Custom Star Guitar Formerly Owned by Paul Stanley
This 1980 custom rhinestone-covered Star guitar was used by Paul Stanley of the band KISS.
Created by luthier Steve Carr specifically for KISS lead vocalist and guitarist Paul Stanley (b. 1952), the guitar’s body is shaped to match the star-shaped make-up Stanley wore as his band persona “Starchild.” The headstock is embellished with an image of Stanley holding the guitar over his head. In concert, Stanley could spin the guitar above him with the use of specialized mounts installed in the guitar’s base. This guitar was used during the 1980-81 Unmasked Tour for band photography and never played onstage. Duplicate models were produced for live performances.
Formed in New York City in 1973, KISS was founded by Paul Stanley (vocals and guitar), Gene Simmons (vocals and bass), Ace Frehley (vocals and lead guitar), and Peter Criss (vocals and drums). Alongside the memorable stage costumes, KISS was known for their live performances, often including grand pyrotechnics, blood-spitting and fire breathing. Ten years after their formation, the band started performing without make-up and their signature costumes, starting the band’s “unmasked era” that lasted over a decade. The band would have different members over the years, with Stanley and Simmons as the only consistent members. KISS is one of the best-selling Rock bands ever, with more than 75 million records worldwide, and a KISS Army of fans in the millions.
Electric guitar with a rhinestone covered body in the shape of a star. The center of the head stock has an image of P. Stanley holding the guitar over his head. At the top of the guitar is the name "Steve Carr," the maker of the guitar. On a metal plate at the base of the headstock, Stanley's signature is etched.
