KISS is best known for loud guitars, heavy makeup, and explosive live shows. Songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City” helped define their image as a hard-rock band. That’s why “Beth”, a soft and emotional ballad, has always stood out as something special — and unexpected.
Released in 1976 on the album Destroyer, “Beth” became KISS’s biggest hit in the United States, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. More than 45 years later, fans still love the song. But the story of how “Beth” was created remains controversial, especially after new comments from Gene Simmons reopened old wounds.
Why “Beth” Was So Different
Unlike most KISS songs, “Beth” does not feature loud guitars or heavy drums. Instead, it uses piano, strings, and a gentle vocal performance by drummer Peter Criss. The lyrics read like a heartfelt letter to a loved one left waiting at home while the band is on tour.
Because of its softer sound, many people were surprised that it came from KISS at all. Some radio stations even hesitated to play it at first. But once it caught on, “Beth” connected deeply with listeners and helped show a more emotional side of the band.
Who Is Officially Credited for the Song?
On paper, “Beth” is credited to Peter Criss, Stan Penridge, and Bob Ezrin.
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Stan Penridge was a songwriter and guitarist who played with Criss in a band called Chelsea before KISS.
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Bob Ezrin was the producer of Destroyer and played a huge role in shaping the song’s final version.
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Peter Criss sang the song and has long been associated with it in the public’s mind.
However, being credited does not always mean everyone contributed equally — and that’s where the debate begins.
Gene Simmons Rewrites the Narrative
In a recent interview on the Professor of Rock podcast, Gene Simmons made strong claims about the song’s origins. According to Simmons, Peter Criss “had nothing to do with writing” the song, despite his name appearing in the credits.
Simmons explained that the song started as a rough idea called “Beck.” Criss reportedly hummed a melody but could not explain the chords or structure. Simmons says the song was then handed to producer Bob Ezrin, who helped turn it into a complete composition.
Simmons also claims that Stan Penridge was the real songwriter behind the core idea, and that Criss’s name was included due to past agreements rather than actual songwriting work.
One of Simmons’s most controversial statements is his belief that drummers do not write songs, arguing that rhythm alone cannot be copyrighted as songwriting. This opinion has angered many fans and musicians, who believe drums are just as important to a song’s identity.
Bob Ezrin’s Key Role
What almost everyone agrees on is the importance of Bob Ezrin. Ezrin transformed the early version of the song into the emotional ballad fans know today. He added piano and orchestral strings, taking inspiration from classic songs like the Beatles’ “Yesterday.”
Ezrin has said he wanted to bring out the sadness and vulnerability in the song, which helped make “Beth” feel timeless and universal.
A Song With Many Stories
Over the years, different versions of the “Beth” story have emerged. Peter Criss has said the song reflected his own experiences on the road. Other band members have quietly questioned his involvement. Criss even refused to allow the song to be used in certain KISS documentaries, showing how sensitive the topic remains.
Why “Beth” Still Matters
No matter who wrote what, “Beth” changed KISS forever. It proved the band could succeed outside hard rock and connect emotionally with a wider audience. It also remains one of the most recognizable songs in their catalog.