"Detroit Rock City" by KISS

Get ready to rock with KISS's explosive 1976 hard rock anthem, "Detroit Rock City"! A signature track from their classic Destroyer album, it opens concerts with iconic dual guitars and raw energy. This tale of rock and roll excitement remains a defining KISS masterpiece.

Released as a single from the landmark 1976 album Destroyer, "Detroit Rock City" showcased KISS's evolving sound under producer Bob Ezrin. Its intricate arrangement, featuring harmonized guitar leads and a cinematic intro, elevated their hard rock style while telling a surprisingly dark story beneath the energetic surface.

This 1976 hard rock staple captures the anticipation of heading to a concert, complete with car sounds and driving riffs. Paul Stanley's urgent vocals narrate the journey, building intensity towards the powerful chorus. "Detroit Rock City" endures as one of KISS's most ambitious and beloved tracks.

SONG MEANING: Despite its upbeat rock energy, the song tells the tragic story (inspired by a real event) of a KISS fan dying in a car crash while driving excitedly to one of their concerts. The lyrics chronicle the fan's journey and anticipation ("Get up! Get down!") ending abruptly with the fatal accident ("Movin' fast, doin' ninety-five... hit a truck").