Dave Grohl presented Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley with the ASCAP Founders Award at the 32nd annual ASCAP Pop Music Awards Wednesday night in Hollywood.

Dave Grohl Presents To KISS

Grohl began his introduction of the rock and roll legends with an anecdote about how he came to buy his first KISS record, Destroyer, as a kid growing up in Virginia in 1976.

“With nuclear anticipation, I let the needle drop on that legendary intro to “Detroit Rock City,” perhaps the greatest introduction to any rock ‘n’ roll album ever recorded. It filled my speakers and my imagination,” Grohl said. “Thirty-four minutes later and 27 seconds later, KISS had filled my soul. I was now a member of the infamous KISS army.”

“Forty years later, my love of KISS is still strong. And these days I still spend every morning before school with Paul Stanley… in the parking lot of our kids’ f—in’ elementary school, chatting about Zeppelin and Electric Lady and touring and school fundraisers,” Grohl said later before welcoming Simmons and Stanley to the stage. “Without further adieu, it is my great honor to say: you wanted the best, and you got the best. The hottest band in the world — KISS!”

Upon accepting their award, Simmons revealed that the adoration is mutual. “Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters are carrying the flag that we hope will inspire the next generation of young kids,” the musician said. Simmons also took to Twitter to thank the former Nirvana drummer for handing him the trophy.

“Paul & I received ASCAP KISS FOUNDERS AWARD yesterday from Dave Grohl…Thank you, Dave. Great night.

“Receiving the 2015 ASCAP Founders Award. A HUGE honor,” Stanley tweeted. “Thank you. @ASCAP #KISStory #KISS.”

The Doobie Brothers and St. Vincent were among the other honorees at the 2015 ASCAP Pop Awards.

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