In a recent episode of the podcast Vinyl Obsession from AXS TV, John 5 revealed the five albums that marked his life and career. The guitarist, currently a member of Mötley Crüe, has selected records that influenced him from a very young age, ranging from folk to progressive rock to hard rock.
The choices of John 5: between nostalgia and inspiration
The Monkees – The Monkees (1966)
John 5's first choice is the Monkees' self-titled album. As a child, he was fascinated by their television show and ordered the album via a promotional mail-in offer.
“These guys were my heroes,” he confided. Later he had the opportunity to meet Peter Tork and Micky Dolenz, a highlight of his life.
Pink Floyd – The Wall (1979)
The second album selected is Pink Floyd's iconic rock opera, The Wall. John 5 explained that this album, through its writing and production, had had a great impact on him.
He also remembers the film's impact The Wall in 1982, which he found both fascinating and disturbing, to the point of becoming ill after seeing it.
Joni Mitchell – Blue (1971)
This folk album marked John 5's childhood thanks to his sisters who often listened to it. He particularly liked the songs California et My Old Man.
“All these songs are about moments in his life… It’s incredible,” he added, praising the power of Joni Mitchell's melodies and lyrics.
Kiss – Love Gun (1977)
John 5's fourth choice is Love Gun by Kiss. He remembers discovering this album by chance in a Sears store when he was only seven years old.
“I didn't even know Kiss, but the presentation of the record was so captivating that I wanted to get it,” he explained.
Van Halen – Van Halen (1978)
Finally, John 5 chose Van Halen's self-titled debut album. What intrigued him at the time was the mention of Gene Simmons on the cover, which led him to buy the record. “It was this record that shocked me the most, because of the sound,” he admitted.
Already a guitarist at the time, he was deeply influenced by the playing of Eddie Van Halen: “These four guys changed the game.”
Also read: “Sometimes a song writes itself, and those are often the best ones”: Jim Root (Slipknot) on creativity
A selection that says a lot
These five albums represent milestones in John 5's career, illustrating both his beginnings in music and the influences that shaped his style. From the experimental rock of Pink Floyd to the hard rock anthems of Kiss and Van Halen, each choice reflects an important stage in his artistic journey.
