KISS legend Gene Simmons is featured in a new interview conducted at the Minnesota Fair, published on KISSonline.com. An excerpt is available below.

Q: This summer, Kiss is playing at several state fairs. What appeals to you about the fairs?

Simmons: "The idea is to take what we do to the people instead of assuming the people are going to come to us. There's always a new audience out there, and there isn't any group of people that we shouldn't play to. Because Kiss is all things for all people -- whether you are 3 or 300. You see everybody at the shows -- kids, their parents, strippers, lawyers -- sometimes together, sometimes not."

Q: This week, the Twin Cities had Lady Gaga on Monday and Tuesday and then Kiss on Saturday.

Simmons: "She's terrific. I've only seen bits and pieces of her act [on video]. But Gaga and I have spoken on the phone. She told me she has Kiss dress-up parties where they put on the paint and have a good old time. Look, you have to tip your hat to anyone who goes the extra distance for the fans. That's what it's all about. People are spending a lot of money to go to a show and give them a show, for God's sake. Cut it out with the acoustic guitar and charging full price. Have a light show or something. Give people something for their eyes as well as their ears."

Q: Once you and Paul Stanley decide to retire many years down the road, do you envision Kiss continuing with other performers wearing your outfits and makeup?

Simmons: "Why not? Of course. Anything's possible. No rules. It's supposed to be rock 'n' roll, after all."

Go to this location for the complete interview.

KISS' North American tour schedule is now as follows:

September

4 - St. Paul, MN - Minnesota State Fair
10 - Toronto, ON - Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
11 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Music Theatre
12 - Cleveland, OH - Blossom Music Center
17 - Houston, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
18 - Dallas, TX - Pizza Hut Park
19 - San Antonio, TX - AT&T; Center
22 - Sandy, UT - Rio Tinto Stadium
24 - Phoenix, AZ - Cricket Wireless Pavilion
28 - Monterey, Mexico - Teatro Banamex
30 - Mexico City, Mexico - Sports Palace

October

2 - Guadalajara, Mexico - Estadio 3 De Marzo