Lessons from a Rock Legend

Gene Simmons Gets Real About Health

GENE SIMMONS, the iconic bassist and co-founder of KISS, has spent decades commanding arenas worldwide. Known for his larger-than-life persona, Simmons is also an advocate for prioritizing health, something he learned the hard way. In this exclusive interview, Simmons shares his journey with atrial fibrillation (AFib), his kidney stone scare and his surprising daily routine. He recently spoke to Healthy Community about his 2006 AFib diagnosis. His story is a wake-up call for everyone to take their health seriously—even if you think you’re invincible.

Can you tell us what happened? 

I never heard of AFib before. Like most people, I thought my exhaustion and irregular heartbeat were just part of the hectic KISS touring lifestyle. But one night, I noticed my heart speeding up and slowing down. It was tough to breathe, and I’d wake up in the middle of the night for no reason. Eventually, a specialist diagnosed me with AFib, and I realized how serious it could get.

Tell us about your treatment.

The procedure they did was fascinating. They monitored my heart remotely while I was asleep. They caught the irregularities and fixed them. Since then, I haven’t had any issues, but it taught me an important lesson —don’t wait for things to get bad before seeing a doctor.

How has being sober impacted your health?

I’ve never been high or drunk in my life. People often think that’s odd for a rock star, but I just never saw the appeal. Alcohol smells bad, and drugs? They ruin your health, drain your wallet, and don’t make you smarter, richer, or better-looking. I’d rather focus on staying sharp and enjoying my life. 

What’s your daily routine like today? 

I’m not a gym guy, but I keep moving throughout the day. I eat sweets occasionally but in moderation. Sleep is a priority—six to eight hours, plus power naps when needed. I believe in balance. It’s not about running marathons; it’s about staying consistent and listening to your body.

What’s your biggest takeaway from these experiences? 

We all think we’re invincible, especially when we’re young. I was no different. I didn’t take aspirin until my late 30s because I never got headaches or colds. But as I got older, I ignored warning signs, like red urine from kidney stones. By the time I saw a doctor, I needed surgery to remove 15 stones. The same goes for AFib. You wouldn’t wait for your car to break down before taking it in for maintenance, right? Your body deserves that same care. Regular checkups can save your life—and your quality of life.

Get your butt off the couch. The life you save might be your own.
Gene’s advice?

• Don’t Wait Until You Feel Sick.
• Know Your Risks: Learn about your family history and potential genetic predispositions.
• Stay Active: Movement is key, but it doesn’t have to be extreme.