Joe Bonamassa's Top Guitarists

[dangerine49]

CORRECTION: there's actually only 8 on that list. My error.

From Guitar Squid:

Once in a while a scorecard of the socalled "greatest" guitarists will come out, and then the chatter will pick up again. Such was the case a few weeks back when Rolling Stone published its 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time list. I for one took exception to it, as you can see here (http://www.straight.com/article-546561/vancouver/rolling-stone-****s-bigtime-its-100-greatest-guitarists-all-time). And when I called acclaimed picker Joe Bonamassa (http://www.straight.com/article-403219/vancouver/american-guitar-hero-joe-bonamassa-coming-vancouver) in Bakersfield, California, the other day in advance of his upcoming Vancouver gig (http://www.straight.com/timeout/listing/vancouver/joe-bonamassa), the subject came up again.

As expected, Bonamassa didn't complain that he wasn't on the list--even though readers of the prestigious Guitar Player magazine voted him Best Overall Guitarist last year--but it was clear that he wasn't thrilled with how some of his own six-string heroes were ranked. For one thing, his childhood mentor Danny Gatton was nowhere to be seen.

And what about his own top picks? Although--unlike those diehard Hendrix fanatics--Bonamassa claimed that he "couldn't pick a number one", after some urging from me he started to name names.

"I could tell you who’d been my number one influence overall on guitar," he offered. "As an artist, singer-songwriter, overall, probably Eric Clapton, single-most. Second would be Paul Kossoff. Third would be Jeff Beck. Fourth would be probably Jimmy Page. Fifth would be Peter Green. And then Mick Taylor, and then Rory Gallagher, and then Danny Gatton. So those are my cats right there."

[powermatt99]

After his comments about the Grammys, I was expecting Bonamassa to fill out his top 10 with himself. Hearing him play is like hearing a more in-your-face Clapton (to my ears at least).

[tapeworm]

Yeah because JB is such a arrogant and cocky guy, he would list himself as his own top 10 guitarists. Sounds like you don't know too much about the guy, which usually the case of someone making a commentary like yours. Fair enough.

I like his list though. Surprised no EJ or Gary Moore or BB on there though. Mick Taylor and Peter Green surprised me.

[EricPeterson]

Good list, surprised EJs name was not on it.

[powermatt99]

Yeah because JB is such a arrogant and cocky guy, he would list himself as his own top 10 guitarists. Sounds like you don't know too much about the guy, which usually the case of someone making a commentary like yours. Fair enough.

I like his list though. Surprised no EJ or Gary Moore on there though. Mick Taylor and Peter Green surprised me.

Not my point at all but you can take it how you want.

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

[Matt L]

I'm not saying those guys he mentioned are not some of his biggest influences, but he's clearly not mentioning someone that we ALL know was a huge influence....the one that is brought up time and again because the phrasing is so undeniably similar.


It's possible he wants to distance himself from that comparison, but the proof is in the pudding. I heard it way back in Bloodline...."damn that kid is good!! Loves EJ, too!"

[JosephN0624]

I just....cannot stand this guy.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

I love the man's playing, but c'mon, no EJ? That's like Joe Stump refraining from listing Malmsteen as an influence.

[tapeworm]

IBTL and before this thread turns into a dump on Joe fest.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

IBTL and before this thread turns into a dump on Joe fest.Not if I can help it. The guy's a monster player, and his gear is impeccable. What's not to like?

[mxk116]

CORRECTION: there's actually only 8 on that list. My error.

FWIW as OP you can fix the title of the thread if you go to edit, then to "go advanced." There will be a field where you can edit the title.

[JosephN0624]

Just to make it so I'm not completely dumping...I think he is extremely talented...there is just something about him that makes me cringe though.

[powermatt99]

Just to make it so I'm not completely dumping...I think he is extremely talented...there is just something about him that makes me cringe though.

For the record, I love is playing, tone, gear, etc. as well. His antics, however, like Mayer, are going to dilute his legacy, at least immediately. I don't even dislike him as a person but he hasn't exactly been helping himself lately.

[CyberFerret]

For the record, I love is playing, tone, gear, etc. as well. His antics, however, like Mayer, are going to dilute his legacy, at least immediately. I don't even dislike him as a person but he hasn't exactly been helping himself lately.

Antics? The guy blows off steam every now on then on social networks and he's a pariah?

So, all those other big name guitarists that did hard drugs, excessive alcohol, treated women like crap, trashed hotel rooms, crashed expensive cars etc. etc. etc.... their antics were OK and they should still be revered?

:huh

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

So, all those other big name guitarists that did hard drugs, excessive alcohol, treated women like crap, trashed hotel rooms, crashed expensive cars etc. etc. etc.... their antics were OK and they should still be revered?

:huhMost excellent point. Now, how old was heroin addict Page's youngest groupie? 14?

Let's bow at their altars.

[powermatt99]

Antics? The guy blows off steam every now on then on social networks and he's a pariah?

So, all those other big name guitarists that did hard drugs, excessive alcohol, treated women like crap, trashed hotel rooms, crashed expensive cars etc. etc. etc.... their antics were OK and they should still be revered?

:huh

Never said anything about the others. I just said that these antics were coloring his immediate legacy. What would TGP without a guitar hero blowing off from time to time to rile us up?

[Funky54]

I have never heard a single blues album he has done, but man do I love Black Country Communion. His tone and phrasing is fantastic. I don't get the haters....

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

I don't get the haters....I don't think it's jealousy or anything like that, it's just... fashionable.

[dangerine49]

FWIW as OP you can fix the title of the thread if you go to edit, then to "go advanced." There will be a field where you can edit the title.

Fixed.

Thanks...

[Impending Doom]

Not my point at all but you can take it how you want.

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."


Waist??? Are you making this up?

[ezyrider]

No EJ cause those EJ licks were via Cream era Clapton.

[Matt L]

No EJ cause those EJ licks were via Cream era Clapton.


Pretty sure 'ol SLOWHAND wasn't ripping off the runs I'm talking about.:p

[powermatt99]

Waist??? Are you making this up?

Nope. This is the real thing. If you have twitter, check out his timeline.

[padavis]

I like Joe B. I think he's great. I think he has a point about the Grammy's too. I like modest people but I also know in the real world people vent. He may not have the opportunity to talk to a good friend so this may be his way of getting it out of his system. He obviously puts a lot into his stuff so it would be tough as crap to not get a nomination.

[george nada]

the guy is definitely a talented player. i have a suspicion that he's awesome live performer, but i don't know. i just wish i liked his music as much as everyone else seems to. i don't hate it, it's not bad. it just doesn't do for me what some other people's stuff somehow seems to.

[Secret Ingredient]

Waist??? Are you making this up?

When I was 12 I had college level reading and comprehension skills. When Joe B was 12 he was opening for BB King. Personally, I will cut him some slack.

[Laroosco!]

I don't think it's jealousy or anything like that, it's just... fashionable.

Seroiusly!! I've been away from TGP for a few years and it seems that Joe is the new John Mayer. 4 or 5 years ago everyone seemed to love him here, but now I see so many people trying to tear him apart for the stupidest reasons.

He's pissed because he's busted his ass for years and his records get snubbed regardless of good sales and worldwide acclaim in his genre. Imagine that. I like the fact that he was a little mad. Shows me that he cares about what he's doing. By the way, there is no way that it's going to hurt him. Other than internet guitar geniuses, his fans are probably supporting him.

Honestly I'm not a huge fan of Joe, but I really don't get what all the hate is about.

[DreamPop]

You know, Joe Bonamassa has his own forum. If you don't want to contrary opinions, don't post things like this in an open forum such as TGP.

[Lemon Crush]

Most excellent point. Now, how old was heroin addict Page's youngest groupie? 14?

Let's bow at their altars.

Jimmy Page had talent :)

[MoPo]

Seroiusly!! I've been away from TGP for a few years and it seems that Joe is the new John Mayer. 4 or 5 years ago everyone seemed to love him here, but now I see so many people trying to tear him apart for the stupidest reasons.

He's pissed because he's busted his ass for years and his records get snubbed regardless of good sales and worldwide acclaim in his genre. Imagine that. I like the fact that he was a little mad. Shows me that he cares about what he's doing. By the way, there is no way that it's going to hurt him. Other than internet guitar geniuses, his fans are probably supporting him.

