When it comes to legendary rock guitarists, few names resonate as powerfully as Ace Frehley, the Spaceman who helped define the sound of KISS and carved out an impressive solo career. Throughout his decades-spanning journey in rock music, Ace Frehley has delivered electrifying riffs, unforgettable solos, and songs that have become anthems for generations of rock fans. From his groundbreaking work with KISS to his critically acclaimed solo albums, Frehley’s catalog showcases a master guitarist at the peak of his creative powers. This comprehensive list celebrates the 20 best Ace Frehley songs that have solidified his status as one of rock’s most influential figures, including tracks from his recent releases that prove he’s still got the magic.
New York Groove
“New York Groove” stands as Ace Frehley’s signature solo hit and remains one of the most recognizable songs of his entire career. Released in 1978 as part of his self-titled solo album during the KISS solo albums project, this Russ Ballard cover became a Top 15 hit and introduced millions to Frehley’s capabilities beyond KISS. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy chorus, and Ace’s distinctive guitar work transformed it into a timeless classic that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of New York City nightlife. The track showcased Frehley’s ability to deliver radio-friendly rock without sacrificing his signature sound, proving he could hold his own as a solo artist.
Shock Me
Written and sung by Ace Frehley for KISS’s 1977 album “Love Gun,” “Shock Me” marked a pivotal moment in his career as his first lead vocal performance with the band. The song was inspired by a real-life incident where Frehley received an electric shock from his guitar during a concert in Lakeland, Florida, turning a dangerous moment into rock and roll gold. Featuring one of Ace’s most celebrated guitar solos, “Shock Me” combines heavy riffs with melodic sensibility, creating a perfect showcase for his technical prowess and songwriting abilities. The track became a fan favorite and remains a staple in both KISS and Ace Frehley’s solo concert setlists.
Rip It Out
The opening track from Ace Frehley’s 1978 solo album, “Rip It Out” explodes with raw energy and establishes the hard-rocking tone that would define his solo career. Co-written with Sue Muck, the song features aggressive guitar work, driving rhythms, and Ace’s gritty vocal delivery that perfectly complements the rebellious lyrics. This track demonstrates Frehley’s ability to craft straightforward rock anthems that hit hard and leave a lasting impression, with a guitar tone that’s become his trademark. The song’s relentless pace and memorable hooks make it an essential part of any exploration into Ace’s musical legacy.
Rocket Ride
Featured on KISS’s “Alive II” album from 1977, “Rocket Ride” is pure Ace Frehley magic wrapped in a space-age package that perfectly aligned with his Spaceman persona. The song features suggestive lyrics delivered with Ace’s characteristic charm, while the guitar work showcases his ability to blend melody with hard rock edge. With its cosmic theme and driving rhythm, “Rocket Ride” became a fan favorite and demonstrated Frehley’s growing confidence as both a songwriter and vocalist within KISS. The track’s combination of humor, heaviness, and technical skill exemplifies why Ace became such an integral part of KISS’s golden era.
Parasite
One of Ace Frehley’s earliest songwriting contributions to KISS, “Parasite” appeared on the band’s 1974 album “Hotter Than Hell” and remains a testament to his raw talent. The song features one of the most iconic guitar riffs in KISS history, with Frehley’s lead work cutting through the mix with precision and power. Though Gene Simmons handled the lead vocals, the song is unmistakably Ace’s creation, showcasing his ability to write heavy, blues-influenced rock that would become a blueprint for his later work. The aggressive energy and memorable hooks of “Parasite” helped establish KISS’s sound during their formative years.
Into the Night
From his 1987 comeback album “Frehley’s Comet,” “Into the Night” represented Ace’s return to form after a period away from the spotlight. The song features the melodic sensibility that Ace had perfected over the years, combined with the harder edge that defined 1980s rock music. With its soaring chorus and expertly crafted guitar lines, “Into the Night” proved that Frehley hadn’t lost his touch during his time away from KISS. The track became a favorite among fans who had been waiting for new material from the Space Ace, delivering both nostalgia and fresh energy.
Ozone
Released in 2014 on the album “Space Invader,” “Ozone” demonstrates that Ace Frehley’s creative fire was still burning bright well into the 21st century. The song combines classic Frehley guitar tones with modern production values, creating a bridge between his legendary past and his continued relevance. Lyrically, “Ozone” touches on environmental themes while maintaining the rock and roll attitude that has always characterized Ace’s work. The track features the kind of memorable guitar hooks and solid songwriting that remind listeners why Frehley remains a respected figure in rock music decades after his initial rise to fame.
Fractured Mirror
An instrumental showcase from Ace’s 1978 solo album, “Fractured Mirror” reveals the guitarist’s softer, more introspective side while displaying his versatility beyond hard rock. The gentle acoustic guitar melody creates an intimate atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the heavier material on the album, proving Ace’s range as a musician. This beautiful piece demonstrates Frehley’s understanding of dynamics and composition, showing he could create emotional depth without relying on volume or aggression. “Fractured Mirror” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the artistic depth lurking beneath the Space Ace’s wild stage persona.
