The Captain Meets Steve Vai

[@OlaEnglund]

Best guy...

[@myewgul]

Ola Englund Hi Ola

[@noodle845]

You are

[@Buffalo45-70]

Hey what's up Ola, glad you seen this really good interview and a hell of a guy.

[@edrage8679]

Fan girl passing by

[@TheTeknikFrik]

No u

[@Kostas1601]

Steve Vai is such a genuine and likeable dude.

[@MarceloKowalewski]

Steve is one of the most bland and generic sounding guitarists ever. Being able to play complex things doesn't make you a good musician. Name me one song that had an impact let's say like Van Halen's Eruption had on guitarists. Also his sound is one of the most sterile I've ever heard. But again that is true for almost all shredders except maybe Guthrie Govan. But yes he's likable. But that might be the only thing he got going for him.

[@Kostas1601]

He's clearly inspired a lot of guitarists, otherwise nobody would be buying his signature guitars, which he has a shit ton of with Ibanez. It's all a matter of taste. I'm not into his music either personally, but just because it's not my cup of tea. I do believe he's super talented though. I've seen him live and he puts on a really great show. He's clearly been able to make a good living out of playing guitar too, so he objectively has a lot more going for him than just being likable.

[@goaliebob56]

love of god

[@WaRLoKWYATT]

Kostas1601 I know, every time I watch him, I wish I could spend a day bullshitting with him and play guitar.

[@mirkecWii]

Marcelo Kowalewski well I heard tender surrender and for the lovr of god which have amazing technical ability AND FEEL and those songs made me interested in playing guitar

[@kennyallen3443]

"Whatever you focus on you create more of. You're not exorcising your demons by entertaining them. You're inviting them into your life more." -Steve Vai I don't know how intentional that was because it did not seem at all rehearsed but that was one of the most honest and powerful statements I have ever heard. Thank you.

[@getenlightened]

That resonated with me as well. I could have used that wisdom about 20 years ago. Learned it the hard way.

[@sandyturner1911]

It's his philosophy. It's Ancient Spirituality/Psychology, 101. His talks at the Vai Camp, are all about this. :) I was learning this in the 80's. That's probably when he ran into it, as well. Visualization, etc..

[@Jaxparoh]

Awesome take away for me too. Thanks for the reminder.

[@erichaheidrich4593]

That mesmerized me too. What a strong observation of inner thoughts.

[@MrYatesj1]

Simply the Law of Attraction explained by one hell of a musician.

[@natewesselink]

How is it that I've found more insight into what's going on in my own head from an interview with a legendary guitar player than all of the shrinks and doctors I've seen throughout my life. I was diagnosed with depression at a young age and have been on medication for it for a long time, and it helps, but I've never really been able to understand what's going on inside my own head. Steve's explanation really hits the nail right on the head and gave me a massive revelation about what's happening within myself and why certain things are the way they are. For that reason I thank you Steve and Lee.

[@AverageRider717]

natewesselink Because you made the effort to listen.

[@sasmitha8446]

Same here!

[@Rihyaruto]

You have to keep strong, in mind and body and try to find your place in all of this thing called life. You'll get better and I hope music can help you with that, just like strong friends and supportive family.

[@DanielWalters]

There's a difference between clinically understanding a problem and having experienced it. Then there's sharing an emotional vocabulary. As fellow musicians, the odds are better of him having combinations of words that describe emotions be more approximate to yours. I'm certainly glad it resonated for you. Now, share this understanding with your therapist and use it as a handhold to reach out and identify potential actions

[@mishkatrahman20]

So true. What Steve said about his insights on depression was so simple, yet eye opening and true. Never heard anyone explain it like that. Amazing!

[@basildog007]

Superb interview.

[@NikolajChristensen]

Jean-Michau Michou agreed. This was amazing.

[@DavidDiMuzio]

I can't decided who's the nicest Guitar God ...Steve Vai or Paul Gilbert.

[@aquaescapeartist4915]

David DiMuzio Devin Townsend.

[@catsven1973]

both....man both..and Joe Satriani is in that mood..met him once..what a guy.!

[@rmarriott2]

@Daniel Adler, you have obviously never met Kirk Hammet. for as soft-spoken as he is, he can be a real jerk in both interviews as well as to his fans.

[@iwatchyouatnight1550]

Petrucci too

[@VictorTarela]

@@rmarriott2 yeah, the same happens with Malmsteen...

[@rickm1255]

That Steve Vai, what a nice little boy!