Honestly I'm not a huge fan of Joe, but I really don't get what all the hate is about.

+1

The guys must do 200 plus shows a year. He's worked so that he gets to play 2 59 LP's through some of the nicest amps in the world. It's not from playing Jonas bros tunes. I consider that amazing.

[Ulysses]

His antics, however, like Mayer, are going to dilute his legacy, at least immediately. I don't even dislike him as a person but he hasn't exactly been helping himself lately.


I don't know... out of all the monster names touring in 2010, only two sold more tickets than Mayer. How much bigger can Mayer get? It almost seems to me that these large scale, viral type, negative outbreaks (how about 40 pages and 17,000 views in less than 24 hours!!! a week ago before the last thread on Joe B. was locked) are just a sure-sign right of passage into arriving in a very big way. Who else in the industry could get a reaction on TGP like that? I've not heard a single record by Joe Bonamassa, only seen a few clips, but I do know he is rattling a lot of cages here. Judging by past rounds of "peer" resentment by guitarists at TGP towards Mayer, I'd say Joe B. is headed for big things.

[hearmecrybaby]

Not if I can help it. The guy's a monster player, and his gear is impeccable. What's not to like?

the music?

the whole blues jam song format a otherwise lack of inventiveness of the actual songs (when you focus on the whole and not the guitar playing) are enough to turn some people off.


i thin his stuff is alright. i'm not going to hate on the guy, he's obviously a gifted and dedicated player. the music just doesn't hook me. to each his own of course.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

Jimmy Page had talent :)What do you call Bloodline, then?

[wire-n-wood]

His latest album with Beth Hart on vocals is superb.

(While technically, I'm off topic... In terms of musical relevance, I'm just sayin' - let's not dis the guy. He plays some pretty special guitar. And if he wants to name his influences, then we can choose to either listen or not, but either way, a very fine musician is sharing a valuable insight.)

[BoogieManSC]

I've got his albums as well as the Black Country Communion album. As for his playing, it's very impressive, although I think for his genre...blues...he gets a little bit on the shreddy side of things. Impressive solos, etc....but being that his choice is to also be a vocalist...that's where the whole thing collapses for me.

His voice is awful. He sounds like Kermit the Frog to me. He should have gotten a vocalist, a la, Kenny Wayne Shepherd or something. Just my opinion of course.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

Something like this?

fgq4ZlUY7tk

[BoogieManSC]

HAHA...exactly like that! His playing is smoking in that...but man, these days, pass the mic to a singer!

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

Yeah, I agree. I don't mind his voice, it works for some songs, but his albums would sound much better if he'd have a main singer and then do backing vocals and the occasional lead vocals.

I feel that way about Eric Johnson, too. Not a bad voice, but he doesn't have the power and sound of a great lead singer. Imagine songs like "Lonely in the Night" with a Perry or Gramm.

[bsic]

Great guitarist. I love his stuff and he is one i have on my ipod almost daily.

But i cant stand him either- I know a guy who played bass for him on one session and Joe refused to pay him because he didnt think his playing was worthy of pay. Thats just wrong.

That and the whole "suit and sunglasses and slick hair" thing he is trying to pull off.. he *is* a cocky and arrogant guy and i cant stand his personality. He's been treated like royalty since he was a kid and it shows.

You know he has a "biography of his last 10 years of life" on its way out. Really? Hes good-- but .....

[Marc Roy]

Ahhh, our weekly "Dump on Bonamassa" thread. A little late this week but all the same.

[ezyrider]

From the Royal Albert Hall to 200 seaters in a year or so. Bank on it. The novelty wore off already.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

From the Royal Albert Hall to 200 seaters in a year or so. Bank on it. The novelty wore off already.What novelty?

[duanesworld]

We build them up, we tear them down. I think the big difference between Joe and the others we tend to idolize is the media or forums that we all have access to. We get a different look at the younger players then some of us did when we were growing up , cause we may have read something that Clapton or page or someone might have said or done in the rolling stone once a week or month,as opposed to daily comments,twits, Facebook, YouTube,etc.....then we can comment daily on what was said. I'm not exactly sure who the next greatest is, and I know prefer Joe's earlier music , but even if I don't care for him personally. He does have alot of talent, that probably if he was our child, we would be defending instead of attacking. He does really care about the history, and knows his gear. So maybe we shouldn't be so critical. I'm sure Clapton and srv,borrowed some from Freddie and Albert, and I'm sure they borrowed some from the players before. Not perfect but pretty darn good.

[EricPeterson]

From the Royal Albert Hall to 200 seaters in a year or so. Bank on it. The novelty wore off already.

You cant be serious? Comedy gold. :rotflmao


The dude has been playing live to large crowds for probably 15 years now. He is not some flash in the pan. Also the Royal Albert Hall show was in 2009, so he has already made it more than a year past that.

[clarkydaz]

the music?

the whole blues jam song format a otherwise lack of inventiveness of the actual songs (when you focus on the whole and not the guitar playing) are enough to turn some people off.


i thin his stuff is alright. i'm not going to hate on the guy, he's obviously a gifted and dedicated player. the music just doesn't hook me. to each his own of course.

im impartial in this, but this struck me from the start. he pretty much flies the flag for blues/classic/ retro rock which is fine and there is a huge audience for that and he has found. is that really relevant though if expecting grammy nominations in 2011? just sayin:dunno

[NashSG]

I know they have a bazillion different Grammy awards, but really I don't see any particular genre where someone like Joe Bonamassa would even get nominated other than maybe "Best Rock Instrumental Performance". He's popular, but not popular enough to be nominated for most of the rock categories and there really isn't a category for 'blues' in the traditional sense as R&B isn't exactly the charts for that older stuff.

Eh, I guess he's got ambition I suppose, I guess those 60s/70s artists were just lucky they didn't play in a media saturated world. That said, this doesn't seem like that big a deal to me.

JB's audience skeews way older than he actually is as an artist, which has to kill any hipster points with what is out there for mainstream music press.

I think he is pretty good at what he does, but the guy can't really eclipse his influences.

[RainingLogic]

IMHO the only people that should be allowed to critique this guy are the ones good enough to get up at a local blues jam with him. I can...can you?

You don't see me ripping on his playing. He's good enough to get up there and entertain people, he's good enough to make a living at this, he's good enough to get Clapton to give him some props.

I'll also add that for the people that don't 'get it'...not everyone lists an influential guitarist based totally on their playing, but maybe from the stage presence, how they conducted their career, what type of music they play etc.

[bsic]

IMHO the only people that should be allowed to critique this guy are the ones good enough to get up at a local blues jam with him. I can...can you?

You don't see me ripping on his playing. He's good enough to get up there and entertain people, he's good enough to make a living at this, he's good enough to get Clapton to give him some props.

I'll also add that for the people that don't 'get it'...not everyone lists an influential guitarist based totally on their playing, but maybe from the stage presence, how they conducted their career, what type of music they play etc.

Actually, anyone can critique him, even those who can't play a note. Sorry.

[Laroosco!]

Great guitarist. I love his stuff and he is one i have on my ipod almost daily.

But i cant stand him either- I know a guy who played bass for him on one session and Joe refused to pay him because he didnt think his playing was worthy of pay. Thats just wrong.

That and the whole "suit and sunglasses and slick hair" thing he is trying to pull off.. he *is* a cocky and arrogant guy and i cant stand his personality. He's been treated like royalty since he was a kid and it shows.

You know he has a "biography of his last 10 years of life" on its way out. Really? Hes good-- but .....

So your friends sucked in the studio and still wanted to get paid for wasting someones time? If a contractor works on your house and screws up the job you'd better believe that guy isn't getting paid.

Have you ever met him, or are you making judgements on his personality through second hand info?

[bsic]

I'm making judgements based on the info available to me. This is how most people judge, good or bad.

[jerrycampbell]

IMHO the only people that should be allowed to critique this guy are the ones good enough to get up at a local blues jam with him.
Not exactly 'raining logic' here, are you?

[Laroosco!]

I'm making judgements based on the info available to me. This is how most people judge, good or bad.

Bad

[bsic]

Missing my point. People always think its ok to judge something as long as its a favorable judgment. But say you don't like it and ohhhh that's a no no.

