Guitarist Steve Stevens recently shared his perspective on musical influences and stylistic diversity. He made notable comments about Eric Clapton’s approach to guitar playing in an interview with Ultimate Classic Rock.
Stevens discussed his musical journey. He explained why progressive rock guitarists appealed to him more than traditional blues-based players.
“I started on guitar when I was seven and a half, and the initial stuff was all the folk [music] that was happening,” Stevens said. “I didn’t get an electric guitar till I was 13. So [I was hearing] James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, John Fahey, you know, blues stuff, Hot Tuna, with Jorma Kaukonen.”
He elaborated on how his diverse musical background shaped his preferences.
“I had this background of folk [as a result],” he continued. “Then I started to take classical guitar lessons and I had a teacher who delved into some jazz stuff. So when I heard the progressive guys, they were utilizing all these styles within the context of a rock band.”
Stevens specifically praised Steve Hackett’s versatility. He explained how it influenced his own approach.
“Certainly, Steve Hackett played some beautiful classical guitar pieces and some psychedelic stuff, very Robert Fripp influenced,” he said. “So what I loved about him was I could take all this stuff that I had already learned, and apply it to a rock band.”
The guitarist then made his comparison to Eric Clapton. He contrasted their different approaches to the instrument.
“[That was different] than guys like [Eric] Clapton, who is a brilliant guitar player, but basically plugged in and played [White] blues,” Stevens said. “For me, it just didn’t tickle my fancy as much as the guys who were really stylistically going everywhere.”
Stevens’ comments reflect his career-long commitment to musical experimentation and genre-blending. This approach has distinguished him from more traditional blues-based guitarists throughout his decades in the industry.
Mabumbe reported that Stevens’ musical style is known for its genre-defying approach, blending hard rock, flamenco, and electronic influences. His pioneering use of guitar synthesizers reflects his desire to push beyond traditional guitar sonic boundaries. This trait distinguishes him from more straightforward blues players like Clapton.
Stevens has won prestigious accolades throughout his career that underscore his reputation as an innovator in guitar technique and sound design. BOSS noted that Stevens received the BOSS Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting his commitment to evolving artistry and technical innovation. This recognition stands in contrast to how Clapton is often celebrated more for his mastery of traditional blues styles.
Stevens’ Grammy Award win further validates his approach to musical diversity and experimentation. Mabumbe emphasized that these honors highlight his success in creating music that transcends conventional genre boundaries. This supports his preference for artists who incorporate multiple musical styles rather than focusing solely on blues traditions.
The guitarist’s philosophy of stylistic exploration has been a defining characteristic throughout his work with Billy Idol and his solo projects. His comments about preferring musicians who go “stylistically everywhere” reflect a broader artistic vision. This vision has shaped his approach to guitar playing and composition for over four decades.
