Former KISS guitarist Ace Frehley is experiencing a career renaissance as he returns to arena stages, practicing harder than ever while maintaining his sobriety of 17 years.
The 72-year-old rock legend's latest album "10,000 Volts" has been met with widespread acclaim, leading to new bookings at major venues including a 9,000-seat arena at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.
"I'm good for another four or five years – easy," Frehley declares, showing no signs of slowing down. While he admits he can't quite match the technical prowess of his 20s, he's adapting his playing style and maintaining a rigorous practice regimen.
"I can't play some of the stuff I played in my 20s," he acknowledges candidly. "But I'm pretty good at faking stuff! Plus, there's different ways of playing things."
The guitarist credits his sustained career to getting sober in 2008. "I wouldn't be here talking to you right now if I didn't get sober 17 years ago," he reflects. "When I talk to young musicians I always tell them, 'Don't fall into the pits I did.'"
His renewed focus extends beyond music - Frehley has invested $200,000 in a home studio and maintains his health through regular workouts with his fiancée, a personal trainer. At 173 pounds, he's in fighting shape for his return to larger venues.
The success of "10,000 Volts" has surprised even Frehley himself. "It was a pleasant surprise," he says. "I had no idea it was gonna be number one on a lot of charts, even if it was only for a few days. That's never happened with one of my solo records."
Looking ahead, Frehley has ambitious plans including scoring sci-fi movies, producing young bands, and pursuing induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist. For now, though, his focus remains on delivering high-voltage performances as he reclaims his place on the arena stage.