In a new interview, KISS bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons has set the record straight about the band's iconic ballad 'Beth'.

Originally credited to original KISS drummer Peter Criss, the late Stan Penridge, and producer Bob Ezrin, Simmons claims that Criss had little involvement in the song's creation.

According to Simmons, it was during a ride from Flint, Michigan to Cadillac, Michigan when he first heard Criss humming the melody of 'Beth'.

When he asked about the song, Criss revealed that it was a tune called 'Beck', after his bandmate Mike Brand's wife who often interrupted practices.

Simmons suggested changing the title to 'Beth' for a smoother flow and more romantic feel.

Despite being listed as a writer of the song, Simmons claims that Criss had no significant contribution to its writing, with Penridge being the primary author.

Simmons also debunked Criss's claim that he co-wrote 'Beth'.

He explained that Peter does not write songs and plays no musical instruments.

Stan Penridge, who was in the band Chelsea with Criss, wrote the song 'Beth', and his name was included in the songwriting credits due to politics and negotiations.

Simmons added that it was Bob Ezrin who arranged the song's middle section, which included a Mozart piano concerto.

The real story behind 'Beth', according to Simmons, is one of mythology, with Criss being present at the right place and time when the song was written.