Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx has addressed his bandmate Vince Neil’s health and vocal performance following the singer’s recent stroke, speaking on USA Today.
Sixx discussed Neil’s recovery and his determination to perform at his best despite the challenges the singer has faced. Neil has dealt with criticism over the years regarding both his weight and his live vocal ability.
“This was his fourth stroke, so his health is of most concern, as is the health of the band,” Sixx said.
Sixx explained that the band was careful about song selection for Neil’s return but that the singer was eager to perform. “Vince doesn’t want to pull any punches and we didn’t want to do any songs that maybe were too much on him. But he was, like, ‘I’m in.’ I want to do ‘Red Hot’. I love these songs. He really came to work and was sounding good pre-production. But once we hit the stage, he really came alive. He just wanted to be the best he could be.”
Sixx added that Neil was motivated to overcome the harsh judgment he had received in the past. “He’s taken a lot of bricks in the face over the years for his vocals live and he doesn’t like seeing that kind of stuff. So he really wanted to come in and not only prove to himself but to the fans that he’s vocally totally capable.”
Sixx made these comments as the band moved forward with their plans following Neil’s health setback.
Neil’s latest stroke followed earlier health challenges. In December 2024, he suffered a major stroke in his sleep that forced Mötley Crüe to postpone their Las Vegas residency from March to September. The singer underwent extensive physical therapy and reported achieving 90 to 95 percent recovery. He returned to performing with the band’s 11-show residency at the Park MGM in September and October 2025.
The band is continuing their ‘Return of the Carnival of Sins’ tour, which began on July 17, 2026, in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania. The 33-date North American tour ran through September 26 in Ridgefield, Washington, with Tesla and Extreme as supporting acts. The tour marks 45 years since Mötley Crüe started and celebrates the 20th anniversary of the group’s 2005-2006 run.
Neil’s determination to perform despite his health struggles reflects his commitment to the band and its fans. Sixx’s comments show that the singer worked hard in pre-production and brought his full energy to the stage. The band’s careful approach to song selection allowed Neil to perform at his best without overextending himself during recovery.
