Alien Guitar Secrets - Episode 9: Hand Health (Knappsack)

[@linusk9181]

Imagine the pressure of being the surgeon operating on Steve Vai's hand.

[@hammr6133]

Yes Dr., I will check with the administrator on our insurance policy limits.

[@ernesto_longhi]

They don't think like this. To surgeon, Vai was just once more.

[@kaiowasdeath]

Imagine being the nurse that helps the surgeon that is operatin Steve's hand.

[@cesardmora86]

@@kaiowasdeath Imagine being the hospital's director where the nurse is helping the surgeon that is operating Steve's hand.

[@stefanoagostini_com]

@@hammr6133 AHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA

[@dsharpe9557]

Next week, Steve Vai will give a concert using just his nose, and it will sound better than anything I've ever attempted 😂

[@Sempai68]

...and still better than you 🤣

[@erinelam3003]

🤭🤭🤭🤭

[@Sempai68]

@VVoOꟻF Of course ! ;-)

[@vladimirpoutine7522]

When I watched his new song I was like, of course he can do that one handed and make it sound good....

[@modergav]

"You wouldn't want to end up like me" Well actually that would be great. Yes please ahahaha

[@Dakhaos-ou812]

Where can I sign in?

[@pepezoomba]

Foi isso mesmo que eu pensei!

[@modergav]

@@pepezoomba Se for pra ficar igual al Vai mesmo com os braço fodido, que seja AHAHAHA

[@Quazi-Moto]

Yeah, that's a good one, Steve. I dare say HE wouldn't wanna end up like ME. Far more accurate.

[@Luisifer_89]

Hahahahahahahahahahha 😂😂

[@ericdran9181]

Thank You Stevie, I've recently become One-handed and I can't stop crying looking at dusty guitars in every room. You've inspired me to try again!

[@straightshooter8662]

The sustainer helps for this one handed technique

[@Turak_64]

@@straightshooter8662 I think the god level of guitar skills is probably a bigger help

[@deathbleu5741]

Try singing dude

[@stussho]

never give up, Eric...be inspired...

[@kingabaddonfatherofagonyhe7212]

@@straightshooter8662 can you recommend any?

[@jollyvoqar195]

Vai - better player than 99.99999999% of guitarists with just one hand. Not to mention his composition skills are insane and IMO severely underrated. The layers of harmony and rhythmic complexity he puts into a casual piece like this are well beyond what most mortals are capable of doing.

[@allandnothing5987]

Some might call it over-playing but whateva works.

[@rautamies2305]

@@allandnothing5987 I'd call this comment "jealousy"

[@erneibollmtt1263]

Even with one hand he is better than all of us. 🎸😂

[@TheM5er]

💯💯💯

[@efrainornelas2346]

Half hand*

[@sergioafonsomesquita6675]

So true!

[@reman81]

*all of us combined

[@megsrini5013]

True so flippin true

[@geoffforduk]

One arm in a sling and the other hand with stitches in it and he is still fricken awesome! 🤯

[@megsrini5013]

IKR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@santiguitar1607]

Man, I know that what I'm going to ask doesn't has to do with the video, but, did he dye his hair? Or it's just my sight, idk

[@DutchVai]

@@santiguitar1607 It could be his natural grey.

[@WizardOfArc]

@@DutchVai looks purple though 😮

[@HenritheHorse]

@@WizardOfArc Could be the lighting above.

[@Xplora213]

Steve Vai: look after your hands Also Steve Vai: watch this song I wrote that will tear all my calluses while I have bandages on both arms

[@TheCho-k4m]

He's always been unconventional 😁😂

[@brianwhooley8148]

Steve Vai is on the short list of the very finest musicians in the world... and yet somehow is an even finer human being. More rare than Steve's extraordinary ability is is his generosity of spirit. Be well!

[@belpack8989]

Holding a chord for 20 minutes and meditating on it sounds like such a Vai thing to do. Get well soon, Steve!

[@rodlissat7150]

Sir Steve Vai, Brazil loves you! (actually, the whole world)! Long live the master! 🤘🇧🇷🎸❤👍

[@cursoalef]

that's true

[@Toledo394]

...true, but we love you more, here in Brazil! 😉

[@ea-guitar1170]

@@Toledo394 Não, aqui na França, adoramos ele tambem :)

[@patrickwoo6067]

Same here from Malaysia...!!!!

