Famed Rock Group Kiss Sells Catalog and Brand Name for Over $300 Million
The iconic rock band Kiss has finalized a deal to transfer its catalog, brand name, and other intellectual property to a Swedish entertainment conglomerate for a sum exceeding $300 million.
The purchasing entity, Pophouse Entertainment Group, previously collaborated with Kiss to develop digital avatars of band members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer. These avatars made their debut appearance during Kiss's farewell tour at Madison Square Garden in New York City last December.
Per Sundin, the CEO of Pophouse, revealed that the company has ambitious plans for the Kiss brand, including the production of a biopic, documentary, and interactive experiences such as an avatar show scheduled for 2027. Sundin expressed a desire to introduce Kiss to a new generation of fans.
"We are collaborating closely with Universal and Kiss, although we will have ownership of the artists' rights. This partnership is a joint effort with Kiss," stated Sundin.
Gene Simmons, the band's bassist and lead vocalist, affirmed to the Associated Press that Kiss is fully engaged in this new venture.
"We are constantly in communication. We exchange ideas. It's a partnership. Especially Paul [Stanley] and I, along with the band, are deeply committed to this. It's like our own child," Simmons explained.
Simmons also declared that Kiss will not embark on any future tours.
With finality, the lead singer declared, "There will be no more tours as Kiss. We're done with putting on the makeup and hitting the stage."
