Motley Crüe

**Motley Crue**

**Motley Crue** is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1981. The band's lineup consists of bassist Nikki Sixx, drummer Tommy Lee, lead guitarist Mick Mars, and lead vocalist Vince Neil. They are renowned for their distinctive sound, wild stage antics, and decadent lifestyles, which epitomized the excesses of the 1980s glam metal era.

**Formation and Early Years**

Motley Crue was formed by bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee after their respective bands, London and Suite 19, disbanded. They recruited guitarist Mick Mars and lead vocalist Vince Neil to complete the lineup. The band quickly gained a following in the Los Angeles music scene, known for their high-energy performances and rebellious attitude.

In 1981, Motley Crue independently released their debut album, "*Too Fast for Love*," which garnered attention with its raw energy and punk-influenced sound. The album's success led to a major record deal with Elektra Records.

**Breakthrough and Commercial Success**

Motley Crue's second album, "*Shout at the Devil*," released in 1983, propelled them to international fame. The album featured hits such as "Looks That Kill" and the title track, which became anthems for the burgeoning glam metal movement. Their image, characterized by leather and studs, along with their hedonistic lifestyle, further contributed to their notoriety.

The band's subsequent albums, "*Theatre of Pain*" (1985) and "*Girls, Girls, Girls*" (1987), solidified their status as one of the biggest rock acts of the 1980s. Both albums produced several chart-topping singles and were accompanied by elaborate stage productions and extravagant tours.

In 1989, Motley Crue released "*Dr. Feelgood*," which became their most successful album to date. Bolstered by hit singles like "Kickstart My Heart" and the title track, the album topped the charts and achieved multi-platinum status, cementing the band's place in rock history.

**Challenges and Resilience**

Despite their commercial success, Motley Crue faced internal struggles and personal demons. Substance abuse, legal issues, and creative differences plagued the band throughout the 1990s. Vince Neil departed in 1992, leading to a period of uncertainty for the group.

Motley Crue experienced a resurgence in 1994 with the release of their self-titled album, which featured new vocalist John Corabi. Although the album received critical acclaim for its musical experimentation, it failed to replicate the commercial success of their previous releases.

In 1997, Vince Neil rejoined the band, marking a reunion of the original lineup. Motley Crue continued to tour and release albums, including "*Generation Swine*" (1997) and "*New Tattoo*" (2000), albeit with mixed commercial success.

**Final Years and Retirement**

Motley Crue embarked on several farewell tours in the early 2000s, signaling the end of an era for the band. However, they continued to perform sporadically over the following years, maintaining a dedicated fan base and legacy in the rock music landscape.

In 2015, Motley Crue announced their final tour, titled "The Final Tour," with the signing of a legally binding cessation of touring agreement. The tour concluded on December 31, 2015, with a sold-out show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

**Legacy**

Motley Crue's influence extends beyond their music, encompassing fashion, lifestyle, and the glam metal genre as a whole. They are regarded as pioneers of the Sunset Strip music scene and are credited with shaping the sound and aesthetic of 1980s rock.

Despite their controversies and personal struggles, Motley Crue's music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Their anthems of rebellion, excess, and hedonism remain iconic symbols of rock 'n' roll culture.