Former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick recently took to social media to share his glowing review of MÖTLEY CRÜE’s live performance at Dolby Live in Las Vegas. In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter), Kulick praised not only the band’s stage show and production but also gave individual recognition to each member of the Crüe.
Kulick, who spent over a decade in KISS, knows what it takes to deliver a legendary rock show — and he made it clear that MÖTLEY CRÜE still has what it takes to dominate arenas.
A Rock Show Designed to Impress
Kulick opened his review by describing the concert as nothing short of spectacular.
“Mötley Crüe performed a masterfully designed rock show last night at Dolby Live,” Kulick wrote. “Every song was executed with power and precision, with a giant stage and ego ramps for them to engage the adoring fans.”
From the start, it was clear that the legendary glam-metal outfit put tremendous thought into their presentation. Kulick highlighted the blend of powerful execution, fan interaction, and over-the-top stage design that has defined MÖTLEY CRÜE’s legacy for more than four decades.
Nikki Sixx: The Heart and Vision of the Band
Kulick gave special recognition to bassist Nikki Sixx, the band’s primary songwriter and co-founder.
“Nikki Sixx prowls the venue, possessed with the knowledge of his creation sharing his passion for songwriting and love of the incredible and notorious history of the band,” Kulick observed.
Sixx’s larger-than-life stage presence and connection to the crowd continue to showcase his role not only as a performer but also as the creative heartbeat of MÖTLEY CRÜE.
Vince Neil: A Return to Form
Frontman Vince Neil has faced criticism in recent years for inconsistent vocal performances, particularly following health struggles. But according to Kulick, Neil’s latest outing showed signs of rejuvenation.
“Vince Neil has been reborn since his health crisis. It’s as if his voice went back in time to a more youthful era,” Kulick noted.
For fans who have followed Neil’s highs and lows, this statement carries weight — suggesting that the singer has put in the work to reclaim his place at the center of the Crüe’s sound.
Tommy Lee: Still a Powerhouse Behind the Kit
Drummer Tommy Lee, known for his larger-than-life personality and innovative drum solos, also earned Kulick’s respect.
“Tommy Lee has been a consistent monster of a drummer, with his long arms and powerful beats keeping the music performed like a Swiss clock,” Kulick said.
Even after decades on the road, Lee’s timing, stamina, and signature style remain central to the band’s thunderous sound.
John 5: Balancing Legacy and Innovation
Perhaps the most insightful part of Kulick’s review came when he discussed John 5, the virtuoso guitarist who officially replaced founding member Mick Mars.
“John 5, filling the very large shoes of Mick Mars, played like a wizard,” Kulick wrote. “Blending the signature riffs of Mick and at the appropriate times being ‘John 5’ with his ability of his fingers to fly with purpose on the fretboard. It sometimes reminded me of my years of KISS, so I was proud and awed that he could do that difficult balancing act of playing for the song but being yourself.”
As someone who had to fill equally large shoes when joining KISS, Kulick’s endorsement of John 5’s ability to both honor and reinvent speaks volumes. Fans and critics alike have debated whether anyone could truly replace Mars, but Kulick’s praise suggests John 5 is succeeding in the role.
A Production Worthy of Their Legacy
Beyond the performances, Kulick also highlighted the staging and production design, which told the story of MÖTLEY CRÜE’s journey.
“The production, as expected, was brilliant, the band starting on a small part of the giant stage, representing the club years, then expanding using the venue’s ability for performers to be close to the audience,” he explained.
This narrative-driven production allowed the band to connect their early club days with their present-day arena dominance, giving fans a visual and emotional journey through the decades.
Mötley Crüe’s Future: “Another Ten Years”
Perhaps the most striking part of Kulick’s review was his optimism for the band’s future.
“If Mötley wanted to continue another ten years, with the talent I experienced at last night’s performance, I see no reason they couldn’t,” he wrote. “Personally knowing how hard it is to continue to play precisely as one ages, I was pleased to see no signs of that for Mötley.”
For a band that has already staged a “farewell tour” once, Kulick’s remarks suggest that there may still be plenty of fire left in the tank.
A Five-Star Performance
Kulick wrapped up his review with a definitive rating.
“Five stars,” he concluded, noting that the audience clearly shared his enthusiasm.
He also shared a personal anecdote about spending time with John 5 backstage, even jamming on John’s main Telecaster guitar. For fans, this detail added a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the camaraderie among rock veterans.
Final Thoughts
Coming from someone who has lived the rock-and-roll lifestyle at the highest level with KISS, Bruce Kulick’s five-star endorsement carries significant weight. His praise for each member of MÖTLEY CRÜE, coupled with his optimism about the band’s future, reinforces that the Crüe is far from done.
With stellar performances, world-class production, and a rejuvenated lineup, MÖTLEY CRÜE continues to prove why they remain one of the most enduring names in hard rock.