John 5 to Fill in for Mick Mars of Motley Crue on Tour

2022-10-27

Motley Crue performing live at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

Motley Crue – Story by Anne Erickson, photo by Ken Settle

Mick Mars from Motley Crue is officially retiring from touring, and John 5 will serve as his replacement

Last night, news broke that Motley Crue guitarist Mick Mars would be stepping down from touring. The announcement was a bit surprising, since the band has a slew of 2023 tour dates set up. Moreover, band members have talked about continuing on their “Stadium Tour” into 2024.

Now, Motley Crue have issued an official announcement about Mars retiring from touring- and they’ve announced his replacement. The guitarist is John 5 of Rob Zombie’s band.

In the new statement, sent out by BMG, the band states, “While change is never easy, we accept Mick’s decision to retire from the band due to the challenges with his health. We have watched Mick manage his Ankylosing Spondylitis for decades and he has always managed it with utmost courage and grace. To say “enough is enough” is the ultimate act of courage. Mick’s sound helped define Motley Crue from the minute he plugged in his guitar at our very first rehearsal together. The rest, as they say, is history.”

They add, “We’ll continue to honor his musical legacy. We will carry out Mick’s wish and continue to tour the world as planned in 2023. No doubt will it take an absolutely outstanding musician to fill Mick’s shoes so we are grateful that our good friend, John 5 has agreed to come on board and join us moving forward. We’ll see all you Crüeheads out on the road!” Vince, Tommy & Nikki

John 5 also commented on the announcement. He said, via a release, “I’m honored to carry on Mick’s legacy and am looking forward to playing these songs.” Read more about Mars’ decision to step down from touring with Motley Crue here. We wish Mars the very best on his new journey into retirement.

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Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based music reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire.com and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.