Nikki Sixx and Mick Mars in Guitar Magazine, January 1990

"The bass player claims he's really just a songwriter. The guitarist can only solo on one chord. Both say they ought to practice more often, but then admit too much practice could lead the band to ruination. They wouldn't be motley anymore. But, wait a minute: the guitarist spends his off hours composing classical themes for cello and violin. The bass player is about to release a book of poetry. What is going on here?" 

John Stix's Guitar Magazine interview with Nikki and Mick is one of the most detailed accounts from the 1980s of the Motley string men as working, creative musicians. Both frankly admit their limitations while showing a deep awareness of their talents and how they approached their roles in one of the world's then biggest Rock bands.  

Mick speaks of creating out-of-character Rock instrumental music with a combination of his Blues Rock sensibilities and Classical music touches. He also talks in depth about key and position preference and reveals he is not overly comfortable in E or A which is surprising as they are often the most native, popular keys and positions for Blues Rock players.

Nikki discusses a book of poetry and lyrics he was planning on publishing but never saw the light of day. The book was to be a mix of Motley lyrics with as many new songs and poems and was later titled "An Education In Rebellion."  

Among the more fascinating details in this interview is Nikki's walk-through of Motley's songwriting process. From writing on acoustic guitars to Mick's electric guitar additions to having Vince mumble melody ideas, Nikki lays out the process which yielded such classics as "Don't Go Away Mad" and "Dr. Feelgood". This is the type of information that was not often asked of or offered from the Crue and it is a welcomed change.

Mick says he will soon be working on a solo record . . . which, in 2020, is still unreleased but has been teased and may be released in the next few years. He ends the interview by admitting that though perhaps more accomplished players may criticize his technique, they know his sound which is original and recognizable. Amen, Mr. Mars.

Guitar Magazine offered guitar and bass transcriptions for "Dr. Feelgood" and the back cover of the edition has a Kramer Guitars ad that features Nikki and Mick among Rock cohorts who had taken part in the Moscow Music Peace Festival months prior in August, 1989, around when this interview would have taken place.