Key Takeaways:
– Mötley Crüe bassist, Nikki Sixx stated the challenges working with former guitarist Mick Mars due to his memory problems and physical ailments.
– In October 2022, Mick Mars retired from the band due to an inflammatory disease, ankylosing spondylitis.
– Mars subsequently filed a lawsuit against Mötley Crüe, alleging the band attempted to oust him and take away his band name rights. He won the case in January 2023.
– Despite the legal battles, Mars is open to writing songs with Mötley Crüe in the future.
– Nikki Sixx maintains strong control in the band, mentioning that no one can meddle with the band either legally or in marketing.
Sixx Highlights Challenges with Mick Mars
Mötley Crüe’s talented bassist, Nikki Sixx, shared insights into the band’s tussle with Mick Mars during an interview with Classic Rock. He reflected on the health issues that Mick Mars battled for a while, making it increasingly difficult for the band to function effectively. Nikki displayed empathy for Mick’s physical ailments and memory issues, which he acknowledged made band activities challenging.
Mötley Crüe’s Transition After Mars
When Mick’s health issues led to his retirement from the band in 2022, Mötley Crüe was faced with a tough decision. The group, however, unanimously agreed to embrace a new direction with John 5 as the live guitarist. The following year, John assumed the role as full-time guitarist, stepping into the shoes Mars left behind. Nikki expressed his confident stance in running the band, stating that no one can interfere with their actions on legal or marketing fronts.
Legal Battles Over Band Name Right
Mick Mars didn’t exit the stage silently. In April 2023, he took Mötley Crüe to court, alleging the band’s attempt to strip him of his rights to the band’s name and brand. Nikki responded by suggesting Mick was misguided by his representatives, causing him to misunderstand the situation. However, early in 2023, Mick had his justice served when the judge ruled in his favor, confirming that Mötley Crüe withheld key business information.
Return to Mötley Crüe Not Ruled Out
Even amid the disputes and legal battles, Mick hinted at his willingness to work with Mötley Crüe again in an interview with Audacy Check In. He stated that if the opportunity arose to write songs with the band, he wouldn’t hesitate. However, he quickly added that currently, he is more focused on his solo career, embracing his creativity to explore an avenue distinct from the band’s style.
John 5 Helps Mötley Crüe Soar With New Releases
On a brighter note, Mötley Crüe, now featuring John 5, is steadily making strides. The band recently released their third song, titled ‘Cancelled.’ This new release comes after two successful 2024 songs — ‘Dogs of War’ and an audacious cover of the Beastie Boys’ ‘You Gotta Fight for Your Right (To Party!).’
Despite the challenges, Mötley Crüe stands firm, and with Nikki’s assertive leadership, they continue to march forward, creating fresh musical experiences for fans hungrily waiting for new tunes.