Recently speaking with American Musical Supply, John 5 reflected on the complexities of being a successful band member, emphasizing the blend of personal integrity and professional reliability required, especially in a notable band like Mötley Crüe.
The guitarist, who stepped into Mick Mars’ shoes for Mötley Crüe, highlighted in his interview the importance of being more than just a skilled musician, explaining:
“Absolutely. I think that it’s so imperative because being good at your job — being a good guitar player, or a bass player, drummer, singer — that’s half of it. But the other half — you got to live with these people, so you have to be a good person. You have to understand who the boss is; you have to be on time — you know, just be a good person because you’re around these people all the time, and you’re only on stage an hour and a half a night.”
Endorsement Of Reliability
Mötley Crüe’s bassist, Nikki Sixx, recently vouched for John 5’s dependability and musicianship on X, reflecting a shared sentiment within the band about the guitarist’s contributions since he joined. He wrote:
“Being able to depend on a musician is key in a band. He’s a great player and consistent… We’re all operating on a higher frequency. I’ve known and worked with J5 for over 15 years.”
Transition And Respect
The musician’s reverence for Mick Mars and his legacy with Mötley Crüe is palpable. In a conversation with Rock Feed, John 5 expressed his honor in taking up Mars’ mantle, stressing his deep admiration and respect for Mars’ work, saying:
“I think what’s important is that I have such a respect and fondness for Mick. And I think that if anybody was gonna do it, 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. And I think that’s important. I think that’s really, really important ’cause I hold him on such a pedestal.”
This transition was made official during the Stadium Tour with Def Leppard in 2022, marking a new chapter for Mötley Crüe with John 5 at the guitar helm. Joining a band with the storied history and fanbase of Mötley Crüe is no small feat, as the guitarist also emphasized.
Watch John 5’s entire conversation below.
