John 5 plays Ramona Feb. 8, The Whiskey Feb. 11, The Coach House Feb. 12; Photo By Robb Fenn
John 5, while shredding through his first instrumental solo tour, is hitting up the Ramona Mainstage (Feb. 8), Whiskey A Go Go (Feb. 11) and The Coach House (Feb. 12).
“I’m really excited to do all of these shows because it’s the first time I’m going to be doing this instrumental thing,” he said. “I’ve been putting out records forever and this is the first time I’m actually going to go do some shows.”
Having played with multiple groups and individuals, John 5 has become a style of guitar playing rather than simply a musician. His underrated talent and background is something born of Guitar Gods.
“It’s a lot more responsibility doing my instrumental thing because I have to make all the decisions,” John 5 said. “It’s tons and tons of work, because I’m so used to my whole life playing in these huge bands and never had to worry about anything except what time catering was.”
Currently John 5 is working with Rob Zombie on a live album coming out in February after just having finished a new studio record that is yet to be released.
“We just finished our new studio record and packed it away, and it’s just a monster. It’s the greatest album that Rob has ever done. It’s unbelievable.”
Having now worked with Rob Zombie for 10 years, John 5 feels their first connection from Ozzfest is stronger than ever.
“Things couldn’t be better in Zombie land,” he said. “It’s the greatest gig I’ve ever had in my life. Zombies go forever, they never die.”
Prior to being connected with Rob Zombie, John 5 worked with Marilyn Manson for five years.
“It was New Year’s Eve every day. There was never a dull moment, to say the least,” he said. “I’m very proud of those times. We were on top of the world.”
Opportunities and music weren’t the only thing Manson gave him, however. Manson labeled him with his now solo name “John 5.”
“He gave me it (the name) on Ventura Blvd. at a restaurant called Gaucho Grill in Studio City,” John 5 said. “He goes, ‘All right, your name is going to be John 5,’ and I remember going home and practicing my autograph.”
While working on his solo project and projects with Rob Zombie, John 5 continues to embrace his music and develop a stronger love for his work.
“It’s definitely the meaning of life for me – be happy doing what you’re doing and be able to make a career out of it. You couldn’t ask for anything more.”