GENE SIMMONS Sounds Off At Touring Conference Keynote

November 20, 2008

According to Billboard.com, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons said during a keynote address today (November 20) at the fifth annual Billboard Touring Conference, held at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York, that the band is currently working out future tour details. "We've been talking with [manager Doc McGhee] about Europe and then doing a year-long tour maybe this coming summer, but we'll see," Simmons said. "KISS and QUEEN, that would be a smash. That would kill. So far (it's) 50/50."

During the address, Simmons, who is also a reality TV star and entrepreneur, stressed the duties of being a live performer. "I don't care if you're Axl Rose, forgot to tie your shoelaces or your father molested you when you were three — you're a bitch if you don't show up onstage when it says 9 o'clock," he said, drawing loud applause from the audience.

"You need to have the integrity and self-respect to respect the promoter who paid you the money in advance, the hall and the people who makes all our lives possible," he continued.

Read more from Billboard.com.

Gene Simmons rang the opening bell on the New York Stock Exchange early Wednesday morning (November 19). Watch video footage of his appearance below.

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