SAIT Throws a KISS Tribute: Half a Century Since the Band Rocked Campus

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to commemorate an unforgettable moment in rock history.

Fifty years ago, on February 6th, 1974, the halls of SAIT were electrified by the legendary rock band KISS, delivering a performance that would go down in the annals of rock and roll lore. Frank Shufletoski, a journalism student back then, ventured into the gymnasium to capture a few snapshots of the event and was floored by the band's presence. "They were loud, painted up, in six-inch platform shoes," he reminisced. Shufletoski only managed to take two rolls of film, a decision he'd later regret, considering the band's skyrocketing fame.

KISS’s thrilling act was not just a typical rock concert; it was a massive event, so loud that it even caught the attention of local law enforcement due to a triggered bank alarm, bringing police to the scene.

Echoes of the Past: Celebrating KISS at SAIT

Now, five decades later, SAIT is set to honor this slice of its history with a special broadcast on their student radio station, now temporarily KISS 103 for the occasion. The airwaves will be filled with KISS music, retrospectives on the band’s evolution, and never-before-heard interviews, giving both insight and tribute to the rock giants.

Zane Bauer, a student who is participating in the event, expressed his excitement, revealing that this tribute includes segments going through the band's history and interactions with witnesses of the original spectacle. Bauer and his peers view this celebration as a chance to show their community and a wider audience the fruits of their labor and learning journey at SAIT.

Student Involvement and Community Engagement

The KISS-themed programming will deliver a dynamic mix of the band's live hits and exclusive stories, providing listeners with not just entertainment, but a deep dive into KISS's ascent in the music scene. The enthusiasm is infectious, as classmates work shoulder-to-shoulder to orchestrate this expansive project. Richard Stroobant, a SAIT instructor, admires the students' commitment, outlining that the preparations have been underway since December.

As the event approaches, SAIT opens its doors to all rock fans to take part in this commemorative event. The programming is scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., promising to bring that same KISS energy seen and heard on that life-changing night in 1974 back to life.

SAIT, KISS, Anniversary