Love Gun is the sixth studio album by American hard rock band Kiss, released in 1977. The album was remastered in 1997. It is notable for being their first album to feature a lead vocal performance from Ace Frehley, making it the first Kiss album to feature lead vocal performances from all four band members. It was also the last studio album to feature Peter Criss on every song, as he was replaced by session drummer Anton Fig for all but one song on 1979's Dynasty.

Album information

A cardboard "Love Gun" (assembly required) was included inside the album, along with a Kiss merchandise order form. Before Love Gun was completed, a Gallup poll indicated that Kiss was the most popular band in the United States, beating Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin and the Eagles. On August 26, 27, and 28 1977, Kiss recorded three shows at the LA Forum for their next release, the live album Alive II.

The album cover was painted by fantasy artist Ken Kelly, who previously contributed the cover for 1976's Destroyer.

"Love Gun" is a song by the American rock band Kiss, first released on their 1977 album of the same name. The B-side is the album track "Hooligan", a song written by drummer Peter Criss.

Paul Stanley, who sings lead vocals on the song, has claimed in several interviews since its release that it is one of his favorite Kiss songs, offering the opinion that ""Love Gun" is quintessential Kiss and is probably one of the five signature essential [Kiss] songs." Stanley has also said that "The Hunter" section of the Led Zeppelin song "How Many More Times" inspired the lyrics of "Love Gun". Stanley plays bass on the track in addition to singing and playing rhythm guitar.

"Love Gun" has been played on every Kiss tour since its release, and has made numerous appearances on Kiss compilation albums, despite the fact that it peaked at only #55 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Cover versions