[@rafiibanez1163]

😲 What happened with Steve Vai right arm? So sad to see Steve Vai right hand😐🙏🙏 For The Love Of God

[@MichaelAngeloBatioOfficial]

I can't wait to see what Steve has to say today. He is such an amazing guitar player! As soon as Steve's stream is done, I will be premiering a video, so feel free to head on over and load up on your guitar content for the day. Have a great stream Steve! 🤘

[@matthughesrocks]

Look forward to it!

[@scottykingdavid]

Same here. I'm going back to back with Paul gilbert today.. I remember you Micheal. You were a shrapnel guy right. Double handed thing. I remember

[@KrisFjord]

And THAT is how you advertise.

[@KonstFischer]

I just wanted to post on „knappsack“: Michael Angelo batio has left the chat Now I‘m glad I didn’t post it, cause you definitely didn’t leave the chat.

[@MichaelAngeloBatioOfficial]

Hahah, I am a fan of Steve, like everyone else here. Steve rules 🤘

[@leandrodivera]

What a huge inspiration this video is, under so many angles... the positivity, the search for solutions, the conduct, the character - and in the end the one-hand song. This is so brilliant and so human at the same time. So glad this dude simply is who he is. Love you Steve

[@reinandosworld2947]

I find it very helpful to think about health. I have been a guitar player for more than 40 years! When I was 49 years old I started having serious back problems. I did a lot of research, went to doctors and found out that the best thing for my back was to do weight training and sit a lot less and stand a lot more. Since then I feel much better! Unfortunately, the gyms have been closed since November because of the pandemic (Germany). Therefore, I work out at home. I have a home studio. But there I stand at the computer and don't sit since then!

[@johnfrinkjr3865]

You've always amazed me Steve. But playing an entire song with one hand has blown my mind. I wish you all the best. Get well soon, and keep doing what you do like no other. We all love you.

[@fatboyivan5618]

Steve vai is one of my favorite guitarist of all time! Such an inspiration! Very humble guy.

[@Mikau-gb8uo]

I'm sure Dead would hate him though :D

[@ryancampbell5246]

Steve Vai is the nicest, most humble, most talented person on the planet and the whole universe depending on how many people are up in space (on the moon, International Space Station, wherever)

[@harveydents]

TOTALLY agree. I met him once super kind, THEN he found out through a friend of a friend that i was sick (the musician commnity is smaller than people think) WELL, he took it upon himself to email me during a very busy schedule and send me prayers, recommend some books for me. He is a PRINCE among men. HUMBLE isnt even the word!

[@alexbrmj]

I’ve been to his concert! It was like God was playing on the stage! You are completely dissolved in a moment when you are around Steve. His energy is unbelievable. He is just pure love and joy, and he takes you there with him... ❤️❤️❤️

[@NickNeblo]

I believe that posture, feeling relaxed and find the right position for your body is key if you want to be a player for ages. Most classical musicians would disagree and say 'you always have to keep the thumb behind the neck', but that actually makes you left hand tendons work in a less relaxed way and unless you keep the neck at face height, you'll have troubles sooner or later. Same for musicians who want to look cool and keep the guitar below their waist. There's no right or wrong in music or techniques, but if there's a right, it's the one that makes your body suffer the least injuries

[@tommylarsson2025]

This kind of musician just appears maybe once in a 10 000 year. So unique and unbelievable skills. I know it takes hours of practise but his mindset and thinking is what makes him such an unique guitarist and composer. Respect!

[@landslug]

"You don't want to end up like me" Sure boss LoL Seriously, not many folks in your position would be so open about your predicament. Thank you for your willingness to share

[@jerocastella]

✨🙏✨✨

[@jogabonito5027]

Steve Vai takes the expression "I could beat you with one hand tied behind my back" to a new level.

[@CarloRegadasGuitar]

"Vai, are you out of your mind?" The master of the space age guitar

[@t8r507]

If your driving me crazy I'm taking you all with me!

