Vince Neil Finally Gives Reaction On John 5 Replacing Mick Mars
HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA - OCTOBER 06: Singer Vince Neil of the band Motley Crue performs onstage during the 2018 High Tide Beach Party at Huntington State Beach on October 6, 2018 in Huntington Beach, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)
Mötley Crüe fans have been buzzing about the addition of guitarist John 5 to the band, following Mick Mars’ retirement from touring. Lead singer Vince Neil recently opened up about his thoughts on the new member, and it seems he’s a big fan.
In a recent interview, Neil praised John 5’s talent and personality, calling him a “wonderful human being” and a “great guy”. He went on to describe the guitarist’s onstage presence as mesmerizing, admitting that he can’t help but watch in awe during John 5’s solo performances.
It’s clear that Vince Neil is impressed with John 5’s skills and contribution to Mötley Crüe. Watch the frontman reveal more of his thoughts in the interview below:
“I Think Mick Would Want Me To Do It”
John 5 officially joined Mötley Crüe in 2022, stepping in for Mick Mars who stepped away from touring due to health concerns. He made his debut during the band’s Stadium Tour with Def Leppard that same year.
In recent interviews, John 5 has discussed the new music he’s recording with the band. When the topic shifted to Mick Mars, John 5 expressed his deep respect and admiration for the legendary guitarist.
He believes Mick himself would have chosen him as a replacement: “I think Mick would want me to do it because I love the music and I love Mick so much and I love his solos, just like the world does.” This sentiment highlights the immense respect John 5 holds for Mick Mars and his legacy.
Mutual Respect Between John 5 and Mick Mars
While John 5 stepped in for Mick Mars due to health concerns, it’s clear there’s no animosity between the two guitarists. In a separate interview, John 5 emphasized his immense respect for Mick’s talent and legacy:
“Mick’s tone is incredible, and his playing is incredible,” he stated. He even adjusted his own sound to avoid directly replicating Mars’ signature style: “I had to change [guitar amp] heads; I adjusted my sound.”
Despite the change, John 5 remains a dedicated admirer of Mick Mars: “I still use a Telecaster, but Mick also used Telecaster during “Girls, Girls, Girls”. He used the Telecaster quite a bit. I have such a respect for and a love for Mars, and he knows that.”
Mick Mars Sued The Band After Leaving
In October 2022, Mars announced his retirement from touring after decades of struggling with ankylosing spondylitis. The following day, the band confirmed John 5 would be taking his place.
However, things took a turn in April 2023 when Mars filed a lawsuit against the band. He alleged that Mötley Crüe was attempting to “unilaterally” remove him from the lineup. The band responded, clarifying that while Mars was not fired, he wouldn’t be touring with them.
Mars expressed his frustration with the situation, claiming the band had been trying to replace him since the 80s. He emphasized his significant contributions to the band’s formation and financial backing, stating that “it wouldn’t have gone anywhere” without him. He also refused to sign a severance agreement that would have reduced his ownership stake in the band.