Rock Soldiers
The title track from Frehley’s Comet’s 1987 album, “Rock Soldiers” became an anthem for Ace’s comeback and resonated with fans who had followed his journey. The song addresses themes of perseverance and dedication to rock and roll, with lyrics that spoke to both Frehley’s personal struggles and triumphs. Musically, “Rock Soldiers” delivers everything fans expect from an Ace Frehley track: powerful riffs, a memorable chorus, and guitar work that walks the line between technical proficiency and raw emotion. The track helped re-establish Frehley as a force in rock music during the late 1980s.
Breakout
Featured on KISS’s 1983 album “Lick It Up,” “Breakout” was one of Ace Frehley’s final contributions to the band before his initial departure. The song showcases Frehley’s ability to craft radio-friendly hard rock without compromising his signature sound. With its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm, “Breakout” demonstrated that Ace remained a vital creative force within KISS even as the band was undergoing significant changes. The track’s energetic delivery and memorable hooks made it a standout on an album that marked a new era for KISS.
Spaceman
From his 2014 album “Space Invader,” the title track “Spaceman” serves as both a celebration of Ace’s iconic persona and a declaration of his enduring identity. The song features classic Frehley guitar tones combined with lyrics that embrace his legendary status as KISS’s Space Ace. Musically, “Spaceman” delivers the kind of hard-hitting rock that fans expect, with riffs that recall his classic work while maintaining contemporary relevance. This track proves that Ace Frehley knows exactly who he is and isn’t afraid to celebrate the character that made him a rock icon.
Toys
A deeper cut from Ace’s 1978 solo album, “Toys” showcases his ability to craft songs with both melodic appeal and rock credibility. The track features layered guitar work and a memorable chorus that demonstrates Frehley’s understanding of song structure and arrangement. While not as commercially successful as some of his other work, “Toys” remains a favorite among dedicated fans who appreciate Ace’s more nuanced songwriting efforts. The song’s blend of hard rock energy and pop sensibility exemplifies the versatility that made Ace’s solo album such a critical and commercial success.
Mission to Mars
Another gem from “Space Invader,” “Mission to Mars” continues Ace’s exploration of space themes while delivering solid rock and roll. The song features the kind of cosmic imagery that has always been associated with Frehley’s persona, paired with guitar work that’s both technically impressive and immediately accessible. Lyrically, “Mission to Mars” embraces the sci-fi elements that have become synonymous with the Spaceman character while maintaining the rock edge that defines all of Ace’s best work. The track demonstrates that even in his later career, Frehley could still create compelling material that honored his legacy while pushing forward.
Dolls
Featured on Frehley’s Comet’s second album “Second Sighting” from 1988, “Dolls” showcased Ace’s continued evolution as a songwriter and performer. The song combines hard rock aggression with melodic hooks, creating a track that appealed to both longtime fans and new listeners discovering his post-KISS work. With its driving rhythm and memorable guitar lines, “Dolls” exemplifies the sound that made Frehley’s Comet a successful venture during the late 1980s. The track’s production captures the era’s sonic aesthetic while maintaining the timeless quality that defines Ace’s best compositions.
Strange Ways
One of Ace Frehley’s most atmospheric contributions to KISS, “Strange Ways” appeared on the 1976 album “Destroyer” and stands out for its eerie, haunting quality. The song features a distinctive guitar sound achieved through experimentation with effects, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that perfectly complements the mysterious lyrics. Vocally, Ace delivers one of his most memorable performances, with his voice adding to the track’s unsettling yet captivating vibe. “Strange Ways” demonstrates Frehley’s willingness to experiment and push beyond conventional rock structures, resulting in one of KISS’s most unique and enduring songs.
Gimme a Feelin’
From Frehley’s Comet’s debut album, “Gimme a Feelin'” delivers pure rock and roll energy with Ace’s signature guitar work taking center stage. The song features the kind of straightforward, hard-hitting approach that characterized much of Ace’s solo work during this period. With its infectious rhythm and memorable chorus, “Gimme a Feelin'” became a concert favorite and demonstrated that Frehley could still create compelling rock music outside the KISS framework. The track’s energy and accessibility made it a strong representation of what Frehley’s Comet had to offer during their brief but impactful run.
Cherry Medicine
Released on the 2018 album “Spaceman,” “Cherry Medicine” shows that Ace Frehley’s songwriting remained sharp and relevant in the modern rock landscape. The song combines classic rock elements with contemporary production, creating a track that feels both familiar and fresh. Lyrically playful and musically tight, “Cherry Medicine” features the kind of guitar work that has defined Ace’s career while proving he hadn’t become stuck in nostalgia. The track demonstrates Frehley’s ability to adapt to changing times without sacrificing the core elements that made him a legend, making it a standout from his recent catalog. For fans exploring the evolution of guitar-driven rock across different eras, this collection of songs provides valuable context.
