Mick Mars, the enigmatic guitarist of Mötley Crüe, is a master of heavy riffs and searing solos that have defined the sound of one of rock’s most notorious bands. His gritty, blues-infused style, combined with his raw energy and stage presence, has earned him a place among the greats in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. In this post, we’ll delve into Mick Mars’ history, his top hits, signature guitar techniques, and the gear that has shaped his unmistakable sound.

Mick Mars – History and Influences

Born Robert Alan Deal on May 4, 1951, in Terre Haute, Indiana, Mick Mars’ journey to rock stardom was anything but conventional. He moved to California in his teens, where he played in a series of unsuccessful bands before adopting the stage name Mick Mars and joining Mötley Crüe in 1981.

Mars’ playing style is deeply rooted in blues, but he infused it with a heavy, distorted edge that became the backbone of Mötley Crüe’s sound. His influences range from blues legends like Muddy Waters and Elmore James to rock icons like Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck. Mars’ ability to blend these influences into a raw, aggressive style helped Mötley Crüe carve out a unique space in the glam metal scene of the 1980s.

Top Hits Featuring Mick Mars

Mick Mars’ guitar work is central to Mötley Crüe’s most iconic tracks. Here are some of the standout songs that showcase his powerful playing:

1. “Dr. Feelgood” – Mötley Crüe (1989)
   • Chart Position: Reached No. 6 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
   • Why It Was a Hit: “Dr. Feelgood” features one of Mars’ most recognizable riffs, a chugging, palm-muted line that drives the song forward with relentless energy. The combination of his tight, precise rhythm work and blistering soloing made this track a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances.
2. “Kickstart My Heart” – Mötley Crüe (1989)
   • Chart Position: Peaked at No. 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
   • Why It Was a Hit: Mars’ use of a talk box in the intro and his high-octane riffing define this adrenaline-pumping anthem. The song’s explosive energy is a perfect example of how Mars’ guitar work can elevate a track, creating an electrifying experience that captures the raw spirit of rock and roll.
3. “Shout at the Devil” – Mötley Crüe (1983)
   • Chart Position: Though it didn’t chart, the song became an anthem of the 1980s metal scene.
   • Why It Was a Hit: The title track from Mötley Crüe’s breakthrough album, “Shout at the Devil,” features a riff that is both menacing and catchy. Mars’ use of power chords and aggressive playing style set the tone for the entire album, cementing the band’s place in heavy metal history.
4. “Home Sweet Home” – Mötley Crüe (1985)
   • Chart Position: Reached No. 89 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 37 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart.
   • Why It Was a Hit: While known more for its piano intro, “Home Sweet Home” features a beautifully melodic solo by Mars that adds emotional depth to the power ballad. His ability to convey emotion through his playing is evident here, making it one of Mötley Crüe’s most beloved songs.
5. “Girls, Girls, Girls” – Mötley Crüe (1987)
   • Chart Position: Peaked at No. 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
   • Why It Was a Hit: The title track of the band’s 1987 album, “Girls, Girls, Girls,” showcases Mars’ ability to blend bluesy licks with hard rock attitude. The song’s riff is simple yet effective, embodying the sleazy, rebellious spirit of the band.

Mick Mars’ Signature Guitar Techniques: A Deep Dive with Video Guide

Mick Mars is renowned for his heavy, precise playing style, characterized by his aggressive downstrokes, sharp harmonics, and creative use of bends. If you’re looking to incorporate some of Mars’ signature techniques into your own playing, this video is an invaluable resource. Below, we break down some of the key techniques demonstrated in the video and how you can use them to channel your inner Mick Mars.

1. The Power of Downstrokes Mars’ playing is often driven by powerful downstrokes, a technique that adds intensity and drive to his riffs. In the video, the instructor discusses the importance of locking your wrist and keeping your movements small to maintain speed and precision. This technique is especially crucial in live settings, where maintaining tight rhythm is key. By mastering Mars’ downstroke technique, you can add a similar level of aggression and energy to your playing.

2. Natural and Artificial Harmonics Harmonics are a staple of Mars’ playing style, and the video covers both natural and artificial (or pinch) harmonics. Natural harmonics, as shown in the video, are produced by lightly touching the string at certain fret positions, adding a ringing, bell-like quality to your sound. Mars often uses these to add texture and flair to his riffs. Artificial harmonics, on the other hand, require precise technique and can be a bit trickier to master. The video offers tips on using the side of your thumb to generate these harmonics, which are essential for achieving the squealing, aggressive tone that Mars is known for.

3. Chromatic Riffs and Bends Mick Mars’ riffs often feature chromatic movements, where notes are played in sequence up or down the fretboard. The video highlights how to effectively incorporate these into your playing, emphasizing the importance of small bends that add a gritty, bluesy feel to the riff. These subtle bends are crucial for replicating the attitude and swagger that Mars brings to his music.

