Steve Stevens, the incredibly talented guitarist for Billy Idol, captivates audiences every evening with his mesmerizing nylon-string guitar solo. This performance subtly incorporates elements of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” and Van Halen's "Eruption", serving as a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Eddie Van Halen, who originally inspired Stevens to explore classical guitar techniques.

Reflecting on his journey, Stevens shared, “Interestingly, the way I began performing a nylon guitar solo was during my time with Vince Neil’s band. We spent about six weeks opening for Van Halen.” He recounted, “Vince insisted, ‘Hey, you’ve got to showcase a guitar solo.’ My initial thought was, ‘No way I can perform an electric solo, especially when this guy is about to blow everyone away with ‘Eruption,’ the ultimate guitar showcase.’

“I pondered what I could present that would truly represent Steve Stevens,” he continued. “That’s when I decided on a nylon guitar solo, a style I’ve embraced since I was 8 years old. One of my earliest mentors was a flamenco guitarist, which made this choice distinct from what Eddie would deliver. Since that moment in the ’90s, I’ve consistently performed in this unique style.”

Steve Stevens Remembers Eddie Van Halen’s Unmatched Generosity

Currently touring with Billy Idol across North America and Europe until late September, Stevens fondly reminisced about his jam sessions with Eddie Van Halen during the 1980s, highlighting the guitarist’s remarkable generosity and spirit.

“I had already developed a friendship with Eddie, having previously performed at the NAMM Show alongside him,” Stevens recalled. “I remember when Billy Idol was on tour, and we played at the Forum in L.A. around ’88 — we invited Eddie to join us for the encore. Our friendship was already established, and we spent a considerable amount of time together.”

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At that time, Stevens reflected, “I was still using my vintage Marshalls on tour, but they were becoming increasingly unreliable. I vividly remember Eddie approaching me and saying, ‘Why don’t you give my gear a try?’ He had just introduced his Peavey 5150 line, and within three days, a truck arrived with three heads and three cabinets, completely resolving my issues. This experience led me to endorse Peavey for many years.” (Eddie Van Halen also generously gifted equipment to fellow touring acts like Alice in Chains and Skid Row.)

“The guy was incredibly generous,” Stevens emphasized. “He even allowed us full access to sound checks, PA systems, and lighting. When you’re Van Halen and possess that level of talent, you can afford to be generous, knowing your greatness is secure.”

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Steve Stevens Introduces the Innovative Ciari Signature Ascender Guitars Featuring Foldable Necks

Stevens is well-acquainted with groundbreaking guitar technology. He has joined forces with Ciari Guitars to develop the Steve Stevens Signature Ascender line. This series includes two models — the Ascender Platinum and the Ascender Premier — both equipped with Stevens’ signature Bare Knuckle Ray Gun pickups and Ciari’s patented foldable neck system. This innovative feature allows musicians to easily collapse their guitars, making them convenient for air travel as personal items.

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“As a touring musician, I continually write and record demos, sharing ideas while on the road,” Stevens explained. “I often set up a recording system in my hotel room, making this guitar an invaluable asset that enables me to work and create music anywhere I go.”

“With Billy Idol, we enjoy the luxury of transporting a lot of gear, including semis full of equipment,” Stevens noted. “However, I also participate in several all-star shows with groups like Billy Morrison’s Royal Machines or Matt Sorum’s Kings of Chaos. In these instances, we typically travel light, utilizing amp modelers, and having a folding guitar aligns perfectly with that approach.”