Mick Mars is planning on releasing his debut solo record, “The Other Side of Mars,” in 2024.
In a new interview, the former Mötley Crüe guitarist explained, “It’s something I’ve wanted to do for the past 40 years. I’ve just been able to get around to it when I’m in this age that I am now, so I guess it was time really.”
Mars also said he’s glad he waited because the record is “totally different than what it would have been 20 years ago, 30 years ago.”
The first taste of the new project is the song, “Loyal to the Lie,” watch the video below.
Mötley Crüe has been in a nasty legal battle with former member Mick Mars since April after Mars filed a lawsuit against the band for trying to remove him from the group. Mars suffers from Ankylosing Spondylitis, a chronic and inflammatory form of arthritis. After years of performing through the pain, Mars retired from touring with Mötley Crüe in October 2022 due to health issues.
Since then, Mars filed a lawsuit against the band accusing them of removing him as a stakeholder in the band’s business dealings by cutting his share of the touring royalties from 25% to just 5%.
In the lawsuit, Mars claimed he was the only member of Mötley Crüe to play live during his last tour with the band. Meanwhile, the band says backing tracks were needed for Mars, whose playing has apparently deteriorated.
Mars claimed Nikki Sixx, “Did not play a single note” on tour. However, Sixx responded on Twitter, writing, “Sad day for us and we don’t deserve this considering how many years we’ve been propping him up. We still wish him the best and hope he find’s [sic] lawyers and managers who aren’t damaging him. We love you Mick.”
Following Mars’ exit, John 5 has filled in as Mötley Crüe’s touring guitarist; which Nikki Sixx said was a “seamless” transition.
Despite the legal battle, Mötley Crüe recently released a “Shout at the Devil” 40th anniversary box set to celebrate the band’s continued success.