http://www.cbc.ca/thehour The Gene Simmons you know now - cuddly TV dad, savvy businessman and rock star is pretty different from the Gene Simmons that rose to fame in the 70's. Back then, KISS freaked people out - big time. They sold millions of records and toured endlessly - sweating it out in greasepaint and leather. But KISS are more than just a band, they're a brand. KISS fans can buy t-shirts, comic books, toys, even a Kiss Koffin. The marketing of KISS changed the music biz and the resident genius-slash-showman is Gene. He might breathe fire and spit blood but he's also got his warm and fuzzy side. He's been happily "unmarried" to Shannon Tweed for more than 20 years. They have a son Nick, a daughter Sophie and a reality show called 'Gene Simmons Family Jewels.'
Running time: 17:27
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Our beloved metal gesture has lost all meaning, writes guest blogger Dee Snider
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