I don’t normally stop famous people when I see them. I ate dinner next to (literally right next to) Randy Couture at a locals spot about a month ago, and despite my lady poking me on the leg every 45 seconds, I did not identify that I knew who he was or ask for an autograph or pic. We talked a bit and we had a great conversation with his girlfriend (who loves dogs and is from South Bend, IN). But I normally don’t like to be the douchebag fanboy – I prefer to leave them alone. I wouldn’t want people glomming on to me all the time, so I try to be respectful.
That said, Vernon Reid was a huge influence during my formative musical years, so when I had the chance to meet him, I took it!
After the Experience Hendrix Tour, I headed off for a bit with my drummer, music hombre, and BFAM Corey Owens. As we headed back to the casino to drink some water and prepare for our drive home, I spied the one and only Vernon Reid walking from the concert venue to his hotel room.
I said “hey, you played tonight, right?” He seemed to try to ignore us, looked around a bit and then said “yeah, man.” I told him he sounded great…better than last year. He clearly didn’t want to be fucked with so I tried to whip up a question that would make him think, complement him, and let him beat a hasty retreat if he wanted.
What I asked was “Who would you rather jam with – Joe Satriani or Steve Vai?” I asked this because he ended this year’s show jamming with Steve over Foxey Lady. Last year’s show ended with him jamming with Satch on Watchtower.
He said “Wow…” and actually thought for a second before saying that they were both sick players, but he really enjoyed the Vai experience. He also mentioned that there was talk of Satch showing up to create a Satch/Vai/Reid jam at the end of the night this year, but that Satch couldn’t pull it off with his schedule.
I also asked if he played a Parker guitar (which he clearly did) and he just said “yeah.” I figured he could have elaborated if he wanted to, but since he gave the one word answer I guessed he wanted to get up to his room.
After telling him it was great to meet him, Corey and I shook his hand and we walked off.