Steve Vai

"I can tell you how to become a virtuoso very easily”: Steve Vai on how anybody can become an elite guitar player

By Matt Owen published 22 August 25

Vai – who had a gruelling practice routine growing up – has shed some light on what it takes to become a virtuoso

Billy Corgan quizzes Steve Vai on his epic guitar battle with Yngwie Malmsteen – and the guitar lick that left them both in disbelief

By Matt Owen published 19 August 25

The two virtuosos went toe-to-toe during the Generation Axe tour, and Malmsteen walked away as the victor

Steve Vai on how he joined David Lee Roth’s band – and Roth’s desire to “beat Van Halen”

By Matt Owen published 14 August 25

In 1985, Vai was recruited to join Roth's post-Van Halen band – and the singer had lofty ambitions for his new project

Adrian Belew reflects on his game-changing year with Frank Zappa

By Janelle Borg published 8 August 25

Belew was discovered and handpicked by Zappa in 1977 after the latter saw him playing at a bar in Nashville

Adrian Belew reflects on having his left hand repaired – and how his playing is recovering

By Janelle Borg published 24 July 25

Belew was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome during his BEAT tour alongside Steve Vai, Tony Levin, and Danny Carey

Steve Vai considers this solo to be his “ultimate achievement” – and one fan’s cover has left him in awe

By Phil Weller published 14 July 25

Vai has singled out an aspiring player on Instagram for their flawless cover

“Steve Vai goes, ‘I’ve been thinking about this a long time. He’s a really good guitar player.’ That’s unusual’”: Paul Reed Smith on the time John Mayer was hailed by a shred hero – and why he found it strange

By Matt Owen published 30 June 25

Smith recalls Vai singling out Mayer for praise – and reveals what Mayer’s songwriting background means for his overall guitar style

Joe Satriani reveals how Satch/Vai’s onstage chemistry works – and why sometimes some songs are best left to Steve Vai

By Jonathan Horsley published 6 June 25

Satch says playing with Steve Vai is an opportunity to expand each other's material, but says maintaining one clear voice for melodies and solos is key