KISS is an American glam rock/hard rock band formed in New York City in 1973. The group has performed and recorded continuously since their formation. Co-founders Gene Simmons (bassvocals) and Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar and vocals) have been the two constant members throughout the band's history. KISS is known particularly for their use of face-paint, elaborate costumes, and over-the-top stage shows riddled with pyrotechnics. KISS has more Gold Certified Albums than any other American band, and has broken records established by The Beatles. KISS ranked 10th on VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock".

On the first U.S. date, June 17, 1995, former drummer Criss appeared onstage with KISS to sing on "Hard Luck Woman" and on "Nothin' to Lose".

KISS Unplugged 1995 - Eric Singer, Peter Criss, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Paul Stanley, Bruce Kulick

On August 9, 1995, KISS joined the long line of musicians to perform on MTV Unplugged. The band contacted former members Criss and Frehley and invited them to participate in the event. Both joined KISS onstage for several songs at the end of the set: "Beth", "2000 Man", "Nothing to Lose", and "Rock and Roll All Nite".

The Unplugged appearance set off months of speculation that a possible reunion of the original KISS lineup was in the works. In the weeks following the Unplugged concert, however, the band (with Kulick and Singer), returned to the studio for the first time in three years to record Carnival of Souls. The album was completed, but its release was delayed for two years. Bootleg copies of the album circulated widely among fans.