Gene Simmons performs from chair after becoming unwell during KISS concert

Virgin Radio

14 Apr 2023, 13:18

Rock legends KISS paused their concert in Brazil this week, as Gene Simmons temporarily went offstage with a health issue. 

During the show at the Arena da Amazônia in Manaus, which made up part of their End of the Road tour, the bassist and co-lead singer performed from a chair and left the stage. Vocalist and guitarist Paul Stanley explained to the crowd: “We’re gonna have to stop to take care of him. Because we love him, right?”

He added: “Let’s give Gene a really loud cheer. Let’s give Gene a really loud, ‘Gene!’ One, two, three – Gene!”

Stanley then also left to check on his pal, before coming back, as did Simmons, a few minutes later. The gig continued as planned. 

Footage shared on social media also shows Simmons performing from a chair. 

The musician took to Twitter to explain the situation. He wrote: “Ok, kids. Not a big deal. Thanks for your kind wishes. Last night we played Amazon jungle Stadium/Brazil. Humidity and temperature were sky high. I was dehydrated and was forced to sit for a song. We got back on stage in 5 minutes & finished the show. 🤟😎”

The End of the Road shows represent the legendary band’s last tour, having formed all the way back in 1973. The final dates in North America will take place at Madison Square Garden in New York City in December. In a statement, the band said: “KISS was born in New York City. On 23rd Street. Half a century ago. It will be a privilege and an honour to finish touring at Madison Square Garden, 10 blocks and 50 years from where we first started."

Whilst the icons might be almost done with touring, don’t give up all hope of seeing them onstage together again, as they reportedly may still play the occasional one-off concert or festival, or maybe even a Las Vegas residency.

In related news, a KISS biopic, called Shout It Out Loud: KISS is coming to Netflix.