[@mvunit3]

"Zappa's Italian Virtuoso", was a sub-article in a Frank Zappa cover story from Guitar Player magazine. And remembering his name, I was exposed to the madness of "The Attitude Song" on a local college radio station, and went out and bought the album, it made me laugh with its humor, and his skills just blew me away. Been a fan since :). . . . and yes, the audience is listening.

[@VinnieLeeStudio]

Do you mean turn it down, like THIS?! Haha!

[@wido123123]

You deserve more llikes. Here, have mine....

[@AndyinSteps]

Came here for Steve Vai, stayed for mental wellbeing tips

[@marcusgraham3257]

Steve Vai is a monk lol

[@morbidrockgod]

Me too.

[@vaughnswank]

Dude I know right

[@del5582]

It is so refreshing to meet celebrities without egos.

[@guitargriff3490]

Yes, great thoughts that'd help any musician. The book he talks about between 16 and 23 minutes is a great book as well. It's call 'The Magic In Your Mind' by U.S. Andersen...

[@bmsturgis3]

20:47 I agree "suffering mental anguish is your best spiritual teacher" - Steve Vai

[@gianz73]

If you survive and find a way to learn from it...

[@peterdragon2822]

I just have to say, listenting to Steve Vai talking about all these deep topics, like his despression means so much to me.For someone who is not in his best state of mind currently, it´s so helpful. He´s just such an honest human being. Thank you.

[@stephenfiore9960]

...I was depressed for a long time in my life. Youngevity nutrition products help me. I don’t sell the stuff, but try Tangy Tangerine 2.0 Developed by a Doctor who did thousands of autopsies on humans and animals and he found out what humans need. You can talk to someone at Youngivity.com or order on Amazon. Hope that helps

[@fredleber2432]

yea hes the man

[@OriginalPuro]

There are so many weak people, these days.:s 8 out of 10 people I meet have some sort of mental issue, I don't get it, when did we become so weak?

[@iamme625]

@@OriginalPuro People didn't become weaker, we just started removing the stigma around talking about our issues. People still had depression 50 years ago, it's just that no one talked about it.

[@sasmitha8446]

Best captain meets ever!

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

Agreed. I feel like you could ask Steve Vai anything and he would be helpful through love for anyone. He never disappoints in interviews.

[@sasmitha8446]

Mickeyislowd And his narration of his journey through depression is so relatable. So honest.

[@thenoodler]

This has to be one of the best interviews I’ve ever seen with anyone. You forget your watching an interview with one of the most influential musicians of all time and it just becomes a conversation between two individuals. Great job.

[@davidbeck6342]

Agreed, great job by The Captain.

[@RNAMusic]

I'm not a massive massive fan of Vai's music. I recognize his immense contribution and talent however, and I LOVE listening to him talk. About the business and life of playing guitar and his thoughts about achieving your desires. Or anything really.

[@Iskaral_Pust]

He's a special guy. I've done a lot of reading on psychology, lifestyle, mystics and religious texts. They all speak about how some people have a way of staying in the present moment and connecting with others on a truly authentic, loving level. Steve Vai is a really good example of this. Look at how giddy and nervous Lee is in the beginning of the interview, and then look at how quickly Steve disarms him and puts him at ease, and by the end they're talking like old best friends. You can even hear the cameraman laughing and answering a bit off camera which he never really does in other interviews. Steve has an energy that has gravity to it. This is undoubtedly a person who has studied psychology and mysticism and has worked to develop his mental approach to life. He is emanating love throughout this interview. This is a rare treasure of a person, the type you may come upon in any field or walk of life but only very rarely, and when you do, it is special.

[@JohnnyArtPavlou]

I feel the exact same way. Cool guy.

[@timbeaton5045]

RNA yes, you hit the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned, too. However... Passion and Warfare IS a phenomenal record (certainly for it's time) and his work with Zappa is fantastic. But definitely, he comes across as a genuine, nice guy, and his attitude to fame, music, etc. I think is exemplary. Funny, one of my other favourite guitar players...Alan Holdsworth; to MY tastes, anyway, was at his best playing other peoples music, rather than his own.

[@jesshumphries3745]

Hey Ryan - yeah totally agree - not a massive fan - but he is so down to earth!

[@andreil1234]

It might so happen that if you ever go to a live show, preferably a smaller venue, you'll have quite a big surprise about your appreciation of his music. See, it's all in that moment. When you listen to a record, it's disconnected - might be fun, might be bland - but it certainly isn't what it actually 'was' - if that makes sense. The only way you can truly judge the music (which is always more than just sound) is by connecting to the musician during live shows. I feel the same way too about his records, but I'd go in a heartbeat to see him play. Same for many acts.

