MAILBAG ARCHIVES:

- September 20, 2000

- July 04, 2000

- June 09, 2000

- May 18, 2000

- March 05, 2000

- January 11, 2000

- December 27, 1999

- November 02, 1999

- September 18, 1999

- August 27, 1999

- March 16, 1999

- January 30, 1999

- October 22, 1998

- April 26, 1998

- March 30, 1998

- March 17, 1998

March 05, 2000:

"Jibboom", by Mohammed Al-Haddadin

Hello,

Here is my picture that was taken in NYC on 11-23-99. This night was seriously the greatest night of my life. I'd like to thank Steve and the rest of his band for putting on such an amazing show, night after night, and also for making such great music that inspires me each and every time I pick up my guitar. I look forward to anything Steve does in the future, even if he's playing a shoebox with rubber bands attatched to it, I'll be the first in line to buy it.

Thanks a million Steve. Oh yeah, Rich you rule too...

Warm Regards...
Andy Dampier

Dear Steve,

I'm a 15 year old guitarist from Long Island (currently in Arizona), and I just want to say that you are my greatest musical influence. I've been playing now for over 5 years, and for a while, things had just kind of gotten lame (Green Day can only take you so far), until I bought 'Passion And Warfare'. I nearly swallowed my pick! It was then that I knew what I was aspiring to.

I had the privilege of seeing your December show at the Cajun House in Arizona. I was blown away by the intensity that you kept the whole show, despite recovering from illness. Not only are you one of the most talented musicians on the planet, I feel you are one of the best performers as well. There was never a dull moment. And then you stuck around outside to give every single fan an autograph, or take a picture, etc.... And just the fact that all the band members were willing to hang out with the fans. It was an experience I will never forget.

You are an inspiration to us all. We love you Steve. God bless.

Peace and Love, and Good Happiness Stuff,
Russell Muller

Steve,

I don't know how to express myself to let you know what an awesome performance I witnessed from yourself and your band last night at Rockefeller in Oslo. I was there when you visited with VAI a few years back and that was great, but this was way beyond what I could ever imaging possible to do 'live'. I have just one thing to say, man - YOU HAVE TO TAPE THIS SHOW TO VIDEO AND DVD! It is the most incredible live performance I've ever witnessed by any band - ever! I came with my brother (who is not a guitar fanatic) and he asked before the show how long I expected you to be on stage? I said probably 2 hours and he felt it would possibly be a bit boring to listen to a guitar for 2 long hours. But when you guys started your set our jaws dropped to the floor and stayed there for the entire 2 hour set! I guess this is where I could use the expression 'he never knew what hit him'. (The best expression might be 'The VAI train'....) What you guys did onstage was pure magic! The 2 hours went by like minutes and sitting here now I wish I had jumped a flight to Denmark to see you in Copenhagen tonite! I am still lost for words to describe what an impact this concert had on me. I just hope you read this e-mail and bring my thanx for an 'out of this world' experience to the rest of the band and your roadcrew!

'An even more dedicated Steve Vai fan'

All the best, Lennart

Hey there!

Although I'm not real familiar with your work, I have heard some and was quite impressed. I am in the process of marketing my poems and songs and it is indeed a bear, but the reason for this letter is what I read on the site about individuality and the way we are and that kinda stuff. You are obviously NOT another trendy big hair guy from the 80's! I have been playing around with the guitar for about 20 plus years, just for entertainment, and there are those times when everything clicks and I'm on cloud 9 and usually alone, but there is no greater feeling than being able to make music. Even though it's just for me!! Good fortune with your family and career!!!

Billy Azlin

Hello Vai.com

I send youa new artwork for Mr Vai. Rodolphe Wery from France (universe777@wanadoo.fr). Pleeeease put it in the Vai.com site, I work very hard to make this (all the night!!!! and my girl friend is angry about me!!!)

Thanks you !!!!

Dear Steve,

You know what? I still feel excited now since I went to your concert in Taipei 2 days ago. Actually I didn't really know you much before, but in that night, you expanded my eyes and opened my mind. I didn't know that emotions and feelings can be expressed through music in a so strong and direct and vivid way, until I heard you playing on stage. And each one of you are all so incredible. You guys totally rocked Taipei all night!!

We're all amazed, driven crazy and loud and contented. I'm so moved and touched that I can't stop recalling every sound I heard from your guitar and every moment of that night, and I guess it's gonna last for some more days.... So I just want to say THANKS. THANK YOU for giving us such a wonderful night. It's already, as you said, become a beatiful memory in my life.

