Marvel Comics is ready to rock and roll all night after partnering once more with iconic rock band KISS on a line of branded apparel, home goods, and other products.
“Marvel and rock legends KISS join forces on new co-branded collection, KISS x Marvel. Fifth Sun, accessories, and drinkware from Bioworld, home goods from Jay Franco, and posters from Trends International to be released as part of the exciting co-brand,” KISS co-founder Gene Simmons announced in a tweet.
Along with the tweet, Simmons included an illustrated image of KISS with some Marvel heroes, as well as a reimagining of the band’s Destroyer album cover with Marvel superheroes.
“The strength and power of the Marvel Universe has inspired musicians, artists and creative talent for more than 80 years,” said Paul Gitter, senior vice president, Marvel Licensing in an accompanying statement. “Our KISS x Marvel collaboration continues the legacy of working with these amazing rock ‘n’ roll hall of famers, and we are beyond excited to bring fans a loud and proud merchandise collection that screams Marvel style, with rock ‘n’ roll attitude.”
“[It’s] a privilege and an honor to follow up our debut 1978 Marvel relationship, KISS Comics, where we met Spider-Man, Dr. Doom, and the Fantastic Four with this new partnership,” added Simmons and fellow KISS co-founder Paul Stanley. “This is as cool as it gets.”
“We are thrilled to bring these two legendary brands with such a rich history together for this one of a kind collaboration and feel confident that this will generate strong retail success,” said Lisa Streff, external vice president, global licensing, Epic Rights. “The KISS x Marvel co-brand is sure to have something for fans of all ages who love these evergreen giants.”
In the 1970s, KISS and Marvel collaborated on a comic book series with the debut issue printed in ink mixed with the members’ blood. Simmons has also cited Marvel as the influence behind the band’s signature style. His batwing cape was inspired by Black Bolt, while Spider-Man’s webslinging hand pose led to the iconic “rock hands” sign.
For the collaboration, print on demand apparel was quietly released in January 2020, with more unspecified products to follow.
