KISS Co-Founder Ace Frehley Exposed His 1 Regret About His Solo Hit ‘New York Groove’

The Untold Story Behind Ace Frehley’s Solo Hit ‘New York Groove’

Ace Frehley, best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the iconic rock band KISS, left an indelible mark on music history with his 1978 solo hit “New York Groove.” Released as part of his self-titled solo album, the song became a standout success among the solo projects of all four KISS members that year. Despite the song’s popularity and lasting legacy, Frehley recently opened up about a surprising regret he harbored regarding the track.

In 1978, each member of KISS—Ace Frehley, Peter Criss, Gene Simmons, and Paul Stanley—launched solo albums simultaneously. Among these, Frehley’s album was the only one to produce a hit single, with “New York Groove” climbing to No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics captured the essence of New York City, a fitting tribute given Frehley’s roots in the Bronx.

However, in an interview shortly before his passing at age 74, Frehley revealed that he did not actually write “New York Groove.” Instead, the song was penned by British songwriter Russ Ballard and originally performed by the London band Hello. Frehley expressed a wistful regret about this fact, joking that had he written the song himself, he would have earned significantly more royalties.

How ‘New York Groove’ Came to Life and Its Connection to Ace Frehley

The story behind “New York Groove” begins with Russ Ballard, who wrote the song during a flight to New York. Inspired by the idea of returning to the city and capturing its unique vibe, Ballard jotted down the phrase “back in the New York groove,” which eventually became the song’s title and central theme. The original version by Hello found success in the UK, Germany, and Austria, but it was Frehley’s rendition that brought the song mainstream recognition in the United States.

Frehley admitted he had never heard Hello’s version before recording his own. The decision to include “New York Groove” on his solo album was driven by a need for a commercially appealing track. Recorded at Plaza Sound Studios above Radio City Music Hall, the session was memorable not only for the music but also for the view of the Rockettes sunbathing on the rooftop.

Despite the song’s success, Frehley maintained a humble attitude about the achievement. He didn’t see it as a competition with his bandmates but rather a fortunate outcome. Interestingly, he rarely listened to the other KISS members’ solo albums, once turning off Gene Simmons’ cover of “When You Wish Upon a Star” shortly after starting it.

The Lasting Impact of ‘New York Groove’ and Ace Frehley’s Legacy

“New York Groove” remains one of Russ Ballard’s most successful compositions, praised for its simplicity and catchy melody. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its frequent use at New York sporting events, particularly by the New York Mets, who play it after home victories.

For Ace Frehley, the success of “New York Groove” was more than just a chart-topping hit; it was a pivotal moment in his career. In a 1980 interview, he credited the song’s popularity with helping him gain confidence and assertiveness within KISS. This newfound strength eventually led to his departure from the band in 1982 after nine years of groundbreaking work.

Although Frehley briefly reunited with KISS for a 1996 reunion tour and appeared with the band as recently as 2018, “New York Groove” remains a defining highlight of his solo career. His candid reflections on the song reveal a mix of pride and wistfulness, underscoring the complex emotions tied to his musical journey.

Conclusion

Ace Frehley’s solo hit “New York Groove” is a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with fans worldwide. While Frehley’s one regret was not having written the song himself, his passionate performance made it an unforgettable classic. If you’re a fan of rock history or KISS, exploring the story behind “New York Groove” offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistry and legacy of one of rock’s most iconic guitarists. Don’t miss out—dive deeper into Ace Frehley’s music and celebrate the enduring spirit of rock ‘n’ roll today!