John 5 has trusted custom Red Monkey Designs guitar straps on stage and in the studio for more than 17 years.

John 5 (Mötley Crüe): The Guitar Virtuoso Behind Some of Rock's Biggest Stages

When it comes to modern guitar heroes, few players are as recognizable—or as versatile—as John 5. Known for his lightning-fast technique, genre-defying style, and unmistakable Fender Telecasters, John 5 has built a career spanning rock, metal, country, blues, and beyond.

Born John William Lowery in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, John 5 developed an obsession with guitar at an early age. After relocating to Los Angeles to pursue a professional music career, he quickly earned a reputation as one of the industry's most talented and versatile guitarists.

Over the years, John 5 has performed and recorded with legendary artists including David Lee Roth, Marilyn Manson, Rob Halford, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Rob Zombie. His work with Rob Zombie helped establish him as one of rock and metal's most respected guitar players, showcasing his ability to combine blistering lead guitar, country-inspired picking techniques, and unforgettable stage presence.

John 5 serves as the guitarist for Mötley Crüe and is featured alongside many of the world-class musicians who have trusted Red Monkey Designs in our Artists Archive. His performances continue to captivate audiences around the world while inspiring a new generation of guitar players.

John 5's Signature Guitar Style

What separates John 5 from other guitarists is his ability to seamlessly blend multiple genres into a sound entirely his own. His playing combines elements of hard rock, heavy metal, country chicken-picking, blues, and shred guitar, often within the same song.

Influenced by guitar legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, and Chet Atkins, John 5 has become known for his technical precision, creative use of effects, and ability to make even the most complex passages appear effortless.

The Ghost Telecaster and John's Love of Fender Guitars

John 5 is perhaps best known for his collection of custom Fender Telecasters, including the iconic Ghost Telecaster. The distinctive all-white design has become one of the most recognizable guitars in modern rock and reflects John's unique visual style both on and off the stage.

His dedication to the Telecaster platform has inspired countless guitarists to explore the versatility and power of one of Fender's most legendary instruments.

Fans of John's unmistakable white-and-red aesthetic may also recognize the Ghost Strap, a custom Red Monkey Designs creation inspired by the same bold visual style that has become synonymous with John 5's stage presence.

John 5 and Red Monkey Designs

Red Monkey Designs has worked directly with John 5 for over 17 years, creating custom handmade leather guitar straps built for touring, recording, and live performances around the world.

Built from premium leather and handcrafted in Los Angeles, John's custom straps are designed to provide comfort, durability, and unmistakable style during live performances around the world. Many of his signature strap designs feature his iconic "5" emblem and custom artwork inspired by his unique personality and stage presence.

Whether performing with Rob Zombie, touring internationally, or taking the stage with Mötley Crüe, John 5 continues to rely on custom Red Monkey guitar straps built to withstand the demands of professional musicians.

Working with John 5

Few artists have been part of the Red Monkey Designs family as long as John 5. For more than 17 years, we've had the privilege of creating custom leather guitar straps for one of the most innovative and recognizable guitarists in modern music.

What has always stood out about John is his commitment to individuality. Whether it's his iconic Telecasters, unmistakable stage presence, or deeply personal collection of guitars and gear, every detail reflects his unique artistic vision. Our goal has always been to create straps that complement that vision while delivering the durability and comfort required for professional touring and performance.

Over the years, we've collaborated on numerous custom designs featuring John's signature style, custom artwork, and iconic "5" logo. Many of these one-of-a-kind projects began in the Red Monkey Custom Shop, where every strap is handcrafted in Los Angeles using premium leather and hardware.

Many of John's custom builds can also be found in our Custom Shop Archive, showcasing years of collaboration and craftsmanship designed specifically for one of rock's most distinctive guitarists.

Seeing our straps accompany John on stages around the world—from intimate performances to arena tours—has been an honor and a testament to the lasting relationship we've built together.

Handmade Leather Guitar Straps Built for the Stage

Professional touring musicians demand gear that can withstand years of performances, travel, and studio work.

For nearly two decades, John 5 has trusted Red Monkey Designs to create custom leather guitar straps that combine comfort, durability, and distinctive style. Many of his custom straps feature his signature "5" logo and are handcrafted using premium leather in our California workshop.

Each strap is designed to provide exceptional support during long performances while delivering the unique look that has become synonymous with the Red Monkey brand.

John 5 and Mötley Crüe

As the current guitarist for Mötley Crüe, John 5 continues to bring his extraordinary musicianship to one of rock's most iconic bands. His respect for the band's legacy, combined with his own world-class playing ability, has helped him become an important part of the group's live performances.

Fans around the world can see John 5 performing with custom Red Monkey guitar straps on stage as Mötley Crüe continues to tour internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What guitar strap does John 5 use?

John 5 performs with custom handmade leather guitar straps from Red Monkey Designs, including several straps featuring his signature "5" emblem.

What guitar is John 5 most known for?

John 5 is best known for playing Fender Telecaster guitars, including his signature models and the iconic Ghost Telecaster.

Is John 5 currently in Mötley Crüe?

Yes. John 5 serves as the guitarist for Mötley Crüe and continues to tour with the band worldwide.

Are John 5's guitar straps available to purchase?

Many of the custom leather guitar straps inspired by John 5's stage gear are available through Red Monkey Designs.

What makes John 5's guitar style unique?

His playing combines metal, country chicken-picking, blues, shred, and rock influences.

Shop Handmade Guitar Straps

Explore the handcrafted leather guitar straps trusted by professional musicians around the world and discover why artists like John 5 choose Red Monkey Designs for life on the road.

Inspired by John 5's Signature Style?

Whether you're looking for a handcrafted leather guitar strap, exploring one-of-a-kind custom builds, or browsing the gear trusted by professional touring musicians, Red Monkey Designs creates products built to perform on stage and stand the test of time.

Explore our Guitar Strap Collection, browse the Custom Shop Archive to see past artist collaborations, or discover more musicians featured in our Artists Archive.

For more than three decades, Red Monkey Designs has worked with touring artists, musicians, and collectors to create handcrafted leather goods built to last. Learn more About Red Monkey and discover why artists around the world continue to trust our craftsmanship.

Every Red Monkey piece is handcrafted in Los Angeles using premium materials, traditional leatherworking techniques, and the same attention to detail trusted by artists like John 5.