MÖTLEY CRÜE’s Nikki Sixx has given props to the band’s new guitarist John 5, saying he “checks all the boxes”
John 5 was announced as the replacement for founding MÖTLEY CRÜE guitarist Mick Mars, who has retired from touring due to his ongoing physical struggles with ankylosing spondylitis, a form of spinal arthritis.
Sixx commented on John 5‘s addition to MÖTLEY CRÜE while answering fan questions on Twitter on Friday (October 28). When Nikki was asked by one fan why the band chose John 5 as Mick’s replacement, Nikki said: “He checks all the boxes. He’s a insane player. Has respect for our music, is funny as fuck and has history with us and we’ve written some pretty big hits together.” (John is credited as a co-writer for three original songs on MÖTLEY CRÜE‘s “The Dirt” soundtrack.)
Nikki also touched on Mick’s decision to step down from touring with the band, saying: “He’s been a soldier along with us for 4 decades. We will continue to carrying our legacy to Generations of fans and honor Micks request for us to keep touring as Motley Crue.”
As well as the co-writing credits for the three songs on “The Dirt“, John 5 previously worked with Nikki Sixx and Desmond Child on Meat Loaf‘s “The Monster Is Loose“. He is also a member of the new supergroup L.A. RATS along with Sixx, drummer Tommy Clufetos and Rob Zombie.
What made John the right fit? He’s an incredible musician, but what made him the right guy for Motley? I love the decision.
— Steve Robertson (@ScoutSteveR) October 29, 2022
Since when have you been talking about Mick?
I honored for Mick so much
but can’t stop miss him 😢
— Hisako (@sixxsmith) October 29, 2022