Joe Satriani On Touring With Yngwie: ‘He Tested My Patience’

In a new interview with Classic Rock, Joe Satriani recalled the G3 tour in 2003 including Eric Johnson, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen. Satriani explained how Malmsteen was different from other guitarists.

The main issue, according to Satriani, was Malmsteen’s inability to share the spotlight. As the star of his own show for so long, Malmsteen was used to being the center of attention at all times. This became clear when it came to the dynamics of the G3 stage. “The only problem that I would have is that sometimes he wouldn’t pay attention to other things happening on stage when his bit was done. He’s not used to not being the focus of the show,” the rocker recalled.

As the show leader, Satriani often had to intervene to avoid potential chaos. There were moments when Malmsteen would throw his guitar up in the air, even during another guitarist’s solo. “So as show leader, I’d just take a deep breath and say: ‘I have to understand that Yngwie’s not used to this kind of thing.’”

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Satriani recalled having to gently remind him, “So we’d be as gentle as possible. Like, I’d say, ‘When Steve’s soloing, don’t throw your guitar up in the air right next to him, because he’s got his eyes closed. I don’t want him to get hit in the head!'”

In 2024, Satriani brought back the original G3 lineup. The 2024 G3 tour wasn’t just a return to form for the trio, but also an opportunity for fresh collaborations and special guest appearances. Names like Plini, and Nita Strauss joined the tour.

The tour also saw a special one-off appearance by Satriani’s son, ZZ Satriani. He joined his father on stage.