Why Joe Bonamassa is a Polarizing Figure in the Guitar Business

[@GPLP335]

I find Joe to not only be an exceptionally gifted guitar player and performer but also a genuine person.

[@MikeB-1965]

I completely agree!

[@Tony_Leonardi.]

I couldn’t agree more

[@LornaYoung-b4u]

Never met him but he is really nice guy

[@NoNameNo.5]

I seriously believe he’s on the spectrum, not insulting at all, he admits he’s socially awk

[@XLBiker13]

I will never understand how Joe Bonamassa is polarizing. He's so talented, ridiculously hardworking, equally humble, super smart and he is keeping the blues, and especially the guitar (!!!) alive for the next generation. Joe is an A+ and I'm grateful for all he does.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 13......Joe C.

[@christiannansen5587]

I completely agree! Athletes, musicians etc, who are both extremely talented and humble - such a true inspiration. And nobody should be faulted for having an opinion.

[@ioodyssey3740]

Joe plays well. There are hundreds if not thousands of great blues guitarists keeping the tradition alive. Dozens just in Chicago, or Memphis, or Austin, or . . . . . . . . The blues scene has zero requirement of fame to keep it going.

[@BDarOZ]

Truth is: he is the bright kid at school that is so good that makes the other kids look bad. It is envy, more than anything else.

[@Mythicregard]

@Bill Sbac Have you ever heard of Keeping The Blues Alive foundation?

[@mikestillwagon5675]

I honestly don't understand the hate. Is he revolutionizing the way we think about the instrument? Probably not. However, he's a tasteful, fantastic player who is bringing blues-based music to a generation that might otherwise have missed out. Can't that be enough? (Let's also mention that he's living out a gear geek fantasy beyond what most of us would dare to dream.)

[@stephenlennartz3466]

Well said, Mike. Full disclosure... I'm not necessarily a fan... but, he's probably the closest thing we have to a newer (younger) guitar hero. My band's former lead guitarist feels that JB is all that and a bag of chips-- of course he's a blues rock guy. 😎🎸

[@tellyrojo2513]

@@mgibby63mg PUUUULEEEEEAAAASEEEE! The dude has some of the most tasteful juicy licks ever played. Not to mention absolutely incredible tone. He is unbelievably talented and did it his way & on his own. Just curious, how many records have you sold?

[@rebeccagilbert9124]

@@mgibby63mg okay maestro, show us how to use those skills... 🥱🙄

[@randysouth5162]

@@mgibby63mg Ha ha you don’t have a clue what you’re talking about

[@emdiar6588]

@@mgibby63mg I bet you're one of those hacky "Clapton is God" guys.

[@richardhatfield4877]

I had the pleasure of meeting Joe when he was 16 years old when he and his father walked into the music store I was working at in Atlanta. Joe was the youngest member of Bloodline. He was incredibly grounded, mature and just downright nice! MANY years later, I encountered him after a show thinking he had no memory of our meeting. Wrong! He totally recalled it and made me feel quite welcomed. This guy is not only a great player but a "Class Act" of the highest order. He's genuine, gifted and a guy you want to spend time with. Kudos to JB for showing us how to handle fame with grace!

[@seanmann6124]

Great Ambassador for Guitar, Music and Humanity. A real person, who understands more than people "get".

[@TimsGuitarWorldwithTimFeskorn]

Great story. Joe is a great guy.

[@jamesfagan7823]

Joe always has brilliant musicians and vocalists backing him and he knows exactly what he is doing his sound is polished, tight and full of fine details that are spot on and delivered to perfection , absolutely superb

[@jupitermoongauge4055]

Perfection is one of the most overrated attributes as regard blues and rock music. It invariably translates as bland. Joe's biggest problem

[@danlovepeaceunity]

James your clueless Jupiter dude gets it you dnt!

[@thomasfarmer1730]

I don’t care what’s anyone thinks about Joe,we need people like him to keep ROCK GUITAR alive and kicking.

[@golds04]

With that logic- it would end without him? At best-Odd assumption it would seem to me.

[@station2station544]

Not, the kids are alright. Tons of great guitar rock coming out in the last 2 years. And a lot of girls playing guitar now too.

[@kkdonny4096]

Do u believe Taj Farrant can help ?

[@thomasfarmer1730]

Kk Donny yeah who ever he is....👍🏻

[@kkdonny4096]

@@thomasfarmer1730 You should do yourself a favor & look him up on KZbin or fb. He’s an 11 yr old Australian boy & you literally won’t believe him

[@chrispfeifer7628]

He is absolutely one of the greatest guitar men ever. Not just a player, he actually knows about guitars, and amps. What makes them work. He knows what's important to save for the future. History will be kind to him

[@vayabroder729]

Joe Bonamassa is a total guitar nerd like all of us and he tackles multiple styles. He’s a great player and seems like a great and humble guy who, like us, is still star struck in the presence of his musical heroes.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Vayabroder. Well put:).... Best, Joe C.

