For more than 30 years, John 5 has been one of the most in-demand guitar players. His resume of work is a veritable who’s who of multiple musical styles, including working with such eclectic artists as Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Ace Frehley, Rob Halford, KD Lang and Dolly Parton.
In October 2022, it was announced that John would be joining Mötley Crüe as their guitarist following the announcement that Mick Mars would be retiring. As a solo artist, John considers his newly released solo album, “Ghost,” as the story of his life put to music.
On Friday, John 5 and fellow guitar legend Richie Kotzen will bring an ubiquitous master class in guitar wizardry to the stage at The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg as part of their first co-headlining tour.
I recently spoke with John 5 about the upcoming show, his brand-new album, memorable moments and more in this new interview.
Q. This tour with Richie Kotzen is a guitar lover’s dream. How did it all come about?
John 5: I had done a similar tour previously with Marty Friedman and that was very successful. Richie and I both have the same agency group and we both thought it would be a great tour. It all came together naturally. It’s been super fun and an absolute blast. We’ve been having such a great time together.
What can fans expect from your performance in Stroudsburg?
It’s going to be a wild show because there are so many different styles of music. I’ll be bringing up the banjo, the mandolin, the lava guitar and masks. We even pass out candy to the crowd. It’s a crazy show and a lot of fun.
You’ve mentioned that your new album, “Ghost,” is your life’s story. How so?
This record is the soundtrack of my life. I love country music, so there’s some of that on there. My mom and dad always loved the song “Moonglow” so I did a cover of that. I’m so proud of this record and everything about it. It’s who I am.
What is your typical writing process for a new album?
I wish I had some cool answer. Sometimes I’ll start with a musical idea but most of the time I just sit on the couch watching TV and work on things. It’s so simple but it works and makes me happy.
Did you always know that music would be your calling?
I always wanted to be a musician people know but thought it was so untouchable. It was so far beyond my dreams and I’m so lucky and thankful to be doing what I’m doing and never take it for granted.
What’s the best bit of advice you can give to an aspiring artist?
I like the Army slogan, “Be all you can be.” If you really want to do this and be the best you can be then put yourself out there. I think it’s easier today to get noticed because there are things like YouTube and Instagram. If someone is great they can be noticed. You don’t have to send out demos and go play all these places.
Another guitar legend, Ace Frehley, recently passed away. What was your relationship like with him?
There are things in your life that change you forever. It could be a superhero like Superman or Spider-man, or maybe it’s a sports figure. For me, it was Ace. He inspired me so much and had that special thing like James Dean or Fonzie. You can’t explain it; he was just naturally cool. I was lucky enough to become close friends with him and get to play on a couple of his records. There are bands today that can put on makeup but it was the perfect time for KISS. I don’t think something like that will ever happen again.
Are there any other projects you’re currently working on?
I’m going to keep touring and supporting this new record. I’m also working on this thing called 50 shows in 50 days in 50 states. It’ll be next year and is going to be insane. We have to carefully plan it and be on top of it. We’ll start in Alaska and end in Hawaii.
Of all the highlights of your career what stands out to you as most memorable?
There’s been so many. Playing opera house in Sydney, Australia with KD Lang, playing Madison Square Garden with Rob Zombie and Ozzy. Playing the Forum. Even the club shows with Mötley Crüe at The Whisky A Go Go, The Roxy and Troubadour were amazing. I’m so fortunate and lucky. It’s been a dream.
James Wood is a freelance writer. His new book, “Beyond What We Know” is available now. You can contact him at jimmywood@gmail.com.
