During the 1980's, Brooklyn, NY - born guitarist Steve Stevens was one of the most popular and in-demand musicians in rock and pop music. As an integral member of the Billy Idol band, Stevens' brilliant and distinctive guitar style was a major contributing factor in the multi-platinum selling and chart-topping success that Billy Idol experienced. And when Stevens collaborated with music and movie soundtrack composer, Harold Faltermeyer in 1986 on the "Top Gun Anthem," it resulted in the duo winning a Grammy-Award in 1987, for "Best Pop Instrumental Performance." Soon after, everyone from Michael Jackson to Robert Palmer demanded that Stevens’ unique guitar flair be incorporated into their songs. Stevens had so many guest appearance requests, that he had no choice, but to turn most of them down.
Stevens left the Billy Idol band in the late 80's, to form his own group- Steve Stevens' Atomic Playboys. In this band, Stevens was able to really unleash his guitar playing, with extended solos and over-the-top extreme playing. Unfortunately this project failed to achieve the success that Stevens had hoped for, resulting in Stevens discontinuing this project.
Stevens then hooked up with former Hanoi Rocks vocalist, Michael Monroe. However, Monroe and Stevens clashed on the musical direction of the band. But shortly after, Stevens was recruited by Motley Crue's Vince Neil, after Neil termination from Motley Crue. With Neil, Stevens recorded, in 1993, the hard-driving, glam-metal styled record, "Exposed." But with the musical climate changing from rock to grunge, Stevens didn't see much of a future with Neil, so he departed.
Stevens then took some time off to get sober and to get refocused and recharged. During this time, he rediscovered his passion for Flamenco guitar, and in 1999, released an outstanding instrumental record in this style entitled, "Flamenco a Go-Go."
In 2001, Stevens and Idol reunited, and have remained together, touring and recording ever since. But Stevens still found time to release his third solo record, "Memory Crash" in 2008. This rock heavy, all-instrumental, eclectic, guitar master-piece showcased Stevens’ innovative fret board skills. "Memory Crash" proved that Stevens' is truly one of the most gifted and skilled guitarist in rock music.
What follows is an exclusive Rock Music Star interview with Steve Stevens. During this conversation we talk about the many facets of his amazing career. So check out what Steve had to say, and if you are near Western New York, Steve will be performing will Billy Idol on June 4th at the beautiful Artpark concert facility in Lewiston NY. Tickets can be purchased here.
To read interview, click here.
Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 10:25AM 
