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Created: 17 July 2016

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Peter Criss is a founding member and original drummer for the rock n' roll supergroup, KISS. In addition to playing drums in the band, Peter also provided lead vocals for a number KISS' most popular and memorable songs including Beth, Black Diamond, and Hard Luck Woman. Peter's Catman persona is an instantly recognizable icon in pop culture.

Peter was born Peter George John Criscuola on December 20th, 1945 in Brooklyn, NY. Influenced by the big band sound of the 1940s, Peter idolized the playing style of legendary drummer Gene Krupa, who eventually became instrumental in Peter's musical career. By the early 1970's Peter had established an active and successful career as a musician.

In 1973 Peter Criss formed a trio with fellow New York City musicians Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley who, with the later addition of Ace Frehley, would become KISS. When the bands fourth album, KISS Alive!, hit the scene, KISS began it's ascent to rock n' roll domination. Followed up by the mega-smash album, Destroyer, KISS fans were treated to an unlikely hit in the form of Beth. Initial sales for Destroyer were slow until radio stations started playing Beth, which was originally the B-side of the Detroit Rock City single. Written and performed by Peter Criss, Beth set aside the drums and guitars of the bands typical sound for piano and a string section. Beth went on to become KISS' highest charting single landing at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and was awarded a People's Choice Award. With Beth, Peter Criss opened the door for drummers to come out from behind the drum set and fearlessly show their musical talents as songwriters and singers.

Read more: Feature Artist of the Week : Peter Criss