Guitarist John 5 is preparing to celebrate the defining eras of his career on the road next year, and he is bringing in a veteran horror-rock frontman to lead the charge.
The musician has confirmed that his solo band, The Creatures, will feature Wednesday 13 on vocals for their upcoming summer and fall 2027 tour. This upcoming run represents the first time John 5‘s solo project has included a full-time lead singer, a change that allows the group to perform vocal-heavy selections from his extensive resume.
Rather than focusing strictly on instrumental tracks, the 2027 shows will feature a career-spanning setlist. Concertgoers will hear live performances of songs from John 5‘s time recording and touring with Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Mötley Crüe, and David Lee Roth, alongside favorites from his solo catalog.
The addition of a dedicated frontman marks a major shift for The Creatures, moving the group from an instrumental format into a traditional live band setup.
Both musicians shared their enthusiasm for the upcoming collaboration, emphasizing their longtime friendship and shared musical history.
Speaking on the new tour plans, John 5 stated:
“I’ve really missed playing these songs that for years were so much a part of my life. Having such an amazing showman as Wednesday 13 join me will ensure the performances are killer. And to have the first show we announce be the Wacken festival in 2027 is truly awesome.”
Wednesday 13 also commented on joining the lineup:
“I am absolutely thrilled to be sharing the stage with John 5. He has been such a staple in the music world and is one of the best, and most respected guitarist out there. John and I have been friends for years and we have toured together with our bands going all the way back to 2010. All the projects he’s been involved with over the years, are all of my favorite bands, and have been such an influence on me. To be able to sing some of these songs along with him is really a true honor. I really can’t wait to get out on the road next year.”
The expanded lineup has already scheduled its first official performance. John 5 and The Creatures, featuring Wednesday 13, will make their live debut at Wacken Open Air 2027, which is set to run from July 28 to July 31 in Wacken, Germany. Organizers and the band are expected to announce additional headlining shows and festival appearances in the coming months.
For more than three decades, John 5 has stood out as one of hard rock and metal’s most sought-after guitarists. Beyond his work as a touring and recording member for Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, and Rob Halford, he has collaborated with a wide variety of artists across multiple genres, including KD Lang, Rod Stewart, David Lee Roth, Alice Cooper, Scorpions, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Meatloaf, Dolly Parton, and Ricky Martin. In October 2022, he officially joined Mötley Crüe following the retirement of founding guitarist Mick Mars.