You are probably guilty of both I imagine as well. Ever steer clear of a brand of car, appliance, etc because of things you hear from others?

[ghost driver]

I don't say that everybody has to like his music but I really don't get the knock on Joe as a person. He's very in touch with not only his fans but gear heads in general like all of us. The guy was seen walking around at the Phily Guitar show last month. Had time for anybody who wanted to talk.
Again you don't have to be a fan but this is not a bad guy.

[cugel]

yeah how could ej possibly not be on it
sorta the elephant in the room

[scottl]

Difference is that as a player:

Joe B is here.






































JM is here.


Seroiusly!! I've been away from TGP for a few years and it seems that Joe is the new John Mayer. 4 or 5 years ago everyone seemed to love him here, but now I see so many people trying to tear him apart for the stupidest reasons.

[RainingLogic]

Actually, anyone can critique him, even those who can't play a note. Sorry.

Owning a keyboard doesn't mean you know anything about music.

[bsic]

Owning a keyboard doesn't mean you know anything about music.

True. But not owning one doesn't mean you know nothing about music either dude. Come on.

[Laroosco!]

Difference is that as a player:

Joe B is here.






































JM is here.

Their playing ability has nothing to do with hat I was saying. When I frequented this forum a few years ago John Mayer was the resident whipping boy and JB seemed to do no wrong, now JB seems to have joined the ranks of Mayer. I was surprised at the amount of shit that is being thrown at Joe around here.

[SlyStrat]

Clapton should take a note on how Joe dresses. He looked like a total bum at the last Crossroads concert. Damn.
I love Clapton and Joe's stuff.
The Grammy awards are a joke.

[ezyrider]

Clapton should take a note on how Joe dresses. He looked like a total bum at the last Crossroads concert. Damn.
I love Clapton and Joe's stuff.
The Grammy awards are a joke.

Clapton went thru his Armani suit period in the 80's

[Laroosco!]

Missing my point. People always think its ok to judge something as long as its a favorable judgment. But say you don't like it and ohhhh that's a no no.

You are probably guilty of both I imagine as well. Ever steer clear of a brand of car, appliance, etc because of things you hear from others?

I get your point, we are all guilty of it, but it seemed a bit strange that you stated as if it was an absolute fact that "he *is* a cocky, arrogant guy"

[Laroosco!]

True. But not owning one doesn't mean you know nothing about music either dude. Come on.

Exactly, anyone that can listen to music has a right to give their opinions if you ask me. I've always felt that music is for people, not musicians :D

[RainingLogic]

Exactly, anyone that can listen to music has a right to give their opinions if you ask me. I've always felt that music is for people, not musicians :D

Sorry you don't. If you really think you have the right to say what you want, why don't you walk up to the biggest guy at the park and call him names. As your lying there with you teeth rammed down your throat, you can mull over your human rights and constitutional privileges.

It's the bastion of weenies, wannabes, losers, and scumbags, to find a place to yell, insult, and criticize stuff, that never in a million years would you do it to their face. These forums have become the refuge of cowards.

If you can demonstrate you can play, then you can say, how the other guy can't do it like you, better, faster, cleaner, etc.

All you can say 'legally' is that you don't 'prefer' someone's music...your not qualified to wax philosophical on his ability if you can't show any ability of your own.

:mob

[Serious Poo]

It's so much easier to criticize than create... It would be interesting to see how many people that post negative comments about musicians have even the slightest inkling of what it takes to write, record, publish, distribute and support a single full length album.

[scottl]

I agree. But it is all about the playing. For me, although I own no Joe B recordings, Joe's playing is top shelf and beyond reproach. At times derivative, but his timing, touch, tone, chops, etc is spot on.

The other guy, not so much. For me.

So yeah, I don't understand how Joe B can get slagged. Same with Robben. Their playing is at the highest levels of their genres.


Their playing ability has nothing to do with hat I was saying. When I frequented this forum a few years ago John Mayer was the resident whipping boy and JB seemed to do no wrong, now JB seems to have joined the ranks of Mayer. I was surprised at the amount of shit that is being thrown at Joe around here.

[Ulysses]

I'm not a Joe B fan...never heard a record. I have, however, played guitar for my sole living for 39 years. I have great respect for anyone who can succeed as a player in this business. I've had friends from other walks of life spend a several days on the road with me over the years... each has said they don't see how we do it. I've not met a player yet that has what it takes to succeed in this business that slags other players like what goes on on TGP. It's one thing to critique, something altogether different to call names. These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician.

The thing that strikes my as most odd about these Joe B. bashing threads and the pure trash that is being spoken is that even that I've never met Joe, I have well over a dozen friends who do know him well. They all say he's about as humble a guy as you could meet with no real pretenses about himself at all. ???

[Matt L]

Sorry you don't. If you really think you have the right to say what you want, why don't you walk up to the biggest guy at the park and call him names. As your lying there with you teeth rammed down your throat, you can mull over your human rights and constitutional privileges.

It's the bastion of weenies, wannabes, losers, and scumbags, to find a place to yell, insult, and criticize stuff, that never in a million years would you do it to their face. These forums have become the refuge of cowards.

If you can demonstrate you can play, then you can say, how the other guy can't do it like you, better, faster, cleaner, etc.

All you can say 'legally' is that you don't 'prefer' someone's music...your not qualified to wax philosophical on his ability if you can't show any ability of your own.

:mob

You're one of those guys that goes on Youtube and shits on other people's videos, aren't you?

[Dickie Fredericks]

His list is almost my list. Today that is.

[RainingLogic]

You're one of those guys that goes on Youtube and shits on other people's videos, aren't you?

Put down the bong and re read my post.

[Matt L]

Put down the bong and re read my post.


I just got rid of the headache!!! Why torture myself again?

[CyberFerret]

I'm making judgements based on the info available to me. This is how most people judge, good or bad.

Missing my point. People always think its ok to judge something as long as its a favorable judgment. But say you don't like it and ohhhh that's a no no.

You are probably guilty of both I imagine as well. Ever steer clear of a brand of car, appliance, etc because of things you hear from others?

Re: your friend the bass player - I've lived long enough now to know that there is ALWAYS two sides to the story.

Passing judgements via other people's hearsay is quite common, yes, but it is also never going to be as valued as passing judgement based on your own experience.

A positive judgement is usually derived from direct experience and interaction, whereas a negative judgement is pretty much usually based on NOT knowing, fear or ignorance.

It is natural to come down on the side of people who are in your inner circle, and based on your short anecdote about your friend, I am sure you would not like it if all of us here judged him as "useless bass player that shouldn't be posing as a professional session musician" based on what happened...would you?

For the record, I've met Joe. Talked to him. He gave my son and I a personal tour of his gear. NOTHING cocky or arrogant about the guy at all.

[kasperjensen]

He is a great player. He doesn't strike me as a guy I would want to hang with (I am sure the feeling is mutual) but he sure as hell can play rings around most people.

I for one prefer the pre-suit days. I have a DVD from... Was it Rockoplast in Antwerp or something like that? Really cool stuff. Seemed more sincere somehow.

[DreamPop]

I'm really curious how this "another Joe B bash thread." It seems like someone started a simple thread and people posted criticisms. Criticism and bashing are not the same thing and, from what I've seen since joining, Joe Bonamassa's fans seem not to understand that (followed closely by Mayer's). Not everyone will like what you like. This is TGP, not Bonamassa's personal forum. Go there if you want a 40-page circle-jerk about Joe's tone and playing. Here, you need to understand and expect dissenting opinions. It's really disturbing to see grown men bending over backwards to kiss the ass of someone famous.

No one in this thread is innocent of player-bashing. Some of these screen names are really familiar from that Mayer thread a few days ago. Don't pretend to take to be morally superior when all of a sudden your favorite player is on the receiving in of TGP treatment.

That said, Joe is a really talented player and has great tone. Not my cup of tea, but I can see why others enjoy him. I really wish he would lose the suit and shades schtick, though.

[pbradt]

Why does it matter what guitarists some celebrity likes? Hell, most of those named by JB are pretty common around here as guitar heroes.

But really - I don't care who anyone likes. Well, I care who *I* like, but I know who I like.

[pbradt]

Not my point at all but you can take it how you want.

