Eric Johnson and Joe Bonamassa - Crossroads - January 19, 2012 - Hollywood HOB - HD

Please watch in 720p HD (adjust at bottom right of video). They also played Steppin' Out that night - here is a link to that: • Joe Bonamassa and Eric... What an incredible night it was at the House of Blues in Hollywood last week, when Joe Bonamassa sat in for two songs with his friend, guitar legend Eric Johnson. Nothing like two geniuses standing mere feet from you, doing their thing............. oh, boy.
Please visit:
jbonamassa.com/
and
ericjohnson.com/

[@phillipgohorns]

Yoda and Skywalker. The pentatonic scale is strong with this one....

[@zxarcane7706]

+Phillip Peterson Is that your consolation or something?

[@w900L]

Derbixrace actually mixolydian sounds good in blues.

[@aleaallee]

@@Derbixrace Given blues is usually played with dominant 7th chords, you could solo using the mixolydian scale.

[@liamwagner9160]

What a great analogy 😂

[@nicholasindalecio8211]

Lol

[@bsdung6060]

Just love everything about Eric Johnson his tone his trills his crazy run his bending...No one like him

[@billy6742]

Eric is never loud enough

[@carljohnson2905]

Joe is brilliant. Eric is brilliant. This was so fantastic.

[@libbysvideos]

+Carl Johnson - Thank you for saying so, and for NOT trying to make it into some silly competition as so many viewers have tried to insist upon. :)

[@carljohnson2905]

+libbysvideos I hate that. Or people forcing their opinions down others throats. I also love John Mayer's guitar playing, and people argue on his videos like no other. It's sad.

[@mikesorbassguitar]

Joe is a great guitarist...Eric is from another planet.

[@kevinstiff8681]

Eric will take you to nirvana

[@MClancer18]

I like how Eric is so calm and doesnt feel like he needs to shred back at he just wants to play and thats all I would want too =)

[@danielcardinale4562]

a true gentleman guitarist!! and two guitar giants playing together! what more could one ask for??

[@Chris-is1rd]

I have seen this happen so many times - Johnson will get on stage with other big name guitar players and his sound is always buried. Its a bit annoying that the soundpeople cant get that shit straightened out

[@russelmurray9268]

I've watched this for years it's annoying

[@Diax1324]

His tone is engineered to work with his band. It struggles to keep up with other players. That's part of the magic of his tone - it works amazingly well at filling up a 3 piece instrumental.

[@pgong]

I also think the video camera's on-board mic is picking up Joe's amp more simply because it's right in front of it.

[@peterworam9376]

100% Agreed. Johnson's tone is painfully over engineered to his personal taste. It's exquisite when you can hear it, but he never cuts through the mix. Any number of live videos demonstrates it. He needs a bit extra in the mids, or at least a boost at the board. Disappointing, as Joe and EJ are at the top of the food chain in terms of blues guitar. I actually started listening to Joe a lot more because his legato is just as good as Johnson's, but you can hear him. But damn, Eric's rhythm playing and chord forms... No one plays like him.

[@Sprawl1GuitarMan]

Agreed, man! Sound guy should be able to compensate for it. There’s really no excuse.

[@sschmidtevalue]

Loved it! That rhythm section is like a freight train going 90mph!

[@Rhythmicsolo]

You can Hear these guys have waited a long time for this show down. Joe definitely has the balls and the talent to stand toe to toe with Eric.. Just incredible to watch. Wow!!!! Blown away!!!! I love the Comment saying Yoda meets Luke...lol... so true. :)))

[@russelmurray9268]

Eric has a definite style while Joe has the ability to cover everyone's style not that Eric can't

[@hauulakid]

Well spoken friend, I've been watching 'little Joe' grow up over the last 15years or so and he certainly deserves to stand right there next to the best that has been, as evidenced by the LONG list of guitar greats that have welcomed him on the stage..He's living proof that the blues will never die.

