One of the biggest bands of all time is KISS, but shockingly, their most popular song was also their most controversial. Unfortunately for them, not all of their fans were accepting of change. While some rock bands have been able to change genres, it was divisive for KISS.
While the band has had many opinions to combat over the years, they have the numbers to support their decision. When it comes to classic rock songs, this one ranks among the best. This includes those that have reached over one billion streams on Spotify.
In fact, it’s also coming for another list as it has almost reached one billion streams on YouTube. This would rank it among the very best there as well. However, no matter how many numbers support their decision, this tune remains controversial.
“I Was Made For Lovin’ You” Was A Major Step Away From KISS’ Typical Style
In the 1970s, many different music genres were on the rise. Metal was a well-known sound breaking into the mainstream, along with more upbeat sounds such as disco. As KISS began their career in the ’70s, they focused on being a hard rock band while also incorporating some metal elements, fitting in with the times.
However, for their 1979 record Dynasty, they attempted their best disco sound. At that time, disco had taken over, with acts such as the Bee Gees changing their sound to fit the style and breaking through in a major way. The biggest hit that KISS released on their Dynasty record was “I Was Made For Lovin’ You.”
The tune was great, but it was a step away from what they previously did. Their name became popular from songs such as “Detroit Rock City,” so “I Was Made For Lovin’ You” felt like a departure. Even though it still had strong lyrics, the instrumental was a noticeable difference, as they incorporated various elements to fit the disco genre.
Writing this song was something that co-founder Paul Stanley was set on doing, and the band obliged. The members did everything they could to improve it to the highest levels. It ultimately paid off, as it remains their biggest song from their 1979 attempt to transform their sound into what was working at that time.
Despite The Song’s Popularity, It Was Still Controversial Amongst Fans
The platinum-selling Dynasty was a major success for KISS. In particular, “I Was Made For Lovin’ You” emerged as one of their biggest songs ever. The song placed at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and even finished the year in the Top 75.
However, this hasn’t stopped fans from disliking the tune. The KISS Army is loyal, but many couldn’t get behind the band’s disco attempt. While some were angry because they felt it clashed with the iconic hard rock sound, others claimed that the band sold out.
Over the years, plenty of evidence has shown KISS was right to make this song. From being their most streamed tune on Spotify to also leading on YouTube, its popularity is evident. A cover version was even performed by Yungblud for the 2024 film, The Fall Guy, showing that the song connects decades later.
Nonetheless, the fans who dislike the tune won’t budge from their opinion. The numbers may be there, but they feel it just wasn’t them being authentic. KISS will forever be one of the greatest bands to ever exist, but this song’s controversy will always be part of their legacy, regardless of how popular it is.
