As the guitarist for the influential ’80s glam rock band Mötley Crüe, Mick Mars played catchy riffs that perfectly matched Nikki Sixx’s rebellious and sexually charged lyrics. Originally born as Bob Alan Deal in Terre Haute, IN, Mars moved to Huntington, IN, where he attended his first concert that sparked his passion for guitar playing. Starting with the bass guitar, he joined his first band, the Jades, at the age of 14. Influenced by artists like Jeff Beck and the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Mars later secured the lead guitar position in one of the era’s biggest rock bands.
Having played in multiple bands in Los Angeles, including White Horse and Vendetta, Mick Mars connected with Mötley Crüe founder/bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee through a local ad he placed. Impressed, he was immediately hired, and the band later added vocalist Vince Neil to their lineup. Mötley Crüe gained attention in Hollywood with their outrageous stage performances, featuring Mars spitting blood and Sixx setting himself on fire. Signed by Elektra Records, the band achieved great success with albums like Too Fast for Love, Shout at the Devil, Theatre of Pain, Girls, Girls, Girls, and Dr. Feelgood during the ’80s.
In the ’90s, Mötley Crüe faced changes with Vince Neil’s departure and the rise of alternative/grunge rock. John Corabi replaced Neil briefly and played guitar on the band’s self-titled album, causing tension with Mars. Despite the lineup adjustments, Neil returned, and the original band continued with albums like Generation Swine and New Tattoo in the late ’90s. Mick Mars’ journey with Mötley Crüe remains a mix of turmoil and triumph, fueling the band’s enduring legacy in the world of rock music.