beyond the make-up and into the ripple effect of rock’s most theatrical icons.

KISS ARMY…making his way to the microphone…from Coram, New York…standing at 5 feet 11 inches…weighing in at a rock solid 268 pounds of pure power and pain…bringing the sounds of the streets and the thunder to the arena…He’s the DJ of destruction…He is the Problem solver…The master of the A-Solution…He is “Absolute….Alvin….Alvarez…”

Our guest is a bassist, songwriter and rock veteran whose career criss-crosses with some of the biggest names in hard rock history, including a tie to Paul Stanley and the early days of KISS He’s a founding member of the bands New England and Alcatrazz, he has played with guitar gods such as Steve Vai and just released an honest, no frills memoir called “NO BASS, NO PARTY”. On this episode, we dive into the mindset of the legendary GARY SHEA.

On this episode, we are tackling a fun challenge…if you had to introduce someone to KISS using just 5 songs, what would they be?  We’re building the ultimate starter kit for new fans and debating what truly captures the essence of the band.

On this episode, we are profiling a fan who has been through it all, from discovering KISS to experiencing KISS in ways that have shaped his life.  For this fan, it’s more than just music, it’s become identity, energy and pure rock and roll devotion.  We’re going to dig deep into this fans personal KISStory, that fan….is Michael Canavan.

Our Guest is the man behind Black Diamond: The Unauthorized Biography of KISS. He spent nearly a decade researching that book. But there is so much more to our guest. On this episode, we are going to take a journey into the life and career of…Dale Sherman.

From ditching the makeup to chasing radio hits, from shifting lineups to shredding guitars, the ’80s were a turbulent and transformative era for the band. But how did KISS compare to the giants of the glam and metal scene — bands like Mötley Crüe, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, and Van Halen?”On this episode is all about dissecting the music, the image, the visibility, and the impact. Was KISS keeping pace or losing ground? Were they trendsetters or followers?

On this episode, we are crossing oceans and time zones to spotlight a KISS fan from down under.  Our fan profiles are about the fans, the lifeblood of KISS, the ones who paint their faces, crank up the amps and wave the flag no matter where they are in the world. Our guest is no different, KISS Army Nation, please welcome Robbie Venditti.

We're going to be diving into one of the most misunderstood yet remarkable chapters in KISStory: the years between 1980 to 1983. While some fans and critics view this as a transitional period, the truth is – KISS was far from fading. In fact, they were thriving in new and exciting ways.On today’s panel, we’ll be celebrating the successes, surprises, and standout moments of this era – a time when the band’s global reach expanded, their stage shows remained legendary, and a new chapter in KISStory was being written.

We are thrilled to be joined by a woman who helped revolutionize women’s wrestling and continues to inspire across multiple industries.  She’s a stuntwoman, actress, entrepreneur and now author with her memoir, Hooray for Hollywood.  Yes, KISS also fits into this story.  KISS Army Nation, please help us welcome, the one and only…Jeanne Basone.

Our next guest is someone whose love story was literally set to a KISS soundtrack. From the proposal on the KISS Kruise to the final KISS show in New York City, hers is truly a story of love, music and community. KISS Army Nation, please help us welcome our dear friend, Jessica Sapio. 

The Panel are turning the spotlight on the heartbeat of the band…the drummers. From the jazz-inspired swagger of Peter Criss, to the thunderous power of Eric Carr, to the precision and versatility of Eric Singer...each drummer left their mark on the bands sound, image and energy.   We explore how these three different talents shaped the past, present and future of KISS.

On this episode, we are profiling a KISS fan who has taken his passion to incredible heights, not just as a fan, but as a respected writer, historian and interviewer whose work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Ultimate Classic Rock and even KISSonline itself.Our guest has interviewed a long list of legendary musicians and brings a unique perspective to the KISS story…one that blends a fans love with an historian’s insight and a journalists storytelling craft.  KISS Army Nation, we are so proud to have on our show…Michael Cavacini.

KISS has popped up in some truly unexpected places, but is KISS really a part of Pop culture or are they just the masters of merch…did all the exposure hurt or help the bands legacy?     Today we are joined by someone who literally wrote the book on it on this very topic.  Our guest is the author of Creatures of the Screen:  KISSploitation in Film, Television and Home Video.  To talk about his book and this topic, lets welcome back to the show…Mr. John Harrison.

We’re lighting the fuse on a very special episode. We are joined by a true pioneer in live concert production, the man behind some of the most jaw dropping explosions, fireballs and effects that defined rock shows in the 70’s, 80’s and beyond. KISS Army Nation, please welcome Pyro John Watkins.

On this episode, we’ve gathered the panel to debate and discuss our TOP 5 KISS songs performed by other bands and/or musicians.  What will our picks be?  Will it be the ones that rocked, the ones reimagined, or the one completely reinvented.  Actually, this begs the question, what makes a GREAT KISS cover?  Let’s find out 

On this episode, we are celebrating, not only our 200th episode, but the power of Rock n' Roll. We have with us two members of a band that embodies the spirit and passion of ROCK. We are so excited to be joined by Lee-La Baum and PY Letellier of the DAMN TRUTH. We're going to discuss music, the bands rise to success and how KISS fits into this picture. We know you're going to enjoy this episode and that is...The Damn Truth!!!! 

