David Ellefson On Ace Frehley: ‘His Passing Is On The Level Of Eddie Van Halen Passing’

Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson has stated that the death of KISS legend Ace Frehley is a loss on par with the passing of Eddie Van Halen, declaring that the iconic “Spaceman” was “that influential.”

Speaking in a new interview with Detroit’s WRIF radio station just two days after Frehley‘s passing, Ellefson explained the unique and profound impact that Frehley and his band had on generations of musicians.

“Ace Frehley passing is on the level of Eddie Van Halen passing. He was that influential — a different guitar player, of course,” Ellefson said (as transcribed by Blabbermouth). He then elaborated on the specific kind of influence they wielded. “Ace and Eddie, they not only made us wanna become musicians, they made us wanna become rock stars. And I think that’s the difference. KISS made you wanna go to the next level.”

Ellefson also shared details of his personal friendship with the late guitarist, a connection that makes the loss even more poignant.

“Ace and I became friends — not close friends. We had each other’s cell phone [numbers]. I’d usually text him every year for his birthday,” he recalled. He also noted that Frehley had played a guest solo on the album from his Altitudes & Attitude project with Anthrax‘s Frank Bello.

For Ellefson, the news is a deeply personal blow, as KISS was the band that started it all for him.

“KISS is the reason I’m even here talking to you,” he stated. “For me, Destroyer was the first record I bought… KISS were my Beatles, in the same way The Beatles were The Beatles for KISS.”

He also took a moment to reflect on the hard-living legacy of his heroes, expressing gratitude for the time they had. “74 Ace Frehley years, that’s like 77 Ozzy Osbourne years,” he mused. “These are guys that were true rock and rollers in every sense. So the fact that our beloved heroes have been with us this long is something, I think, we all should be thankful for as well, ’cause they certainly gave us a lot.”

Ace Frehley passed away on Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74. The news came after reports that he had been hospitalized following a fall in his studio that resulted in a brain bleed. His family confirmed his passing in an emotional statement, saying:  “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.”

“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace‘s memory will continue to live on forever!”