[@hieronymus932]

This is such a great Steve Vai interview, glad it didn’t sink into questions about which pick he uses but talked about his philosophy to life instead.

[@4572dk]

yeah like idiots such as troy gaydy focus on very technical and insignificant aspects to guitar and not the musicality at

[@andrewbevan4662]

Yeah but what picks does he use?

[@Subhrocks1]

@@andrewbevan4662 lol, Steve Vai signature pickups

[@GazP23]

What an incredible interview, so well pitched by Lee. I expect Steve was delighted to have the opportunity for musical/life discussion rather than “what strings are you using these days”... Absolute quality, compelling viewing

[@pbt2005]

Lee could teach the TV mob a few tips. Let the guest answer questions. Don't talk all over them. Lee is absolute class.

[@svogender]

@@pbt2005 Absolutely agree..!! 👍

[@dorronjl70]

😊😊❤​@@pbt2005

[@pritambanik7228]

I have to share this after watching this video. I met him at the airport 5 months back the day after he performed at Nh7 Weekender Shillong, India. I was waiting all alone for my flight dreaming about last night's performance how godly he played and then the next moment he was there in front of me all alone waiting in line to book the tickets. We clicked a picture and he signed my book let and bid goodbye with a smile. I was in tears of joy. Best moment of my life :') ❤

[@sauravmustauphey5870]

How lucky you are dear

[@Violinman73]

a special moment indeed!

[@Jasonmusicman]

He is such an amazing person, I was fortunate to meet him back stage on the sex and religion tour. He was such a down to earth guy. Happy to chat, have photos done, autographs etc. he spent over half an hour with us. He was such a great person. On the complete flip side I meet Yngwie malmsteen after a gig and he was completely opposite. Really arrogant, had no time for the fans, we waited out in the cold to meet him, he just walked straight passed us on to his tour bus. He got his roadie to collect tickets for him to sign in his bus. He didn’t want to speak to anyone, stevie was just great. Yngwie not.

[@badassbren1]

He’s so captivating, you can hear the other people in the room just as amazed as the captain. The guy has revolutionised electric guitar and he is so so humble and “mortal”. Not a hint of ego and he’s very much like Paul Gilbert, I’d love to meet them both and Jimmy Page! I worry who is actually going to be pushing music in 10years, no one is close

[@tarkenton3895]

Ben Brennan Not saying its a definite, but in my mind it'll be people like Tosin Abasi, Plini and the other musicians of the same ilk that will be carrying on this legacy in that time. obviously it's just an opinion, but I genuinely see similarities.

[@WhoAmIWill]

Tarkenton definitely guys like Tosin and Plini. A lot of the “Djent” guys seem that way. I’d also add Chon, Guthrie Govan, and Roopam Garg.

[@Critical_Cabbage]

One of the most impressive song writers to me are the guys in the technical death metal bands Fallujah and Revocation. Their solos, melodies and riffs are absolutely mind blowing. I think we'll be just fine :D

[@body-horrorragdolls1826]

Buckethead

[@oliverjames7315]

You won't be disappointed if you do meet him, he's a wonderful man who really makes you feel like he cares about talking to you.

[@READERSENPAII]

Wow... He seems so self aware. Like someone who has lived 2 life times.

[@Yngsatchvai]

It's obvious he's intelligent. Love listening to him talk..

[@zoltangabordudas4393]

An old soul i presume! ;-)

[@Alexandahls]

Plot twist: He did. He's a vampire.

[@warwicksmiley3731]

His idol is Keith Richards,He wishes he got addicted to Heroin So He could experience Withdrawal Symptom"s.

[@МаксимФатеичев]

No, he's normal. It's us who live just 0,5 of our lives

[@vernonbear]

As with other posters, Vai was never a huge influence or interest for me, he clearly makes some great music that has changed the way that some view music but I never connected to his music. I own a few albums that he’s played on but I’d never say I’m a fan. What I am a fan of is listening to a world view or a personal view that expresses a way of looking at depression or how mental health can be tweaked and used to improve our view of ourselves. Thank you Captain for letting the whole interview ‘breathe’, letting Steve just talk and wander through and around the subjects. He’s a fascinating bloke, he’s got a comfortable and open approach. Maybe it’s time to revisit some of those albums?

