5 Great KISS Songs That Peter Criss Sang On

KISS is a band mostly known for its iconic makeup, explosive stage shows, and a few catchy rock anthems. While the primary vocal duties were often held by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, the band’s original drummer, brought a unique voice to several of their tracks. His raspy, soulful voice added a different dimension to the band’s sound, helping to create a few standout moments in the KISS catalog. Here are five songs where Peter Criss’s vocals truly shined, showcasing his underrated talent in a band full of larger-than-life personalities.

5. Hooligan

The song “Hooligan” has a backstory as interesting as its sound. Featured on the 1977 album “Love Gun,” the song delves into Peter Criss’s rough early days. He was once part of a gang in Brooklyn, and his grandmother would affectionately call him a “hooligan,” a nod that Criss carried into his music career. Despite its presence in live shows during the “Love Gun” tour, “Hooligan” didn’t make it to the live album “Alive II,” leaving its studio version a gem for fans who delve into the album cuts. The song captures Criss’s gritty storytelling, wrapped in the typical KISS mix of upbeat, hard rock energy and catchy chorus lines. It’s a number that not only tells a personal story but also embodies the rebellious spirit of KISS.

4. Strange Ways

Another hidden jewel sung by Peter Criss is “Strange Ways,” which appears on KISS’s second album, “Hotter Than Hell.” Released in 1974, the song shows a heavier side of KISS, one that borders on the doom-laden stylistics of bands like Black Sabbath. The lore goes that Peter Criss wanted a drum solo in the middle of “Strange Ways,” threatening to quit if it wasn’t included. Ultimately, the song remained without the solo, yet it stands out for its dark, moody guitar work and Criss’s compelling vocal delivery. The track is further enriched by one of Ace Frehley’s most impressive but often overlooked guitar solos, creating a perfect storm of early KISS aggression and artistry.

3. Beth

Perhaps the most famous song sung by Peter Criss is “Beth.” This ballad, featured on the 1976 album “Destroyer,” is a stark contrast to KISS’s usual hard-rocking style. Originally entitled “Beck,” it was written during Criss’s time with the band Chelsea, about a band member’s girlfriend. It was later reshaped and renamed for inclusion on “Destroyer.” The result was a touching, symphonic ballad that reached number seven on the charts, becoming one of KISS’s highest-charting singles. The song garnered widespread acclaim, even winning a People’s Choice Award in 1977. “Beth” showcases Criss’s ability to deliver emotional and softer vocals, highlighting his versatility beyond the typical rock drummer role.

2. Hard Luck Woman

“Hard Luck Woman” is a song that could have been sung by Rod Stewart but found its perfect place with Peter Criss. Included in the 1976 album “Rock and Roll Over,” it’s penned by Paul Stanley as a tribute to the raspy-voiced Stewart. However, it’s Criss’s vocal performance that shines, bringing a heartfelt and raw energy that complements the acoustic setting of the song. Criss’s voice carries a tinge of vulnerability mixed with a rough edge, perfectly suiting the song’s lyrics about a down-on-luck lady. The track stands out in KISS’s catalog not just for its style but for how it showcases the band’s, and specifically Criss’s, musical range.

1. Black Diamond

“Black Diamond” ends the debut album “KISS,” released in 1974, on a powerful note. Though Paul Stanley starts the song, Peter Criss quickly takes over, transforming the track into a hard-hitting rock anthem. The lyrics tell the tale of a life worn down by hard times, mirrored by the song’s gritty composition and Criss’s impassioned vocal delivery. As a closing number in many KISS concerts, “Black Diamond” became synonymous with explosive showmanship—complete with pyrotechnics and Criss’s rising drum riser. This song not only highlights Criss’s dynamic vocal ability but also encapsulates the dramatic flair that made KISS a legendary live act.