Mick Mars, born Robert Alan Deal, is a name synonymous with the iconic 80s glam metal band Mötley Crüe. For decades, his distinctive guitar riffs and bluesy style fueled the band’s hard-rocking anthems, solidifying his place as a rock legend. But who is the man behind the makeup and the mesmerizing music? This article delves into the life and career of Mick Mars, exploring his early years, his struggles with ankylosing spondylitis, his time with Mötley Crüe, and his recent legal battles.
Mick Mars: The Early Years and Musical Influences
Born in Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1951, Mick’s early life wasn’t always glamorous. He dropped out of high school and bounced around various bands, searching for his musical niche. Influenced by blues greats like Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, he developed a distinctive playing style that would later become his trademark. This early exploration of blues infused a raw, emotional edge into his later hard rock compositions. It’s this unique blend that contributed to Mötley Crüe’s distinctive sound.
Mick Mars in his early years
Battling Ankylosing Spondylitis: Mick Mars’s Strength and Resilience
Mick’s musical journey has been intertwined with a constant battle against ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the spine and other joints. Diagnosed in his late teens, AS caused him increasing pain and stiffness, eventually impacting his ability to perform. Despite this debilitating condition, Mick’s unwavering dedication to music pushed him forward. He refused to let AS define him, persevering through pain to create music that resonated with millions.
Mick Mars battling Ankylosing Spondylitis
The Mötley Crüe Years: Defining a Generation of Rock
Mick Mars joined Mötley Crüe in 1980, answering a classified ad seeking a “loud, rude, and aggressive guitar player.” He quickly became an integral part of the band’s explosive success, contributing his signature guitar riffs to iconic songs like “Kickstart My Heart” and “Dr. Feelgood.” His stage presence, often shrouded in mystery and mystique, further solidified the band’s image as rebellious rock gods. For thirty years, Mick Mars was the backbone of Mötley Crüe, his guitar weaving the sonic tapestry of their hard-rocking anthems.
Mick Mars and Mötley Crüe: The Recent Legal Battle
In 2022, Mick announced his retirement from touring with Mötley Crüe due to his ongoing struggles with AS. However, his relationship with the band took a tumultuous turn in 2023 when he filed a lawsuit against them, alleging wrongful termination and unfair business practices. The lawsuit claims that the band diminished his share of profits after he stepped down from touring. This legal battle has exposed tensions within the iconic group, leaving fans wondering about the future of Mötley Crüe.
Mick Mars's legal battle with Mötley Crüe
Who Is Mick Mars Today?
Despite the legal battles and the physical challenges, Mick Mars continues to be a powerful force in the music world. He remains an inspiration to aspiring musicians and fans alike, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. While his time with Mötley Crüe might be over, his legacy as a rock icon is firmly cemented in music history.
Mick Mars Today
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Mick Mars
Mick Mars is more than just a guitarist; he’s a testament to the enduring power of music. From his early blues influences to his iconic riffs with Mötley Crüe, Mick Mars has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll. He is an example of how passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of one’s dreams can lead to a legendary career. While the future holds new challenges and opportunities, one thing is certain: the name Mick Mars will forever be synonymous with the raw energy and rebellious spirit of Mötley Crüe.
FAQ
- What is Mick Mars’s real name? His real name is Robert Alan Deal.
- What disease does Mick Mars suffer from? He has ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
- When did Mick Mars join Mötley Crüe? He joined the band in 1980.
- Why did Mick Mars leave Mötley Crüe’s touring lineup? He retired from touring due to his ongoing struggle with AS.
- What was the nature of Mick Mars’s lawsuit against Mötley Crüe? He alleged wrongful termination and unfair business practices.
- What are some of Mick Mars’s most famous guitar riffs? His contributions include the iconic riffs in “Kickstart My Heart” and “Dr. Feelgood.”
- Is Mick Mars still making music? While his touring days are over, his future musical endeavors remain to be seen.