Joining us is Brian McKenna, a true KISS vinyl connoisseur from Brian’s KISS Vinyl.  He’s not just a fan, he’s a collector, a seller and a historian when it comes to the rarest and most sought-after KISS records.  On this episode, we’ll be talking about his fandom, why KISS fans have this sudden obsession with vinyl and so much more.  KISS Army Nation, please welcome Brian McKenna. 

On this episode, we are putting Paul Stanley head-to-head with some of the greatest frontmen in rock history.  From Freddie Mercury to David Lee Roth, from Robert Plant to Steven Tyler…we’re diving deep into what makes a truly legendary frontman.

Joining us tonight is the incredible Shelby Doll, a powerhouse singer, songwriter and lyricist as well as a cover model for Playboy and FHM.  She is the owner of Hard Luck Woman Records and has a ablum on the horizon under Freedom.  She is here to talk about journey, her music, and of course her love for KISS.   Let’s get to know…Shelby Doll. 

I watched our next guest grow up on Facebook from an enthusiastic KISS fan to a talented music photographer capturing some pretty big names in the music business. Her story is a testament to how music, and especially KISS, can inspire and shape our lives in ways we never expected. KISS Army Nation, please welcome Cailin Provo. 

On this episode, we are joined by the co-producer of Buffalo Rock City, a Killer tribute album featuring an incredible lineup of musicians paying homage to the Greatest Band in the Land.  With the upcoming release of Buffalo Rock City II Volume 1, we’re going to dive into how this project came about, the artists involved and the creative process behind the reimagining of Classic KISS.  KISS Army Nation, please welcome…John Jeffery.

On this episode, we’re going to compare the rough and gritty energy of their first 3 records to the polished, larger-than-life anthems of their next 3 albums. We’re going to look at this topic from 3 different perspectives…Songwriting and Musicality, Production, Impact and Legacy. Was the change for the better, or did something get lost along the way? Which version truly defines the band?

From Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, our next guest is the front man for DRESSED TO KILL, Atlantic Canada’s Tribute to KISS. But beyond the make-up and platform boots, he’s also a passionate rock fan with a deep love for music. On this episode, we are going to explore his journey from fan to front man. Let’s give a big KISS Army welcome to Paul Stephens.

On previous episodes, you may remember a story I told about how I was so close to acquiring a KISS Pinball Machine back in 2011 but another buyer beat me to it. Well KISS Army, here is the guy who bought that pinball machine…our guest and yes, still my friend, Giancarlo Ferrara. 

Born in Madrid, Spain, our guest tonight is an ultra-KISS fan with so many stories to tell.  Claudio had the huge pleasure of meeting Esteban for the very first time during his 2024 summer trip to Madrid when he was invited by Javier Rueda to spend some time in that beautiful country to see the Gene Simmons band. Esteban is not only a die-hard KISS fan but also a true lover of music with thousands of records in his collection. KISS Army, let’s give a warm welcome to Esteban Lopez.

Recently, we did an episode called “But For That One Song”.  The idea was to choose a KISS album we felt was near perfect, except for that one song.  This episode is a twist on that idea.  Based on a series of topics, we will choose “that one song” that changed the course of KISStory and our fandom.

On this episode, we are joined by Cassius Morris where we discuss his musical influences, podcasting, KISS and the state of the music business today. 

On this episode, we will be taking a general look at the bands extensive long form videos, from concert films to documentaries and beyond. We’re going to dive into the bands visual legacy by exploring videos that have captivated fans around the world. 

Our next guest is a Die-Hard KISS fan and talented tribute artist who brings the essence of Paul Stanley to life.  From the iconic make-up to the signature swagger, our guest embodies the spirit and energy of the Starchild.  Let’s talk KISS with Gil Garcia.

We are excited to have our next guest on the show who is not only a Die-Hard KISS fan but also the creator of KISS page that embodies what it means to be a KISS fan.  If that is not enough, he is also the current bassist for the band “River City Rejects”.  Get ready to rock as we dive into the world of KISS fandom, fan page creation and music.  Please welcome our guest, John Carter.

Having worked on glammetal.com and now running a news, concert reviews and interviews website called Backstage Axxess, our next guest is no stranger to fun filled KISS stories.  Topics range from Kollecting, Expo's, KISS Kruises and so much more.  We are proud to welcome Gus Griesinger to our show.

From their self titled debut to Monster, we’ll explore the magic that happens when Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons join forces on vocals.

On the first episode of 2025, we get to know Anthony Lane...his KISS Fandom and his connection to Evan Stanley.  We also surprise Anthony with a special guest who dropped by to say hello.  We are so glad to be back with another fun-filled episode.  Let's start the New Year with our guest...Anthony Lane.