Motley Crue guitarist and founding member Mick Mars is retiring from touring.
A statement from Mars’ rep explained that although he will continue as a member, his health struggles will keep him from the road.
The statement said, “Due to his ongoing painful struggle with Ankylosing Spondylitis he will no longer be able to tour with the band. Mick will continue as a member of the band but can no longer handle the rigors of the road. A.S. is an extremely painful and crippling degenerative disease, which affects the spine.”
The band announced, “We’ll continue to honor [Mick’s] 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.”
Rob Zombie guitarist John 5 will fill in for Mars as the band’s touring guitarist.
“I am honored to carry on Mick’s legacy and am looking forward to playing these songs,” confirmed John 5.