[@rockybalboa2526]

Hey Gavin, you need JESUS first, for forgiveness, understanding, peace, healing, and perspective.. then you need to drink alot of water to stay hydrated. more than solid foods we all need water and hydration in order to keep our hormones balancing they way they need to. if not, we get mood swings, and those affect our thinking, feeling, perceptions, judgements and actions! JESUS will also help you to understand yourself and know yourself much better, and show you what gifts you have to use to glorify God our father.. some have the gift of music, some other things.. again, people tend to look outside themselves for the answers that are within themselves. JESUS will help you see that too. you have to learn to live from inside out rather than outside in.. we are all created uniquely individual. even all the various artists, musicians, writers, etc, etc, etc,.. they all do unique things within their similar fields.. because they are all unique.. go to JESUS, and im sure you will get the help and answers you need. just as i have done, and received, and billions of other people have too.........

[@byebyebeano8616]

So GOOOOOD! Man! Steve f***g Vai! I was around 12 or 13 when "Passion and Warfare" came out. A life changer. Enormous respect and gratitude for him. Great interview. Thanx.

[@byebyebeano8616]

Captain Prophylactic At 45 my prostate is still ok

[@bbmade]

Steve Vai seems like such a cool down to earth guy. It’s a real treat to watch this episode.

[@Eventual420]

When he toured his Passion and Warfare album, he came to Tampa in 1992, and a friend and I made our way to the front few rows of a standup show. They opened with White Zombie. We watched an amazing show, where the singer also played guitar. Afterwards, Ed wanted to get his signature so we made our way to the busses street side, sure enough we got to me him. He's very tall. I often wondered what was going thru his mind, because the meetings were brief and his ego, so enormous. So I looked up the date, and his youngest would have been newly born. Now, my oldest is 24 and I understand as a parent the complexity of the emotions of being away from them. It must've been hard for him to do the tour, to play for us, and to wait before taking a break to meet his fans. Somehow I never forgot that meeting. After he released the UV77 anniversary editions, Andertons was first to publish a video demo of these new guitars behind glass. A Blue one, a Pink one, and an Orange one. I picked the Blue, which was the 25th anniversary color, preordered it. During the wait time, my father passed away. The kids each received a lump sum from liquidation, etc and I took every penny and saved for the guitar. When it finally arrived, I used the internet to interpret the serial #. Its #1 of 77, Fujigen built. I'll never be able to master it. But I'll always try. Thank you, again, Andertons and of course, thank you Steve Vai. Regards, James O.

[@ophiucoify]

Fantastic interview, very well conducted Lee !!

[@jimkim7040]

i mean why didn't they make him play anything

[@patrickleslie1991]

51:30 Steve nearly lets slip about the Pia 2 years early lol

[@evinoc]

"Success is a consequence of doing what you enjoy" - I like that

[@roathripper]

but unfortunately it's not universally true

[@evinoc]

True, I think its more do what you are good at and enjoy.

[@GavinMorris1]

Survivor bias at it's extreme end. But still a great bloke and a great interview.

[@TSgitaar]

I think it is very true. It just depends on how you define succes.

[@MehYam2112]

Crushed it. This was the best guitar interview ever recorded.

[@WeyounSix]

Lee, great job being an interviewer, asking questions to get Steve to speak a lot, but also knowing when to be quiet and let him talk. Great stuff.

[@Karlgolden]

Enjoyed the interview 🤘 great work Lee

[@IbanezBeast]

Lee, it’s very hard to pinpoint what it is, but your interviews are just brilliant. You can tell the artists appreciate them, the viewers love them...and no one even played any guitar! So much kudos, thank you!

[@tonyt.1596]

Even from the perspective of a mental health professional this is a great talk\interview.

[@andysoupdragon]

What an absolute "Jem" of an interview (sorry) could listen to these two all day!

[@ThomasJ502]

Andrew Green I love watching Steve. I find that I can kind of live "Vaicariously" through him I'll show myself out

[@kungfuman82]

Andrew Green In the Name of God, will you people stop with the Steve Vai puns?

[@gregbatchelor9205]

"What stress is, and what depression is, is it's the thoughts in your head that you're choosing to focus on because you believe that they're true. And they're just not! They're just thoughts in your head." Bang on the money, Steve.

[@Okraknife]

Steve Vai is so cool. He doesn't seem to take himself too seriously despite being an icon of the guitar.

[@MultiSpeedr]

Lee that was your Best interview...Outstanding...

[@Scarlet_Host_Guitars]

This is one of the best interviews I’ve seen - up close and personal - we all know he’s plays Ibanez blah blah blah - this is good shit that we all experience... good work Captain! Keep it up

[@remsangachhakchhuak1738]

Steve is so loveable and such a great musician and a Guitarist.

