Gene Simmons Defends $12K “Ultimate Experience” For Fans
Gene Simmons is offering fans the chance of a lifetime — but it comes with a hefty price tag. The KISS bassist and co-lead singer, 75, is standing by his decision to charge more than $12,000 for “The Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience,” where one lucky fan gets to be his personal assistant and band roadie for a day.
In a March 25 interview with the New York Post, Gene defended the price, explaining that he always wondered what it was like to be behind the scenes of a major show when he was younger. “When I was a kid and went to see shows, I was always curious, ‘What’s it like when they’re in a hotel? What’s it like when the stage is set up? What’s it like being onstage when they’re performing and seeing the audience from the stage?’” he shared.
With that in mind, he decided to give fans a chance to experience it firsthand. “…Nobody’s ever done it. Why not open the idea to be my personal roadie for the day?” he said.
The experience is packed with perks. The lucky fan, who can bring a friend, will meet Gene at his hotel for breakfast (or whatever meal they prefer) before riding with him to the gig. Once at the venue, they’ll help set up amplifiers and drums, watch soundcheck, and spend time backstage. “You’re onstage, right offstage to my right. You can video the crowds, whatever. And I pull you onstage to sing a song with me,” Gene revealed.
And that’s not all — the fan will also take home a bass guitar signed by Gene himself. The experience costs $12,495 plus the original ticket price and is available to only one fan per venue.
Earlier this month, Gene launched several exclusive experiences on his website, all designed to give fans a closer look at his world. In addition to the roadie package, he is offering “The Gene Simmons Bass Experience,” where a fan and three guests can meet him backstage. This package includes a bass guitar, which can be signed and personalized. A “non-stage-played” bass costs $6,500, while one Gene has played on stage runs for $12,500, plus the ticket price.
