In a recent interview, MÖTLEY CRÜE guitarist John 5 paid tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Randy Rhoads, who tragically passed away 43 years ago. John 5 expressed his admiration, saying: “Randy was an anomaly. He had a style that nobody had before. It was like the invention of the microwave, where you think, ‘Wow, this is something totally new.’ Or an electric car—’Whoa, this is different.’ That’s how Randy was to millions of fans, myself included. His style was unique. He brought in classical elements, and you could tell he was completely obsessed and dedicated to the guitar. Not only was he an incredible guitar player, but he was also an amazing songwriter.”
John 5 went on to reflect on the significance of Randy’s work with Ozzy Osbourne, especially in shaping the direction of Ozzy’s solo career. “Randy didn’t come in and just replicate BLACK SABBATH’s sound. They went in an entirely new direction,” John 5 explained. “Randy reinvented the wheel—he truly did. It’s remarkable when you think about it. Take the riff from ‘Crazy Train’—I believe that was their first single—it’s a riff that will never fade away. That riff will remain iconic forever. Imagine being in a band where Randy might have thought, ‘I’ll write some BLACK SABBATH-like riffs because Tony Iommi is a genius and I admire him,’ but Randy took it to a whole new level. It’s unbelievable, and the world loved it.”
When asked about the last time he was “blown away” by a new guitarist, John 5 shared: “I think it’s happening more today than it has in decades, mainly because of platforms like Instagram, which allow you to see incredible players from all over the world. In the past, you would only see famous musicians or local talent. But now, there are extraordinary players all over the globe.”
He continued: “When guitarists are asked about their influences, they often mention artists from the past. I love those musicians too, but I also give credit to those who are currently playing. Guitar playing has evolved so much, and I continue to learn every single day. I never want to feel comfortable—I always strive to improve and keep pushing forward. I think that’s the key to life, doing what you love.”
In May 2025, John 5 will showcase his extensive KISS memorabilia collection for the first time ever at the Knights In Satan Service Museum in Los Angeles, California. The museum, dedicated to KISS fans worldwide, will offer guided tours for one month, with dates available from May 5-9, May 12-16, May 19-23, and May 27-30. John 5 himself will lead the tours, sharing fascinating details and answering questions from fans.
Tickets are available now at John5Store.com.
John 5’s collection includes over 2,500 unique items, featuring rare merchandise and one-of-a-kind collectibles from KISS’s golden era, 1973-1983. Highlights include one of the only known pairs of Gene Simmons’s “Destroyer” boots from 1976, his 1974 stage outfit, and banners from the band’s famous 1974 appearance at Woodfield Mall, Chicago, during the “National KISS-Off” kissing contest.
After completing a massive 2024 tour with multiple solo dates and international MÖTLEY CRÜE appearances, John 5 is set for more in 2025.
With over 30 years in the music industry, John 5 has been one of the most sought-after guitarists worldwide. He’s worked as a songwriter and guitarist for hire, performing with iconic bands and musicians like Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Rob Halford, KD Lang, Rod Stewart, Alice Cooper, LYNYRD SKYNYRD, and more. In October 2022, John 5 was officially announced as MÖTLEY CRÜE’s new guitarist after Mick Mars retired. He continues to tour with MÖTLEY CRÜE.
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