Vince Neil has responded to former Mötley Crüe guitarist Mick Mars’ accusations about the band using backing tracks. He made explosive counterclaims in a recent interview with Neon.
Vince Neil addresses the allegations
The Motley Crüe frontman directly addressed Mars’ previous allegations. He turned the accusations back on his former bandmate.
Neil said, “No, we never did that, ever. It was Mick Mars who got pissed off, because we fired him, basically.”
Neil went on to detail Mars’ specific complaints about the band’s live performances. He said, “But his whole thing was that I don’t sing any of the lyrics. Nikki doesn’t play in his bass and Tommy doesn’t play his drums. And we’re like, ‘What the fuck is he talking about? Because he was the only one on tape, because he kept fucking stuff up, so we had him on tape.”
The singer then explained how the band’s sound team handled Mars’ performance issues during live shows, saying, “When he started going off on some weird tangent, our sound guy just turned him off and turned the tape on. The only thing about that was that it was all in Mick Mars’ head.
Neil’s explosive response comes amid a broader controversy that has plagued the band for months. Nikki Sixx also publicly accused Mick Mars of lying to fans and attempting to damage the band.
The bassist’s statement referenced a recent Los Angeles Times article. It focused on what he described as Mars’ betrayal of both the band and their fans.
Nikki Sixx reacts
Taking to X account, Sixx said, “Read this LA Times article and find out how Mick Mars lied to you to try to hurt the band.” Why would he betray you and us? Money?”
Sixx continued his criticism by referencing legal proceedings between Mars and the band.
He continued, “Wow. Read it and find out what happened to him and his dirty lawyers in arbitration. I’m actually ashamed of him. So should you be too—More to be revealed soon.”
The conflict stems from Mars’ retirement from touring in 2022 due to health issues and the subsequent legal battle over his financial stake in the band. The Los Angeles Times reported that Mars filed suit alleging the band tried to oust him as a stakeholder and diminish his financial rights. This included a proposed severance slashing his touring profits from 25% to 5%, then eventually zero, while still allowing the band indefinite use of his name and likeness.
