Kiss - (You Make Me) Rock Hard

What this video is

Released in 1989 to support the 1988 greatest hits compilation Smashes, Thrashes & Hits on Mercury Records, this video captures KISS at a pronounced stylistic inflection point: the band incorporated heavy keyboard arrangements and a dance-oriented beat into new recordings, a direction that drew commentary from fans about the shift away from their hard rock roots. Written by Paul Stanley alongside hitmakers Desmond…

Why it matters

Represents a documented late-career stylistic pivot for KISS toward dance-pop production at the tail end of the glam metal era. As one of two new songs on a greatest hits package, it signals a deliberate commercial repositioning. The video's production values—high saturation, fast cutting,…

The director

Belgian-born American music video and commercial director and fashion photographer. Attended New York University, earning a degree in music and art history. Pioneered a career as one of the few women directing in the male-dominated music video and…