[@scottmatheson2390]

It's amazing how many modern players have been influenced by Eric Johnson's approach to pentatonics including Joe B. and Eric Gales among a host of others. It's too bad (as you stated) you were positioned directly in front of Joe's amp which produced a rather lopsided recording as far as individual guitar volumes are concerned. Still, it's an excellent document of yet another great night in guitar land for which I thank you.

[@libbysvideos]

You are most welcome. Thank you for your positivity. :)

[@BossHossStudios]

LIBBY.. You are the BEST!!! THANK YOU!!!

[@ZBEARRockN]

always unbelievable, eric johnson- . he never shows ordinary progression of guitar plays even when he is playing lower backing position. it's really fantastic.

[@lanes58]

I like to think there is no best guitarist. Everyone has their own style, and that's makes them unique, and gives us listeners a variety of music to listen to. Great pickin' here.

[@bryanmannoia8410]

nice video, thanks for shooting and sharing!

[@drivers1959]

These two guys are incredible players as most would agree. Eric J has his signature sound which makes him who he is"incredible" Joe is a monster player and he can sound like anybody he wants to he tends to keep it in the pocket as far as the song and in relation to Claptons style but with his own flare....gotta love it!

[@EricCirca6566]

Joe was in a "take no prisoners" mode. At times he had a "OK what do you have for me next" stance. It kind of reminds me of the "headcutting" scene in the movie "Crossroads." Once again the tone from the Firebird and whatever kind of medium size Fender style amp behind him is incredible!

[@FreeGuitarLessons247]

The mix is fine. If you were at the venue the levels would be fine. It's a video thing, when an amp is pointing directly in front of a camera is tends to sound louder. This was Erics gig, his fender twins and Marshall stacks are to the left of the stage, Joe has a 2x12 fender tweed twin pointing directly towards the camera, that's why Joe sounded louder, there was nothing wrong with the mix

[@libbysvideos]

+Mitchell Eyles , in the four years since I shot this video, you would not believe the number of people who cannot seem to understand the very simple and obvious facts that you just pointed out. I try to politely explain my location, and the location of both Joe and Eric's amps, but, people believe what they want to believe, I guess. :) Thanks for trying to explain it to the good folks watching - again. :)

[@mikegreenguitar]

It seems to be a trend, though. Joe is always the most present in the mix when another guitarist is sharing the stage. At least on KZbin:-)

[@bryanmannoia8410]

you nailed it Mitchell.

[@FangPaw]

Apparently Joe was using a Lazy J, not a Fender Tweed.

[@alexedsell8138]

I get what your saying but this must be the case in the other two guitarists I mentioned above that had the same "problem".... Eric, zakk, clapton.....I mean to they just automatically turn there amps the opposite direction...

[@gitmani]

It's nice to see to very gifted guitar players, sharing the same stage and enjoying each others playing. I think that's what music is all about! Thanks you for the post!

[@chefallen520]

The People in this world will never get along. No matter what. I was extremely happy with this video. I wish I could have been up there with the 2 of them. Eventhough I am nowhere close to being in their league but damn that what be awesome. Stop fighting with one another over personal opinions. You don't have to live by them and they damn sure can't kill you. Just listen and enjoy. If you don't like what someone wrote, just go on to something else. There is more than enough for all of us to find something we like and possibly, someone like ourselves. Chill out, life is much better without the bullshit...

[@Jakexx01]

I agree with you, in a perfect world we should "just listen and enjoy". Unfortunately, some enjoy the bitching and the squabbling BS far more than the music. Respectfully, why don't you take your own advice and, "just listen and enjoy". I'll do the same with you. You and I will never change them. Shit disturbers will be shit disturbers.

[@joelcabida]

"life is much better without the bullshit..." that was awesome...

[@russelmurray9268]

No one didn't enjoy this what are you talking about

[@russelmurray9268]

You can't get along is more to the point

[@chefallen520]

Dudes , I met a great luthier . He didn’t have any copies of other builders guitars on his wall . Only his creations . All he could talk about were the influences , from other builders and their creations . His guitars were breathless . I sat and played a few . 2 and a half hours later , I had to kick myself out of his house . It was so cool to play and not think about time or anything else . More playing and less everything else .