WAIST of my time? AAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

[pbradt]

IMO here is part of JB's perception problem and what Grammy voters might hold against him: In his younger days, he called himself "Smokin' Joe Bonamassa."

First of all there already was a "Smokin' Joe" (Kubek) and second of all, really, if ya have to say it...

Second - in the Blues categories, the young gunslingers rarely are nominated. The blues is a more mature idiom and hearing a youngun singing about lost love and heartache just smacks many as being ersatz as powdered eggs.

Finally, the aforementioned (in the thread) egotism is pretty transparent. The people with the most Grammys are not chest beaters (Vince Gill anyone?). At least not in the more traditional categories, and in those categories, such chest beating is probably frowned upon.

JB may yet break through but his whining doesn't do him any favors. If there is any advice to be given to Mr. Bonamassa, I'd think it'd be "Keep your head down, your mouth shut, keep doing what you're doing musically and grow in your craft. Also, get some vocal coaching."

Delbert didn't win a grammy until 1990 and that was on the coattails of Bonnie Raitt. He didn't win one of his own until he was 62. Joe's got a lot of time.

[RainingLogic]

Reminds of a GC KOTBs competition, I didn't list any influences...they balked. Honestly I couldn't come up with any artist that I copped or really studied.

[richpjr]

I'm not a Joe B fan...never heard a record. I have, however, played guitar for my sole living for 39 years. I have great respect for anyone who can succeed as a player in this business. I've had friends from other walks of life spend a several days on the road with me over the years... each has said they don't see how we do it. I've not met a player yet that has what it takes to succeed in this business that slags other players like what goes on on TGP. It's one thing to critique, something altogether different to call names. These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician.

The thing that strikes my as most odd about these Joe B. bashing threads and the pure trash that is being spoken is that even that I've never met Joe, I have well over a dozen friends who do know him well. They all say he's about as humble a guy as you could meet with no real pretenses about himself at all. ???

Yep. One of my best friends is a DJ for a major Southern California radio station and says Joe is his favorite musician that he has ever met. Down to earth, polite, will talk for hours on end. When I asked him who the biggest jerk was, he said by a long shot - Gene Simmons! :)

I just don't get the hate for JB.

[Polynitro]

where is the hate and bashing? I just read the whole thread and found none of it. I see Gene Simmons being called a jerk.

[pbradt]

where is the hate and bashing? I just read the whole thread and found none of it.Some people take less than glowing statements about their favorite musician very personally. It's their failing. You'd think people were talking about their mothers.

[Marc Roy]

where is the hate and bashing? I just read the whole thread and found none of it. I see Gene Simmons being called a jerk.

Do a seach on here. There are plenty of Bonamassa bashing moments.

[ezyrider]

Yep. One of my best friends is a DJ for a major Southern California radio station and says Joe is his favorite musician that he has ever met. Down to earth, polite, will talk for hours on end. When I asked him who the biggest jerk was, he said by a long shot - Gene Simmons! :)

I just don't get the hate for JB.

I guess your friend hates Gene Simmons, by your logic:huh

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

Calling an obviously gifted guitarist 'talentless' isn't exactly a respectful disagreement.

But hey, the admin's okay with it. Just don't say anything bad about Chad Kroeger.

[MarkL8]

Great guitarist. I love his stuff and he is one i have on my ipod almost daily.

But i cant stand him either- I know a guy who played bass for him on one session and Joe refused to pay him because he didnt think his playing was worthy of pay. Thats just wrong.

That and the whole "suit and sunglasses and slick hair" thing he is trying to pull off.. he *is* a cocky and arrogant guy and i cant stand his personality. He's been treated like royalty since he was a kid and it shows.

You know he has a "biography of his last 10 years of life" on its way out. Really? Hes good-- but .....

Sorry dude I know Joe and gotta call BS on this one. Your "friend" well Ill leave it at that. Oh theres these things call auditions which there is no payment due.

[CyberFerret]

where is the hate and bashing? I just read the whole thread and found none of it. I see Gene Simmons being called a jerk.

'Hate' is a strong word, and I would hesitate to use it in this context, but there is certainly a lot of character assassination and misrepresentation going on here about JB that is certainly ruffling feathers.

When you see phrases like:

"I just....cannot stand this guy."

"he *is* a cocky and arrogant guy and i cant stand his personality"

from people that have presumedly never met him or spent time chatting with him, it comes off as rather strong don't you think, to say you cannot 'stand' someone. Quite a strong reaction. Would you seriously leave the room if he walked in? If so, that's a pretty strong visceral reaction to some dude who just plays a guitar for a living...


To extrapolate the secondary argument here about Gene Simmons - I've never met the guy face to face, so I am going to reserve judgement on him until I do. I only him from his stage presence, his music and the opinions of other members on here.

I am certainly not going to run to another forum and post "Gene Simmons is a jerk, and I know because someone on TGP said so...". Until I actually meet him someday and get the chance to form my own opinion, I am going to keep said opinion to myself.

[Polynitro]

you guys dont see the problem with saying this about people youve never met?

"These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician. "


whats the difference? To me this is unfounded hate.

[fast ricky love]

Pretty cool he mentioned Kossoff and Green.

[RainingLogic]

Tired of Fan Boy threads.

[hearmecrybaby]

Some people take less than glowing statements about their favorite musician very personally. It's their failing. You'd think people were talking about their mothers.

with guitar players i see this 100x more than "bashing" on tgp.

with everyone else (rappers, pop musicians, etc.) its the other way around.

[Yngtchie Blacksteen]

Tired of Fan Boy threads.You've been here for, what, one month, and already you're getting "tired" of something?

Sheesh.

[tsar nicholas]

I'm amazed at how polarizing this Bonamassa cat seems to be. I never heard of him before signing up for this website.

I mean, his playing is kind of self-evidently above average, no matter what one thinks about the particular musical style, so why do people start getting all worked up about his personality and appearance?

[hearmecrybaby]

You've been here for, what, one month, and already you're getting "tired" of something?

Sheesh.

read the effects forum for 5 minutes and tell me you're not tired of hearing about timeline and timmy.

[Laroosco!]

Sorry you don't. If you really think you have the right to say what you want, why don't you walk up to the biggest guy at the park and call him names. As your lying there with you teeth rammed down your throat, you can mull over your human rights and constitutional privileges.

I still have the right call someone names regardless of the consequences. It might not be smart, but not illegal. You're really stretching things here a bit.

It's the bastion of weenies, wannabes, losers, and scumbags, to find a place to yell, insult, and criticize stuff, that never in a million years would you do it to their face. These forums have become the refuge of cowards.

I agree wholeheartedly. Internet tough guys.:mob

If you can demonstrate you can play, then you can say, how the other guy can't do it like you, better, faster, cleaner, etc.

Of course. It allows you a better insight into technique and lets you comment on more technical aspects of someones playing. Though you don't need to be as skilled as someone to say that you don't like it.

All you can say 'legally' is that you don't 'prefer' someone's music...your not qualified to wax philosophical on his ability if you can't show any ability of your own.

I think you and I are more on the same page than you might think. I think that a lot of the overly negative and personal comments are a bit too much.
The comment you are responding too was stating that I believe anyone that listens to music is able to form an opinion, and that in the end, most music is not written for musicians to listen to and dissect but for "regular" people to enjoy(or not).

[Ulysses]

you guys dont see the problem with saying this about people youve never met?

"These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician. "


whats the difference? To me this is unfounded hate.

Unfounded??? Let me quality what I said once *again*. I've been a career professional guitarist for 40 straight years this month....my sole living period, never done anything else...and not to be crass but again to qualify, I can retire comfortably right now if I so desired. I've been around this business day and night 24/7, 365 days a year for 40 years. I feel that I've been relatively successful and I know very well what it does take and all it entails. I have great respect for all that can make it here. I've met a lot of successful players over the course of those fouir decades...hundreds and hundreds. I have never once heard any of those that manage to make a lasting career in music slag other players like what has been seen in prior threads here on TGP. Unfounded? I hardly think so. It is pretty easy to make the above call when you've got forty years of personal experience to back it up. And I'll say it once again, these name callers do not have the heart, work ethic, or the potential of a successful musician.

[earthlydescent]

Remember folks, all musicians must be tame and soft spoken humanitarians that hug trees. You folks are silly.

Joe B, not to be confused with JB (Jeff Beck), has easily been one of the most gracious musicians I've ever seen. From his blistering shows to his appearances just about everywhere discussing his trade secrets and skills to just about anyone. I haven't seen someone so upfront and real in the music business as Joe B is.

With as much genius as folks like Joe B and Mayer, shouldn't we expect a little disfunction. While others are worship kiddy porn lovers like Pete Townsend and Keith Moon, others are picking on a guy for complaining... Wow, reality check folks.

[Guitarworks]

I'm really surprised he did not mention Eric Johnson.

[GulfportBound]

Reminds of a GC KOTBs competition, I didn't list any influences...they balked. Honestly I couldn't come up with any artist that I copped or really studied.

Beats the hell out of the first guy up in the KOTB competition I was crazy enough to step into last May. (My SO kind of wheedled me into it.) When they read his sheet and came to his listed blues influences, he had only one influence listed: Metallica.

Oh, brother.

And the people sitting there to listen to the competition didn't even flinch. Never mind laugh. (I was stifling my snickers myself.) I mean, is it me, or is naming Metallica as a blues influence comparable to naming Muddy Waters as an influence in Indian music?

That said, you can have artists who influence you even if you don't cop or "study" them.

[Eskimo_Joe]

some people take less than glowing statements about their favorite musician very personally. It's their failing. You'd think people were talking about their mothers.


thank you

get tougher skin people

[Eskimo_Joe]

You've been here for, what, one month, and already you're getting "tired" of something?

Sheesh.

My guess is he's no new comer. Probably a familiar face hiding behind a different name. I mean with a name like that it's obvious he has come to impart wisdom, an interesting disposition for a newby.

[Polynitro]

Unfounded??? Let me quality what I said once *again*. I've been a career professional guitarist for 40 straight years this month....my sole living period, never done anything else...and not to be crass but again to qualify, I can retire comfortably right now if I so desired. I've been around this business day and night 24/7, 365 days a year for 40 years. I feel that I've been relatively successful and I know very well what it does take and all it entails. I have great respect for all that can make it here. I've met a lot of successful players over the course of those fouir decades...hundreds and hundreds. I have never once heard any of those that manage to make a lasting career in music slag other players like what has been seen in prior threads here on TGP. Unfounded? I hardly think so. It is pretty easy to make the above call when you've got forty years of personal experience to back it up. And I'll say it once again, these name callers do not have the heart, work ethic, or the potential of a successful musician.

exactly. You have no clue what it takes to do other people jobs. Here's a hint: it takes heart, and work ethic. Sorry but to think musicians some how have it tougher than most people is laughable.

[pbradt]

thank you

get tougher skin people

I keep waiting for someone to say "Delbert McClinton and Lee Roy Parnell suck ass, man, how do you like them apples?"

If they do, I can point, laugh, tell them I consider the source and head on down the road. Sigh.

As I see it, if a person needs THEIR guitar heroes to be VALIDATED on an anonymous internet message board, and that's the most important issue they face, they just don't know how good they have it.

There seems to be a disconnect between some of the posters here. Some long-time pros are claiming other long-time successful pros don't diss other musicians and IME, there are exceptions to every rule. These long time players posting also seem to think others have no right to an opinion. It's starting to creep into "yer jes' JELLUS" territory.

I don't think anyone is bagging on Joe as a player, certainly I'm not, but pulling a Toby Keith/Kanye West pity party because he didn't get nominated for a Grammy is a good way to get his detractors pointing, laughing and dissing him. As I said in a previous post, he needs to keep his head down, his mouth shut, keep doing what he's doing (he's quite successful, though, like Taylor Swift, his early career was financed by his father), work on his craft, write better songs and try, try again.

I noticed he talked about sales and sold out shows and all that - and perhaps in the lighter-weight categories (you know, the ones that get the most attention) that's important but I believe songwriting craft carries a lot more weight in the categories I think of as "good" music (blues, country, Americana). I took the time yesterday (between trips to the bathroom) to listen to two of Joe B's albums. It's just my opinion, but it's not up to the standard of Delbert McClinton and Gary Nicholson, who, in the past 10 years, have won two Grammys together in Joe B's category (Contemporary Blues). His playing is great (though heavily derivative of Clapton), his singing ok (get the vocal coaching, kid) his band is tight, but the songs are...lesser. Work on your craft, kid.

It's also important to keep in mind, in the larger world of popular music, he's barely a blip on the great unwashed's radar.

[franksguitar]

Just think Bonamassa & Mayer are barely in their 30's so sometimes immature statements are made until they just shut up or stumble with the press and just let their music talk instead. Or just be humble vs project massive egos that barely fit though the door. Someone down to earth gets more respect.

[Gigbag]

Sorry you don't. If you really think you have the right to say what you want, why don't you walk up to the biggest guy at the park and call him names. As your lying there with you teeth rammed down your throat, you can mull over your human rights and constitutional privileges.

It's the bastion of weenies, wannabes, losers, and scumbags, to find a place to yell, insult, and criticize stuff, that never in a million years would you do it to their face. These forums have become the refuge of cowards.

If you can demonstrate you can play, then you can say, how the other guy can't do it like you, better, faster, cleaner, etc.

All you can say 'legally' is that you don't 'prefer' someone's music...your not qualified to wax philosophical on his ability if you can't show any ability of your own.

:mob

Wrong. I don't have to play faster than Yngwie Malmsteen to comment on his music. What if I was a professor of music but never had played guitar? Do I have to sing better than Brittany Spears to comment on her music? Being stupid enough to intentionally piss off a violent thug is not the same thing commenting on a guitar player. People who simply listen to music can comment on it without being bettter than the musicians they listen to. I think there are many fans of the greatest opera singers who can't sing a pop song. By your "logic", their love of opera music is invalid. Your reminds me of those who believe music is a contest (although you probalby didn't intent that). Music gladiators who can out do others are permitted to comment.

These thread basically reveal the following range of views regarding Joe Bonamassa:


Love evertything he does, and call anyone who isn't infatuated with JB a hater or jealous, and actually get upset and defensive.
Impressed by his guitar skills, but not his voice.
Like his guitar playing but not his songs so much.
Don't like his image and comments.
Like some of his muic, but not enough to buy his CDs.
Like his guitar playing, but think there is nothing innovative (whether or not JB is trying to be innovative).
Love JB's gear and tones.
Love JB's live shows, but not his albums.
Don't care what anyone else thinkgs about JB.
Think his playing 300 shows per year and cutting 2 ablums per year means he is entitled to let off steam, and do so without anyone being allowed to comment negatively about that.
Etc., etc.
The point is that there are a lot of opinions about JB. Note, I haven't stated mine in this thread, so don't start calling me a jealous hater and demand that I jam on stage with him to prove my worth as a guitar player (as if JB would invite me on stage).


People should be courteous and respectful to others, and on TGP follow the rules. I think TGP would be boring if no comments about guitarist were allowed uless we sold more albums, played more shows, or had superior skills. Every non-drooling comment should not be hammered with the throwing of accusations against posters.

[RainingLogic]

Gigbag - Forums give 'everyone' a voice. The more I go to forums, the more I understand the problem with this, and recognize the need for some accountability and transparency to be built in, not to mention some vetting of qualifications. I feel this podium should at least attempt some comparison to the real world, and it's consequences.

[A-Bone]

Oh, brother.

[coot tone]

Have tried HARD to like him. Bought or listened to all his records and saw him live a year or two ago. He impresses me as a guy who WANTS people to think his roots are in the guys he mentioned, but he really listened to shredders growing up. Not that there is anything wrong with that, just wish he'd come clean.

More power to him that there are folks out there who dig him. I'm just not one of them. One more ticket available for someone else who does.

[pbradt]

Jimmy Page had talent :)

We could have a lively debate about this.

[pbradt]

IMHO the only people that should be allowed to critique this guy are the ones good enough to get up at a local blues jam with him.

This is completely preposterous. You might as well just say "yer jes' JELLUS!"

[Brianlps]

:sarcasm Such good vibes from this thread.

I can't speak to him as a person but Joe is a fantastic guitarist. I think he tries to make people happy. How many guitarists are as forthcoming with showing us their rigs? Maybe he needs a PR director and a stylist. I agree that the suit and sunglasses just doesn't do anything for him, and I'm no expert on style. But that's petty stuff. There's much worse in the world of music (or what gets called music) today to complain about. I hope he's around and successful for many, many years.

On the original topic, I was surprised he left out EJ. When I hear the soft delay he uses and the phrasing I think EJ more than anybody on his list.

[Polynitro]

didnt SRV used to say he never heard of Jonny Winter? Its the same thing I guess

[Eskimo_Joe]

didnt SRV used to say he never heard of Jonny Winter? Its the same thing I guess

I'd like to see a reference on that please

[richpjr]

I guess your friend hates Gene Simmons, by your logic:huh

By my logic? No. My friend makes no bones about how much he can't stand him! :)

[Marc Roy]

:sarcasm Such good vibes from this thread.



This is what you get when you mention Bonamassa around here these days.

[Bezzy]

I saw him last night in van, he is ultra talented, one of the best shows I have ever seen.
Band was fantastic. Joe is one of the last guys playing all over the world with passion for the art. He is not perfect but this is rock n roll blues. The show was sold out, which is pretty good considering he gets zero airplay on the radio and for the most part most people have no clue who he is.
His voice was not as good as on the albums but it still worked well for a live show.
His sense of timing was just incredible.

[RainingLogic]

Oh, brother.

Well maybe someone with 15000 posts can educate me to the purpose of an internet forum.

[Ulysses]

exactly. You have no clue what it takes to do other people jobs. Here's a hint: it takes heart, and work ethic. Sorry but to think musicians some how have it tougher than most people is laughable.

Really?? So you are saying that people with long term success in your business *DO* go on the interent and verbally slag their fellow peers in this fashion?? Amazing.

[Neer]

Gigbag - Forums give 'everyone' a voice. The more I go to forums, the more I understand the problem with this, and recognize the need for some accountability and transparency to be built in, not to mention some vetting of qualifications. I feel this podium should at least attempt some comparison to the real world, and it's consequences.


Why does it matter what anyone says on a forum? It gives a person no credibility whatsoever, so why should it be important? As long as it's not anything slanderous and within legal limits, it's just opinion, which is ultimately worthless.

When I hear someone make your argument, it confuses me. It smacks of some kind of weirdness, I'm just not sure what. I've learned how to take others' posts with a grain of salt and suggest you do the same. When you step away from your computer and it's still bothering you, then you should know it's your problem.

I never followed my own father's advice--why would I care about anything a complete stranger offers up?

BTW, I hate to read people dumping on other players, people, etc., but I also find that I, in my weaker moments, can also be critical of others.

[Polynitro]

Really?? So you are saying that people with long term success in your business *DO* go on the interent and verbally slag their fellow peers in this fashion?? Amazing.

I didnt slag anyone. Im pointing out that you are slagging people you've never met by saying they dont have heart or work ethics.

Everyone has a hard job, and most people think thier job is harder than all the others. They cant all be that difficult.

the worst someone said about JoeB is that hes cocky and arrogant.

[Deathmonkey]

As I said in a previous post, he needs to keep his head down, his mouth shut, keep doing what he's doing (he's quite successful, though, like Taylor Swift, his early career was financed by his father), work on his craft, write better songs and try, try again.

I absolutely loathe silencing language like this. And the same for the nonsense "RainingLogic" is throwing around.

It is the ultimate expression of self entitlement to try to silence others that make statements that challenge one's narrrative. To disagree is one thing, it's part and parcel of the free exchange of ideas. But to dismiss those statements by negating the right of those people to make their statements in the first place - and uphold that YOU have the right to determine who has those rights - is an expression of pure, unadulterated narcissism.

To say "only these people are allowed to criticize" or "XXX needs to shut up and not talk about these things" clearly says that somehow you've claimed for yourself the mantle of deciding who gets the right of Free Speech, that YOU are the sole arbiter of what is and what is not "worthy" speech. Can you GET any more egotistical than that? Oh Gatekeeper, please allow my humble words into your mighty, mighty thread.

I'm sorry that Joe B doesn't fit into the narrative of the passive automaton that reinforces the status quo that we seem to demand of our celebrities. It must be rough to face all day this unfettered opinion that he might have a differing view of the Rolling Stone 100, having his preference for Paul Kossoff just out there for anyone to read. I mean, THINK OF THE CHILDREN.

And for what it's worth, Joe is RIGHT ON POINT with his Grammy comments. Along with the American Music Awards and any other so-called "award show" for music, they might as well be called the Clear Channel Award Series. It has everything to do with music politics, and nothing to do with talent. Joe is pretty much at the top of the mountain in his chosen genre, and to be continually ignored there is a TRAVESTY.

And last but not least, as much as I love Eric Johnson, he does NOT have a f***ing patent on pentatonic playing. I hear far more Frank Marino (also one of EJ's major influences) and Michael Schenker in Joe Bs playing than EJ. This notion that Joe has to somehow mention his license to that style of playing by mentioning EJ in every interview is ridiculous. Get over it.

[nexus6roybatty]

Pete is/was the only member of the The Who to get in trouble for that.

Keith Moon was a very innocent guy and a fantastic drummer. I don't see how or why you're attempting to beat up on him in this thread.

Also: John M and Joe B are not geniuses, be they together or separate. Bach was a genius. See also: Joseph Haydn, Thelonious Monk.



Remember folks, all musicians must be tame and soft spoken humanitarians that hug trees. You folks are silly.

Joe B, not to be confused with JB (Jeff Beck), has easily been one of the most gracious musicians I've ever seen. From his blistering shows to his appearances just about everywhere discussing his trade secrets and skills to just about anyone. I haven't seen someone so upfront and real in the music business as Joe B is.

With as much genius as folks like Joe B and Mayer, shouldn't we expect a little disfunction. While others are worship kiddy porn lovers like Pete Townsend and Keith Moon, others are picking on a guy for complaining... Wow, reality check folks.

[Eskimo_Joe]

And for what it's worth, Joe is RIGHT ON POINT with his Grammy comments. Joe is pretty much at the top of the mountain in his chosen genre, and to be continually ignored there is a TRAVESTY.

There is little mainstream recognition being on top of the "guitar player's guitar player" genre.

[pbradt]

http://www.f2bb.com/images/smileys/crybaby.png

Fixed.

[pbradt]

Pete is/was the only member of the The Who to get in trouble for that.

It's important to note he was CLEARED of those charges.

[Wagster]

Reading some of these comments remind me of the old saying " there are those that do and those that don't" .

[DreamPop]

I really want to know why people think he's TGP's whipping boy. Every thread I've seen about him since I've been here has been filled with people politely expressing their opinions about him. It seems that for every person that doesn't dig him (for whatever reason), there are two more people that are bending over backwards to kiss his ass. This is really disturbing behavior for grown men. Does it really bother you that much if someone doesn't like your favorite player?

Also, this seem relevant:
kHmvkRoEowc

[Realfi]

Good list, surprised EJs name was not on it.

Maybe the imitators ruined EJ for him....

:)

[nexus6roybatty]

Good point.

It's important to note he was CLEARED of those charges.

[jerrycampbell]

I really want to know why people think he's TGP's whipping boy. Every thread I've seen about him since I've been here has been filled with people politely expressing their opinions about him. It seems that for every person that doesn't dig him (for whatever reason), there are two more people that are bending over backwards to kiss his ass. This is really disturbing behavior for grown men. Does it really bother you that much if someone doesn't like your favorite player?

The Joe fans LOVE these threads. They start the thread, wait anxiously for someone to post anything remotely negative, then....wail! They start these threads expressly for that purpose! So, the haters love these threads (I'm not one of them BTW), and the luvvers love these threads (not one of them either), so it's all good! Carry on.

[Polynitro]

well everytime I point out that theres no bashing going on they always say the same thing: "Maybe not this thread but every other thread is full of bashing" Then they go on to bash people that werent even bashing in the first place.
I really want to know why people think he's TGP's whipping boy. Every thread I've seen about him since I've been here has been filled with people politely expressing their opinions about him. It seems that for every person that doesn't dig him (for whatever reason), there are two more people that are bending over backwards to kiss his ass. This is really disturbing behavior for grown men. Does it really bother you that much if someone doesn't like your favorite player?

Also, this seem relevant:
kHmvkRoEowc

[GulfportBound]

didnt SRV used to say he never heard of Jonny Winter? Its the same thing I guess

I'd like to see a reference on that please

Considering Double Trouble's bassist was also Johnny Winter's former bassist (for the only three Winter albums that matter, Progressive Blues Experiment, Johnny Winter, and Second Winter), it'd be quite a stretch to say Stevie Ray Vaughan had never heard of Johnny Winter, I would think . . .

[Eskimo_Joe]

Considering Double Trouble's bassist was also Johnny Winter's former bassist (for the only three Winter albums that matter, Progressive Blues Experiment, Johnny Winter, and Second Winter), it'd be quite a stretch to say Stevie Ray Vaughan had never heard of Johnny Winter, I would think . . .

Ha, no kidding right!

[zzmoore]

So much for ....."Music not being a competition."
Do not know how many times I have read that on the forums.....

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

[DreamPop]

So much for ....."Music not being a competition."
Do not know how many times I have read that on the forums.....

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

... But he is absolutely humble and modest.

/sarcasm

I don't know why I have such a vendetta against this guy. He just annoys me. If it weren't for guitar forums, I would have no idea who he is.

[Polynitro]

Johnny Winter is the one who said SRV said he never met him. He was upset he said that cuz he hung out with him many times.

[bsic]

So much for ....."Music not being a competition."
Do not know how many times I have read that on the forums.....

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

What a sweetheart.

[Ulysses]

So much for ....."Music not being a competition."
Do not know how many times I have read that on the forums.....

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

Sounds familar:

"one of the biggest selling bands of the decade.. 0 Grammy nominations. Yet we sell out arenas & stadiums. We are so disappointed that none of our platinum selling albums get any freaking attention at all. Not even when we ship platinum on pre-orders. Rejected isn't strong enough of a word to describe the way we feel yet again.. 12 years in a ****ing row.. You'd think one of our records deserves a nomination"

sentiments from the heart - Jimmy Page....

Seriously, though... I have no problem with the harshest critique of music if even just half sincere. Where I think the subject of music leaves and what is destructive towards what we do as musicians comes is when a player's character is attacked presumptuously and without warrant which has been going on here. I didn't have to go far into the last Bonamassa thread that was locked by mods about a week ago for reasons of abuse without finding these personal slags.... just in the first few hours of a 40 page thread!

spoilt little brat
Narcissistic personality with likelihood of abandonment issues
miserable
assclown
Joe Bonamassa is so full of himself... ..You can just tell he does it for all the wrong reasons
Here's a guy who thought his S don't stink
he's clearly delusional
asshole
whiny bitch
he's a tool
a poser
moronic
Egomaniacal Narcissistic
stupid
spoiled brat
creepy attire
Suits, sunglasses, receding hairline, theremin = Fail

Then add an early warning by a Gear Page moderator: "Do it without the musician bashing. I'm sick and tired of the negativity and flat out bashing of musicians....Topic at hand is fine. Personal attacks on JB, not fine. Trust that's clear."

I really don't know any other way to catagorize the above comments, supposedly coming from music loving, guitar playing peers, but as mean spiritedand just plain wrong. For the third time, In my 40 years as a career player I've found this type of mean spirit rarely if ever (none to my knowledge) exists in the realm of those who have the heart, work ethic, and potential of a successful career musician. I believe everyone involved in this type of internet bashing would benefit greatly if they were to check their own heart.... I am confident of this and believe this to be true from decades of my own personal situations. In the big picture, it's a bad thing for music all the way around.

[CyberFerret]

So much for ....."Music not being a competition."
Do not know how many times I have read that on the forums.....

From Music Radar:

The tweets started at around 9am this morning, with Joe stating the facts:

"stats.12 records.. 9 # 1 blues albums... Sold out shows around the globe.. 0 Grammy nominations.. Honestly.. I used to care.. not anymore (sic)"

However, it quickly became apparent that JoBo had his heart set on a nomination and felt the awards ceremony had snubbed him, as he later stated:

"Disappointed and rejected isn't the word to describe how I feel again about being shut out of the Grammy nods.. Again.. 12 in a row.. (sic)"

Things then started to get a "bit sweary", as Joe followed up with...

"Im honestly so done with this bullshit... I will never submit another record again for the Grammys.. Its a waist of my time and postage. (sic)"

And then finally…

"How many consecutive #1's does it take ... ??? **** off.."

I'd question the validity of the source of these quotes...I've been following JoeB on twitter for a while now, and cannot recall the red quotes above. I checked his timeline and cannot see them on there. He could of course have deleted them, which you can do to your twitter stream.

I see a self deprecating entry for mis-spelling 'waste' as 'waist' so perhaps they were there for a short time and he (or his management team) deleted them when he cooled off a bit.

How nice of someone to record them though, and republish them. Of course, we should ALWAYS believe everything we see on the internet, and NONE of us here have EVER said anything in the heat of the moment that they have regretted later...have we??

:rolleyes:

[Bezzy]

Wow, it might be a little bitchy complaining about the nomination but really the rest is kind of silly. Dude the guy and his band rocked the **** out of a 3000 seater last night and it was awesome. Tell me how many guys can sing play and front the band for two hour plus and tour the world? Warren Haynes can, Gary Moore is dead.
Chad of Nickelback?

[DreamPop]

Wow, it might be a little bitchy complaining about the nomination but really the rest is kind of silly. Dude the guy and his band rocked the **** out of a 3000 seater last night and it was awesome. Tell me how many guys can sing play and front the band for two hour plus and tour the world? Warren Haynes can, Gary Moore is dead.
Chad of Nickelback?

Katy Perry.
Lady Gaga.

Wait, they play to 15,000 people at a time.

[Bezzy]

Katy Perry.
Lady Gaga.

Wait, they play to 15,000 people at a time.

Yes Lady Gaga is very good blues/rock artist I forgot.

[DreamPop]

Yes Lady Gaga is very good blues/rock artist I forgot.

You didn't specify, but:

John Mayer. He also plays to 15,000+ and tours the world.

Also:
U2
Muse
Bruce Springsteen
Keith Urban
Brad Paisley
Coldplay
Radiohead
Metallica
Nickelback (and all of their clones)

[CyberFerret]

I wish someone would explain to me where the cutoff point is from being a TGP support fest to turning into a TGP sledgefest?

I am sure that if most other everyday TGP members posted a list of their top influences (http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=837289) it would be a nice, intelligent discussion about their choices, and people discussing their own influences.

Someone quotes third party Joe B's list of influences and we have to go through a 10 page up and down thread discussing his character traits and people voicing their displeasure that 'he' dares to voice his mind in some instances.

So, what is the invisible 'line in the sand' here nowadays?

* Are you safe whilst you still play in bars and blues jams to 100 people or less?
* Are you safe whilst your CD's are still only listed on CD-Baby. Once on iTunes, the gloves come off?
* Does playing in 1000 seat venues mean that you now have to just 'shut up and play yer guitar'?
* Once you have written your 5th album, then perhaps people will have enough track material to analyse and post exactly how 'derivative' you are to three decimal places?
* Once you have toured and played a concert in Reykjavik, Iceland, then that automatically marks you as an 'arrogant so and so' that has forgotten about his roots?
* Perhaps buying expensive gear and actually USING it to entertain people with is the tipping point to 'How DARE he expose my bedroom tone secrets to the filthy public' ??

Someone please enlighten me...

[Polynitro]

cool is this officially a bag on Chad of Nickelback thread now? Sweet

[Bezzy]

You didn't specify, but:

John Mayer. He also plays to 15,000+ and tours the world.

Also:
U2
Muse
Bruce Springsteen
Keith Urban
Brad Paisley
Coldplay
Radiohead
Metallica
Nickelback (and all of their clones)

Yes they all play huge gigs but they are not doing the blues thing.
John Mayer is now but really not may are.
I mean if you want to see a great blues player fronting a band who is left.

[Bezzy]

cool is this officially a bag on Chad of Nickelback thread now? Sweet
Yes this thread has gone all Chad now.

[Deathmonkey]

Fixed.

