Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons, the sons of Kiss founders Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, have answered those who say they are cashing in on their fathers’ names to push their band, Stanley Simmons.
“`The two spoke on «Preston & Steve» on Philadelphia rock station 93.3 WMMR. Evan admitted that he too used to judge the children of famous parents quickly, assuming they get used to a certain lifestyle more than they love what provides it. «We fell in love with music very early and it is everything to us. This is what we would do even if nobody was watching», he said, with Nick adding: «And we did do it when nobody was watching».
Responding to online comments along the lines of «go and earn your patience back, play to empty rooms», Evan answered that this is exactly what he has been doing for the last 14 years with his other musical projects — people simply did not know. As for the name, he explained that there was no plan when the partnership started: «We wanted to keep things natural». They thought about how many of their heroes — from Simon & Garfunkel to Crosby, Stills & Nash and Hall & Oates — used their surnames, so «Stanley Simmons» felt the most authentic to them. Nick admits they had not thought it would sound as if they were «betting» on their surnames, although 99% of the reactions were positive.
The two also talked about how their parents see their work, with Gene Simmons being particularly blunt — «he doesn’t mince his words», says Nick. Evan considers that healthy: you need people around you who will tell you the truth, because when everyone praises you, you never know what actually stands up.
See also
Stanley Simmons: The Sons of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons Have Started Their First Tour and Gene Simmons: Those Who Avoid Artificial Intelligence Will Be Left Behind.
Source: https://blabbermouth.net/news/evan-stanley-and-nick-simmons-reject-nepotism-label-for-their-stanley-simmons-project-this-is-what-we-would-do-if-nobody-was-watching