[@yobhsiFehT]

Look, I like this video, I have significant respect for both of these guys, so don't jump down my throat TOO much for saying this, BUT... honestly, how does Bonamassa manage to flatten out the groove of EVERY song he plays?? o.O

[@chikkipop]

Was just noticing that myself.

[@1986Lynott]

Gotta say I think he holds back when he plays with other guys...by himself it's just the way his Musical brain works..? but yeah

[@rodrigooliveira3277]

The Clapton tone and sound remains one of the cornerstones of modern electric guitar.

[@bpreece1]

The sound engineer sucks Johnson is so buried in the mix.

[@Jillybug2000]

Not the engineer’s fault. It’s all about where the audio source is coming from. The camera is directly in front of Joe’s amp which I’m sure has a very healthy stage volume and EJ’s amps are way off to the side. If the camera/mic source was back where you could hear the PA I’m sure it would sound much more balanced.

[@TheLespauladdict]

Absolutely AMAZING! Both are incredibly guitarists and this is a killer cover of a Blues Classic!

[@bassplayersayer]

Its recorded on a phone, That's why I can't hear the other amps. It's pretty cool, Really cool show. I think the guys had a lot of fun.and that's what its all about. Rock On.

[@libbysvideos]

bassplayersayer I shot the video - I can tell you that it was not recorded on a phone - Eric's amp is low because I was not in front of it, I was in front of Joe's. Simple as that. Joe's appearance that night was NOT public knowledge beforehand. I was privy to it though, and chose visual position over audio perfection. They definitely had fun and so did I. Glad you enjoyed the video (I think?). :)

[@russelmurray9268]

Not your fone it's the engineer

[@libbysvideos]

Actually, it was Eric's band and Joe was Eric's invited guest. Also, please keep in mind that I was on the far right, directly in front of Joe's amp and the mix (unfortunately) is not balanced from my position. I'm sure that is not what the rest of the room was hearing. Sometimes I sacrifice a bit of audio balance for the visual shot. The two of them are friends and actually enjoyed one another - I hope you did too.

[@BoxcarFred]

Wow! Two genius guitar players! I'm happy now!

[@libbysvideos]

You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@anitavassar1]

I adore Eric.

[@EthridgeMarkS]

all though several years old nice to see Eric playing a Les Paul.

[@rrhwattimena1177]

Wow... Thanx for the upload. 👍🏽

[@BBQDad463]

Absolutely brilliant!

[@castagnaf1]

Ummmm, So perfect!!! Thank You!!

[@libbysvideos]

@MrHeadrocker50 - My pleasure. Have fun at your gig. Thank you for the kind words. :)

[@ergonzales]

Superb! Fantastic performance from these two great guitarists! Thanks for posting.

[@vilmosswb2403]

Two greats with their own unique style of playing blended into a blender and you get .Titans of music... both are gifts from God... if Jeff Healey was still alive i'm sure he would love to jam it up even more :))) keep on rockingggggggggggggg SwB

[@STORYTASTIC]

great stuff what a shame u can't hear eric!! Joe who normally copies EJ stuck to his Best traditional Blues!! and rocked...thanks Joe for not copying Eric!!...this time:) thanks for putting this up!!

[@nuendo2496]

Joe is a true blues guy with monster chops.

[@DilbiWilber]

they make each other better.

[@mjw6555]

Wow...Finally a version of Crossroads to rival, or even surpass Clapton's on Wheels of Fire! Of course...between Joe & Eric, I think they covered just about every Clapton lick from the original. I especially dug Joe's old single PUp Firebird, and Eric's gorgeous Gold Top! Thanks a million for this vid. Peace... MJ Wright

[@t88williams]

Always cool to see EJ up there creating some interesting sounds and thanks for posting the vid. I just have never understood what the big deal is about JB.

[@barbaracovell]

fabolous

[@JeffreyBurtonYT]

Holy Moley, that is insane. Two monster players with very complimentary styles. I love how these guys just love to JAM!

[@Grendal54]

These are world class players. People always have to make it a contest. You can learn to play guitar and play your whole life and never approach these guys. They were born with enormous talent. To bad mouth or belittle either of them is just plain ignorant.

