Mötley Crüe: Nikki Sixx reflects on the relationship between artists and fans

Through a long message on social media, Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx shared his reflections on the evolution of the relationship between artists and fans over time. In a post published on his official Facebook profile, the co-founder of the “Girls, girls, girls” band expressed a certain nostalgia for what he remembered as simpler times. Sixx then looked back at how interactions with fans have changed over the years, focusing in particular on the rise of social media and its impact on the relationship between artists and audiences.

“It’s interesting to see how the relationship between fans and artists has evolved over time,” reads the beginning of the message. Sixx continued by recalling past habits:

“I remember receiving huge plastic bags full of fan letters and reading them calmly – replying with handwritten notes, sending bass picks, adding little doodles. I really wanted to stay in touch.”

The bassist then acknowledged that social media has made more personal sharing possible, but he also underlined the difficulties that have emerged over time. He added:

“As the years have gone by, as social media has become my primary way of interacting, I’ve decided to share more of my life with fans – more than I ever imagined when I was listening to my favorite bands as a teenager. I still love that connection. But the hard part is, for everything we share – on stage and off – a harsher, often judgmental response has developed. Add in the clickbait, and the focus ends up being on the negativity rather than the big picture. I miss the fun, light-hearted interaction of a time.”

Reiterating that artists are human beings beyond their role as performers, Sixx concluded: “When artists share thoughts about art, culture or current events, they speak like human beings – not just as entertainers. Not everything has to become divisive. I will continue to share. I believe in connection. But I miss the old days. Let’s have some fun. Life is short. Let’s make it extraordinary. I love you even if we’ve never met.”