[@televinv8062]

And this a guy who toured with B.B. King at 11. He never forgets the opportunities he had and seems appreciative of them. Mint!

[@vayabroder729]

@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Joe; btw, I also love The Bee Gees and The Go-Go’s....😉

[@dripslobber]

Polarizing????? Then you've never met him. I saw him on his Three Kings tour in San Diego and then saw him at the guitar show in Orange County. What a humble man! He was very generous with his time........... a good memory for me.

[@shawnglass108]

He’s polarizing mostly because he overplays so much. About three times the amount of notes he needs to say what needs to be said but he has also made some ridiculous and hypocritical comments about pedals and gear. I personally think he’s a great guy. I love listening to him talk and teach about gear. Even if I think his playing is pretty boring repeating Eric Johnson licks.

[@shawnglass108]

@John Rampino, Who are you the opinion police? Are we not allowed to have opinions and express them? What is the comment section for? Do you say the same thing to those who have positive opinions of Joe’s playing? You should try to accept that people are allowed to have their own opinions and share them without getting butt hurt. I like blues guitarists who use a certain expression and economy. Musical taste is subjective. Most people know this without it having to be explained to them.

[@AndyRGuitarGuy]

It's a quote from Joe in the interview ("I realize I am very polarizing...I get it... maybe it's the marketing..." or words to that effect). I assume he's met himself, so the answer to your question would be "yes". ;)

[@rogeralleyne9257]

What makes the greats( in my opinion) is the ones who can shrug off the criticism!!! Every musician makes mistakes but it's the ones who are not afraid to make them in front of the world; is the one whose free!!! Joe Bonamassa is great by the way!!! Great video!!!! Thank you!!!!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts Roger.... sincerely, Joe C.

[@karmadave]

Joe is a supremely talented musician who is carrying the torch for Blues Rock. He also has the most amazing guitar and amp collection on the planet. 😃

[@04Stargazer]

Joe B is extremely talented, hardworking, humble and loves and respects his family and upbringing. He's also a great interviewer!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching 04....Joe C.

[@Lordmark62]

To me Joe isn’t polarizing...he’s quirky and quirky is kinda cool. Plus he plays like no other!

[@IrLosin]

Well those are the times we live in. When honesty is perceived as being a toxic Di....I can't even finish that word because I know the fine ladies and gents who run this channel will have to remove it otherwise they would get into trouble.

[@jamesrawlins735]

Well, aside from his personality - his compositions aren't the best. He is as great a guitarist as their is, but I always found a lot of his songs to be lacking (outside of their technical skill).

[@robertparsons5295]

He embodies what it is to be a supremely gifted and unbelievably grounded guy. It just so happens that music is his gift. He would, I expect, be just as grounded if his gift were heart surgery. In the entertainment world, we celebrate excess, success, distress and the whole mess. And we focus on crashing. Joe just keeps on keeping on. Plays great music, pokes fun at himself and seems to never take for granted how damn lucky he is.

[@b80-s9i]

Joe has always been genuine & honest while being the best blues guitarist on earth..dudes a perpetual stallion on stage and just a top-shelf human!!💪😎🎸

[@ianramage1593]

I attended one of Joe's concerts. It was fabulous. He played his ass off. I like his style and he seems to be a respectful, humble guy. We all don't like the same things and that makes life interesting.

[@patchevansbrokencountry2583]

JB is a great musician, self effacing and has a sense of humour. He plays stuff that I....can't. He has worked so hard to get where he is. He has never done anything or said anything that upsets me. I have watched him play with a wide number of other guitar players and always seems to be accepting and supportive. A bloke I would drink with no problem.

[@stevedotson1263]

Joe isn't a polarizing figure, he is just a damn good guitar player. He sings pretty good too.

[@rockarena666]

Never understood the backlash. He’s a great player who works very hard for his money and succes. Got to admire him for that.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts 666... Best, Joe C.

[@Mythicregard]

I never knew there was a backlash.

[@joekelley5121]

Maybe for some, that's just too much success from hard work, not sure, but Joe's authentic passion and love of the guitar and the blues is unmistakable. That's something that no one can fake.

[@tombiondi9969]

I have to admit, I was one of those people. I had no idea who he was and saw him with the sunglasses all dressed up (funny the two things he mentioned) and thought this guy is WAY too cocky, I'm not gonna like him. So, I youtubed a few interviews and completely changed my mind. Obviously he's an amazing guitarist.

[@raygunsforronnie847]

Having worked with Mr Bonamassa at festivals and concerts, I'll say that he's very particular about how he, his playing, and his band are presented. Sometimes he comes off as brusque but he's a first class pro on stage and a pleasant and friendly fellow off stage.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ray..... Joe

[@hugolafhugolaf]

Define «particular».

[@jbdbean242]

@@hugolafhugolaf He already did, it means he's a 'first class pro'

[@DavidGiragosian]

It’s the "realness" of the dialogue that makes these MHFM interviews such a gift, Joe.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks David... I appreciate it and I’m sure Joe B. does too... best, Joe C.