[@levicowan2650]

Eric Johnson and Joe Bonamassa, what are a great collaboration

[@MrHeadrocker50]

Thanks for that Libby,great to be able to watch that awesome playing by J.B. Looking forward to seeing Joe in Nottingham UK later on this year. Also thanks for the heads up on the 720p HD a lot better to watch on.

[@dalefunk9863]

I've seen both of these guys at different times in their careers but never together. They are both extremely talented and if I could play a tenth as good as either one I might critique them... but.... I can't.... I can only say they are both great and fun to watch and listen to.

[@rodbelding9523]

music isn't a competition man, both are great. don't judge other guitarists too much, just listen.

[@doppler55]

Bladestrummer said it best. What a treat to see theses two play. Thanks for posting

[@Onehappyworlds]

You know what this is AWESOME!

[@jhinds0630]

I saw Eric as a guest at Joe's concert in Austin about 18 months ago. Eric played about 2/3 of the time, and he was absolutely incredible. Joe was very humble in his intro, and the roles were reversed. You can search KZbin for "Bonamassa Johnson Austin" to see for yourself. I'm not sure of your background, but I've seen enough blues jams to know that the guy on the mic calls the shots, and, if he doesn't feel the other musician caught his signal, he's going to keep playing.

[@leftyzappa]

Completely excellent. Thank you for putting this up!

[@kj677]

Great Video!!! Wow this is awesome!! Thanks for this!

[@killereverb3928]

When you hear EJ play, eyes closed you KNOW it's him and no one else. That's called a signature style - harder to develop than many realize. All the greatest have that. When Joe plays, he sounds like anyone of a number of players. His style is more muddled. Let the analysis start there. Have fun!

[@recordjnky]

Joe's tone is UN FUCKING TOUCHABLE -- so clean and precise....Eric takes a back seat to the new master

[@calumobrien9234]

Joe Bonamassa doesn't sound like any player to me. Tonally, maybe he doesn't stand out as such, but his playing style is extremely distinctive, very cleanly played and consistent.

[@maximalist5038]

Aaron M you do realize that even Joe B would say that's bullshit right?

[@rccarsandmusic2641]

Well said Eric worked to perfect his style and is one of the best skilled player with his own style!

[@natecassou6832]

Those fast arpeggio licks are all EJ's even what JB was playing.

[@rfd73]

Totally agree

[@dirliedirl]

Absolutely true, but Joe has always maintained that he learned a great deal from EJ, including those licks. So at least he's not being an a-hole about it.

[@WileECoyotey]

Joe (and of course Eric) have brought rock guitar solos to another level.

[@gitbse]

I love watching and listening to both of these guys. EJ is a legend, and always will be. He can outplay anybody, and his music is spectacular, and always very innovative. However... He never really had a good stage presence. I remember awhile ago watching him on stage shredding like crazy.. standing in one spot with headphones on. I would go see either of them in a heartbeat. However, I would always choose Joe first. JB has a stage presence, and a feel in his playing that EJ doesn't. JB has shown from all of his solo music, to the bands he's been in, Bloodlines up into Rock Candy Funk Party, that his musical range is limitless. EJ does what he does best, and will be one of the legends. However, JB will always be my #1 guitar player.

[@tonyfondacaro1980]

I saw EJ last year on the Experience Hendrix tour. When he came out the place erupted, and he proceeded to tear the house down with his presence and his playing. Maybe you saw him on an off night, because my experience of him was nothing short of legendary.

[@youhavetogoback8449]

No way you're crazy. I have never heard anything Bonamassa has made with as much soul as Desert Rose, Lonely in the Night, Trail of Tears, or Pavilion. Eric Johnson is in his own league.

[@bbb8997]

Rory Gallagher & Danny Gatton will be Joe's fav players

[@JustinGillenMusic]

I feel like everyone who is new to hearing Joe Bonamassa understands he is a great lead player, but thinks that he is not a good songwriter because he doesn't have platinum radio hits like Layla or Pride and Joy and killer tunes like that. In reality... he is really good songwriter. People need to go explore his earlier albums to see for them self and give his writing more of chance. His earlier albums shaped my musical ear as a kid for a lot more reasons than his ability to shred a lead like a boss. Or listen to the Rockpalast concert. He doesn't deserve to be cut short from a writing standpoint just because he does a lot of covers.

