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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Originally posted by UCS3QTujyp5t2nSSzktYFzWA at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcDMVtOD2R8
One of my most memorable concert moments…during EJ's ALC tour…watching everyone turn & angle their heads to get the best possible view to see his hands move about the fretboard. Like we were all going to pick something up or magically learn his techniques and then go home and play it!
Good interview well done
Tone Surfer !
Excellent Interview .I'd love to Hear what Eric Says About Those Who Think SRV is Way better Than Hendrix ….I Certainly Don't .
It's so nice to see one of your childhood heroes maintain his integrity as a human and an artist. I love this guy .
I saw the gig at Nick's Uptown in Dallas, TX in about 1983 where Stevie Ray Vaughan came up and played a couple of songs with Eric. I remember distinctly that Stevie had on plaid pants and was LOUD. I also saw Eric open up for Stevie that same year at The Bronco Bowl in Dallas. Eric was wearing his pink jeans. What a time to be alive in Dallas. I had an idea I was witnessing greatness, so it's very interesting to hear you both talk about that in this interview.
Great interview. Learned a lot just listening Eric philosophy on playing guitar brilliant musician.
54 Strat & 64 335 That's Eric..
Fantastic Interview ! Such a laid back Legend !
I remember getting bootleg cassettes from his friend of his live gigs in Charleston years before Tones was released. He was a phenom even then, in fact his studio work early on wasn't even close to those beat up old tapes.
"You've just got to practice". Saw Mr. Johnson with Experience Hendrix…he done his homework folks!
I've always loved Eric's laid back drawl.
It's captivating.
He´s talking ´bout the brainfuck… 🙂 great guy!!!! …and don't forget the magic carpet!… very uplifting!!!
Great interview.
Words spoken from a true master ????????
???????????????????????? legend ????????????
Great Interview! Great Questions! I really liked how this flowed, very well done! EJ has been one of my favorite guitar players for a very long time. His talent knows no boundaries, his tone comes from his soul. I have been fortunate enough to have seen him perform three times! All three in the same venue, a beautiful small intimate 300-325 seat venue made of all natural wood so the sound is just incredible! I hope to see him again soon!!
I always feel vindicated in my love for Clapton when I hear Eric Johnson talk about him as well. His influence on me is incalculable.
The most incredible thing about Eric Johnson is he is as laid back as Prozac but then absolutely plays like he's on speed. LOL! What a legend!
Saw Eric Johnson a couple times we all know he's just f**** amazing but the question that he didn't ask Eric when are you going to remaster Ah Via Musicom
A true musician's heart inside this man …with a mix of humility, skill and taste????
Excellent interview! Thanks for this.
As soon as he said rainbow… im out if here fruit loop.
Eric had the best live sound I have ever witnessed
Eric's first solo album "Seven Worlds" is his best. Its him at his rawest.
EJ is my favorite artist on this planet – great interview!
I think Eric is one of the best players out there…
As you get older, it's harder to keep up or get inspirational..
But Eric still has it…
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House Burning Down, and no Coffin is made with a Luggage Rack.