Kisstory

Kisstory (a portmanteau of "Kiss" and "history") refers to the history, legacy, and mythology surrounding the American rock band Kiss. It encompasses all aspects of the band's career, from its formation in 1973 to its various lineup changes, musical evolution, iconic stage personas and makeup, elaborate live performances, extensive merchandising, and enduring cultural impact.

The term is frequently used by Kiss fans and within the Kiss community to describe discussions, retrospectives, or analysis of the band's past. "Kisstory" can also refer to official or unofficial accounts of the band's history, including biographies, documentaries, and fan-created resources. It may also be used to describe the band's efforts to preserve and promote its own history through archival releases, museum exhibits, and other historical projects. Furthermore, it can be used, at times, to refer to the interpretation and understanding of events related to the band, leading to debated and sometimes contradictory narratives.

A key element of "Kisstory" is the band's deliberate creation and cultivation of its own mythology. This includes carefully crafted backstories for each member's stage persona (The Demon, The Starchild, The Spaceman, and The Catman), exaggerated accounts of their early struggles and triumphs, and a consistent emphasis on their dedication to their fans, known as the "Kiss Army."

Because of the band's long and complex history, involving numerous personnel changes and business ventures, "Kisstory" is often a subject of intense scrutiny and debate among fans. Different perspectives exist regarding the relative merits of various eras of the band, the contributions of different members, and the overall impact of the band's decisions on its legacy.