[@BossHossStudios]

@libbysvideos No ma'am... Ive commented on other videos before.. Just really like all the videos that you make!! Thank you again!

[@LaurenceHendersonBand]

Eric's lead sound seems too compressed and somewhat mid scooped - whereas the mid kick from the Lazy J Joe's playing through throws it right into your face when he plays. Obviously camera/mic placement plays an effect - but the compression on Eric's tone means you miss a lot of the attack of what he plays - this is what gives him the 'violin' tone he is known for but just doesn't cut as well live.

[@ryleitdept]

not really. that's the characteristic of the fuzz face. You could ask jimi hendrix thou, it is so loud during those days directly on the audience on the front of the stage.

[@westvalleyjunction]

Your right Erics not cutting through the mix and sounds too processed. Both are tone freaks but I think Joe get the most authentic tones out, which come through clear and accurate through the. Mix. Coupled with the shape shifting leads, he's pretty much comping off Eric (both) styles. Not so into him getting so into Eric's space. Eric's got limited physical rock moves and it feels like Joe's jumping all up his business.

[@libbysvideos]

@mjw6555 - I'm very glad to have been there and happy to be able to share the moment. Did you see the second video too?? (Steppin' Out)

[@libbysvideos]

@musicinmysoul91 - Silly Danny - that's my job! ;) Glad you enjoyed it, honey. Hope all is well with you.

[@BlazeDriscoll]

absolutely great, especially for a one camera shoot

[@mjw6555]

Whoa...Thanks for the Steppin' Out tip! These guys are both just great...but Joe really shines on Steppin' Out...trying to get Eric to bite on the repeating line...but Eric wouldn't jump in...or should I say...he wouldn't step out. Fantastic just the same. Brother...you were really lucky to be there!!! Peace... MJ Wright

[@pudder68]

great vid .. Johnson and Joe B audio makes me want to cry :(

[@MrParisienWalkways]

You put it very well, Spot On Mate.

[@ep9421]

2020 in lock down in Sydney, and what a better way to pass time. Who needs Rap shit or Beiber when the world is at its worst. This makes me feel wonderful sitting back, volume up and relaxing. Like I said, what a great way to isolate

[@deadreckoning292]

Damn. That was flat out awesome.

[@bluzzpower]

Everytime I listen to this...just gives me all that much more inspira tion..Incredible Jam!

[@geirolav2]

joe bonamassa needs to slow down his soloing and write some incredible songs that will be remembered, like eric johnson

[@NeverMind-vx7pl]

The best cover of Cream I have ever seen is a small band called "Creamful67". Don't know who the guitarist is but he is damn good. Its about 9 years ago.

[@michaelharrisson1683]

Man that Eric Johnson... He's the train.

[@bwt167]

Ej's rig is so far stage right this camera audio couldn't pick up Eric. That was a killer night! So cool of Joe to sit in at EJ's gig. They need to tour together!

[@gllincoln]

Reading the comments - how depressing the things people seem to focus on! The only thing I find objectionable about this rather great performance by both world-class guitarists - I wish the sound quality was better!

[@russelmurray9268]

No kidding lol but we know it was great just a lower volume

[@joeytruelove]

@spentonmediocrity Seems very unlikely any such thing would have occured, at least for the reasons you mention. Aspergians usually don't know prestige and don't care what others do or how they seem as that's beyond their mode of thinking. Also having been in the game for so long there's very little to prove. Then we all can have bad days - though judging by this vid none of them seem to have that. Thanx for the marvelous uploads of two of my fav guitarist rolemodels, Libby!

[@snidelywhiplash]

Just a thought here, guys: Don't just hammer on Eric or Joe here. A lot of what you're hearing is probably due to a couple things: 1) The crap-quality microphones built into most phones; 2) The fact that the person recording is in the front row, which can really screw up the sound mix. (Truth be told: A lot of the time, the sound sucks in the front row.)

