This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/27/2019
A rare, early KISS original cardboard concert poster for their show at the Hotel Diplomat in New York City on August 10, 1973. This poster came from heavy metal guitarist John Lowery, professionally known as John 5 - former lead guitarist of Marilyn Manson and current lead guitarist of Rob Zombie. John 5 has been featured as an artist on Paul Stanley‘s live to win album as well as Ace Frehley‘s two more recent solo albums. John is also a well-known collector and had his extensive poster collection featured in a Kiss collectors magazine.
This Hotel Diplomat poster originates from John Lowery‘s collection and was originally purchased at the Butterfield‘s KISS auction in 2000 which featured relics from the band's warehouse, including this very early KISS concert poster.
On August 10, 1973 KISS played their second show at the Hotel Diplomat. KISS booked the Diplomat themselves for some of their earliest New York City dates well before the release of their first album.
It was at this very show where they were introduced to Flipside producer Bill Aucoin who became KISS’ manager and within two weeks KISS is signed to Neil Bogart's recently established Casablanca Records.
Bill Aucoin: “When I first saw KISS at the Hotel Diplomat in 1973 they didn't have much of a show. They had the red beacons, a couple of amps. They were wearing black jeans. No one could afford leather. The show was just a regular rock 'n' roll show except they had spontaneity. They wanted to do something different and they wanted it very badly. That kind of devotion is worth more than anything. It's so special and you start picking up on it. I saw that magic in them.”
For this show at the Hotel Diplomat, Paul’s iconic design first appeared in all it's glory. The design of the logo on this 1973 poster is essentially the same design the band uses to this day, warts and all. If you look closely you can see that the lines in the S’s are not quite parallel. Titled the "Rock & Roll Ball" KISS is the main attraction listed on the poster with additional acts Street Punk and Luger. The poster, in very good condition, measures approximately 9 x 16 and has been beautifully matted and framed to measure 18.25 x 24.5. The poster was matted with acid free tape that has not affected the condition of the poster. Comes with a Gotta Have Rock & Roll™ Certificate of Authenticity.