Marty Friedman, the legendary guitarist of Megadeth, had a brief stint with KISS in the early 1990s. This article delves into the reasons behind his short tenure and what could have been if he had stayed longer.

The Background

After the release of Megadeth‘s ‘Rust in Peace’, Marty Friedman decided to leave the band. He cited creative differences and a desire to explore other musical avenues as his reasons for departure. It was during this time that he received a call from Gene Simmons, the bassist of KISS, asking him to audition for the band.

The Audition

Friedman has spoken highly of his experience auditioning for KISS. He has stated that he was treated with great respect and was given the opportunity to play with the band for several days. Friedman has also praised Gene Simmons for his professionalism and kindness during the audition process.

The Decision

Despite Friedman’s positive experience during the audition, he ultimately decided not to join KISS. The main reason for this decision was his desire to focus on his solo career. Friedman had already begun working on his debut solo album, ‘Dragon’s Kiss‘, and did not want to put it on hold to join another band.

What Could Have Been

If Marty Friedman had decided to join KISS, it could have potentially changed the course of the band’s history. Friedman’s unique playing style and musical influences could have brought a fresh perspective to KISS‘s sound. Additionally, his involvement could have attracted new fans to the band, particularly those from the heavy metal community.

Conclusion

Marty Friedman‘s short-lived stint with KISS serves as a reminder that even the most talented musicians can have differing creative visions. While Friedman’s decision to pursue his solo career was the right one for him, it is intriguing to think about what could have been if he had joined KISS. As fans, we can only speculate on the potential sound and direction the band would have taken with Friedman on board.

For more information on Marty Friedman‘s career and his experiences with KISS, check out our in-depth interviews and articles on the subject. Let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below!