[@hypnoraythompson5824]

I think Mr Bonamassa is an amazing beam of light for the guitar world. I know he gives an amazing amount of joy and inspiration to a lot of budding guitarist. Good luck to him and his journey.

[@vox9841]

I watched Joe at the Royal Albert Hall last night 5-5-22 and he is one of the top 10 guitar players I have seen and heard over many years. He was amazing, great tone, feel, speed, vibrato, great singer and great stage presence. Bravo 👏🏻 Jo you are a gifted man . Thanks for keeping the guitar, the blues and real music alive.

[@davidmullens7565]

He is tremendously gifted and I love watching and hearing him play. He pays tribute to his musical heroes through his own music. He isn't pretentious, arrogant or petty. He just does what he loves to do and achieved success through hard work and relentless touring.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments David....... Joe C.

[@carlwilliams6977]

I agree! I actually think it's cool that he can do the transformation from a geek to an actual bluesman on stage. I think he's got a great voice, and few ever comment about it. I find the transformation uncanny!

[@tr-mh6nv]

I was at the first show with BB King when Joe was 12...Agreed.

[@mhmoretti]

Joe loves guitar, loves the blues, and is an all around great dude. No idea why some people give him crap or hes considered polarizing. He's always willing to talk tone in detail and shares what he knows and thinks and does it with zero ego. Love Joe.

[@derekthrash9643]

Joe has studied some of the best ever and took bits and pieces of all...everyone does it and always have and always will. The difference is his awkward humility and down to earth personality. He’s a lover of music and it’s legends and being skilled and making timeless statements when he plays is his genius. Much like Tommy Emmanuel and Steve Wariner he’s approachable and friendly to his fans and that’s always a winning combination. Props Joe!👍

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for Derek.....Joe C.

[@Blues-man.]

It is what it is, and he is a great guitarist, and at the end of the day appears to be a honest and nice person !

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Jeff.....Best, Joe C.

[@fusionfan6883]

So I am not a lover of Joe's music and style, but I totally respect his talent and the hard work he has put in to build such a successful career!

[@davidg-oo1ox]

I think the guys great. Humble, hardworking, so much knowledge, and funny. Thank you for sharing stuff Joe

[@Cajundaddydave]

Interesting discussion. Since he was 14 Joe has always had monster technical chops and could play circles around a lot of epic Blues players. For a long time though, I did not connect with his music and felt something was missing. As he has gotten older, I find myself being drawn into and appreciating his music more and more. Keep doing your thing Joe. Shine your light and fans will find you.

[@bradjohnson9671]

This is one of the most honest "real" interview's I've seen. Huge fan of Joe, always have been. Many years ago I took my son to see him at the MN zoo amphitheater. Show started out great, then it started to rain. They stopped the show and put tarps over the equipment. It rained for a bit but never quite stopped. Joe came out on stage and told the crowd that rain wasn't going to stop the show anymore. The band returned and knocked it out of the park. Huge respect for the man and his talents. Lately I've had an ear worm that won't go away. The UT video of Molly O, man that one has soul...

[@backcountrylifemagazine6912]

Joe, your music, skill and candid interviews are all awesome, what rubs people the wrong way is that you’re wearing your grandma’s glasses..... love you man!

[@davidshepard3708]

Joe is a humble, honest, deeply talented player. We'd all be floored if Eric Clapton would agree to play with us. Ditto Joe. And good lord, what a lesson that would be.

[@davidshepard3708]

@@gabrielm.4554 I don't know. I don't read him like that at all. What I do see is a highly skilled, talented, devoted guitar player and gear geek whose love of his work is obvious. What he doesn't do at all is SEEM like a guitar hero. He seems more like an IT guy. That's not a bad thing. I always like to ask myself, "Would I like to have this guy over my house to meet my friends and family for a barbeque?" Yes is the answer.

[@Mythicregard]

@@gabrielm.4554 Do you have an example?

[@rumblefish9]

@@davidshepard3708 your jealousy is showing

[@somebodyelseuk]

Above all that, he's hardworking. He got where he is by putting the miles in, not sitting in front of a camera in his bedroom.

[@dave136]

Been a fan of Joe for 10 years or so..he is just a humble,nice ,talented guy who is one hell of a guitar player.in today’s music offering thank god for Bonamassa😎

[@JustAnotherBlader]

Social media actually raises the level of people’s playing. Seeing how talented and how many unknown or amateur bedroom guitarists out there makes you realize you need to be special to stand out. It’s the same as when it was before social media, just heightened.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments Andrew.... Joe C.

[@jamesstivaly8274]

keep doing your thing. doesnt matter what people think

[@dennisheadley4408]

Joe is a very talented guy and truly one of the great guitarist of our day.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and watching our channel Dennis.....Joe C.

[@damongardiner4133]

maybe the greatest of our time !

