Mötley Crüe has officially named John 5 as its new guitarist following Mick Mars’s decision to retire from touring with the band. There is no word yet on how this affects John 5’s status with Rob Zombie, but he was absent from Rob’s recent tour dates and festivals. Earlier today, Mötley Crüe released the following statement which follows:

“While change is never easy, we accept Mick’s decision to retire from the band due to the challenges with his health. We have watched Mick manage his Ankylosing Spondylitis for decades and he has always managed it with utmost courage and grace.

“To say ‘enough is enough’ is the ultimate act of courage. Mick’s sound helped define Mötley Crüe from the minute he plugged in his guitar at our very first rehearsal together. The rest, as they say, is history. We’ll continue to honor his musical legacy.

“We will carry out Mick’s wish and continue to tour the world as planned in 2023. No doubt will it take an absolutely outstanding musician to fill Mick’s shoes so we are grateful that our good friend, John 5 has agreed to come on board and join us moving forward. We’ll see all you Crüeheads out on the road!”

Added John 5: “I’m honored to carry on Mick’s legacy and am looking forward to playing these songs.”

Check out our EXCLUSIVE chat with Jonh 5 earlier in 2022: