Vinnie Vincent’s $225 CD Single Sparks Fan Backlash
Former KISS guitarist Vinnie Vincent is facing criticism for the price of his new limited-edition CD single, currently listed at $225 (£166).
Vincent, who played with KISS from 1982 to 1984, announced the ‘Ride The Serpent’ single earlier this month.It’s the latest release from his current band, Vinnie Vincent invasion.
On December 1st, he explained that each disc would be a “very limited collection piece” featuring handwritten autographs and individually numbered copies – all limited to 500 units.
Initially, he announced a price of $300 (£222), citing a need to combat “pirating entities” actively seeking to illegally copy his work. He stated these groups were “watching and waiting like a hawk to seize whatever I release and bootleg it.”
“I understand the bitching, the moaning, the whining about price, but you must also understand that my situation is as such that my music is so desired that it will be targeted and taken from me instantly, which I cannot/will not allow,” Vincent wrote. “I wish it was not this way, but I’m honored that it is. It’s a double-edged sword for me, but I sincerely hope that when you think it thru you will understand the dilemma I face” (Stereogum).
The price has since been reduced to $225, but the cost still draws criticism from fans online.