Don Henley and I play the song I listened to as a kid
recognize that and console me. It affected me in a profound way. So I hold Steve in high regard for a multitude of reasons.”
Reflecting on his experiences with legendary artists, such as Don Henley and Chris Cornell, Pete Thorn emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in the music industry. As he transitions to join the SatchVai Band alongside Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, Thorn acknowledges the need to bring his A-game and deliver exceptional performance levels, a principle he has adhered to throughout his career.
Thorn’s journey to becoming the third guitarist in the SatchVai Band began with a chance encounter with Joe Satriani at a rock festival in Austria back in 2009. Despite brief interactions, a mutual interest in guitars paved the way for future collaborations. More recently, Satriani reached out to Thorn to discuss the potential gig, citing his admiration for Thorn’s musical style showcased in his solo album, “Pete Thorn II.” The meeting between Thorn, Satriani, and Vai solidified their musical camaraderie and set the stage for a new creative partnership.
For Thorn, music is not merely a career choice; it’s a calling that demands unwavering passion and commitment. His willingness to endure the challenges of the industry, from sharing rooms on futons to subsisting on humble meals, reflects his deep-rooted love for music. Thorn’s devotion to his craft and his ability to seamlessly merge rock guitar aesthetics with innovative sonic textures make him a valuable addition to the SatchVai Band.
Recalling his encounters with Steve Vai, Thorn reminisces about a pivotal moment at the Malibu Guitar Festival in 2017. Still reeling from the loss of close friend Chris Cornell, Thorn found solace in Vai’s words of wisdom and compassion. Vai’s empathetic gesture resonated with Thorn, highlighting the profound impact that artists can have beyond their musical abilities.
As Thorn embarks on this new chapter with the SatchVai Band, he brings with him a wealth of experiences and a profound appreciation for the transformative power of music. His journey from humble beginnings to sharing the stage with iconic musicians serves as a testament to the enduring resilience and dedication required to thrive in the competitive music industry. Thorn’s unwavering commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level underscore the timeless allure of music as a unifying force.