American rock band Kiss has subtly indicated its foray into the metaverse in its latest strategic move.
Concluding their December 2 final live show in New York as part of their farewell tour, Kiss left the audience with the slogan “A new era begins.” Adjacent to the slogan was a QR code leading fans to a website, revealing Kiss’s transformation into avatars destined to “rock forever.”
The dedicated web page showcases a video wherein Kiss members seamlessly transition into avatars using cutting-edge capture technology from the visual effects company Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). This technology meticulously captures and replicates every nuance of the members’ facial and bodily performances in the virtual realm.
In the video, Gene Simmons expressed his excitement for the future, stating, “We can live on eternally,” emphasizing that the band’s continuity is tethered to the ownership fans hold over it.
While specific details about avatar use and their virtual space remain undisclosed, the video hints at a potential virtual performance within the metaverse.
The webpage also introduces the “Kiss Digital Pass,” a token fans can claim and add to their Google or Apple wallet to access upcoming exclusive benefits.
This move follows Gene Simmons’ March 2022 filing of six trademark applications for variations of his iconic money bag logo, signaling his intent to explore the metaverse.
The metaverse is increasingly viewed as a transformative space for the music industry, offering fans new and immersive experiences. Today, the estate of Notorious B.I.G. announced a collaboration with Warner Music Group and The Sandbox metaverse, introducing “Breakin’ B.I.G.,” a virtual homage featuring themed experiences, quests, and a distinctive avatar collection.