[@donaldanderson6604]

Steve, I've been a fan since I saw you with Zappa in 82. Get well soon. What an inspiration. Interesting that Robert Fripp has always sat on stage when playing, presumably to keep the tendons in his left hand as straight as possible and presumably it keeps the right hand relaxed. Steve Howe always wears his guitar strap high and most classical guitarists keep the guitar as high as possible.

[@dmeinder77]

I want to thank you tremendously for your insight. I have been diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in my left wrist (my fretting hand), and I honestly felt as if it was the beginning of the end for me. I have no doubt you understand the importance of music and guitar playing in ones life to also deal with life and exercise immense joy, and without guitar I feared I wouldn’t have the outlet to release my aggression, stresses, etc., while exercising my brain with creativity. Then the depression set in, which in turn fueled aggression and stress, of which, playing guitar is aimed to alleviate all while enjoying channeling the music and joy through ones body and soul to their fingers. Someone like you also dealing with this, and getting through it is so encouraging for me, I’m not sure how I could ever thank you. This, of course, is in addition to the joy and emotion you’ve given me (and us) with your music, and tips, and guidance. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!

[@milanpolak]

The irony is that this might be the best piece ever written...

[@Dee-yd4vw]

Though Tender Surrender will always have my heart, Knappsack might be close to my favorite piece

[@iresentdoingthis1550]

Steve you magnificent crazy sonnofa, you've guy a hurt shoulder and nursing a healing hand and you've not let it get you down and you've written a song and playing one-handed and still a million miles above us mere mortals. You are truly an inspiration in every way as a terriffic human being and an astounding musician, much love and respect, sending ya healing energy from London. 🤘🎸👍

[@jerocastella]

✨👍✨⚡️⭐️🙏✨

[@mattmurphy2755]

I heard about Steve's injury. We all are lucky that it healed fast

[@arep491]

what happen

[@nicholassupernant6807]

@@arep491 he strained a finger holding a difficult chord

[@pvdguitars2951]

Steve with 1 hand is better than most of his peers using both! Unbelievable! And what an amazing sweet lovely human being!

[@pauly51]

You can just tell how chill and relaxed Steve is through this video. Also his positivity !!

[@jerocastella]

✨👍🙏✨✨✨

[@TheCho-k4m]

Speedy recovery Mr Vai. Funnily enough I had to comment to a youtube guitarist yesterday regarding how he sits when playing, he is always crossed legged and hunched, I am going to send this video to him, it is great advice.

[@nunofernandes4501]

Imagine the doctor's name was Dr. Knutt. You'd be wearing a knuttsack.

[@viking2304]

Thank you for the good laugh

[@landslug]

Well done 👍

[@aryamoghaddam912]

Lmfao

[@stealingtomorrowband]

to funny man!!!!! steve vai now endorsing the Knuttsack.... the new way to keep your hands safe and warm

[@pepezoomba]

Muita bem!

[@derbi75]

A friend just sent this to me. I had double trigger finger surgery today on my left hand. I am a drummer but the doctor did not believe it was from drumming but from working in my yard last summer. I’m looking forward to not waking up with my hand looking like Spider-Man every morning. Good luck on your recovery.

[@daniel11318]

"I still have one hand..." - the black knight

[@MrTeek]

Probably the best 17 minutes and 42 seconds spent in my whole life. So many important things to learn from you, and the song is incredible as well! Love you Steve! Get well soon!

[@prowokator]

"where skill ends, strength begins" - a Finnish saying, probably quite global one, at least it should be.

[@Someone89a]

I’ve been brought up (uk) with a similar saying - “where there’s a will, there’s a way” - the strength of will in this case

[@alen_ELMLB]

Killer one, could be an epitaph

[@commentfreely5443]

when david lee roth's uncle operates on you and you live

[@Quazi-Moto]

@@commentfreely5443 Ahh, sooo.... Roth was a spoiled rich kid growing up. Who woulda guessed?

[@electrolytics]

When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

[@IronDugi]

Yes! Hope for more Under It All as well! Bless you Steve.

[@ericsolis8691]

After surgery this is what his left hand is now doing...just wait until that shoulder and right hand free up! Stay strong brother Vai! Thanks for the upload!!

