Legendary guitarist Marty Friedman reveals he was rejected by Kiss because of his height

Former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman recently revealed that his height cost him the opportunity to audition for one of rock’s most iconic bands, Kiss. ​​The American-born, Japan-based musician, who was a key member of Megadeth from 1989 to 2000, shared the story in an interview with Sam Ash Music, saying that the chance to join Kiss suddenly vanished due to his height.

“When they changed guitarists a long time ago, I got a call from the Kiss team”Friedman began, explaining that he was excited to join the legendary band. However, before he could even pick up his guitar, Friedman was asked a series of questions about his appearance: “They said to me, ‘Would you be interested in auditioning for Kiss?’ I said, ‘Tell me where and when.’”

The excitement was short-lived, however. The Kiss team seemed more concerned with aesthetics than musical prowess. Questions about his hair length, facial hair and build were followed by a decisive question: “And you’re taller than 6 feet?”

“I thought, ‘What? I’m 5’6″, but I’m going to have surgery, I’m going to do something.'”Friedman recalls, his disbelief palpable. Despite his willingness to go to extreme lengths to fit the group’s image, the opportunity eluded him. “They said, ‘I’m sorry, this isn’t going to work.’ I was really disappointed.”

The incident highlights Kiss’ strict image standards, especially considering that nearly all of the original band members—Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss—were between 6’3″ and 6’3″. The band’s iconic platform boots only added to their imposing stage presence.

While Friedman expressed disappointment, he also acknowledged the reasons for the refusal. “I understand completely”he admitted. “It would have looked like [bizarre] if there was a little guy playing lead guitar. But I would have done anything… If there was an operation available at the time, I would have done it.”

This isn’t the only time Friedman’s appearance has cost him a prestigious job. He also revealed that he “failed miserably” at an audition for Ozzy Osbourne’s solo band, not because of his acting, but because of his casual attire. “They were dressed like they were in the 1980s on the Sunset Strip… and I was in jeans and a T-shirt, just normal. It was too out of sync.”

Despite these setbacks, Friedman has continued to make his mark on the music world. He recently released his 14th solo album, Drama, and is set to embark on a tour that will kick off on January 25, 2025, in Las Vegas. Although the Kiss gig has eluded him, Marty Friedman remains a significant figure in rock, albeit not in terms of size.

Interview de Marty Friedman avec Sam Ash Music :

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