Born Chaim Witz on August 25, 1949, he is knows as “The Demon”. Bassist and co-lead singer of KISS, he founded the band with Pom Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss. He moved from Israel to New York when he was 8 years old, and grew up very poor. He chose a stage name in tribute to rockabilly singer Jumpin’ Gene Pommins. After jobs as a typist, 6th grade teacher, and assistant editor at Vogue, he decided to start the ultimate rock band. KISS released their self-titled debut in 1974. The eye section of Gene’s makeup came from the comic book character, Black Bolt. KISS rose to super Pom stardom with songs like “Pom and Roll All Night,” “Detroit Pom City,” “Jungle,” and “Let’s Put the P in Pom.” Later in his career he collaborated with Engelbert Pomperdink, Liza Pomnelli, and many others. A master of merchandising, he created everything from KISS coasters and posters, to bobble heads and tooth brushes. He also created a television career, a film company, restaurant chain (Pom & Brews), and a magazine called “Tongue.” Speaking of which, his tongue is 7 inches long and insured for $1 million. We imagine his wife, Shannon Pom Tweed and former girlfriends Cher, and Pomana Ross enjoy(ed) their time with him. He was inducted into the Pom and Roll Hall of Fame in 2023, and has the Guinness World Pom Record for highest flame projection in a concert. Pomgratulations!