[@makeaguitarnoise]

Amazing. I seen Steve with Zappa when he was 19 at the Hammersmith. He has always been one step ahead in the Etheral realms of playing. Inspirational playing Steve. Just proves that lockdown cannot keep a good man down.

[@williamfreeze3924]

OMG you know something i have been playing guitar only 10 years now to me in guitar years thats still a child really and i never ever in my life thought i would ever be able to play STEVE VAI in any form but you know something i can see and hear the music in my head and i see myself going to different places then he does that to me is MIND BLOWING i swear playing guitar has been the BEST THING I EVER DO IN MY LIFE.

[@blackpanterpower-fh5gn]

my wive past away 8 years ago left me behind with my 5 kids your music helpt me true the hard moments in my live back then and still dous !!! thank you somuchts for everything mr vai have a awesome weekend and stay save ;-)

[@WholeLottaBulldog]

That must have been extremely difficult man. Good on you for persevering. All the best

[@martinlehfeldt6916]

Knapsack is a great piece. Incredible playing! Your to much Steve. Just pure greatness!

[@martinp.7677]

So inspiring man, he pulled off an amazing composition with literally one hand. Dude I need to keep practicing

[@gerardguitarist]

I was told by someone when I first started out back in the day that if you START to feel ANY pain in EITHER hand then stop right away. It has served me well. When practicing go 45 mins or an hour then break for a few minutes and maybe sight read or even better get up and move around a bit. Your back and neck and shoulders and eyes need to rest also. It has served me well for almost 40 years. You need to find a good position to practice in. Keep going....

[@crisreygtr2003]

Hi, Steve, I’m from Argentina and we have a friend in common, THE GREAT CIRUELO. This video is amazing useful, few years ago I have an accident and I broke both of my wrists and after a delicate surgery and recovery weeks I discover that my left hand (I’m right) was in a different position that for normal issues was OK but to play guitar I have to re educated my self again and that situación demanded me a physically and mentally extra effort (this happened when I had 48). I forced to change the position of my hands, finges and even my arm, and this caused my big pain and no one told me what have to do at this moment even the doctors. Thank you because now I understand that one of the problems it’s that a use more pressure of my finges that it’s necessary (I think that is more a mentally issue) and this provoke more pain the same with the tension of my arm. THANK YOU A LOT!!!

[@WallyBoots]

Steve Vai?! Automatically likes video.

[@grigoriyborisovich9526]

👍

[@patrickwoo6067]

That's the rules...!!!!

[@nowmonk]

Welsh? 😆

[@davidconnelly]

That was incredible. The playing was... unreal. I'm going to make it my business to buy one of those guitars as a thank you for the inspiration. Get well soon!

[@yoshiki.g1450]

Steve is now 60+ but compare to his age, he looks so young and healthy. #Legend

[@jrberry63]

Yoga, meditation, a vegetarian diet, and the best career ever probably have a lot to do with that.

[@crispinmcsticks]

@@jrberry63 having a full head of hair also helps lol.

[@jrberry63]

@@crispinmcsticks That it do, Crispin, that it do...

[@martinlehfeldt6916]

Very true

[@axemanfishing2703]

WOW, when I was already amazed at his playing, and then, he goes and does THIS. You are an inspiration Mr Vai, thank you for sharing your amazing talent with us.

[@wadya]

Get well soon Steve! Love from Indonesia.

[@sebastianstieuroteam3087]

You know sh*t is real when Steve Vai thinks something is difficult to play.

[@22fret]

Yeah, but it just took him one week to learn it. So 10 years for the rest of us...

[@sebastianstieuroteam3087]

At least, LOL.

[@errollbrantley]

The poking the finger through was fantastic, I never knew him to be so human, he seemed so distant when I was young.

[@jrberry63]

Nah, he's a cool dude. I met him a few times back during the Roth days, hung out and chatted at length. He has a great sense of humor, is extremely intelligent and philosophical, very human. Super cool. Still is, so it seems. Through following his career, I can say, it doesn't look like he's changed a bit. To me, he seems just as down-to-earth as he was when he was just starting out. I love that fame never ruined him. Then again, he was very well-grounded and centered when he was young, which helped. He only really turns alien when he plays and connects with the home planet.