[@BrettFairchild]

Two colossal titans on stage with another, how did the stage not explode

[@HORUSCOOKS]

aww man, this is so cool!

[@less_concerned1221]

Joe sounded incredible through that Firebird!

[@MrCoolhandLucas]

Oh wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Serious magic when the two guys start trading bars. Wonderful !

[@davidclements1913]

I cannot believe the petty nature of some of the comments on here.. He's got his hat on.. No respect. Not as good as *insert anyone you want. Joe is Joe. He's a rock musician ffs The guy works his butt off.. He's helped get blues/rock a lot of momentum in recent years along with others.. And if you think he's self absorbed or some sort of celebrity you're really just showing how little you know about the guy. He's nerd. A guitar nerd.. He owns up to that himself in interviews and documentaries.. Yes he markets himself.. why not.. you don't have to get emails.. i don't.. yet I've been a fan since he did the Borderline years ago.. Seen him play loads. Always puts on a great show. I know some some musicians who know him and everyone says he's totally genuine guy. Thats what I think...

[@libbysvideos]

Thank you, David. I shot the video, know Joe personally, and couldn't agree with you more. Petty is the word for it.

[@davidclements1913]

libbysvideos no probs... i love music and comment from guys who have never played on a stage cut no ice with me.. keep up the good work..

[@davidclements1913]

libbysvideos and joe has been inspiring to me.. love his attitude and hats!!

[@libbysvideos]

Thank you.

[@oldfert]

I have never witnessed Mojo from either of these guys until now. Awesome....just awesome.

[@imissmysol]

One of my fav's totally shredded by two greats. I have been privileged to see EJ but not JB yet...one day....

[@bbb8997]

don't waste your time

[@christiangasior4244]

Eric aged so gracefully. Dude always looks good.

[@Beauregard159]

Two GIANTS, no egos.. What's better than this???

[@coravisser727]

it is great played thank you and keep it up the good music.

[@dennyburnworth5032]

Battle of the guitar nerds with the audience being the winner!

[@Bassballs5]

That was really awesome... Both players are well versed in MANY styles, but in this 1 4 5 they both stayed with the blues format and didn't go off in "shred" mode, which both are very capable of doing very well... Not to mention, GREAT rythem section...

[@jhinds0630]

I agree with other posts. I'd pay good $ to see either in concert. Both have done other projects with other artists, and they are very humble with a "how can I help" mentality.

[@TinyCatBand]

eric johnsons amp is away from the camera, thaats why u said that n00b

[@shemueltannak4799]

VIRTUOUSSSSSSSSSSSS👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏AMAZING JOE!!! GREAT JOE!!! UNBELIEVABLE JOE!!

[@rccarsandmusic2641]

After reading the comments Eric owned this!

[@libbysvideos]

@joeytruelove - You're welcome. It's my pleasure to shoot and share such treasures. As for spentonmeiocrity's story, it seems it has recently been removed by the viewer himself (not me). As I said, the incidents described NEVER took place. I'm glad he removed the comment and hope that it is the last time he ever tells that tale.

[@divinesouls5535]

That fire bird is stunning

[@mjw6555]

@libbysvideos Oooops! My apologies. I had no idea who I was talkin' to. I was just talkin' to keep myself from truly understanding what I'm hearing. Or something like that. Anyway...thanks so much for sharing those two. I guess I must now subscribe! Peace... MJ Wright

[@emanuelbief7088]

This is a jewel

[@project10bball]

this is some of my fav playing by joe in awhile

[@omegalast800]

....looks like you had a good seat then!? ...fabulous jam! ;)

[@libbysvideos]

@spentonmediocrity - That is a fascinating story, especially considering the fact that I was in Joe's company the entire time he was in the bar and I saw no such thing occur. This is exactly the kind of thing I had just politely requested that people refrain from. I considered deleting your comment, but decided to let it stay for all to see. Without question, I can tell everyone who is reading this that what you described never occurred. It is my hope that you will never tell that story again.