Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx shared a heartfelt message with fans following the band’s first show of their Return Carnival Of Sins Tour. He expressed gratitude to attendees and offered strong support for vocalist Vince Neil, who survived a stroke last year and has faced criticism online regarding his live vocals.
“Thank you to everybody who came out for opening night. What a great show from top to bottom,” Sixx said.
Sixx went on to specifically address Neil’s performance, pushing back against the negativity surrounding the singer’s health struggles.
“The band is so damn tight, and considering everything Vince has been through with his health, he absolutely nailed it,” he continued. “Hard work, determination, and passion always pay off.”
He also took a moment to celebrate the energy of the crowd, noting the enthusiasm of both longtime and newer fans.
“It was also killer seeing so many new CrüeHeads singing every word — even the deep cuts,” Sixx added. “That never gets old. Round two tonight. Let’s do it.”
The opening night performance in Pittsburgh marked a significant moment for the band’s current run and for the broader legacy the tour carries with it.
The Return Carnival Of Sins Tour officially kicked off on July 17, 2026, at The Pavilion at Star Lake in Burgettstown, PA. Support acts Tesla and Extreme opened the show. The tour spans major North American amphitheaters throughout the summer, bringing the band back to large-scale outdoor venues for the first time in years.
The 2026 run is built around two major milestones: the 20th anniversary of the original 2005–2006 Carnival of Sins tour and the 45th anniversary of Mötley Crüe as a band. The original Carnival of Sins tour is widely regarded as one of the most elaborate and visually spectacular rock tours of its era, making the anniversary run a significant event for longtime fans.
Vince Neil’s return to the stage carries added weight given the health challenges he has faced in recent years. He suffered a stroke, and his recovery has been closely followed by fans and critics alike. His performance on opening night drew particular attention. Sixx’s public endorsement served as a direct response to those who had questioned Neil’s ability to perform at a high level.
The second show of the tour was scheduled to follow immediately after opening night, signaling the band’s intent to maintain momentum throughout what is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated rock tours of the summer.
Source: @NikkiSixx on X
