.

: KISS - Lawsuit, Book Deal and Alive IV 


4-24-00 5:15 PM PST antiGUY
A judge has dismissed all of the claims in the lawsuit filed by former KISS guitarist Vinnie Vincent against his old band mates. The suit was filed in July of 1997 and accused  Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of cheating him out of royalty income.  Other parties were also named in the lawsuit including Polygram records.  

Vincent claimed that he had been cheated out 5.5 million in royalties for his work on Creatures of the Night and Lick it Up. The crux of his argument is that despite having co-written many of the songs on these albums his royalty rate was well below those of other band members. In addition, Vincent stated that he was fired from the group because he refused to sign an employment contract. He claims that when he initially disagreed to sign the deal his $2000 a week pay was cut in half and he was forced to live in hotels with addicts and prostitutes.   

The Judge ruling on the case dismissed all of Vincent's claims and held him accountable for $80,000 in court cost.  

Gene Simmons has reportedly signed a publishing contract with Crown Books to pen his autobiography. It is supposed to detail Gene's life from childhood through  his successful music and acting careers.  Entertainment Weekly reports that Gene will get a six figure advance for the project.  
 

Finally, you might have noticed that KISS Alive IV did not hit the stores last week as originally expected. The band has put the release on indefinite hold while they are out on their "Farewell Tour".   

tell a friend about this article