Classic rock legends’ sons to perform at iconic guitarist’s Alabama concert

Blues legend Buddy Guy continues to cast a long shadow over the world of rock and roll. From his early days in the 1960s, when his electrified performances influenced icons like Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page, to his modern-day inspiration for artists such as Kirk Hammett, Guy remains a titan of the genre.

A New Generation Takes the Stage

This May, Alabama will witness the next chapter of rock royalty. Stanley Simmons—a folk-rock outfit fronted by Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons, sons of Kiss legends Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons—is set to open for Buddy Guy. The performance takes place on May 27 at the Renaissance Shoals Hotel Ballroom in Florence, where Guy will headline with a band featuring Alabama-based producer and keyboardist Kelvin Wooten.

Building a Musical Legacy

In a recent Instagram video, Nick Simmons expressed his excitement for the upcoming Muscle Shoals show, a sentiment echoed by his bandmate Evan Stanley. The bill is packed with talent, including Robert Randolph, John Paul White, and the Blind Boys of Alabama.

Stanley Simmons has already made waves with singles like "Stone Crazy"—while Guy is known for classics like "Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues"—and their track "Dancing While the World is Ending." Rather than leaning on their famous fathers' hard-rock catalog, the duo is carving out their own sound, earning praise for their vocal harmonies and songwriting. A four-star review from Classic Rock magazine noted that the band is effectively standing on its own merits.

Looking Ahead

Both Gene and Paul Stanley have been vocal supporters of their sons' new musical venture. While they acknowledge the doors that open due to family connections, the younger musicians are focused on the creative process. Fans can expect their debut album, "Dancing While the World is Ending," to drop on August 28. Produced by Rob Cavallo, whose portfolio includes work with Goo Goo Dolls, the album promises to be a significant release for the rising act.

This concert continues the long-standing connection between rock icons and Alabama, a history that includes everyone from Hank Williams Jr. to Wolfgang Van Halen. Between Kiss’ historical ties to Huntsville's Luna Tech and local musicians like Decatur's Philip Shouse working with Gene Simmons, the state remains a pivotal hub for rock and roll culture. You can secure your tickets for the upcoming Florence event here.