Mick Mars, the lead guitarist of the highly acclaimed rock band Mötley Crüe, has been a pivotal figure in the rock music industry. His undeniable talent and unique musical style have helped shape the genre and influenced countless musicians worldwide. In this article, we delve into Mars’ early life, his illustrious career, personal struggles, and his enduring legacy in rock music.
Early Life and Family Background of Mick Mars
Born Robert Alan Deal on May 4, 1951 in Terre Haute, Indiana, Mick Mars grew up in a humble family setting in Garden Grove, California. His father, Frank Deal, was a musician who played the banjo in a local band, which greatly influenced Mars’ interest in music. From an early age, Mars showed a keen interest in music and began playing the guitar when he was just 9 years old.
His passion for music took a more defined shape in his teenage years as he became more absorbed in the world of rock and roll. He attended Sunset High School in California, where he honed his guitar skills and nurtured his artistry. It was during these formative years that Mars joined his first band, playing at local gigs and honing his craft.
Despite facing numerous challenges growing up, including poverty and family issues, Mars remained steadfast in his pursuit of a career in music. His gritty determination and passion saw him move away from his family at a young age to pursue his dreams of becoming a rock star.
Mars adopted his stage name, a combination of his nickname “Mick,” which he got in high school due to his ‘too cool’ persona, and “Mars” from his former band mate’s phonebook misprint of his surname. His unique stage name soon became synonymous with his energetic performances and signature guitar riffs.
Growing up, Mars was heavily influenced by the musical stylings of Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. These influences would come to form the bedrock of his own musical style, which he later brought to the world stage with Mötley Crüe.
An Overview of Mick Mars’ Remarkable Career
Mick Mars’ big break came in 1981 when he joined Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee to form the foundational lineup of Mötley Crüe. The band, known for its heavy metal sound and rebellious image, quickly rose to fame with their debut album “Too Fast for Love.” Mars wrote some of the band’s biggest hits, like “Dr. Feelgood” and “Looks That Kill,” establishing himself as an indispensable part of the band.
During Mötley Crüe’s active years, Mars’ unique guitar playing style, characterized by his heavy, distorted riffs and screaming solos, became a defining aspect of the band’s sound. His musical contributions were instrumental in the band’s success, which saw them sell over 100 million records worldwide.
Aside from Mötley Crüe, Mars also worked on solo projects and collaborated with several other musicians. He featured on Hinder’s hit song “Take It To The Limit,” showcasing his versatility as a musician. Moreover, Mars had a pivotal role in the recording of Mötley Crüe’s ninth studio album, “Saints of Los Angeles,” even while battling significant health issues.
Mars continued to tour and record with Mötley Crüe until the band’s final concert on December 31, 2015. However, his contributions to rock music didn’t end there. In 2020, he announced that he was working on his solo album, confirming his ongoing dedication to his craft.
Personal Life: Relationships and Health Challenges
Despite his successful career, Mars’ personal life has been marked by significant challenges. He’s been married three times, first to Sharon Deal, then to Emi Canyn, and currently to Seraina Schönenberger. He has three children from these relationships – Les Paul Deal, Stormy Deal, and Erik Deal.
Mars has been open about his health struggles. He was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, when he was just 19 years old. This condition has caused him considerable pain and has gradually affected his mobility.
Despite these health challenges, Mars never allowed his condition to derail his music career. He continues to perform and record music, even though it often requires him to endure intense physical discomfort. His resilience in the face of adversity is an inspiration to many and a testament to his enduring passion for music.
Mick Mars: Impact and Legacy in Rock Music
Mick Mars’ influence on rock music is immeasurable. His unique guitar playing style, characterized by heavy, distorted riffs and screaming solos, has influenced countless musicians and has become a defining aspect of the heavy metal genre.
Mars’ legacy as a founding member of Mötley Crüe is cemented in music history. The band’s rebellious image and raucous sound defined the glam metal era of the ’80s and ’90s and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
In 2006, Mars and his Mötley Crüe bandmates were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to their impact and influence on the music industry. Moreover, their story was told in the 2019 Netflix biopic “The Dirt,” where Mars was portrayed by actor Iwan Rheon.
Despite his health issues, Mars’ commitment to his craft and his refusal to let anything stand in the way of his music has made him a symbol of determination and resilience within the music industry.
In conclusion, Mick Mars’ journey from a young boy with a dream to an influential figure in rock music is a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering passion. Despite numerous personal and health challenges, Mars has left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to inspire countless musicians worldwide. His legacy as a member of Mötley Crüe and as a solo artist is a testament to his talent, drive, and dedication to his craft.