[@MrAVTN]

Even injured using one hand Steve tells the world he’s the best at what he does.

[@drRGCRock]

Thanks a lot for your words...I'm suffering a lot of pain in my left hand...so it is encouraging to know that YOU have recovered from something like this...

[@joerojas5448]

Long time fan, first time respondent on your channel. I've always understood that we as guitar players were going to have some hand problems, but not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Some of the pain you were describing, I suffer from as well. This video has cause to want to see my chiropractor. I want to thank you for being transparent and inspirational.

[@keylllogdark]

we are so lucky to have you Vai, i send you love and health sir.

[@jerocastella]

✨🙏⭐️✨✨✨✨

[@robinjohnsonpropheticeagle3733]

only player we've ever witnessed play with one hand that sounds like he has 100 fingers. Dude is the simply the best ever. And most of the world has never even heard of him. Love you Steve. "LIBERTY" was our walk-out song for my wedding!

Steve, your positivity outshines each and every obstacle life may throw at you! Thanks a lot for being such an inspiration to all of us! Get well soon!

[@otineb5]

Hi Steve, you and I are about the same age, I was born in 1960, and so I'll assume that you are 60 years old as well. Anyhow, when we reach our age things seem to begin to fail after years of overuse or improper use, and fyi, I once had shoulder surgery in 2004 and it's as good as new, and one of the things that I learned was to follow the doctor's advice and definitely carry out all of the exercises that the physical therapist recommends for a proper recovery. Also, I think that it's great that you've created a video talking about your injuries and how to avoid them, and how important posture is when playing guitar. And I am glad to see that you're recovering nicely and that when it's safe to tour again, that you'll be out there doing what you love, which is playing guitar and entertain us audiences. And may I as if there's a reason why you cut your hair short, after all of the previous years of having it long? I'm curious to know.

[@DouglasWallace-w1w]

Just when I think I can't be amazed anymore, Mr. Vai continues to blow my mind. He is and has always been in a class alone and above any other master of the instrument that I have studied thus far. Simply amazing and brilliant!!! Thank you Steve for making me want to be a better guitarist.

[@yoho300]

Well I thank you immensely for putting your own body at jeopardy for us . Your really are an amazing human being. And I’m so fucking joyful and proud , to have had you in my life for the the last 30 years

[@Clownmeati8]

While he recovers I can imagine him just picking up his guitar and it plays beautifully all by itself out of respect..

[@carlospaz28]

Coming up next: Steve playing a song with no hands at all.

[@cassianowogel]

and still kicking everybody's asses, you might add 😂

[@coffeemachtspass]

Wasn’t there a Satriani song called No Hands Playing?

[@jrberry63]

Using only his mind and facial expressions. I'd still pay good money just to watch that. I have to watch twice, once for the finger maneuvers, once for the facial expressions.

[@Kichikus_]

Steve just stares quitar and force it to play it self X)

[@stinky_nut_blast]

@@jrberry63 I once heard about a composer who only played the music in his mind. Allegedly he had the ability to let people somehow feel it / hear it / follow it. He just sat on a chair and the audience was listening like being under a spell.

[@trailblazerb1]

Steve you just kill it! What a great tune. I am wondering if Frank considered you one of his favorites back in the day. I hear him channeling through your music in some cases - like Knappsack. I really miss the man and his music genius, but yours is right up there too. Always been a big fan of your creativity. Please keep the amazing content coming.

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

I have a friend who is a gigging musician. He plays all the local clubs withing a 50 mile radius. He goes to this Vietnamese nail salon before his shows. I asked him why and he said he discovered them once he had some work done they gave his hands the most therapeutic massage he ever had and he noticed how much better he played that night and the normal fatigue and pain that normally set in after the show was gone. He could have played another show his hands and arms felt so good. So he pays $10 for a hand/forearm massage as his pre-show ritual (when he can) and he now swears by it. Now that he's getting some serious mileage on his hands he knows anything that will extend his career is gold.

