Mike McCready, the renowned guitarist of Pearl Jam, has paid heartfelt tribute to the late Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist of KISS. In a social media post, McCready expressed his profound gratitude for Frehley's influence on his life and career. He shared a poignant story of how Rick Friel, a member of the band Shadow, introduced him to Frehley's music in 1977, sparking a lifelong passion for guitar.
McCready recounted how he joined Rick's band, Warrior, which later became Shadow, and began his musical journey. He covered KISS's iconic song, 'C'mon and Love Me', and was deeply inspired by Frehley's guitar solos. Over the years, he studied Frehley's playing extensively, making him a hero and a friend.
The Pearl Jam guitarist encouraged fans to explore Frehley's influence on the band's music, particularly the song 'Alive', where Frehley's solo serves as a template. He also recalled a memorable moment when Frehley jammed with Pearl Jam at Madison Square Garden, a dream come true for McCready.
In a touching gesture, McCready wrote, 'RIP Ace, you changed my life. Thank you.' This tribute highlights the profound impact of Frehley's music and mentorship on McCready's career. Frehley's death at the age of 74 in Morristown, New Jersey, has left a void in the music industry, as acknowledged by KISS bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, who praised Frehley's essential role in the band's history and legacy.