[@vitalygoji2257]

I love him the best when he is with Beth Hart. Should be playing together all the time. I have all their albums and always listen in a car.

[@brittsmith8260]

Not only is he a great player, he is also a rather astute business man. I should know, I bought a $90.00 JB amp clock, which I love. He knows how to merchandise and thats a real talent as well.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Britt.....Joe C.

[@Skoora]

Lol, A couple of years ago I ran into him in a guitar store in Nashville and he was looking at or buying (not sure) a Fender clock.

[@televinv8062]

Great stuff! Your Bee Gee's example is epic! Another person's trash is someone else's treasure. Doesnt mean it's bad or good. It's preference and it's all subjective. Keep this stuff coming please.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks V...Joe C.

[@Mythicregard]

What specifically was said about the Bee Gees that killed their career?

[@markchronister4620]

I love Joe, KWS, Mike Zito, Eric Gales, Larkin Poe, Tab Benoit, Tommy Castro, TTB, Etc. and all the older and now gone blues icons as that’s what I grew up going back to the 1960s. We are so fortunate to have so many really great players to listen to today, I mean really fortunate.

[@hilohaw]

I'm a blues fanatic, and I like to introduce others to the blues, so I often look for songs to recommend. I gravitate toward classic originals and classic covers, because I think the history of blues is important, to appreciate the blues. But all too often, when I think about a particular song, and then think about my favorite version of it, my favorite turns out to be a Joe Bonamassa cover. It's not just his virtuoso playing, either. Whoever arranges his songs, and arranges the backup players, singers, etc., does such a fantastic job that his versions are just top notch. He has an amazing catalog of great songs.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching hilo.... Joe C.

[@johnbrasher1495]

The people who knock Joe don't know his music. His range of material is wide and deep, and the harshest critics know very little of it, so I ignore them. Plus, his singing gets better all the time.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts John... best, Joe C.

[@slipstreammonkey]

The people who knock the people who don't care for Joe's Music know even less about them than they do Joe's music.

[@jcgillin51]

So true. I've seen him maybe 6 times and your correct his singing has improved a lot. His guitar playing has always been top-notch to me none better.

[@JB-su3eq]

@Bill Sbac What is a "top" song? If you're talking about the Billboard charts...that is completely meaningless when it comes to a musicians ability. The truth is that songs and artists are pre-selected and backed by investors and marketing agencies and thrown into the radio realm....which most every single radio station in the United States is owned by Clear Channel. Clear Channel takes the money and then agrees to a schedule of play all across the country. They will literally play songs repeatedly and this repetition is a very powerful tool in convincing idiots like you that don't understand anything about the industry that what you're listening to is actually "good" because it must be good because its on the radio. Popularity means absolutely nothing and doesn't make a musician good or bad. There are guitarists you've never heard of that you hear on the radio all the time. As a matter of fact there are probably 2 that you've heard specifically throughout the years hundreds of times and you...being the overly opinionated naive dumbass that you are that eats up whatever the industry tells you to eat up...were totally clueless. These two are considered two of the best guitarists on planet Earth. One being Brent Mason who has recorded on 1,200 number one songs and the other is Tom Bukovac who is an absolute monster in the industry. Explain to me if they are both on that many number one hits...why don't you know who they are? Is it because they aren't any good? The answer is no. They are among the absolute best to ever do it....it's just that you were sold a different manufactured package that you ate up and were sold the idea that it was "popular". Joe Bonamassa has skipped the Clear Channel/Record Label rip-offs and decided to create his own cohesive unit. He owns all of the touring equipment, guitars and pays his musicians himself. He also pays for all of his own marketing. Put it this way...in your mind you think that for instance a band like Nirvana comes along....they release a record like Nevermind which sells a mind-blowing 7 million copies. They're in the money, right? Because they're just so damn popular. Yeah, no. They made 20,000 dollars on that record and were couch surfing while the ripoff artists in the industry were pocketing all of the cash. Joe's current net worth sits around 22 million dollars which is 1,100 times that of what Nirvana made on the single biggest recording in the 90's. So not only is Joe a legendary guitarist...he's also infinitely smarter than you. You are the industries beloved wet dream. Stay stupid.

[@Mythicregard]

@@JB-su3eq Savage!

[@RichardWilliamsowdrick]

The reason musicians like Joe stand out, is because they are individuals that pick up an instrument, and after listening too, and watching other musicians, develop their own way of playing, and long may this happen!

[@acemacgruber6593]

I didn't know Joe was polarizing. He seems like a pretty humble guy.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ace....Best, Joe C.

[@mikeg.9238]

Probably because he has his own opinions and thats not tolerated these days!

[@geromelegnome5446]

I think he is humble and takes what the few neigh sayers online have to say about him as taking it to mean a lot of people must hold those same beliefs!!!

[@brandall101]

​@@pperejma That's basically it. But if anyone is to do it, it should be him. He grew up around vintage instruments as it was his family business, so it was in his blood far before he became famous or everything got so freakin' expensive.