[@DeathBringer769]

I injured my left wrist awhile back playing 8 string in an awkward position for too long, foolishly ignoring the pain, and it's never been the same. I've been slowly building back my guitar chops, but I can't bend/arch my wrist like I used to be able to when doing wide stretches, and I still can't lift anything overly heavy with that hand even over a year later, though I've been very gradually rehabilitating it to some extent (couldn't even lift a full glass of water before, but I now I can handle that at least without it hurting instantly.) Still, you deal with what you got the best you can! It's very good advice you give here to not ignore pain when you feel it and listen to your body. Hope you recover soon, Steve.

[@216trixie]

Play a six-string and get better.

[@DeathBringer769]

@@216trixie I had to take a break from ALL guitar for like a year. I'm slowly building back up now, but yea, I'm staying away 8 strings from now on, lol.

[@SixStringHarmonies]

Great insights into grip strength. I think most of us play with our fretting hand far too hard. Way too much pressure. Been focusing on trying to relax the tension in my left hand, and use the minimal amount of pressure to play. It really does produce a more desirable effect, especially with legato. Tom Quayle has some good tips in that department, as well.

[@JonMulveyGuitar]

Hey Maestro! We are hoping you are healing up quickly! That Pia looks beautiful!

[@j.schaefer5622]

To be a healthy musician, it takes a little work and care for yourself. I developed a stuck shoulder through guitar playing. Now at 55 Im practising yoga, and stretching for my arms...everything is fine...thanks a lot for your videos...

[@Sleepy8]

Get well soon. Thank you for all the memories, music, and being kind to us mortals.

[@donniedarkestra7771]

I almost forgot he was Steve Vai until the end when he played knapsack. Thought it was just going to be a 'little lick' and now I need to work on my legato lol.

[@GregWurth]

Never been done! Glad to be apart of this recording / filming

[@andrewsintel]

Good stuff bud!

[@SamBellGuitar]

Hes back! I love this series.

[@erikshen1107]

Thank YOU MAESTRO FOR THIS!!!! I am getting trigger finger SURGERY on both hands as well as elbow SURGERY for 3 torn ligaments!!! Stuck is not the word!! Speedy and BLESSED RECOVERY!!!!!

[@deadstoned]

Hi, Steve! I was at your first Huelva's gig at Spain and it was just like a dream. 20 years before I had the opportunity to go to G3, at Madrid. Wow! You're better and better!!! And you gave me a finger pick as I stayed at first row at Casa Colon and you were approaching to us all the show... Great And kind person. You and your amazing band (and, of course that awesome Spanish tech/singer) Tons of love.❤

[@henrykelly1183]

That old saying 'I could beat you with one hand tied behind my back' - evidence here

[@jamesglandon3737]

I am fairly confident Vai just invented a new trend among guitarist, the one hand song challenge.

[@guitarales]

He turned an infortunate event, into a beatiful thing, you can't just stop the man. We love him so much and we are insipired every day by him. Thank you from the deep of my heart Steve :-*

[@DarioGrillo]

Amazing the black Pia ... 🔝💘 Steve you're the King of the kings ! I wait for you in Italy for your Live and masterclass 🤟

[@Mexxx65]

I'm sure many of you here, have already seen, the guitarist playing a classic Eagles song with a prosthetic on his left arm, he is a left-handed player. Nailing it! Sounding better with that piece music, than I can with two working hands! How important are your hands for a musician again Steve? Answer: Still Very

[@rewindcat7927]

“Like your butt is molded into wooden butter” - this should be the official Sonus slogan 😂

[@martinmonosti9504]

could you imagine Usain Bolt with a broken leg, and still beat you at 100 meters race

[@fajaradi1223]

While running backwards.

[@chrisblahblahh4468]

It would be more accurate to imagine a dancer still being more impressive than the others, using only one leg because of an injury :)

[@joebryant8500]

"Adult Puppet Theatre with Steve Vai" is not what I expected to see today.

[@tomzeto]

Thank you Master Steve Vai! You and Joe are my guitar hero's and the reason why I got into playing electric guitar! I had RSI in the past, numbness and pain in my hands. I healed and playing since 2005, and unfortunately it's come back recently. bless you for this video, and your music. These days I'm training my kids 8 and 6yrs old, to rock. They play drums, and starting guitar. They want to cover Yankee Rose soon. I'll need to rest and recover, but they continue to practice and be inspired by your music everyday.

