Jumpin’ Jack Flash (Featuring Lita Ford)

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as the Zoo Crew spins "Jumpin’ Jack Flash" by Ace Frehley, featuring the electrifying Lita Ford, from his 2020 album Origins Vol. 2. This cover of the Rolling Stones’ 1968 classic is a high-octane tribute, with Frehley’s searing guitar riffs and Ford’s powerhouse vocals breathing new life into the track. In a 2019 interview on SiriusXM’s Trunk Nation: L.A. Invasion, Frehley shared that working with Ford was a blast, describing her as “like my sister” and recalling how their paths crossed back in the ’70s when KISS and The Runaways toured together. He praised her vocal performance, saying it “came out fabulous” and added a fresh edge to the song. Ford herself took to X on December 2, 2020, hyping the collaboration with a post: “In the studio with @ace_frehley! Check out his new album, Origins Vol2, I sing on the track ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’!” The chemistry between these two rock veterans is undeniable, making this track a standout on the album.

The recording process for “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” had its own quirks, as Frehley revealed in interviews. Unlike some of the other covers on Origins Vol. 2, this track was a spontaneous choice, with Frehley aiming to capture the raw energy of the Stones’ original while adding his signature “Spaceman” flair. According to a review on Wall of Sound, Frehley replaced Keith Richards’ sloppy guitar style with sharp, crisp playing, and his solos sizzle with intensity, while Ford’s vocals bring a gritty, commanding presence. Some fans on KissFAQ raved about the cover, with one calling it “one of the best covers Ace has done yet” for its stellar guitar work and Ford’s vocal delivery. However, not everyone was on board—some forum posts criticized Ford’s style as “abrasive” or felt the track tried too hard to be edgy. Regardless, the collaboration showcases Frehley’s knack for reimagining classics with a little help from his rockstar friends.

Ace Frehley, born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, got his start in music as a teenager, inspired by the raw energy of bands like Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. Growing up in a musical family, he picked up the guitar at age 13, quickly developing a flashy, melodic style that would define his career. By the late ’60s, Frehley was gigging in local bands around New York, honing his craft in the gritty club scene. His big break came in 1973 when he answered an ad in The Village Voice for a new band looking for a lead guitarist. That band was KISS, and Frehley’s larger-than-life “Spaceman” persona—complete with platform boots and cosmic makeup—helped propel the group to global fame. His distinctive guitar work and songwriting, including hits like “Shock Me,” made him a fan favorite. After leaving KISS in 1982, Frehley launched a successful solo career, with his 1978 solo album achieving platinum status thanks to the hit “New York Groove.” He rejoined KISS for a reunion tour from 1998 to 2002 but has since focused on his solo work, releasing albums like Origins Vol. 2 that pay homage to his musical roots.

Frehley’s influence as a guitarist is massive, with players like Eddie Van Halen citing him as an inspiration. His official website, acefrehley.com, is the go-to spot for updates on his music, tour dates, and merch. Fans can also connect with him on social media through his Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares glimpses of his studio work and life on the road. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities like the Ace Frehley Fans Facebook group and the KissFAQ website offer lively discussions and rare insights into Frehley’s career. Whether you’re a longtime KISS devotee or just vibing to “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” Frehley’s legacy as a rock icon shines through, and the Zoo Crew is proud to keep his tunes spinning for all the freaks out there!