Kiss guitarist Tommy Thayer understands that despite his 20 years in the band — he'll never be considered a “veteran.” Thayer, who replaced Ace Frehley back in 2002, explained to Guitar World, “I don’t know if many people realize this, but I’ve been the lead guitarist in Kiss longer than any other Kiss guitar player. But I will always be known as 'the new guy' though — no matter what happens. I’m 'the Ronnie Wood' of Kiss.
He went on to say, “My legacy will be a guy who came in, worked hard, and was the glue that kept the band together for a long period of time. I think the kind of character and personality that I have is that of a team player and somebody who can bring people together and bind things together.”
Thayer, who had been working for Kiss in numerous capacities over the years, also served as Ace Frehley's understudy in case the co-founder was unable to make the gig, From 2004 on Thayer and returning drummer Eric Singer have been onboard and utilizing Ace Frehley and Peter Criss' makeup.