4. Slides and Whammy Bar Tricks Mars frequently uses slides and whammy bar tricks to create dramatic, expressive sounds. The video explores these techniques, showing how to execute them smoothly for maximum effect. Whether you’re adding a slide to a riff or using the whammy bar to create a Doppler effect, these techniques are a great way to emulate Mars’ expressive, sometimes chaotic playing style.

5. The “Trilling” Technique One of Mars’ signature moves is his use of trills—rapid alternations between two notes, often used to add excitement to a solo or fill. The video explains how to integrate trills into your playing, making your licks more dynamic and engaging.

These techniques, while challenging, are key to capturing the essence of Mick Mars’ guitar style. By practicing the exercises shown in the video, you can develop a more aggressive, dynamic playing style that echoes the raw power and precision of one of rock’s most distinctive guitarists.

Watch the full video below to dive deeper into these techniques and start incorporating them into your own playing.

Guitar Gear and Equipment

Mick Mars’ choice of guitars, particularly his Fender Stratocaster, has been pivotal in shaping his signature sound. Over the years, Mars has often discussed his preference for the Fender Stratocaster, highlighting its comfort and versatility as major factors in his selection. In an interview, Mars mentioned that he was drawn to the Stratocaster because it allowed him to achieve the sharp, cutting tones that defined many of Mötley Crüe’s hits. The guitar’s build quality and ability to stay in tune during aggressive playing were also crucial in his decision. Mars has customized his Strats over the years to better suit his playing style, often swapping out pickups and adding modifications to enhance the guitar’s performance.

This meticulous attention to detail extends to his other guitars as well. Whether it’s his Gibson Les Paul for a thicker, more sustained tone or his custom-built models, every piece of gear in Mars’ collection has been carefully chosen to complement his unique style. Each guitar and amp setup reflects his dedication to achieving the perfect sound, allowing him to deliver powerful performances both in the studio and on stage.

Guitars

• • Fender Stratocaster: Mars’ main guitar for much of his career. He favors heavily modified Strats, often equipped with humbuckers and other custom features.

• • Gibson Les Paul: Mars also uses a Les Paul for its thick, sustaining tones, especially in live performances.

Budget Alternative: Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster If you’re looking to capture some of Mick Mars’ tone without breaking the bank, the Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster is a fantastic option. It offers the classic Stratocaster feel with vintage-style pickups that provide a bright and clear sound.

Amps

• • Marshall JCM800: Mars’ go-to amp, known for its powerful, overdriven sound that’s perfect for hard rock and heavy metal.

• • Friedman BE-100: A modern addition to his setup, providing versatility and a range of tones from clean to heavily distorted.

Budget Alternative: Marshall DSL5CR For those on a budget, the Marshall DSL5CR is an excellent alternative. It provides the classic Marshall tone with plenty of power, making it a great choice for achieving a similar sound to Mick Mars at a more affordable price.

Effects

• • Dunlop Cry Baby Wah: Essential for adding expression to his solos.

• • MXR Phase 90: Used to create swirling, psychedelic effects in his riffs and solos.

• • Talk Box: Famous for its use in “Kickstart My Heart,” adding a vocal-like quality to his playing.

Collaborations and Side Projects

Beyond Mötley Crüe, Mick Mars has worked on various collaborations and side projects that highlight his versatility as a guitarist. Over the years, he has collaborated with artists such as John Corabi, a former Mötley Crüe vocalist, and has contributed to projects spanning different genres, from hard rock to blues. These collaborations showcase Mars’ ability to adapt his style while still retaining the distinct elements that define his sound. His work with other artists often provides a glimpse into the depth of his musical influences, further solidifying his status as a guitarist who transcends the confines of any single genre.

Mick Mars Away from the Guitar

Outside of his life on stage, Mick Mars is known for his reserved and introspective personality. Unlike the other members of Mötley Crüe, Mars often shies away from the spotlight, preferring to focus on his craft rather than the celebrity lifestyle. Despite battling ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory condition that has severely affected his mobility, Mars has remained dedicated to his music. His resilience in the face of adversity is as much a part of his legacy as his guitar playing.

In his personal life, Mars enjoys spending time with his family and indulging in his love for cars and motorcycles. His passion for music extends beyond performing, as he is also a collector of rare and vintage guitars. This quieter, more reflective side of Mars offers a contrast to his powerful onstage persona, revealing the complexity of the man behind the music.

Final Thoughts

Mick Mars’ contribution to the world of rock and metal is undeniable. His ability to blend blues with heavy metal, his innovative use of effects, and his unwavering commitment to his craft have made him a true guitar icon. Whether you’re a fan of Mötley Crüe or simply appreciate great guitar playing, studying Mars’ techniques and approach to music can provide valuable insights for guitarists of all levels.

For more articles like this, be sure to check out the rest of our Mastering the Iconic Guitar Sound series on the Get My Guitar blog. And if you have your own favorite Mick Mars tracks or tips on emulating his sound, let us know in the comments below! Keep playing, and keep the music alive!