[@Mythicregard]

I never knew either. What's not to like?

[@ChrisMartinsMusician]

Anyone who's antagonizing Joe wishes they were in his spot. He's doing it his own way, and the popularity speaks for itself. Keep up the great work Joe.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments Chris.... Joe C.

[@hapa9615]

Well put by JB! Stay true to yourself, be honest and stick to your guns, Sir! People and leaders that cannot handle opinions are usually boring as hell anyway.

[@templemore85]

Love Joe's music. His playing skill is legend. One of the greats. Nothing polarizing about him. He is just different.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Kevin... Joe C.

[@22julip]

Your mistaken a nice guy for a great player he’s a parrot not an original !!!!! All the praise is from people who obviously don’t know how to play guitar I know how to play he’s better than I but that doesn’t make him great.

[@22julip]

@Spalien Acecraft I’m sorry your so defensive about my opinion it’s just my opinion. I’ve been playing for 45 years I’m ok but not a professional musician. Joe is a professional musician and to what I see He’s a good guy . But as far as a guitar player he’s utilitarian . He’s good at playing r and b. And emulates his hero’s . He worked hard to do it . It just doesn’t move . When people come on the scene , there has to be something unique for me . Like Jr Brown or Eric Johnson . Hendrix, Cliff Gallop . And on and on . You get my drift . I wouldn’t go to a concert to watch him play . He’s a fans guitarist . Not a musicians guitarist. Like people who see the stones after 60 years of the same 3 chords .guitarist go see Zeppelin!!! IMHO. Cheers mate

[@22julip]

@Spalien Acecraft as for the add homonym attacks , most people would tell you I’m a very nice guy , down to earth , I know how to play with other people no ego no turning the amp up to 11. Your attack on me over Joe B sounds like he’s a family member , or a lover . Because I said nothing bad about him personally. And if your skin is that thin you would not make it 5 minutes on stage , before you would cry and leave with your tail between your legs . No problem just having some fun . When he can write a song like Kashmir or improvise a solo off the cuff for 20 minutes like Page then come back and we’ll talk goodnight

[@jturquoise]

He’s not different though. He’s an imitation. Nothing wrong with that. But he’s not unique. That’s why he’s “polarizing”.

[@dianeverwoest5659]

So glad you were true to yourself. I appreciate your opinion and you sharing your feelings on things. Your music, as always, simply marvelous.

[@johnzimmerman1159]

Joe is humble and wicked funny in a way understated way.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts John....Joe C.

[@81millionvotes]

Great interview!

[@Mythicregard]

He could practically quit his day job and become a comedian. He's hilarious!

[@iggie_za]

I enjoy Joe’s playing. He has his own “thing” - combination of styles featuring mostly blues but with an added “bite” and grid at times. One thing that I have noticed is that his live shows (and live recordings) are top quality. For me, live playing is the ultimate test. If - like Joe - someone is performing live and is so professional with the live “presentation” (sound quality), then hats off to the artist. I prefer working live because it “demands” and requires more. In the studio you can do another “take” - on stage there is only one take. For that one take, you have to be particular with your setup/sound to present it to the audience so they can experience it to the full. If you have crap sound/setup then the audience will have a second hand (crap) experience. Keep doing what you’re doing Joe. As Joe said: ..” just someone’s opinion”.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Iggie….Joe C.

[@derekwalker2977]

I got into Joe through Mountain time, spent the most money I've ever spent on a band, to watch him in Manchester, and it was money well spent. He had the cleanest sound I've ever heard in watching bands, going back to the Bickershaw fedtival in 1972, look it up kids! This didn't stop me screaming out the gig to drive the 14 miles back home in 17 minutes, impressed my gig buddy, to catch the second half of the Wayne Carrick Band, and they were both worth it, for different reasons. But the bottom line is live music rules...

[@ursafan40]

I talked to Joe and his parents a few times at shows very early in his career. They allowed me to tape his first headline gig in Syracuse NY. I think he was 12. He was a good kid. Unpretentious, polite, a bit shy. From all I hear he's about the same today. He was a hell of a player then, he's one of the best around today. I have no idea what's polarizing about that.

[@Baci302]

Joe's just a good ol' regular guy who loves the blues. Bless him. Carry on, man.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching 202.... Joe C.

[@Baci302]

@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Love your interviews, Joe. You always do a great job.

[@Texas_nc]

I enjoy Joe. I saw him live in 2014 and it was one of the best live performances I've ever been to. Some don't like his collecting (hoarding) of gear, others don't like that he is flashy with pentatonic runs. He's a guitar nerd and we need those because there aren't a ton left. I think he's not some people's cup of tea and so they just hate on him because he's good and successful. I don't get the Greatful Dead but I don't dog Garcia or Weir. To each his own.

[@fpanpurrzachariah6290]

Trolls are trolls. My advice is to ignore them . You have a Gift and you know it. Party On .