[@mishkatrahman20]

Some of the guitar Gods like Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert and John Petrucci are SO humble and down to earth I wonder if they themselves have any idea about how great they are

[@andyreynolds5575]

There needs to be a bigger “like” button!! This has made my year. Thanks guys!!

[@szabiakanich]

That was an amazing interview. Not one note played, but the content/topics discussed were off the hook. I have a whole other appreciation for Steve Vai.

[@JeanLouisTeisseire]

Wow , same for me , even if I respected him for his musical achievements I tought he was a kind of shredding clown in the business circus , but in fact he is on the opposite side , really inspiring...

[@drumguy1384]

I still would have really liked to hear him play a few though.

[@tomtitlow5738]

I agree 100%

[@ta4music459]

This. is maybe the best interview of this type I've ever seen.

[@fossilmatic]

Have to say, Lee could teach most interviewers a thing or too. He really listens to his subjects and asks insightful questions in response.

[@Murry_in_Arizona]

Lee, Best interview of Steve Vai I've seen on KZbin (out of 6-7 some longer than yours) the first where I thought this is the real person and not someone "in character" Well done!

[@Nightdare]

Agreed, I never had much with the guy, especially not in any interviews, but here we have a talk in which I can appreciate his words

[@Vortigan07]

Totally get this and totally agree! If I'm honest, in most interviews with him that I've seen I've usually been left feeling that he's a bit of a jerk...kinda feel bad about that after seeing this :D

[@vikingkrigeren]

+1

[@AngusRobins]

There’s a moment just before five minute mark where he’s describing his first guitar and he looks straight into the camera...connection!

[@klaa22]

Steve Vai has got his head screwed on properly. Knows exactly what he's talking about. . No hyperbole, no bullshit, no false inflated ego. He tells you from the heart and that's the way he plays too. Admittedly, his music may not be to everyone's taste, but he's cool with that. He enjoys what he does and enjoys it when other people enjoy what he does. So - way back when, he was asked to design a guitar - All he did was look at the instruments he had used or played and thought "I do like this - I don't like that, so lets do those things and not do those things. Aaand it would be nice if someone made a guitar that could do this, or a guitar that had this thing I have in my mind that i think would be nice for ME to play. . " That's what Ibanez built for him and we know that it's a huge seller over 35 years later. so he obviously got it right. That's not because it is a pretty colour, but because it's a good tool. . A good instrument. . Something that is comfortable to play. . Something that can easily produce the sounds that you have in your head and you want other people to hear.

[@theunikeMojk]

just discovered this channel. Have you watched the Petrucci interview and the designs of his guitars?

[@jamesdragonforce]

He’s no Steven Seagal in other words.

[@helloitsnicko]

Have you folks at Andertons ever thought about releasing the audio from all these 'Captain Meets...' on Spotify or anything? Honestly I think they'd just be cool to listen to as podcasts, as well as having the option of watching these vids of course. :)

[@plasticpaddy5278]

google peggo. legal for personal use.

[@robertp-i4065]

BedroomBassist that would be super cool

[@Kalkschwarz]

That's a great idea!

[@ques4estas]

That is a brilliant idea! Anderton listen to this!

[@andrewbevan4662]

Just use one of the many you tube download websites or apps then convert to MP3

[@TritoneChris]

I met Steve Vai here in Montreal just before his show, he snuck outside for a smoke and I saw him while I was waiting in line. I ran like a mental case to catch up with him. Asked him if I could get a pic of us together. The look on his face told me "fuckin hell, I just wanted a quiet moment and I'm tired" but he smiled and said "sure", I realize in hindsight how annoying and crazy I must have seemed as I came sprinting around a corner and coming full stop face to face with the God of guitar, but he took it all in stride and smiled for the camera and was super polite . He is not just an amazing guy on camera, he's just a damn good person who happens to be the most incredible guitarist of his generation. So happy to see this interview Captain, thank you! And thanks to Mr.Vai, from a permanent fan. Can't wait til the next show!

[@JonasCraftUltimate]

TritoneChris this is the exact same experience I have with him, saw him last year in Norway haha.

[@leonardonovelo2524]

I can not stop going back again and again. Steve Vai is such a wonderful person, as much as great musician.

[@RobertKeeleyTV]

I love Steve's intelligence and his approach to living life. He explains his world so well. When you find what you like to do, where your work flows without fear, then you'll be happy and successful. Simple and critical to a happy life. Lee, you knocked it out of the park with this interview man! Brilliant.

[@theblacksquirrel.]

Robert, you exude a similar experienced & knowledgeable humbleness in your interviews, you speak of other pedal makers as a fan or a colleague and not as a competitor and I really enjoy that!

