Gene Simmons, the legendary co-founder of KISS and one of rock music's most recognizable performers, will bring his solo band to Wisconsin later this year. Organizers say this is a rare opportunity for fans to see the rock icon up close.
Organizers at the EPIC Event Center in Ashwaubenon have announced that the Gene Simmons Band will perform on November 5, 2026, along with local favorite Bad Habitz.
Organizers described the upcoming show as "one of those nights where you want to tell your friends you were there," emphasizing the intimate setting, a departure from the large-scale stadium shows Simmons became known for during his decades with KISS.
Gene Simmons of KISS performs on stage during a concert at the Wacken Open Air festival. Photo: Axel Heimcken/Picture Alliance via Getty Images.
Tickets for the concert will go on sale on June 5 at 10:00.
Simmons remains one of the most influential figures in the history of rock music. Known worldwide as "The Demon," he helped KISS become one of the biggest bands of the 1970s and subsequent decades.
Along with bandmates Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, Simmons built the group into a worldwide phenomenon through its music, theatrical stage shows, and innovative merchandise empire.
The announcement comes as Simmons continues to tour extensively with The Gene Simmons Band following KISS's farewell tour, which concluded in 2023 after End of the Road world tour .
Although KISS officially ended its touring career in 2023, Simmons shows no signs of slowing down.
The 76-year-old bassist and vocalist continues to perform with The Gene Simmons Band, which includes guitarist Brent Woods, guitarist Zach Throne, and drummer Brian Tichy. The group performs a mix of classic KISS songs, lesser-known selections from the band's repertoire, and select covers.
The Wisconsin concert announcement adds another milestone to a career that has spanned more than five decades.
Chaim Simmons, born in Israel as Chaim Witz, moved to the United States as a child and co-founded KISS in 1973. The band achieved widespread success with albums such as Destroyer , released in 1976, which helped KISS become superstars.
The album became one of the most important recordings in the band's history, containing songs that helped shape the band's distinctive, memorable image and rock sound.
Beyond music, Simmons has established himself as a businessman, television host, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. In 2014, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of KISS, and in 2025, he was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors along with the other KISS founders.
For fans in Wisconsin, the November 5 concert will offer a rare opportunity to see one of rock music's most celebrated figures in a small venue.
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This article was originally published by Parade on June 3, 2026, in the Entertainment section. Add Parade to your list of recommended sources by clicking here.