Maynard James Keenan recently revealed his most cherished KISS memorabilia in an interview with Rova.
The Tool frontman discussed his favorite possession from his extensive collection of KISS memorabilia. He highlighted a rare piece he’s kept since his teenage years.
“It’s them in their original outfits with smoke around them,” Keenan said when asked about his favorite possession. “I think Peter Criss has a dagger in his hand. It’s the original, original, original first Kiss poster, and I have one. I’ve had it since high school.”
The poster represents one of the earliest promotional materials from the legendary rock band’s career. This makes it a valuable piece of music history.
Keenan’s connection to KISS extends beyond just collecting memorabilia. His appreciation for the iconic rock band has influenced his diverse musical journey throughout his career.
Revolver Magazine reported that Keenan participated in covering KISS songs in collaborative projects. This included a notable 1994 performance with members of Rage Against the Machine and Faith No More. This demonstrates his deep respect for the band’s musical legacy and his willingness to pay tribute to his early influences.
The Tool vocalist’s work showcases versatility and creativity that may have been inspired by early rock bands like KISS. His ability to blend theatrical elements with heavy music in Tool and A Perfect Circle reflects some of the same showmanship that made KISS legendary in the rock world.
Recently, Keenan has been focusing on his Sessanta tour, celebrating his musical legacy across multiple projects. KISS Rocks noted that his tours often highlight his diverse musical influences and experiments. These include nods to classic rock bands that shaped his artistic path.
The preservation of his original KISS poster from high school serves as a tangible reminder of how early rock influences shaped Keenan’s musical tastes. It ultimately contributed to his success as one of rock’s most innovative and respected artists.