[@duncanvincent9106]

What a magnificent player and what a magnificent gentleman. Glad he is being his version of him.

[@Mayamax3]

It takes too much energy to be a phony. Just be yourself & let everyone else worry about the things that don't matter. "You are not the words that people speak, the thoughts that they conjure, or the evil they spread. You are you, you’re your actions, you are not defined by what other people say about you. What others say is usually a reflection of themselves. Don’t allow people to diminish your self-worth with their words. It is not your responsibility to meet their criteria or their standards."

[@Mythicregard]

Words to live by. Who said it?

[@Mayamax3]

@@Mythicregard It's a quote from a stoic. Possible from antiquity, but I do not have the name of the author.

[@walterjr.steinert6054]

Joe is just cool and humble. Doing his thing, his way, using his natural musical gifts. Good for him with his vintage gear collection.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Walter.... Joe C.

[@videotrexx]

He's humble? BS... at one point in time his website claimed he was the greatest guitarist in the world. Far from humble.

[@Yosser70]

@@videotrexx You think he runs his own website! In the unlikely event that it actually said that, it’d be some overly keen pr person saying it, certainly not Joe.

[@videotrexx]

@@Yosser70 so you think whomever runs the site for Bonamassa has free reign to put up whatever he wants and Bonamassa never looks at it, huh? It was on the MAIN page. And it wasn't an "unlikely event" it was AS I STATED, whether or not you believe that doesn't change FACT. FYI, I once had a first person interaction with Bonamassa's father (I live 40 miles from where he grew up, first saw him in a LOCAL BAR when he was only 12 and have seen him two times since). His father was an arrogant asshole and it's likely that's where Bonamasshole got his arrogance from.

[@Yosser70]

@@videotrexx Yes that’s exactly what I mean, people like Joe have PR people to look after stuff like that, why on earth would he bother looking at it? You saw his dad when he was 12 or when Joe was 12? Difficult to understand you, all the random shouting is a bit weird, sorry.

[@HuddleAdventures]

I admit I originally thought he was an exceptional player but avoided his music because I thought he was an egomaniac with the suits and sunglasses on stage. I feel bad about that now because he is a super nice guy and very humble. I’m a huge fan.

[@acthompson9983]

This guy is a classic, traditional even, entertainer. He is a great guitarist no doubt. Above all, his concerts are just great fun and the house rocks for 3 hours or so. I think the Brits get his attitude and humour.

[@GTX1123]

When he said that he's been criticized for wearing sun glasses on stage I about lost it. WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE? As it turns out, he wears them because his eyes are sensitive to flood lights. John Kay (Steppenwolf) wore them too for a similar reason. But who really cares why anyone wears them on stage? Haters always gonna hate and will always look for something to criticize because they're JEALOUS.

[@rockarena666]

No one ever gave Slash any backlash about this. He wears them because it makes him more comfortable on stage. It’s all good.

[@bluesguy62]

What an interesting, informative and down to earth interview. The straightforward questions and answers are deeply appreciated. Guess what? There are two wonderful Joes in this video... Joe B and Joe C 🤗

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thank you Cikgu.......Joe C.

[@bluesguy62]

@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum You are most welcome, kind sir. I really enjoy watching your videos because it's honest-to-goodness stuff; and that's not easy to come by nowadays. Thank you for being you :)

[@jessefisher701]

Joe is one of the key people who brought me back to experience my love for music. He and Beth Hart together create magic and passion I can listen to over and over. I have to stop and listen every chance I get. Use his LP's to introduce others to the love of great music. Keep on, keeping on.

[@addicted2tone349]

I like him because he’s a total gear nerd.. I love that he loves gear and tone and geeks out over guitars and pedals and amps. Most of his haters only wish they had his chops.

[@scottpickford2271]

In addition to his guitar playing and vocals I think of Joe in terms of the variety in his music both covers and originals, the venues he has played at and the resulting DVDs, the collaborations with fantastic and legendary singers and musicians, his many bands, projects such as the blues cruises, and the relationships he has forged with the legends such as B. B King, Eric Clapton, Bernie Marsden, Glenn Hughes, Paul Rodgers, Reese Wynans, Beth Hart. His achievements are quite extraordinary. I've seen Joe on 3 different tours in Sydney Australia, every show was great and I would go again knowing that the next show will be another different and fantastic experience.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Scott... thanks for sharing your comments... best, Joe C.

[@Mythicregard]

Well said.

[@alandehn8541]

Us upstate people just love the fact that he is one of us! And never got to big for him self.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Alan......... Joe C.

[@alandehn8541]

@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Your welcome!

[@markbeaver5010]

Joe B is the guy who branches Rock and Blues so well and continues to play great music touring and recording. He does it his way and doesn't have to have regrets for anything. Someone who can afford to purchase Vintage gear and guitars is a dream for someone who grew up listening to historical musicians during an ERA that was unbelievable to all of us, keep it up Joe B!!!

