Eric Johnson talks Stevie Ray Vaughan, Reuniting G3, Playing Hendrix’s Woodstock Guitar & More

Eric Johnson sits down with GI's Jonathan Graham to discuss his reunion with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai for G3 Reunion Live, reflecting on the chemistry that made the original 1996 tour so special. Eric reflects on the legendary G3 jam sessions, his first musical inspirations, and how starting on piano shaped his distinct guitar voice.

Johnson also touches the iconic 1988 Austin City Limits performance, offers insights into his friendship and performances with Stevie Ray Vaughan, and shares his perspective on overthinking while playing. Plus, he discusses the experience of playing Jimi Hendrix’s Woodstock Strat, what he thinks about Joe Bonamassa borrowing his licks, and the first guitar he'd rescue if the house was burning down.

All that and a whole lot more in this exclusive interview with Eric Johnson.

Interview Chapters
00:00 – Introduction & Greeting Eric Johnson
00:03 – Reuniting with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai for the new G3 live album
01:02 – Origins of the First G3 Tour (1996)
02:04 – Performing with G3's special guests
03:05 – Behind the Scenes of Iconic G3 Jam Sessions
04:22 – Was Eric a fan of Joe Satriani & Steve Vai's music before G3
05:03 – Eric's First Musical Influences (The Ventures, Brian Jones, Jeff Beck)
05:28 – Starting on Piano Before Guitar
07:43 – Eric’s Tone: Violin-like or Piano-inspired?
11:38 – The 1988 Austin City Limits Performance
12:50 - Eric Johnson on preparation and consistency as a player
16:20 – First Time Eric Heard Himself Recorded
17:04 – Eric Johnson on perfectionism, overthinking when playing & "getting out of your own way"
18:39 – Does Creativity Decline After Age 30?
21:00 – How Eric Johnson visualises the Fretboard
22:18 – Origin of Eric’s “Cascading Fives” Technique
23:38 – Eric’s Thoughts on Joe Bonamassa
25:00 – Friendship & First Meeting with Stevie Ray Vaughan
25:47 – Being Onstage with Stevie Ray Vaughan
27:16 – Upcoming New Music & Album Plans
28:17 – Unreleased Tracks & Future Releases
31:01 – Eric Johnson on crafting guitar solos
32:22 – Touring Plans & Returning to the UK
32:50 – Playing Hendrix’s Woodstock Guitar
34:55 – Why Jimi Hendrix’s Playing Remains Timeless
36:35 – Eric’s Favorite Guitar ("House Burning Down" Scenario)

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#guitar #interview #ericjohnson #guitarist #guitarplayer #G3Livereunion

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