Gene Simmons Inducted to Smithsonian

Two KISS fans have donated a Gene Simmons signature Axe bass to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

During last week's KISS Kruise, John and Jamie Downs gave Simmons a plaque commemorating the museum's acceptance of the bass into its collection. In part, a statement read, "The bass will now be cared for in our permanent collections... We are happy to include the Axe bass, as it relates to the impact Mr. Simmons and his band KISS have had on American culture, especially in the creation of a unique and iconic brand that has been embraced by fans worldwide. The story of Mr. Simmons' American experience deserves to be preserved. An immigrant and son of a holocaust survivor, he used creative vision and entrepreneurial acumen to make a significant impact for our nation's popular culture, becoming an iconic figure in American music and entertainment."

Simmons became emotional during the presentation.