[@pcOT-0z4]

Well stated; agree 💯%

[@Scaredycat-dad]

I am really looking forward to Joe B coming somewhere in northeast PA. I never tire of his planing (I wish I was a fraction of how good he is) well done both Joe’s great interview!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Dave...Joe C.

[@aviator_bryan]

Joe's great. I've been following him since one of the first articles about him in Guitar magazine as a kid wonder playing SRV note for note. I got to see him live and for free at an Akron rib burn off - what a treat that was - killer music and ribs LOL. Keep being genuine Joe.

[@boxertwinjeff]

Rib burn off 😂 you Americans

[@JesseJuup]

I know his name, his face, I have heard and seen him play here on facebook, I have seen him talk about guitars and amps and other guitarist and I aknowledge him as a great player and someone who knows his stuff.... but fact is, I can not name or recall a even one song by Joe Bonamassa!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Hi Jesse.... thanks for watching. Look up Joe playing at Red Rocks. Great blues concert. Best.....Joe C.

[@televinv8062]

He does a bunch of wickedly done blues and rock covers you can check out as well.

[@nuendo2496]

I can say the same thing about Derek Trucks, Doyall Bramall, John Meyer, Robben Ford. Couldn't name a song by any of them. But I keep watching Joe. He's amazing.

[@ayshazen]

Just put his name in KZbin, zillions of live and official videos of him playin. Look up Woke Up Dreaming live at the Beacon theatre, or his guitar duel with Eric Gales. Let us know what you think.

[@Mythicregard]

@@ayshazen The list is so long really.

[@jensenbell]

I regularly interact with Joe and a group of L.A. friends on instagram. Man. He is so patient with some really insulting comments. I have told him how impressed I am with his savvy in communicating because.. he takes WAY too much shit. He loves guitars, amps... tone... great blues... great players.. I mean, what's not to love about Joe? I get it.. he's kind of awkward., but that makes him more like other collectors and detail nerds that I ride or die with. Joe is a good guy, with a great dad and a great story... he gets great tone and he helps guitar players constantly. I am hoping how he is perceived will turn a corner and come into alignment with reality soon.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Jensen.... best, Joe

[@jensenbell]

@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum Thanks for all you do for musicians, Joe.

[@lassesuurmunne8340]

I think a lot of us not famous people also struggle with this, worrying about what people think. Sometimes being a people pleaser. It can be scary nowadays just being yourself and sharing your thoughts, and we’re all just trying to figure out life. And we’re all kinda winging it, so it’s bizarre how harsh society has become. We all make mistakes and we learn. I think Joe has made the right choice to just be real, being real is I guess always polarizing but at least you’re free and you get to be you. Instead of acting and letting the real you die. I love Joe!

[@craigtomlinson2075]

Well said!

[@estimatedleighton6389]

Thanks Papa Joe! Keep 'em comin' ...Love your dedication to our musical history, just wish there were more like you sir!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks again for watching EL....Joe C.

[@sweetdrahthaar7951]

Joe interviewing Joe. I want to thank papa Joe for this interview. I didn’t exactly know how to say that but the guy in the original comment helped me.. Thanks both Joe’s, but especially papa Joe👍🏻

[@VegasAlien1]

He is the Clark Kent of guitar in interviews. The cape comes out on stage.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks Vegas....,Joe

[@annunacky4463]

I now love his stage personality after seeing him live. Professional, precise and very special. The real Joe is just a big kid growing up maybe. Like all of us.

[@ScanDaled]

I just love him!! He's such a regular Joe, his parents sure raised him right!! What a talent...Rock on Joe

[@iceWaterProductions1]

He’s 100% right about being raised before the internet. I talk about this all the time. I’m so glad I grew up in the 1980s before the soul eroding internet.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts Ice…. Joe C.

[@davidcoorey423]

What a wonderfully down-to-earth person! And he's not a bad guitarist, either🙂.

[@greenguitarfish]

I love it. Honesty. Just be honest. BTW, Your stage persona is great ! The shades, the suit is the personification of blues. People love it. Of course it’s show business, and of course it’s not all a perfect reflection of reality. People come to a show like yours to see a show. If you do the show well, it spells success. I suspect that is why some find you polarizing. Congrats !

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Green.......Joe C.

[@jpsmusicandmore5457]

What a great interview. Thank you for having Joe and thank you Joe for being a good person. Dry humor and all.... It is a scary world we live in anymore.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching John...JoeC.

[@mabayyub2137]

I'm a nobody but this guy moved me with the way he phrases, bends and those fluid runs. I had never looked him up online for at least 10 years and found it strange to hear there are haters. This is the reason I still buy records.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments Mab.... Joe C,

[@florianwolf9380]

"Polarizing" is good, as it means Joe reaches a lot of people, and of course not everyone likes you, which is pretty normal. But: he plays in a league that only a few have reached, and those who are in the know understand that he is just one of the greates guitar players we currently have. Great talent always creates some enemies, so what ?

