Rock 'n' Roll Glory: KISS Lights Up Cadillac, Michigan in October of 1975

Published October 10 2023 at 16:57

On October 9th 1975, KISS performed a very unusual gig at the local high school in Cadillac, Michigan.

The concert turned into a two day event complete with a parade, the presentation of a key to the city, the concert itself & a large breakfast banquet on October 10th, featuring members of the Cadillac political establishment, including mayor, in full KISS make-up. 

In the crisp autumn air of October 9th and 10th, 1975, the small town of Cadillac, Michigan, experienced an electrifying event that would go down in rock 'n' roll history. The legendary band KISS descended upon this quiet community, forever imprinting their mark on the hearts of both fans and the town itself.

KISS was at the peak of their powers at the end of 1975, and their Cadillac visit was part of an audacious promotional tour for their groundbreaking album 'Alive!'. Released earlier that year, the album catapulted KISS into the stratosphere of rock superstardom. The band was known for their iconic makeup, explosive live shows, and larger-than-life personas, making their visit to Cadillac an event no one would ever forget.

The excitement was palpable as KISS arrived in their signature black and silver costumes. From the moment they stepped off their tour bus, Cadillac was transformed into a rock 'n' roll spectacle. Fans, many dressed as their favorite band members, gathered in droves to catch a glimpse of the "Gods of Thunder" and their fiery show.

The concert held at the Cadillac High School gymnasium were nothing short of spectacular. The band's pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and over-the-top theatrics left the audience in awe. It was a rock 'n' roll circus like no other, and the small town of Cadillac was right at the center of it.

Beyond the music and theatrics, KISS's visit had a profound impact on the town. Businesses decorated their storefronts with KISS memorabilia, and fans lined up for hours to get their hands on concert tickets and merchandise. Cadillac embraced the spirit of rock 'n' roll with open arms, and the community came together like never before.

The legacy of KISS's visit to Cadillac lives on to this day. The memory of that electrifying weekend continues to inspire local musicians and serves as a reminder that big dreams and big rock 'n' roll dreams can come true, even in the smallest of towns.

In retrospect, the KISS promotional visit to Cadillac, Michigan, on October 9th and 10th 1975, was a shining moment in rock history. It showcased the power of music to unite communities, and it remains a testament to the enduring magic of rock 'n' roll. Cadillac may have been small, but for those two unforgettable days, it rocked like a giant.

Watch full playlist of videos documenting the Cadillac event: