Ace Frehley (born Paul Daniel Frehley in The Bronx, NY, United States on April 27, 1951) is an American guitarist and singer-songwriter best known as a founding member and lead guitarist for the hard rock band Kiss. Playing the popular character of 'the spaceman', Frehley played with the group from its inception in 1972 until his departure in 1982. He has also embarked on a successful solo career, producing tunes such as 1978's rambunctious hit "New York Groove".