Wiped Out
Another strong track from Ace’s 1978 solo album, “Wiped Out” showcases his ability to blend humor with hard rock attitude. The song features the kind of riff-driven approach that became Ace’s trademark, with guitar tones that cut through the mix with clarity and power. Lyrically, “Wiped Out” maintains the lighthearted approach that made much of Ace’s solo work so accessible, while the musical backing delivers the heaviness that rock fans crave. The track serves as a perfect example of how Frehley balanced commercial appeal with artistic credibility during his peak creative period.
Bronx Boy
Featured on the 2016 album “Origins Vol. 1,” Ace Frehley’s “Bronx Boy” is an original track that stands alongside the album’s collection of covers. The song pays homage to Frehley’s roots growing up in the Bronx, with lyrics that reflect on his journey from New York streets to rock stardom. Musically, “Bronx Boy” delivers classic Ace Frehley guitar work with production that honors his vintage sound while maintaining modern clarity. The track demonstrates that even in his seventies, Frehley could still write compelling original material that resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. When considering the quality of your listening experience for these classic tracks, exploring options through our headphones comparison can enhance your appreciation of Frehley’s intricate guitar work.
Rockin’ with the Boys
From “Space Invader,” “Rockin’ with the Boys” is a celebration of the rock and roll lifestyle that Ace Frehley has embodied throughout his career. The song features straightforward lyrics about life on the road and the camaraderie of being in a rock band, themes that Frehley knows intimately. Musically, the track delivers exactly what its title promises: high-energy rock with prominent guitar work and an anthemic chorus designed for crowd participation. “Rockin’ with the Boys” showcases Ace’s ability to create feel-good rock songs that don’t require deep analysis to enjoy, just a love of guitar-driven music and rock and roll spirit.
Immortal Pleasures
Released on the 2020 album “Spaceman,” “Immortal Pleasures” represents some of Ace Frehley’s most recent studio work and proves his creative well hasn’t run dry. The song combines elements from throughout Ace’s career, featuring his trademark guitar tone alongside lyrics that reflect on life, legacy, and the pursuit of pleasure. Musically sophisticated yet immediately accessible, “Immortal Pleasures” demonstrates that Frehley continues to evolve as an artist while maintaining the core sound that made him famous. The track serves as evidence that age hasn’t diminished Ace’s abilities as either a guitarist or songwriter, and it stands as a worthy addition to his impressive catalog. For those who want to experience these powerful tracks with optimal audio quality on the go, checking out our earbuds comparison can help you find the perfect listening solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ace Frehley’s biggest solo hit?
“New York Groove” is unquestionably Ace Frehley’s biggest solo hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1978. The song became Frehley’s signature track outside of KISS and remains his most commercially successful solo effort. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple of classic rock radio and a must-play song at every Ace Frehley concert.
Did Ace Frehley write songs for KISS?
Yes, Ace Frehley wrote or co-wrote numerous songs during his tenure with KISS, including classics like “Shock Me,” “Rocket Ride,” “Parasite,” and “Strange Ways.” While he was not as prolific a songwriter as Gene Simmons or Paul Stanley, Frehley’s contributions were essential to KISS’s sound and include some of the band’s most beloved tracks. His songwriting often brought a unique perspective and guitar-driven approach that differentiated his compositions from those of his bandmates.
Is Ace Frehley still making new music?
Yes, Ace Frehley continues to record and release new music, with his most recent studio album “10,000 Volts” released in 2024. Prior to that, he released “Origins Vol. 2” in 2020 and “Spaceman” in 2018, demonstrating his continued commitment to creating new material. Despite being in his seventies, Frehley remains active in the studio and on tour, delivering new music that honors his legacy while showing he’s still a vital creative force.
What makes Ace Frehley’s guitar playing unique?
Ace Frehley’s guitar playing is characterized by his distinctive tone, melodic sensibility, and the perfect balance between technical proficiency and emotional expression. His use of Les Paul guitars combined with his particular approach to effects created a signature sound that’s instantly recognizable. Frehley’s playing style emphasizes memorable riffs and solos that serve the song rather than overwhelming it, making his work both accessible to casual listeners and respected by guitar enthusiasts.
Which Ace Frehley album should I start with?
For newcomers to Ace Frehley’s solo work, the 1978 self-titled album “Ace Frehley” is the ideal starting point, as it contains his biggest hits and best showcases his abilities. Alternatively, “Space Invader” from 2014 provides an excellent introduction to his later work and demonstrates his continued relevance. Both albums feature strong songwriting, excellent guitar work, and the personality that has made Ace a beloved figure in rock music for decades.