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing Wolf... Joe

[@roddymiller2709]

Your playing makes people feel good. You're a real guitar player that doesn't need to cheat to sound good.

[@clgmafnas]

The first instance of "meming" i can remember is Beavis and Butthead with their Winger shirt. And just like that, it was downhill for Winger. People can be fickle. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@NeilBolandGuitaristWriter]

That and Metallica with their dartboard. The whole tribalism around being a thrash fan to the exclusion of other sub-genres was/is stupid. It can all co-exist.

[@jasongoad1084]

I just got into Joe Bonamassa about a year ago. He has since become one of my favorite players.

[@dartanian72]

I have been a fan of his for a decade, I have been lucky enough to see him live a dozen times. Always a great show. Don't understand the negatively.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks Howard....Joe C.

[@kansasblues]

Saw Joe multiple times but the first couple of times he was still in small venues, just got to meet with him for just a few seconds. He seemed gracious enough and all he wanted to do is play guitar and make sure you got your moneys worth. So he’s got an opinion big deal, love when he gets everybody fired up

[@colerainfan1143]

On just technique, Joe’s as good as anybody, ever. He’s right that, of the best players, it’s all about whose style you like best, and songs you like best.

[@clmannheimer]

I always loved his music but now I love the man! He's so down to earth and honesty/realness is a much needed quality anymore! Certainly a sense of humor is ;)

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Caroline.....Best, Joe C.

[@marcelpaquet8134]

Whilst his music isn't triggering any emotions in me, JB seems like an amazing guy to hang out with, have a pint and talk music and gear with!

[@vendome6846]

I saw Joe when he was thirteen years old playing in a bar called The Haunt in Ithaca, NY. Through the years I haven’t always liked Joe’s playing style, but I’ll always be an admirer. Joe is a kid from upstate New York who built his career the old fashioned way through hard work and perseverance. I don’t know if I’ll get the chance to see him perform live again but I wish him all the best going forward.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments 68..... Joe C.

[@alansmith7626]

Joe is such a Truly humble dude,,,,until he does his thing on stage....First time I saw him play, was Melbourne , FL...by some strange fate, I had front row tickets...I could have stood up and grabbed his ankle, I could see his eyes thru his glasses. I am so blessed, have seen him 3 times since, never gets old....Keep goin Joe!

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your memories Alan.... much appreciated.... Joe C.

[@joshs9441]

I've seen him twice, both times he started on time it was an hour and a half to two hours of awesome playing. He had a couple of different band members the second time and both band were amazing.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments Josh.... Joe C.

[@timmund1485]

Once again I’m glad I took the time to watch this. Great interview Joe.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for watching Tim....Joe C.

[@mnbv990]

He's made some great guitar documentaries, top bloke.

[@jennacrystalblue2244]

He's spectacular guitar player. And he never rests on his laurels. Always innovating. Always putting himself out there. And works his ass off for upcoming blues artists and the genre.

[@stewartperrin9610]

I can't understand people who knock Joe, he's an awesome guitar player, very entertaining and comes over as a straight forward guy who loves everything guitar. Keep going Joe and I'll keep listening.

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your comments Stewart... best, Joe C.

[@lockedin60]

At least Joe B. understands himself in relationship to all the well know blues players. He always appears to be approachable. It is also refreshing to hear him feel that crazy feeling we all feel when we are brought face-to-face with someone who has been an idol for so long. He agrees with me about "best ever". I have always argued that here of youtube and other social media platforms. It is very subjective. We all have our favorites who move us a certain way. We may not be able to really communicate how a favorite musician really has impacted your life or at least a song or songs he has written/ or performed. Every generation has certain guitarist that standout that has an influence on many people. Every genre of music has it's outstanding musicians.

[@jamesmcguckin6288]

I think that Joe is an absolute living legend, his shows are absolutely top drawer. He’s leaving his mark on this world and is up there with the greatest of all time. He’s a super human. Love him dearly.

[@danlovepeaceunity]

Name one song of his where all the teenagers are practicing in their bedrooms? Name one? Can't be the greatest if you dnt have one guitar song that has hooked a whole younger generation

[@jamesmcguckin6288]

Sloe Gin, ‘Asking around for you’ are two that guitar players emulate.

[@danlovepeaceunity]

@@jamesmcguckin6288 nope! There may possibly some guitar players but that wasn't my question, name one song from joe that is on the same level as songs like , stairway to heaven, smoke on the water, 7 nation army, voodoo child. The answer is you can't.

[@balerjohnson3099]

I remember Joe being on Good morning America when he like 12 years old ..I was maybe 22 years old and trying to learn to play..I nearly just quit trying when I saw this amazing kid. I have followed Joe over the years and he has continually impressed me ..Joe is amazing .

[@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum]

Thanks for sharing your memories baler.... best, Joe C.

[@vulcandj]

I’d love to have a chance to hang out with Joe at a family BBQ. Seems like he’d be a very cool guy to chat with.