Black Diamond

Kiss

About Black Diamond

"Black Diamond" is a song by American hard rock band Kiss, written by rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley. "'Black Diamond' was written almost exactly as it is," he said, "except that the riff wasn't there; Gene [Simmons] brought that part in … It's all about arrangement and embellishment. That's what you're supposed to do in a band: come in and add something. But that doesn't mean you wrote the song."The song is the closing track on the band's eponymous first album, Kiss, released in 1974. It begins with an acoustic opening sung by Stanley before a furious riff enters, accompanied by Peter Criss on lead vocals. It fades out with Ace Frehley's solo, then one chord repeated during a gradual slowing of the tape. The live version is usually sped up in tempo, combined with stage pyrotechnics and a rising drum platform. The band would often play "Black Diamond" to close their concerts. Even after Criss left the band, the song was still performed, featuring his replacements Eric Carr and Eric Singer on lead vocals during their respective tenures with the band. 


Year:
1974
5:14
754 
#1

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Out on the street for a living
Picture's only begun
Got you under their thumb
Hit it

Out on the streets for a living
Picture's only begun
Your day is sorrow and madness
Got you under their thumb

Whoo, black diamond
Whoo, black diamond

Darkness will fall on the city
It seems to follow you too
And though you don't ask for pity
There's nothin' that you can do, no, no

Whoo, black diamond
Whoo, black diamond

Out on the streets for a living
Picture's only begun
Your day is sorrow and madness
Got you under their thumb

Whoo, black diamond, yeah
Whoo, black diamond

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Kiss

A kiss is the act of pressing one's lips against the lips or other body parts of another person or of an object. Cultural connotations of kissing vary widely. Depending on the culture and context, a kiss can express sentiments of love, passion, affection, respect, greeting, friendship and good luck, among many others. In some situations a kiss is a ritual, formal or symbolic gesture indicating devotion, respect or greeting, as in the case of spouses kissing at the conclusion of a wedding ceremony or national leaders kissing each other in greeting, and in many other situations. more »

11 fans

Written by: Paul Stanley

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Background Creation
"Black Diamond" is a song by American rock band Kiss, released on their 1974 self-titled debut album "Kiss." This song stood out as a significant track since the inception of the band.
Songwriting
Despite being sung by the drummer Peter Criss, the song was written by lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley.
Unique Composition
The song features an unusual structure with a slow, brooding introduction led by Stanley before launching into a hard rock full band sound, only to abruptly end with a slow, piano-based outro. This structure creates a dynamic and dramatic effect that enhances the overall impact of the song.
Album Influence
"Black Diamond" has remained a classic amongst Kiss fans and is considered essential in their debut album, helping skyrocket the band's popularity in the 1970s.
Live Performances
During live performances, the song often ends with Criss' drum riser lifting up and spinning around, illustrating Kiss' theatricality and becoming a staple part of their concerts.
Cover Versions
"Black Diamond" has been covered by various artists over the decades, including Pearl Jam, The Replacements, and Yoshiki Hayashi of X Japan, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
Ace Frehley & Kiss
Although he didn't write "Black Diamond," lead guitarist Ace Frehley was a vital part of Kiss during the making of the song and many others in their early years.
Ace Frehley's Exit
Frehley left Kiss in 1982, but "Black Diamond" remained a significant part of the band's setlist, with vocals often handled by their current drummer.
Frehley's Solo Career
Ace Frehley went on a successful solo career after leaving Kiss. He occasionally performed "Black Diamond" during his solo tours, showcasing his deep connection with the song.
Reunions
Ace Frehley and the original Kiss lineup briefly reunited in 1996 and 1997. During these reunion performances, "Black Diamond" was brought back into the setlist, reliving the iconic moments with the original voices and instrumentalists.

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