Btw, don't compare yourself with Ricky Martin. His hip is nice though but means nothing while your performance means a lot to me. Not all girls are crazy only for sexy Ricky. And most important of all, please VISIT TAIWAN AGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIN!!!

I'll be missing you until your next concert here.

yours,
Daphny Huang

Hello,

I'm just 13 years old , I don't play guitar and I'm not a guy!!! I've been listening Vai's song since I was a young baby! And my sister too. She is 5 years old and she loves YA -YO GAKK. My parents have all your CDs, and they watched all your concerts in Rio and Brazil. In the next I'll be there, wait for me!!!!!! By the way my mom sent you an e-mail, but she forgot to write our e-mail address! She's a little crazy!!! A little no ,TOO MUCH!!!! NO, NO!!! TOO TOO TOOO OOOOOO MUCH !!!!!!!!!!!!!! And my dad, plays guitar!!!! And I just know you 'cause of my parents! So you were introduced to me by my parents!!!

See you in Rio!!!!

Bye

FairyAngel

On Dec. 14th, I was lucky enough to see the "Ultra Zone" tour stop in Phoenix, AZ at the Cajun House. I've seen Steve numerous times but this time was special. It seems as though Steve was gettin' over pneumonia and announced that he would do more instrumentals because of his voice due to the flu bug. We all cheered knowing that Steve was going to give it his all in the name of love and music.Steve then proceeded to show the crowd a new meaning for showmanship and love for his fans. It was like he was playing in our living room giving us all a chance to participate. I've never seen an artist make so much contact with his audience. He pointed to many of us, smiled at us, and made so much eye-contact you would swear he was a close friend saying hey. Steve even took a stage dive and we all held him and gently put him back on stage. After the show he signed my Jem10, amongst all things for all people. And as I tried to get a picture of my guitar next to him, he said,"Oh no, not like that, like this", proceeding to pose with my guitar. ALL THIS FROM A SICK MAN. Steve is the most gracious man I've ever met and I will always strive to live my life with the same "harmonius tone". Thank GOD for Steve Vai.

Phillip Baeza II

Hi Steve,

My parents aren't rock fans, but they always have been very supportive of my music efforts. Many years ago I started playing guitar, and since my parents have heard a lot about you and your music. My dad became fond of "For the Love of God" and always asks me to play it, or try anyway. So I thought that I would take them to a concert. I really wanted them to see what guitar playing is all about. I wanted them to see how much energy there is, and how the crowd responds as one. I also wanted to show them someone who could really play and was fun to be with. They think I'm the best guitarist, but you know, parents always think that. Obviously, there was only one show for them to see; Steve Vai.

They came to visit me in St. Louis and we attended your show last Halloween night. That day we saw you at Guitar Center and my dad won a couple extra tickets for being the oldest fan there. He's only 56, but sometimes he looks older. Then later that night we headed out for the venue. We arrived an hour early and ended up in the middle of the line waiting to get in. My mom suffered a back injury in a car accident the year before. She recovered almost completely, but still has back pain when standing for long periods of time, especially while standing on concrete. I was hoping there would be a place for her to sit, but all the tables and chairs were removed from the floor. I thought for a while we would have to leave early, but she wouldn't. She stuck it out and we saw the whole show. My dad was hoping you would play "For the Love of God" and was very glad to hear it. My parent's loved it all; the costumes, the lights, the energy, the confetti blast, and most importantly, your band's performance. Thanks for showing them why I love to play. It's a night we won't soon forget.

Marty McConnell

Our friend Eiji in Japan sent these pictures from our recent tour there! Pictured with Eiji, from the top, are of course Steve, Mike Keneally, former vai.com guy Rich Pike, and Steve again.

Dear Steve,

My husband, I, and two of our friends really enjoyed the show at the Fubar in Pompano Beach, Florida. We are so invigorated by the blending of excellence and joy that you and your band bring to the stage. I would like to respond to your comment about ladies not attending your shows except when they are dragged along by spouses and dates. I not only came willingly with my guitarhead husband, but arrived wearing my "Passion and Warfare" T-shirt!

Joseph Campbell, the scholar and writer, talked about people finding their bliss in their work and in their lives. When I see you and Steve Morse each performing live, I know what he meant. I wrote a poem about my experience at the Fubar show and my husband encouraged me to send it to you. Thanks for the great performances and the fine music. Here's the poem:

VAI

Out of the mists of time
he strums, like some exotic electric
dragon breathing fire and flame
- light without heat -

A sonic wizard working his
weirding ways upon the
mesmerized masses,
held in sway by rapturous
melodies He weaves.

A whirlin' modern Merlin
spinning straw into golden
strands of rhythmic patterns of
pounding pulses of pensive sense
and non.

