A legendary homecoming: Peter Criss (formerly of KISS) documents his emotional return to Detroit

KISS founding drummer Peter Criss participated in an exclusive meet-and-greet at Rock City Music Company in Livonia, Michigan, on April 24–25, 2026, as per Blabbermouth. The visit commemorated the release of “Peter Criss,” Criss’s most recent solo album and his first since 2007. For fans in the Motor City, this appearance was even more noteworthy because it was Peter Criss’s first trip to Detroit in almost 20 years, making it a unique and unforgettable chance to get up close and personal with the renowned “Catman.” Criss made this statement regarding his return to the city in an interview with Fox 2 Detroit.

It’s almost like coming home. Detroit, they took us under their arms at such level when we first played here at the [Michigan] Palace, which is gone — Cobo [Arena] is gone; Tiger Stadium, all these great places are gone. But we wondered how Detroit Motor City was gonna handle us — the makeup and the whole shenanigans. And they just fell in love with us — from Cadillac to Flint, they banded [together in an attempt to get] the stations [to play] our music. And then we played Cadillac High School, in their auditorium on their prom, and it became like a home to us. Actually, we got a bigger response here when we did our reunion at Tiger Stadium, which it’s sad that it’s not there, than we did in New York. [New York] didn’t give us such a welcoming. And I feel like … I’m back where I belong. I’m in Motor City, man. Motown Records. This is the place. So I’m excited. I feel like a kid in a candy store.

Criss, well known as “The Catman” of KISS, contributed to the development of the sound and mindset of one of the most important bands in rock history. He is now making a comeback with fresh music and an opportunity for fans to interact with him in a private setting. “Peter Criss” was co-produced by Criss and Barry Pointer, who has collaborated with Ozzy Osbourne, John 5, Mötley Crüe, Steve Stevens, Pearl Aday, and Dolly Parton. The film was released in December 2025. Billy Sheehan and Matthew Montgomery (also known as Piggy D.) on bass, John 5 and Mike McLaughlin on guitar, and Paul Shaffer on piano accompany the renowned KISS musician on the album. Cat Manning of CAT 5 and backing vocalists Dennis and Sharon Collins are also featured on the album.