The bassist of Motley Crue, Nikki Sixx, has addressed the band’s use of backing tracks, clarifying some confusion that has led to accusations of using pre-recorded material during their live performances.

Sixx made these comments through his X social media account while engaging with fans and answering questions under the hashtag #AskSixx.

What Did Nikki Sixx Say About Motley Crue’s Use of Backing Tracks?

In response to a fan’s question, “Why do y’all use backing tracks?”, Sixx explained, “After seeing Queen use some during ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ live, we realized we could incorporate elements like orchestras and saxophones that we can’t perform live and sync them with our playing. We play 100 percent live, and it enhances the experience for fans; it’s a win-win for us.”

Another fan asked, “Why don’t you guys play 100 percent live?” to which Sixx curtly replied, “We do. You were lied to. Sorry.”

Why Has There Been So Much Attention on Motley Crue Using Backing Tracks?

In 2022, a performance in Kansas City surfaced online showing what appeared to be a backing track for drums. This incident involved Tommy Lee, who missed the count-in on “Looks That Kill” while rushing back to his drum kit.

The issue gained further traction in 2023 when Mick Mars sued the band over his removal from Motley Crue. Reports from Rolling Stone indicated that Mars accused the band, particularly targeting Nikki Sixx, of not playing their instruments live during the 2022 tour. In January 2026, Motley Crue won the lawsuit against Mars, with the arbitrator dismissing all claims and ordering Mars to pay damages.

READ MORE: Who Was the First Band Known for Using Backing Tracks Live?

In 2024, John 5 denied allegations of miming guitar parts onstage by sharing a video on his Instagram that demonstrated what fans had been questioning.

“I do this thing where I flip the pick around on my neck,” he said while tossing his guitar pick in the air and catching it to complete the riff. He also addressed claims regarding his hand not being on the guitar while playing “Too Fast for Love,” showcasing his technique with hammer-ons and pull-offs during the single-string riff.

“Very simple. It’s not a big deal,” he concluded. “Many things are played with one hand. A lot of musicians know this. So, there’s nothing to worry about; no backing tracks.”

This year, John 5 also mentioned on the Thinking About Guitar podcast that all members are playing every note onstage. “I think people just don’t want to hear that. I don’t understand why they resist accepting it, but we work really hard, and the live tracks sound great,” he stated.

Echoing Sixx’s earlier remarks from X, John 5 added, “Listen, there are backups [backing vocals] that are on track. Of course, there are backups pumped in; there are sirens pumped in; there are intros pumped in. But all the music we’re playing is performed by us. I’m up there singing backups, and Nikki’s singing backups; we do our best.”

Motley Crue on Tour in 2026

Motley Crue is currently touring as part of The Return of Carnival of Sins, celebrating both the 20th anniversary of that tour and their overall 45th anniversary. Support acts include Tesla and Extreme.

The tour will resume on August 12 in Alpharetta, Ga., after a brief break, with dates scheduled through September 26 in Ridgefield, Wash.. For all stops and ticket information, visit the official Motley Crue website.

Below is a list of rock and metal bands that have admitted to using backing tracks live.