Bon Jovi guitarist Phil X recently joined Ted Nugent for an interview where he explained how Nugent influenced his guitar playing at an early age, as shared on Ted Nugent’s YouTube channel.
The discussion arose when Nugent asked Phil X about his musical inspirations, specifically questioning where he got the inspiration for his work with Bon Jovi and Triumph in 2026.
“I got to tell you, in my early age of 11 and 12, it was you,” Phil X responded. “It was Double Live Gonzo, man. It was dropping the needle on that every day after school and then I was picking up the guitar and I was learning the songs. I mean, the opening track just what the doctor ordered. I had that down.”
Phil X continued to describe the profound impact Nugent’s music had on his development as a guitarist.
“That was the beginning of Reckless Guitar from the Heart and it was you,” he said. “Yeah. And then obviously moved on to other heroes and stuff like that. But when I got to play with you, I get tingles talking about it, man. It was like this unbelievable energy of like, ‘What the is happening?'”
The album that shaped Phil X’s early guitar development holds significant historical importance in rock music. Wikipedia documented that Double Live Gonzo! was released as a double LP in January 1978 by Epic Records. It became one of Ted Nugent’s most successful releases.
The album’s commercial success reflected its impact on aspiring guitarists like Phil X. Ted Nugent’s official website noted that the live recording earned 3× Platinum status in the United States. This demonstrated its widespread appeal among rock fans and musicians.
The specific track that captivated young Phil X, “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” was among the explosive live cuts featured on the album. Wikipedia reported that the album included performances recorded in Nashville alongside original compositions such as “Yank Me, Crank Me.” This showcased Nugent’s dynamic live energy that would inspire countless guitarists.
The raw energy captured on Double Live Gonzo! represented the essence of 1970s hard rock that would influence a generation of musicians. The album’s success established Nugent as a guitar hero whose influence extended far beyond his initial fan base. It reached young players like Phil X who would later achieve their own success in major rock bands.
The interview highlighted the lasting influence that established rock musicians continue to have on newer generations of guitarists. It demonstrated how classic albums like Double Live Gonzo! continue to inspire new talent decades after their release.