[@bestboy897]

Of all the vai interviews I've seen, none have fascinated me or entertained me as much as this one, good job Anderton's.

[@geoffstockton]

When I was 12, I had been playing for a year and "Passion and Warfare" came out. I saw an ad for it in Metal Edge or maybe Guitar World and ran straight out to get it because I already knew that Vai was a bad mofo from the David Lee Roth albums. That album blew my mind and I listened straight through probably a hundred times or more that year. I had my favorites but I came to really appreciate where each track was coming from. I went on to have all kinds of different guitar heroes, from Duane Allman to Jim Hall to you-name-them. But in my mid twenties at the height of my first jazz phase, I had a student who wanted to learn "For the Love of God". Learning it with my student was a great experience and really opened my eyes to how musically rounded and complete he is and how much depth of knowledge, creativity, commitment and discipline were and are there. I wound up digging through the Little Black Dots section of his website and read every lesson and journal entry. It's still my opinion that Steve Vai's one of the most masterful musicians in the history of rock music.

[@DannyMecanovic]

Steve is so down to earth. Lee you are awesome too mate! ;)

[@dionplant9197]

this is one of the best musician interviews I have ever seen, well done Lee, and what an awesome bloke that is Steve

[@Christophe_L]

Steve: "I hated that single coil sound: thin, scratchy" Lee: "yup" hahahahahahah poor Captain.

[@Lugacci]

Christophe L i haha, yeah but think i have to agree with Steve

[@chrisvalenzuela7911]

@@Lugacci they're thin, but not scratchy unless they're shitty pickups

[@Atomic1710]

Single coils sound better than humbuckers

[@GabesGuitarGeekery]

@@Atomic1710 no. just no.

[@Braglemaster123]

Who’d call themselves a “ Captain 👩‍✈️ “ ????

[@pa4tim]

Lee, you are a really great interviewer. And Steve is a great guitarist so this was an hour well spend, thank you.

[@michaeleaster1815]

I disagree. Lee is doing OK and I'm very grateful for the video. But the final question "what single song embodies Steve Vai?" is not a question that a great interviewer would ask. It is reductive and mildly insulting to ask an artist (esp. one of Vai's breadth) to ask him/her to distill their essence down to one song. You could see how uncomfortable Vai was. That said, it is one error in an otherwise enjoyable vid.

[@alejandrocisneros7442]

Michael Easter nah it was a good question. And a very ego checking question. As an artist each year you make a song or still have a song that resonates to you. It's cliche but still good question.

[@gimmickmusic8827]

I love how Steve just oozes with passion when he talks about music.

[@LAstudio8]

Steve Vai is such an enlightened person. Great interview!

[@JunkieMonkey321]

Hey Captain, with regards to your point about these generations being too addicted to instant gratification and not willing to pick up anything that needs a bit of work, my theory is that once they hit a 15+ age range or so, that instant gratification will lose its value in a lot of case. I picked up guitar at 18 (turning 21 in April) after being virtually addicted to games and stuff like that since I was like 9 years old, and as I was learning I found the LACK of instant gratification to be one of the biggest factors in sticking with it, because I could now do something that my friends couldn't do, which is something I can't say when it comes to video games. Your daughter till probably get a bit bored with the iPad after a while, and eventually find something that she will want to work towards and put the time into. It's like looking a big map where you have no idea what's where, but you know where you're at. You could go any direction you want to but you get option paralysis. Eventually you find that little red dot that points towards a destination, and suddenly the path becomes clear. I think that in the later stages of growing up, people want to go to destinations that are further away from where they are, because it's more of an adventure, and iPad games only take you so far! Anyway, just a theory. Thanks for all of the videos :)

[@r.m7921]

JunkieMonkey321 hey. That's true. I picked up a guitar when i was 18ish. Turned 20 last month

[@userPrehistoricman]

Rana Mathew Same!

[@Ulysses6806]

Not always so, my son is 12 and been playing guitar since he was nine and plays less and less video games these days as his guitar skills and musical tastes broaden....and quite a few of his friends are also great budding musicians...

[@JunkieMonkey321]

Steven Roberts That's exactly what I'm talking about

[@stephenowen3383]

That is nearly exactly the same for me. As soon as I kinda had to stop playing video games with any regularity, I just got into guitar, having played it for about 2 years but not put as much time in as I have done after that. Interestingly during that time I also found Rob Chapman!

[@David-sx7on]

Steve Vai is a true Hero. Compliments for the interviewer, one of the best. Just love to listen to Steve talking about these topics, especcially about the JEM. I am a proud owner of a ‘89 JEM 77fp. Could not sleep for a week at that time because I kept staring at it due to its hypnotizing beauty. Thank you Steve for your musical gifts to the Universe.