He glides. He slides.
He bends and breaks,
He runs and flies from first
to end,
on fretboards made of
hammer-ons and whacked out
whammy bars.

And then He smiles
and winks and laughs.
He strolls and strums with
dancing fingertips,
grows soft and childlike in his
touch
and chuckles when he thinks
too much.

In frenetic beats He counts in
blinding speed, He races
pauses - still - wrapped silent
in Caesura's arms - then races
on till almost spent, he doubles back
then begins anew.

Oh, take me once more upon your
magic flying Ibanez to kingdoms
past and never were.

Where melodies of molten liquid steel
transport me once again on fantastic
wings
of whimsy and joy to
the Land of the Son of Invention

----
Jan Lord

Dearest Steve & co.,

I feel so privileged to have something as great as a love for music in common with a cool guy like yourself. I don't want to come across as a typical, love-struck teenage girl, but keeping this letter of appreciation brief, it's going to be hard not to. My name is Lauren and I was privileged enough to catch your show in Melbourne, Australia on the 3rd Feb, 2000.. at the Palace nightclub. I am just a scratch under 18 (yes.. the show was over 18.. I'm a criminal... I dressed up a bit... anything to see you.. what can I say?) and although I have only been familiar with your music for a short time, I have found both your lovely self, and your music, to be a real attention getting for me.

I like to refer to myself as an "aspiring guitarist". Though sometimes I wish I would have started my journey with music earlier in ife, anything I lost in time, I'm trying my best to make up in effort and enthusiasm. Watching a successful musician such as yourself getting such joy and making a living from doing something that he obviously loves, has shown me that music, even if it is going to be a tough journey, is definitely an interest that I need to pursue.

I must admit, your little comment about most females in the audience having been dragged along by their boyfriends *almost* gave me an impulse feeling to scream out "I'm free Steve".. but uh.. no, luckily I composed myself and saved myself, and those around me much embarrassment and discomfort.

I admire the fact that you realise how important fans are in the business that you are in, and I hope that the love and time that you put into maintaining them comes back to you doubled. Best wishes for the future Steve, stay inspirational, and above all, please stay yourself.

You rock my world,
Lauren

Hello Steve and Band,

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to play with you in Cleveland, Ohio at the Odeon on November 12, 1999. I really enjoyed winning the contest and jamming with you and your most awesome group of musical maniacs. You severely laid down some tunes that evening and I hope that the rest of the tour is going equally kick ass. Following you since Zappa I find myself enjoying every new group you put together. Thanks again for the chance to meet and lay down some licks with you and the group. This was truly a night to remember!!!

These attached pictures are from the show. Feel free to post them if you would like.

Peace in the New Year,

Freddy DeMarco
"DeMarco Brothers Band"

Dear Steve Vai: If you ever read this, I just want you to know that my Carvin/Vai Legacy combo amp (bought last month) is simply THE GREATEST ROCK GUITAR AMPLIFIER I HAVE EVER PLAYED THRU OR HEARD! I have been playing guitar for 35 years & I know SUPREME quality when I hear (& play) it. Thank you so much for designing this wonderful creation, which has helped rejuvenate my passion for playing rock guitar (although my neighbors may not feel so grateful--?). I'll be adding the 2-12" extension cabinet in the near future (the neighbors will just LOVE that!). My playing has NEVER sounded so good. The Legacy amp is truly a GIFT TO (guitar-playing) HUMANITY! If they awarded Nobel prizes for guitar amp design, you'd win it hands-down, if it were up to me!! Thanks again!

With respect and gratitude,
Don Lockman

Hello to all,

Here's a photo from when Steve visited Guitar Center in North Olmsted (a suburb of Cleveland) on November 12, 1999. The band then gave a splendid performance at the Cleveland Odeon that night.

Pete

To Steve Vai,

Thanks 4 a great concert on the 01 of Feb (Powerstation). Also thank you 4 inviting us into the soundcheck. That was the 2nd time that we had seen you in concert.

Kia Ora from JAYMZ CAVALERA!!!!!!!!

Hello all - I have FINALLY scanned my picture from the concert from Halloween in St. Louis, MO. It was by far the best concert I have ever been to - a bit small and crowded in the Firehouse though! Getting there three hours early was worth everything (thanks to Jarrett) - the line got long! I can't wait to see Steve play again... very awesome, and a great night! Great job to the Vai band (hey Dave)! The bad part - getting up for school the next morning!

