Nikki Sixx, the bassist of Motley Crue, recently shared his enthusiasm for the idea of the band continuing their legacy through avatars once the real-life members are no longer around. In an interview with Swedish radio station Rockklassiker, Sixx expressed his belief that technology could play a crucial role in preserving their music for future generations.
“I love technology,” Sixx stated. “I think [it’s good] as long as it’s coming from an artist that says, ‘I have something I wanna do and this technology is gonna help.’” He acknowledged the inevitable reality that the band members won’t be around forever, but he sees avatars as a way to ensure their music lives on. “At some point, we’re not gonna be here anymore.… not to be a Debbie Downer, but it’s just not gonna happen. And how great for your band – or whatever it is that you do – to be able to go forward for generations and generations. So I think, when the time is right, put us in a coffin and fire up those avatars.”
Sixx highlighted Motley Crue’s history of embracing new technologies to enhance their performances. He recalled their early experiments with holograms, even before the technology was fully developed. This willingness to push the boundaries of presentation has been a hallmark of the band’s career.
Reflecting on the band’s latest video for the single “Dogs of War,” Sixx reminisced about their first video, which cost around $1,000. “There was no MTV at the time, so it was like, ‘How can we shoot a video that [gets people to] talk about us on the news when we tour?’” He described the chaotic and daring elements they incorporated into their early performances, such as lighting himself on fire and Mick Mars pretending to vomit blood. “And it was just like, ‘Fuck it – let’s just throw everything in there!’ And that was what we did to get fans to see what we wanna be represented as. The same as ‘Dogs Of War.’”
The idea of using avatars to continue performing isn’t entirely new in the music industry. Holograms of deceased artists like Tupac Shakur and Michael Jackson have already made appearances at major events. However, Sixx’s vision for Motley Crue goes beyond occasional performances. He envisions a future where the band’s avatars could perform regularly, keeping their music alive and accessible to fans who never had the chance to see them live.
This strategy aligns with the band’s long-standing commitment to innovation and spectacle. From their early days, Motley Crue has always sought to create memorable and visually stunning experiences for their fans. The use of avatars could be the next step in this evolution, allowing them to continue delivering high-energy performances even after they’re gone.
Sixx’s comments also reflect a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where technology is increasingly being used to extend the lifespans of artists’ careers. Virtual reality concerts, holographic performances, and digital avatars are becoming more common, offering new ways for fans to connect with their favorite artists.
For Motley Crue, this approach could ensure that their music remains relevant and influential for years to come. By embracing avatars, they can continue to reach new audiences and keep their legacy alive. It’s a forward-thinking strategy that acknowledges the inevitability of aging while leveraging technology to create new opportunities.
In conclusion, Nikki Sixx’s vision for Motley Crue’s future through avatars represents a bold and innovative approach to preserving their legacy. By embracing technology, the band can continue to entertain and inspire fans long after they’re gone. As Sixx aptly put it, “When the time is right, put us in a coffin and fire up those avatars.”
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