In a recent interview on SiriusXM’s “Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk,” John 5, previously with Rob Zombie, shared his journey to becoming Mötley Crüe’s guitarist, succeeding Mick Mars. John 5, who has a long-standing friendship with Mötley Crüe members Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee, described their bond as strong, citing numerous collaborations and personal moments, including Sixx being his best man.
The opportunity arose when Nikki Sixx informed John 5 of Mick Mars’s retirement due to health issues and the band’s need for a guitarist to fulfill upcoming tour obligations. John 5, feeling it was a call he couldn’t ignore, decided to join Mötley Crüe, seeing it as a new chapter in his life and a chance to experience more.
Informing Rob Zombie about his departure was challenging for John 5, given their 17-year positive collaboration. However, Zombie understood John 5’s decision, wishing him well. John 5’s move to Mötley Crüe was driven by his desire to seize new opportunities and create memorable experiences, despite leaving a comfortable and successful stint with Zombie.
Nikki Sixx, speaking about John 5 joining Mötley Crüe, highlighted their deep friendship and the excitement of adding John 5’s exceptional guitar skills to the band. Sixx emphasized the positive change John 5 brings to the band’s dynamics, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining respect for Mick Mars’s contributions.
Mick Mars’s retirement announcement last October was due to worsening health issues. However, his transition has been marred by legal disputes with Mötley Crüe over his stake in the band’s business interests. Despite these challenges, Mötley Crüe expresses a desire to move forward and continue performing, while Mars seeks to ensure his contributions are acknowledged and compensated fairly.
