In a recent interview with Music Radar, guitar virtuoso Steve Vai shared a memorable incident from his time performing with David Lee Roth.
“I was playing a big arena somewhere and people throw things occasionally. When you see them coming, not a problem, you can play with it and dodge. You can even catch it,” Vai recalled. “So, I saw something coming at me and was about to catch it. It blew up about six feet in front of me. There was a huge explosion, and I went up in the air.”
“I could see my feet and then I was totally out, unconscious on my back,” he continued. “I opened my eyes in front of 25,000 people. Dave was standing over me going, ‘Dude! Dude! You okay, man?’ When I said I was okay, he told me not to get up. Dave always knew how to keep things interesting…”
“They carried me to the back [of the stage],” Vai explained. “Dave said, ‘When you walk out there, act all f*cked-up before throwing your hand up in the air!’ Everyone in the audience was dying to see what happened. They were wondering if I was okay and if the show would carry on.”
The incident concluded with a theatrical return to the stage. “So I did this funny walk, looking all messed up, and put my hand up. I gotta tell you, the place came apart and it was brilliant. Then we did Jump!” Vai said.
This dramatic stage moment exemplified one of many memorable experiences during Vai’s tenure with David Lee Roth’s band.
Documentation from Audiophix revealed that Vai joined Roth’s band in 1985. He participated in extensive tours, including the celebrated Eat ‘Em and Smile Tour from August 1986 to February 1987. The Skyscraper Tour followed in 1988.
Historical records highlighted the collaboration’s success. Their album ‘Eat ‘Em and Smile’ reached number four on the Billboard 200 chart. Vai enjoyed considerable creative freedom during this period. He maintained his distinctive style without pressure to compete with Eddie Van Halen.
VHND documented the distinctive characteristics of their tours. The performances featured high-energy shows and elaborate stage setups. Backstage parties often included large gatherings with fans.
The duo nearly reunited in November 2015 at the Ultimate Jam Night in California. The original ‘Eat ‘Em and Smile’ lineup planned to perform. However, overcapacity issues and Fire Marshal intervention led to the event’s cancellation.
