Steve Stevens rescues Steve Vai during David Lee Roth debut
When reflecting on his experience in the studio tracking his first album with David Lee Roth, Steve Vai remembered a pivotal moment when fellow guitarist Steve Stevens came to his rescue. Vai, a newcomer to the realm of “big rock guitar tones,” found himself struggling with his own gear at the time. Fortunately, Stevens, a seasoned rock guitarist, was right next door and ready to help.
In 1985, following his departure from Van Halen, David Lee Roth embarked on a solo career and recruited a new guitar player, Vai, to join him. Vai, fresh off his time working with Frank Zappa, was chosen by Roth as the man for the job. Their debut album, Eat ‘Em and Smile, produced the hit single “Yankee Rose” and achieved platinum status with the help of MTV. However, behind the scenes, achieving the right sound for an album intended to rival his former bandmates proved to be a challenge.
Vai openly admits his lack of experience with crafting “big rock guitar tone” upon his arrival at New York’s Power Station Studios. Equipped with his Carvin X-100B amplifier, Vai quickly realized that it wasn’t delivering the desired results. Faced with this dilemma, Vai turned to Stevens for assistance. Stevens generously offered one of his favorite Marshall heads and cabs, which instantly transformed Vai’s sound for the album. Grateful for the intervention, Vai fondly recalls how Stevens “saved his bacon.”
Featuring prominently in Vai’s career, his latest signature model, the Gold Flame PIA, exemplifies his artistry and dedication to the craft. Vai is set to appear on Matteo Mancuso’s upcoming second album, showcasing his admiration for the young shredder as “the evolution of the guitar.” Guitar enthusiasts can delve deeper into Vai’s thoughts and experiences in the Guitar World magazine’s new issue, which also includes interviews with Ola Englund, Andy Powers, and other notable figures in the music industry.
Through Vai’s recollection of Stevens’ instrumental assistance during his formative years in the studio with David Lee Roth, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and mentorship in the world of music. This anecdote serves as a testament to the impact one musician can have on another, shaping their sound and contributing to their success. In the ever-evolving landscape of rock music, these encounters between artists continue to inspire and shape the creative process for generations to come.