Prepare to rock as MÖTLEY CRÜE gears up to celebrate a milestone—its 45th anniversary! The iconic band will release the "Live Wire" EP on April 18, 2026, coinciding with Record Store Day. This special release marks the first time in 45 years that the "Live Wire" radio-only promo EP will be available, complete with newly designed cover art, on vibrant 12-inch vinyl.
What’s Inside the Vinyl?
The EP features an exciting lineup:
- Side A
1. Live Wire
2. Take Me To The Top
- Side B
1. Merry-Go-Round
For those eager to snag this limited edition, you can find participating independent record stores at recordstoreday.com.
Originally released as a single on August 16, 1982, "Live Wire" carries a deeper narrative than many might assume. Bassist Nikki Sixx has candidly shared that the song addresses the harsh realities of domestic violence, drawing from his own experiences growing up with an abusive family dynamic.
This track was also featured on MÖTLEY CRÜE's debut album, "Too Fast For Love", which enjoyed a limited initial release through Leathür Records in 1981. The following year, the band signed a contract with Elektra Records, who remixed the album and expanded its reach to a broader audience.
Looking Ahead
In addition to the EP, MÖTLEY CRÜE is set to embark on "The Return Of Carnival Of Sins" tour, celebrating both the 20th anniversary of their revolutionary 2005-2006 "Carnival Of Sins" tour and the band's own 45th anniversary. This extensive tour will cover 33 cities and is produced by Live Nation, kicking off on July 17, 2026, in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, at the Pavilion at Star Lake. Fans can look forward to electrifying performances from support acts EXTREME and TESLA.
In a commendable effort to give back, MÖTLEY CRÜE announced that $1 from every ticket sold for the upcoming tour will be donated to ASAP! (After School Arts Program) through their Mötley Crüe Giveback Initiative, aimed at funding engaging arts programs for youth.
Earlier in September 2025, the band kicked off a Las Vegas residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM, running from September 12 to October 3. This residency was initially slated for spring 2025 but faced delays when frontman Vince Neil revealed he suffered a stroke during Christmas 2024.
Vince later disclosed that he had experienced multiple strokes leading up to that pivotal moment, which left him unable to rise from bed after waking up. While the band initially cited Neil’s need for a "medical procedure" as the reason for postponement, they provided little detail on the situation.
But here's where it gets controversial... How do you feel about artists like MÖTLEY CRÜE sharing personal struggles in their music? Does it change the way you perceive their art? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your opinions in the comments!