[@lazyguitarAF]

Old but gold. Steve and Ibanez truly deserves the large share of guitar market. The guitars they offer is just phenomenal for the price.

[@AgressiveElevatorMusic]

Other Interviews: What's your favorite amp? Captain: tell me how mental suffering impacted your music.

[@vitorisaia]

yeah this was epic

[@tonyfondacaro1980]

That’s why he’s The Captain

[@Nj1498]

It's unbelievable how humble he is. He's a god walking among us, yet he's so down to earth!(Forgive the pun)

[@andreil1234]

You cannot possibly dislike Vai; I wasn't really a big fan because of all that posing during shows, but man, when I first heard him talk, I started to understand the way he relates to what he does and his shows became so much more enjoyable and entertaining.

[@oblivion_007]

Waters Music saves ppl... Tbh.. This guy is better than any god...

[@cdreid99999]

as far as playing skill he is.

[@ntsjohn2157]

Whats the difference between Stevie Vai and God? Well, hes great and all.... but hes no Stevie Vai!

[@Nj1498]

Zen Everyone is entitled to have their opinion.

[@drumsanddrumming8289]

What a real, authentic and mature musician Steve Vai is. He's a pleasure to listen to and deserves all the success in the world. A true inspiration.

[@mattluscombe2071]

As someone who's suffered with depression from puberty on it was inspiring to hear Steve's feelings. It is going to make a difference to my life! Lee if you can please pass that on to Steve. Having watched this channel for a couple of years and seen some of the less than mature antics (absolutely hilarious!) I was pleased and in some ways surprised in the way Lee did the interview - Lee you can be VERY proud of that piece on of the best pieces I've ever seen - keep up the good work!

[@nathanbouton6700]

What a refreshing conversation with a real person. Love it.

[@SunaKhei93]

Been a fan of Vai for quite a while now, and this is a great interview, and really, a deep dive into what goes into his mind and his attitude towards everything. Great mindset of his.

[@Oilid]

This was the best hour I spent on internet since a long time!!!!

[@cdamico97]

Always great hearing the wise words of Vai

[@BigWillba]

"People were fatigued with the idea that they had to play like that to be considered good" Steve Vai 1 of the greatest virtuosos ever summing up the death of 80s hair metal in 1 humble sentence.....

[@jaspersquire5931]

Just watched this interview again... inspirational stuff. Life, music and guitars. All you ever need.

[@bestplans9051]

"Whatever you focus on you create more of". Well said.

[@michaelrainbow4203]

What a beautiful, wise, compassionate human Steve Vai is. He is a virtuosic human.

[@derekwalton16]

Meaningful interview because it was about life and attitude and not about gear.

[@mrtelechi]

Wow, never liked his 'playing style' really, but I have huge respect for him after watching this...superb.

[@MacforDummiesit]

I had the pleasure of meeting Steve in a classroom, and he is a great person before even being a great musician. He deserve all success… The greatest guitar God ever...

[@joshuajarman]

Steve Vai truly spoke what I needed to hear (not what I wanted to hear.) Thank you for this interview.

[@kierenmoore3236]

GREAT interview!! I was lucky enough to meet Steve 20-odd years ago, in Australia ... ended up chatting backstage and quaffing wine with Billy Sheehan, who was great to chat too as well! :)

[@gomezaddams9221]

Did they run a train on u?

[@SirJenkz]

Gomez Addams ask steve

[@TheCrimsonIdol987]

My all time favorite guitarist. Steve Vai's music and playing has always spoke to me.

[@angelo1syndrome1]

Steve Vai's Great Great Grandfather was Italian, large hands, ...Paganini?

[@qazzell]

imagine if it was.

[@poiiiiiiiiiii3049]

Omg... I've never thought of this...

[@bipbipletucha]

69th like

[@theaterofsouls]

hahaha!!!!

[@maxc6566]

That explains eugenes trickbag

[@Dug6666666]

You have a real talent for interviewing Lee. I'm reminded of Parinson when you do it. Looking forward to you meeting more of your heros.

[@SirMo]

This is honestly one of the best interviews on KZbin! The Captain doesn't ask lame questions, but deep thought provoking stuff. I couldn't stop watching. Steve Vai is a really intelligent and honest guy. Would love to have a beer with him. Could listen to him speak for hours.

