Photo: Press

Kiss bassist and founder member Gene Simmons says illegal file sharing and downloading is the reason KISS are reluctant to record a new record insisting the band are not a charity and he has no interest in making a new record unless there is 'a financial model that works' for them.

The Kiss member was speaking on The SDR radio Show and when questioned as to what keeps the band recording new music after four decades in the industry he responded.

"That's less of an incentive, because downloading and file sharing. People have convinced themselves they don't wanna pay for stuff," he said. "And last time I checked, KISS is not a charity. We're philanthropic, but I'll be the one that decides how much I give and where. I don't want some college kid to decide, 'You have enough money. I don't wanna pay for your record.' Okay, then go download and Radiohead record and see what happens. No, I ain't about that."

He added: "Make a distinction between commerce and philanthropy. So the idea of doing another Kiss record, unless and if there's a financial model that works, personally I'm not interested in it.”

Kiss have indeed been around for decades and Simmons alongside lead singer Paul Stanley has built a remarkable business behind the bands image and signature style.

The group have promoted and marketed everything possible. They have netted multi-milions from such things as Kiss condoms, Kiss coffins, figurines, posters, DVDs, CDs and their always spectacular live shows.

Gene has always been more than vocal about how much he craves money and sees the band as a merchandise machine.

This is perhaps his way at approaching the industry and fans about how bands like themselves are losing out due to illegal downloads and bootleg releases