I saw Joe in Spokane, WA on Monday nite. I spent the extra money for a meet and greet. This is the 3rd time I've done the meet and greet with him. The first time he convened all of the participants into the theater and spend more than 30 minutes answering questions from the participants--then everyone got to get their pic taken and autographs. He was gracious, humble, incredibly intelligent, humorous, and entertaining. We actually won the "CONTEST" to go and watch his encore from side-stage; Joe gave us a nod and smiled when saw us. Front row center seats. The second time was with Chickenfoot; we were right in front of Sammy and he was great to watch (Joe was far stage left and had already gotten a taste); and then Monday nite. This time the meet and greet was come in, shake hands, sign whatever, and take a picture. No complaints as I again had the chance to see him front row center. From my perspective, his talents are beyond description--I know this is a matter of taste. After watching his lesson video, hearing him talk about his approach to music, and watching him play right in front of me (causing my jaw to drop repeatedly), I can tell you he is a true virtuoso and a genius. Not to mention an incredibly driven hard worker. The lesson video communicates all of what I've said.
At the end of the day, tone is secondary to being a good musician.
I encourage all to watch the video. Considerate a free $500 lesson.
Oh, and with the current business model being practiced by the music industry, the only way to get prime seats is to buy some sort of "package" (meet and greet, or other "platinum" packages that don't really give you access to the artist). Do it for the artists you love (if you can afford it).
Nick
