On this day in music: KISS unveils the ultimate piece of memorabilia in 2001

The massive fanbase of the rock band KISS is always on board for new merchandise from the band; the more creative, the better. In 2001, the band took this to heart to create a piece of memorabilia that fans can take with them, even in death. On this day in music, Kiss revealed the Kiss Kasket on July 18, 2001.

The legendary rock band, KISS, has sold over 100 million albums during their long-running career that began in 1973. The band is currently on their End of the Road farewell tour that will conclude with their final show at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 2, 2023. KISS announced their final concert during an appearance on The Howard Stern Show in March 2023. While this will be the last tour, this doesn't rule out one-off shows, residencies, or festival appearances.

KISS has always offered an amazing lineup of unique merchandise for the Kiss Army; the band's fanbase. In addition to the apparel, pins, patches, flags, and hats, the band has offered some fantastic and unique items over the years. Examples of these items include KISS Mr. Potato Heads, pinball machines, Kondoms, air guitar strings, and, most impressive, the Kasket.

Nashville Casket Sales sell the Kiss Kasket and is made in the USA in Tennessee. The officially licensed work of art is emblazoned with the KISS logo and images of the band members. Fans who aren't in need of a casket at the moment can use the kasket before their death as it is waterproof and can be used as a cooler to keep your beverages icy cold.

" "I love livin', but this makes the alternative look pretty damn good.""

- Gene Simmons

Dimebag Darrell, the guitarist of Pantera and Damageplan, was tragically shot at a concert in Columbus, Ohio, in 2004. In his will, he requested that he be buried in a KISS Kasket, which KISS guitarist Gene Simmons donated. In 2018, his brother, Vinnie Paul, would also be buried in a Kiss Kasket alongside Dimebag and their mother, Carolyn.

The band lineup for the End of the Road tour includes original members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, along with Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer. The tour has been ongoing since 2018 as it was interrupted by the pandemic. The tour will conclude with back-to-back nights in New York City at Madison Square Garden in December 2023.

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