Good comeback, bro! High 5!
http://golfsquares.files.wordpress.com/2008/10/high-five-golf.jpg?w=300&h=410

[paulscape]

Had Jo mentioned his top song writers of all time instead of guitarists he might gain an understanding of why he doesn't win Grammys. Jo is a great guitarist. No one can really cover that one up, but is he a great song writer and performer? I don't know if he is. I listen to Jo for his guitar playing but I'll listen to Mayer because of his songs. I don't know many of Jimmy Page's solos intimately but I know his songs intimately. I don't even play any of the edges music but know U2 like coca cola. The three guitarists chosen for 'it might get loud' all came from song driven bands. Maybe it's not all about how well you can play the blues scale or how many albums you sell but song writing talent. Growing up in a guitar store Jo was surrounded by guitar licks and gear but maybe not so much songs? Anyway like the guy, wish I had his job that's for sure.

[Cody]

Maybe it's not all about how well you can play the blues scale or how many albums you sell but song writing talent.

We're talking about the GRAMMYS - whatever they do judge by (and it IS a mystery), it ain't THAT.

[tnvol]

lol This has turned into comedy gold.

[Bezzy]

Had Jo mentioned his top song writers of all time instead of guitarists he might gain an understanding of why he doesn't win Grammys. Jo is a great guitarist. No one can really cover that one up, but is he a great song writer and performer? I don't know if he is. I listen to Jo for his guitar playing but I'll listen to Mayer because of his songs. I don't know many of Jimmy Page's solos intimately but I know his songs intimately. I don't even play any of the edges music but know U2 like coca cola. The three guitarists chosen for 'it might get loud' all came from song driven bands. Maybe it's not all about how well you can play the blues scale or how many albums you sell but song writing talent. Growing up in a guitar store Jo was surrounded by guitar licks and gear but maybe not so much songs? Anyway like the guy, wish I had his job that's for sure.

Yes I agree he needs better songs, his songs are good but not great. I find as a guitar player an average song with awesome guitar suits me fine but for the average person they want the song and do not really even know or care about great guitar playing. Even SRV had some catchy tracks with killer playing. Thats the thing a lot of the best guitar players do not write the best songs. Malmsteen is a good example, I love his playing but his songs pretty much suck.

[kimock]

you guys dont see the problem with saying this about people youve never met?

"These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician. "


whats the difference? To me this is unfounded hate.

I don't have a problem with that. I'm sure he's right, and the comment isn't so much about what people he's never met do as it is about what people he's worked with all his life don't do, which is shit where they eat.

There's zero hate in that, it's a statement of fact, one of the few really obvious truths around this place: the folks dishing out the shit are unemployable.
Prove me wrong.
There's no national acts here bagging on Joe, no successful musicians hiding behind their internet anonymity to disparage one of their own.

That bit you're having trouble with, "These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician. "
that's true, they don't.
Not a single one of 'em.

Not a single one of those guys is gonna step up to the plate with any cred, and you know it. .
:munch

[Polynitro]

this is what were talking about here:

"Yeah, I agree. I don't mind his voice, it works for some songs, but his albums would sound much better if he'd have a main singer and then do backing vocals and the occasional lead vocals.

I feel that way about Eric Johnson, too. Not a bad voice, but he doesn't have the power and sound of a great lead singer. Imagine songs like "Lonely in the Night" with a Perry or Gramm. "

Now to say this poster has no heart or work ethic because he said that is kind of silly.

[kimock]

this is what were talking about here:


Now to say this poster has no heart or work ethic because he said that is kind of silly.

Exactly what's at issue is covered in post #138.

Also, you missed the most important bit, "no potential of success" relative to a career as a musician.
Your attempts to redirect traffic around the original point that there are manners among professional musicians that are obvious to professional musicians is kinda pathetic.

Go back, read post 138, get it in context, admit the obvious, and feel free to address me directly.

[Polynitro]

I hear what youre saying and I agree for the most part but, thats from another thread. Seems we cant saying anything negative or well be called heartless and no work ethic.

[kebotrans]

I have liked Bonamassa since the first time I heard him. As far as arrogant I do not know him well enough to make that assumption. I doubt many of us here do. I know this. He inspires me to play and is one of my influences.

As a fan and guitar player I look up to him, and I don't think Ill be calling him names until I am touring and selling more tickets then him. Until that time I will let his music inspire me to be a better player.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!!

[kimock]

I hear what youre saying and I agree for the most part but, thats from another thread. Seems we cant saying anything negative or well be called heartless and no work ethic.

It seemed clear to me that what was being addressed was people talking shit.
Actual shit talking, "that guy's an asshole" type trip.

Also, you keep leaving out the "potential for success" bit.
That's important in this context, because it frames the argument as a matter of professional courtesy, at which point it's painfully obvious that the quote:

"These people simply don't have the heart, the work ethic or the potential of a successful musician. "

Is true. They don't have the heart or the courage to pursue music with any single mindedness of purpose, and as a result aren't about to become professional musicians anytime soon.

Nobody is suggesting anybody else is a heartless bastard because they don't absolutely love every f'king thing they hear, I sure don't, but then again I wouldn't call anybody a dick just cuz I didn't feel like covering their tune.

That's all. It's obvious when somebody has zero professional courtesy that they themselves aren't professional.
Nobody with any skin in the game shits where they eat.

What's so hard about that?:huh

[DreamPop]

Anonymously insulting a famous player is crossing the line. Anonymously insulting a non-famous stranger is perfectly acceptable. That is all I've gotten from this thread.

[LJOHNS]

I did not read all 11 pages here but I did just download Joe's last CD - "Dust Bowl" and it is fantastic! - if you like the blues with some edge!

[vintage66]

I've got his albums as well as the Black Country Communion album. As for his playing, it's very impressive, although I think for his genre...blues...he gets a little bit on the shreddy side of things. Impressive solos, etc....but being that his choice is to also be a vocalist...that's where the whole thing collapses for me.

His voice is awful. He sounds like Kermit the Frog to me. He should have gotten a vocalist, a la, Kenny Wayne Shepherd or something. Just my opinion of course.

It's funny you say that-I've never liked KWS's vocalists-I think Joe is better. I do like BCC better though-having Glenn Hughes as a singer is obviously a huge upgrade, plus the songs are better imo. I think the band thing suits him. I hope they keep it together for a long time. Cool having Jason Bonham on drums too.

[Funky54]

It's funny you say that-I've never liked KWS's vocalists-I think Joe is better. I do like BCC better though-having Glenn Hughes as a singer is obviously a huge upgrade, plus the songs are better imo. I think the band thing suits him. I hope they keep it together for a long time. Cool having Jason Bonham on drums too.
I dont like traditional blues. (I resent it being forced down my throat as the ONLY live guitar driven entertainment available where I live,) However BCC opened a door for me to start to appreciate Joe. I love BCC. Becasue of that, I am now looking into other J B music. Glen sounds amazing. the entire band sounds like a real band. Their music sounds like they are unified in the passion, goal and direction. They sound like they like each other... The way it use to be with bands that were tight, like family and not hired performers with egos to step on.

[Devnor]

I dont like traditional blues. (I resent it being forced down my throat as the ONLY live guitar driven entertainment available where I live,) However BCC opened a door for me to start to appreciate Joe. I love BCC.

:agree

[aussiemeats]

G'Day,

I Like Joe. Unlike most of you'se, I've met him several times, I've spoken with him

many times, I've seen him at The Baked Potato in L.A. several times and he has

always had time for me, and his fans, He signs guitars, he allows photos to be taken

with him, he allows videos to be shot, and he's always been cordial and

giving of his time, with, and for, his fans.

Besides all that, he SMOKES on the guitar..whether it's Rock, Blues Jazz, Fusion

Country or Acoustic...Joe does it all...WELL. and he's still maturing as a musician.

He is human, and he does get irritated at times, like everybody else

when they're constantly getting beat up on forums..

I haven't seen ANY other musicians give the amount of access to themselves,

by their fans then Joe does. He takes a lot of CRAP from these forums, that he

doesn't deserve...But you know Most of you guys talking the crap DON'T EVEN

KNOW JOE.......let alone the ability to play guitar, or create songs, as well as he does...

Give the guy a break...He worked hard to get

where he is, and he's good to his fans...Joe's a good human being...

Some of you criticizers should maybe think about Herbert Spenser's comments regarding

Contempt PRIOR to INVESTIGATION......

cause I think there's a lot of ignorance around here...Just my opinion...

Cheers