Ace Frehley’s Posthumous Chart Triumph: “New York Groove” Surges to Billboard Top 10

By Zoe Papadakis | Thursday, 30 October 2025 11:24 AM EDT

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and occasional vocalist for KISS, achieved a posthumous milestone as his 1978 solo track “New York Groove” climbed to No. 4 on the Rock Digital Song Sales chart this week. The song’s sales surged by over 250% following Frehley’s death on Oct. 16 at age 74, marking his highest solo placement in years.

The increase followed a wave of fan support and streaming activity after news of the musician’s passing. Frehley died from complications stemming from a fall in his home recording studio that caused a brain bleed. His condition worsened in the weeks following the accident, leading to his death at 74.

KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley honored Frehley in a statement, calling him an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” during the band’s formative years. Former KISS member Peter Criss also praised Frehley’s influence on the music industry and his enduring legacy.

The renewed interest extended to other KISS songs, including “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” which reentered charts and climbed to No. 5 on the Hard Rock Digital Song Sales chart.

Frehley’s version of “New York Groove,” originally recorded by British band Hello in 1975, became a signature piece during his solo career.