[@caseylockwood5512]

Honestly, I've always loved Vai's stuff, but if you've ever seen him perform, or seen his music videos, you'd know the dude is very passionate. Like OVER THE TOP with the dancing and faces, but in a good way. I always enjoyed watching him perform because hes a natural entertainer, but I kind of assumed since he was so incredibly confident in everything he did guitar-related, he'd probably be stuck up and have mad ego as a person. Not the case at all, this dude is more down to earth than most people I know. Love it, Vai is truly one of the greats.

[@slax1313]

Just seeing this for the first time today....so obviously its Steve Vai so I'm already interested....but then he goes into the the mental health.....I really needed to hear this today....absolutely incredible....thank you....!!!

[@melissakelly1621]

Thankful for Steve taking the opportunity to spread the Light.

[@Quinkermarine]

Fabulous! Had no idea the Capt was such a great interviewer, but yea, he's really good, and Steve is just such a beautiful and valuable guy, as usual.

[@777Yoni]

Lee, you've really gotten adept at the art of the interview. Nicely done.

[@MauFerrusca]

It's very refreshing to listen to musicians articulate so clearly and lovely as Steve does.

[@Doug5524]

A great interview Lee and respect to Steve for being so open, A great insight into his life and with a great sense of humor thank you

[@mikeclarke4002]

Wonderful interview; such a joy when the interviewer is simply interested and not trying to prove he is a great journalist.

[@Highcastle_of_Tone]

Those little achievements are truly the most addictive thing about musicianship, and it's what keeps me coming back every day.

[@GigglingDickhead]

Now this is some content! I dare say every respectable guitar youtube channel creator is watching this with deep envy. Steve is very generous with his thoughts and Lee is pulling the interview off with aplomb, even if a little nervous. I tip my hat.

[@richlife06]

Super cool interview. Very honest artist discussing life processes and interviewer getting over his awe, asking such thoughtful questions. Way to go Lee, and thank you Steve for your refreshing honesty.

[@jeffleister9793]

This is by far, the best interview I've ever seen of Steve Vai. Way to go, great questions.

[@Rixster1217]

Wow, I never expected this in his interview. So insightful into depression and the human state of mind. I reached my darkest point not too far back, and I'm now trying to get the help to let the light back in. I could listen to Steve talk about this stuff for hours.

[@azarealbheri6876]

Wow I'm loving these interviews Started at 1 in the night, now it's 5 in the morning

[@BeatPoet67]

What a great interview. I've never been into his guitar style but he comes across as a super sorted guy.

[@HammerHeadLocs]

Vai looks like the coolest mom ever.

[@KR1298508]

Savage Nice.

[@divinasi0n]

You must have a killer tennis backhand

[@mattemeny2606]

Came for the guitar review, but was blown away by the depth of the review with one of the greatest.

[@mikemercer5808]

I'll never forget the first time I heard of Steve. I had a subscription to Guitar Player magazine. At that time, GP included thin plastic singles as a gatefold that you could tear out and play on your record player. GP would include the tab for the song as well. One month it was Steve's "Attitude Song" from the album Flexible. I pulled it out and listened to it and was totally blown away.

[@jtc2112]

Mike Mercer same here

[@Ronno4691]

Same here!

[@geruto17760]

Mike Mercer: there was also a flexi from Ibanez included with Steve playing Amazing Grace. It's just DIVINE!

[@pho2]

Same here, still got all those floppy tear out recordings. They introduced me to a huge amount of guitar music for which I am still very grateful.

[@michaeltaylors2456]

Mike Mercer . I had that one too! And Flexible on vinyl no pun

[@Payne2view]

One for the archives. I think guitarists come onto "Captain Meets" to get away from the stock interview. Now Steve Vai can tell his friends where to come for a down to earth sensible talk. Very cool.

[@alejandrocisneros7442]

Robert Payne yes! Hopefully malmsteem is next!

[@justinrisen1929]

Wow man have been a Vai fan for many many years..... Have suffered from depression and ptsd from life trauma for as long as i can remember and until this day i have not heard a single word that made spiritual sense to me and not just mental in regards to how i feel and why and what direction to take to find my way finally out of it. Reached my darkest point a few months back and have been finally truly trying to find my way back to the light that honestly i barely know. "Your not exorcising your demons by entertaining them, your allowing them to continue to enter your life" Steve is the best guy ever man and truly an inspiration as a human being letalone as a guitarist. Great Interview from the Captain!!

[@charvelgaming2975]

What an awesome interview! Steve Vai is very humble and well spoken. My favorite interview from Andertons so far

[@rigair9796]

Awesome.... Steve is just awesome. This is the best interview I've ever watched!!!!