Steve Howe shares his most embarrassing onstage moment: “I never got drunk again”
Steve Howe, the iconic guitarist known for his work with Yes, Asia, and GTR, recently shared a humbling moment from his career that many musicians can relate to. In an interview with Guitar World, Howe recounted a mishap involving his beloved Gibson ES-175 that occurred mid-gig. He revealed, “I got my Gibson ES-175 in 1964. I cherished that guitar – it was totally gorgeous.” Sadly, a beer-induced slip resulted in his prized guitar breaking, a moment that left him “horrified and heartbroken.”
Reflecting on the incident, Howe shared a valuable lesson he learned from the experience. He admitted, “The one thing that came out of that experience was that I never got drunk again. Playing guitar and drinking – those things are stupidly incompatible. I had found out that playing guitar under the influence of alcohol was a complete and utter no-no.” The mishap served as a pivotal moment in Howe’s career, leading him to advise his younger self: “Don’t drink and drop your best guitar!”
Beyond the cautionary tale, Howe offered insights into his approach to performance preparation. He emphasized the importance of organization and personal rituals before taking the stage. Howe revealed, “To get ready for a show now became a ritual. It takes about 45 minutes or an hour, minimum, for me to get prepared.” For Howe, the period leading up to a performance is a time to focus solely on his preparation, shutting out distractions and outside influences.
In addition to personal anecdotes, Howe shared advice for aspiring musicians based on his own experiences. He stressed the importance of overcoming stage fright and finding ways to connect with audiences. Howe revealed, “Initially, I found a way of touring for years and years, where my personal preparation was completely secret and completely my own.” This personal approach to performance allowed Howe to develop his unique style and build a strong connection with fans.
Overall, Howe’s candid reflections offer a glimpse into the life of a seasoned guitarist with decades of experience in the music industry. His willingness to share both triumphs and tribulations serves as a reminder that even legendary musicians face challenges and setbacks. By embracing vulnerability and sharing valuable lessons, Howe continues to inspire musicians and music lovers alike with his enduring passion for the guitar.