Steve was living as a tax exile in Greece at the time. Kiss' manager called him with the proposition and Steve was ecstatic. Steve tried to explain to the manager that he played trombone but he'd love to give the drums a shot.  The next day  Steve was flown to Japan and found himself in the rehearsal studio with Ace, Paul and Gene.   

During the rehearsals Steve's "character" concept was developed.  He explained to the group that his character was "kind of a Cosmic Raccoon."  The make up designers set about the task and on June 14th, 1980 KISS hit the stage in Tokyo with Steve, the Cosmic Raccoon on drums.

Two months later the Unmasked World Tour wrapped up in Budapest. Plans were already afoot for a new album. Steve had written a tender ballad called "I Love You So Much I Can't Love You Anymore."  Every one felt that the song would be a huge hit for the group, but cracks began to break the group apart.

Steve was let go in November 1980 because the rest of the band felt that his lifestyle was too extreme. Steve was replaced by drummer Eric Carr. Steve returned to Greece devastated.  He spent the next few months in a deep depression.  But before long his spirits rallied and he was free to pursue new options.

Despite Steve's efforts KISS continues to be a major force in rock.

  ...To Be Continued