Israeli-American musician Chaim Witz, known by his stage name Gene Simmons, was born in Haifa, Israel. He became famous as co-founder, bassist and singer of the rock band KISS.
Gene Simmons received a platinum award for his self-titled solo album, one of four solo albums released simultaneously by members of KISS. Simmons's album was the most successful of the four in the United States, reaching No. 22.