In a recent episode of Steve-O's Wild Ride podcast, Kiss's frontman Paul Stanley, offered a candid look into the band's history of relationships with groupies. Surprisingly, Stanley described these interactions as "wholesome" and much more than just fleeting encounters. He reflected on how these connections were marked by a genuine love of music and camaraderie that transcended typical expectations.
Addressing Kiss's well-known reputation for backstage antics, Stanley clarified (via Metal Hammer): "I don't think we promoted ourselves for what was going on backstage or at hotels. It just was common knowledge… people were just seeing what was going on." He added with a smile, "It was terrific. What a great, great life. It's everything that people imagine it to be and more."
For Stanley, these experiences often included more than just wild nights, describing them as much deeper connections: "The interesting thing was for all the girls, groupies, young women, whatever they were, it was really kind of, no pun intended, wholesome. They were there because they loved music. And they would travel with you. They would do your laundry. You'd go to the movies with them. There was nothing tawdry about it. It was companionship. And they loved music. And I loved them. So it was a good tradeoff."
When the podcast host, Steve-O, playfully asked who "takes the cake" for the most groupies—Stanley or Kiss bassist Gene Simmons — Stanley answered with a grin, "It depends on what you consider cake," leaving the rest to listeners' imaginations.
Steve-O also touched on the honesty in these casual encounters, suggesting that a one-night stand could sometimes be more forthright than a commitment without real intent. Stanley agreed, noting that "different circumstances call for different behavior."
He explained further explained: "The women who would come to shows weren't coming there to be courted. You have tonight and we all know that. You know that and I know that. And it was very simple. And nobody got hurt. Nobody ever walked away feeling disrespected or diminished."
Stanley summed up their approach as one based on transparency: "We were very upfront and they were very upfront. They were there for a certain reason. So I don't think anybody was deceiving anybody. And that's why it was so much fun because it was uncomplicated. You know, whatever your relationship is with anybody, hopefully, it's uncomplicated, whether it's somebody you're involved with for a night or for a lifetime.