Hope to see you all again!
-Amelia

hey steve,

first off i would like to let you know i've been a fan of yours since 1986. when flexable came out i was deeply inspired by every song especially "little green men" that song was so different from anything i ever heard at that time - my mind opened up to all kinds of experiences i never knew existed. i am of course talking about what can be done writing and playing music. i seen you in phoenix at the cajun house on dec. 14, 1999. all i have to say is i'm still in awe. i saw your sex & religion tour in 1995 and i don't remember it being as amazing as this last time. i did meet you then and got 2 guitar picks from you which i show everybody i meet, even people who don't know who you are. and that's a shame. so i insist they listen to your music, so far everyone has gotten hooked instantly. i would like to thank you for the pic you took with me and the signatures. also the best show i've ever seen.

this is for any fans of steve if you haven't seen him live yet, i'll say this:
one thing "YOU MUST SEE HIM" or you'll be missing out on a great experience.

vai fan forever,
Gary Ridener

Hi. I am 9 years old and a big Steve Vai fan. My Mom took me to meet him twice when he was in New York. He is so cool and so nice. I want to be a guitar player. They do not give guitar lessons in my school so for now I am taking drum lessons and learning how to read music. My Dad is a drummer and we also have a keyboard that I am learning to play.

I am so happy that Steve was nominated for a Grammy this year. I think his new album is great. We listen to it all the time at home including my Mom and Dad, and brother and sister - they are 13 and 4.

Ryan Fitzgerald

For my frend and life teacher Steve Vai this photos with the best guitars in the world in my hands. Please Steve come to play your celestial music in Mexico City - your home with pyramids mayas, in this land you have many friends and these friends are waiting for you 2 visit to Mexico your house Steve.

Agustin de la gala
_-^-_777

Hi Rich,

Lachlan here from Melbourne. Thanks a lot for the backstage passes! Here is a scan of two pics of me with Steve and Mike K. Could you please put them up on the Letters & Photos page?

Thanks!
LB

Press Release
to be published ASAP

UJO SIGHTED IN PARIS

A UJO(unidentified jumping object) was sighted yesterday, February 10 2000 in the lobby of renowned french university Panthon-Assas in Paris at around 1015 GMT. Students who have watched the scene say the UJO was jumping around and yelling something like: "I got it! Good God I got it! I fucking got it" The police in Paris have asked special agents D.Scully and F.Mulder from the VBI(Vai Bureau of Investigation) to help them find out the truth.

The special agents of the VBI discovered that the UJO was in fact a third year law student of the university, aged 22, and going by the name of Rabin Bhujun. The young man had just learned by e-mail that he was given a backstage pass in order to meet Steve Vai, his guitar master after the latters show on coming march 15. Upon reading the mail; he transformed in a UJO. The student had been taken to a nearby mental asylum yesterday evening but was released this morning after having been questioned by the VBI's agents.

From the Editor in Chief
Rabin Mag

Thank you very much again guys!

cheers
Rabin

Hi,

My name is Enrique and I'm from Argentina so have some patience with my English.

I just wanted to say how incredibly inspired I am from your music. I've been hearing your music since I was like10 years old with a few Whitesnake albums a friend of mine had and I was gone. After that I bought Passion & Warfare and by listening to "For the Love of God" I started to think of how it was possible for a person to express such an amount of emotions with only one note. I came to the conclusion that there are some things in life that we are better off not knowing.

I just wanted to let you know that and send some warm regards.

PS: I also do my bends in a circle shape

Bye
Enrique

Hi

I've just seen Steve play at the Powerstation in Auckland, New Zealand and I thought I'd drop a line and simply say THANKYOU! That gig was amazing. Cheers also to Mike, Mike, Philip and David, they were also awesome. Steve had a meet & greet the day before the gig and he was a true gentleman, he signed everyone's CDs, posters etc... and he remained polite and interested in hearing what we had to say.

CHEERS STEVE,

Simon Hounsome

Photos from Detroit by Michael Benak. (No unauthorized downloads please, per the photographer.)

From New Haven, CT, sent in by Pete Bova. (Pictured: Fire, Steve & Pete)

Dear Steve,

I'll not waste time with pitiful attempts at explaining how profoundly important you and your music are to me. Doing that would take a million words, a thousand pictures, and hundreds of notes. On to what this message's about... Last week my girlfriend was killed in a car accident. She was, well, everything to me. (I'm sure you know what I mean.) During the service, I was within a few inches of becoming completely unraveled; every part of me was just screaming at the loss. Feeling this, I had "Frank" played over the mortuary sound system. I could think of no better way to say "goodbye."

Thank you for sharing with us the little pieces of your soul we call songs. When my soul cries, it's very comforting to have you there with me.

Deep respect, admiration, and love,

Sean deVries