American rock band Kiss have sold their music catalogue, brand name and likeness to Pophouse, the company behind Abba’s hologram concerts.
Known for their black and white makeup, Kiss have sold their face paint designs to Pophouse in the deal, which is subject to regulatory approval.
Via a press release, plans for a biopic, an avatar show, and a Kiss-themed experience are already in the works. Kiss will play key roles in the development of all these projects, working closely with Pophouse.
“We have always been breaking new ground in popular culture, and this partnership will ensure that we continue to do so for years to come. Because what Pophouse is doing, is breaking rules,” said Gene Simmons, bassist and co-founder of Kiss.
“We already have several plans in development, where the avatar show is one, a biopic another and a Kiss-themed experience a third. The future could not be more exciting!”
Paul Stanley, lead vocalist and co-founder of Kiss, added: “Our journey with Pophouse is fueled by the desire to eternally resonate across diverse facets of global culture.
“As we embark on this venture, we aim to weave our legacy into the tapestry of different worlds, ensuring that the Kiss experience continues to captivate both our devoted fans and those yet to discover the thrill.
“This partnership is not just a chapter; it’s an eternal symphony of rock ‘n’ roll immortality.”
Using cutting-edge technology, Pophouse will create digital versions of Kiss. The project was previewed at the final Kiss show in New York in December 2023.
Kiss avatar concert to open in 2027
Pophouse Entertainment Group was founded by Abba singer Bjorn Ulvaeus. The company’s head of investment, Johan Lagerlöf, said Kiss “redefined the concept of rock shows and have always taken their artistry to new unchartered territories”.
Per Sundin, CEO at Pophouse, said: “Kiss has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and has throughout their 50-year career continued to push the boundaries in popular culture.
“The band’s enigmatic personas, unparalleled band attributes, and iconic imagery have made them a cultural force and a legendary act with multigenerational appeal.
“We will safeguard and enrich this legacy through future global endeavors, by breathing new life into their characters and personas while also leveraging and elevating the visual world of Kiss.”
Pophouse previously acquired Cyndi Lauper‘s music catalogue.
The Kiss hologram concert is currently scheduled to launch in 2027.