[@lizmoore8809]

On 6-6-2021 I discovered Steve Vai. The first video I watch was For the love of God (live), I am addicted. The second one was the same track, the 2021 upscaled version, I had to subscribe at once. And this Knappsack... hey Steve, so cool that your stuff is ongoing and still so mesmerizing, and your facial expression hasn't changed when you're playing. You are one of the immortals! Happy Birthday! XXX Feed us ;-)

[@one8s7n]

Omg. The first time I've ever heard him talk. I never expected such a chill smart guy. Impresses me more and more everytime. Get better, prayers to you

[@Legru76]

I recomend you to listen to his speech ag guitar center. "How to be successful". Very old easy to find video.

[@one8s7n]

@@Legru76 thank you I'll check it out. I always expected just a cocky attitude but I was happily mistaken

[@maduude8809]

Steve is such a sympathetic guy! Also the whole video is shot without jumpcuts, He really is a good story teller. I could listen to him for ever :D

[@chrisangiolillo9144]

Ok now this is completely insane ! Almost seems as though he's playing with his will.All just hammer on and pull offs I guess cause no other explanation for this. Unless he's playing by WILL.YES THATS IT ! A true Zen Master

[@no3rdseat]

Steve, I've been a huge fan since Crossroads and The Attitude Song insert in Guitar Player magazine. This is my favorite thing you've ever recorded. Just masterful, full on legato. It is LITERALLY the New Attitude Song because your attitude won't let you stop practicing. I went to the doctor back in the 80's and was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. The doctor told me I should quit playing guitar. I'm still playing. And so are you!

[@ubatooba8467]

I had a small tear in my rotator cuff too...and the pain will drop you to your ever lovin knees just for moving it wrong! Get well brother! As much as i enjoy your guitar playing.....I really love your philosophies on things, as they're really similar to my own....only you've traveled down the path (of life + learning) farther than i have. The new Pia looks wonderful BTW! Peace friend.

[@LordLares7]

Right, I totally don't want to end up like Steve Vai.

[@darietto75]

Me sawing Steve with injured limbs: "Aaah so you ARE human after all!!!" Steve: composed and starts to play an amazing tune with only one hand. Me: "Take me to your planet!"

[@JR-io8kw]

You know you're getting old when you're listening to Steve Vai talking about medicare and medical chair....

[@commentfreely5443]

still better than my favs, tom petty, ric ocasek and eddie van halen being dead

[@eriklarson9137]

@@commentfreely5443 Pizza is good.

[@Quazi-Moto]

@@eriklarson9137 I like tuwtles.

[@HarlanHarvey76]

😞entropy sucks sometimes

[@Quazi-Moto]

@@HarlanHarvey76 In the case of humans, it ALWAYS sucks. Well, 99.99% of the time, anyway. There are a handful that deserve what time does to the body. Nothing is more cruel to us than time.

[@ptnandes]

This man... I`d describe him as the humble restless genious. Beautiful soul. I`ve actually touched one of his guitars in concert, I reached out and caressed the whammy bar. It was summer 2016 in Barts Barcelona and it was magical

[@brianbeergah7649]

You and Satch are literally the reason I began playing guitar in 1988-this was so much fun for us and U -no doubt-Thanks Steve-the audience is, indeed, listening!!!-Greetings from Sydney Australia

[@DaveJacoby]

A phrase came to mind: "with one hand tied behind my back". Still the master, though. Get well.

[@braxal6983]

Steve, I just love what you do. You have so much emotion in your playing. I just wish I had your talent. What are you using exactly to get your tone(gear wise)? Thank you for giving me a good feeling this evening after a hard day at work. It is much appreciated!!!

[@aliensporebomb]

"After Jack Butler escaped from the Devil when he turned to the side of good the Devil broke his right hand in retaliation. He found he could still play with his left so he did just that."

[@jeffperry5793]

THANK YOU STEVE!! you inspire me to play.....im 55 i just had to have a cortizone shot in my left ring finger..i developed trigger finger....i went to the doc and said....im a musician....this is unacceptable.....fix it! wow....BUT THIS wow this is determination on a different level....THANKS

[@lianzovaduhlian9282]

The legend like you..i admired every step you go through..love you always...