“He’s twanged his way around the world, astonishing people with his plectrum,” says British comedian, Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves). “I’m stealing that slogan,” replies Bonamassa before going on to discuss the nomadic nature of life as a touring musician and his unbridled passion for electric guitars.
In this entertaining episode of Jools & Jim’s Joyride, Bonamassa, who has been collecting guitars since he was a child, spoke of his 450-strong guitarsenal as, “everything a guitar nerd would want… It’s a theme park.” He then goes on to describe himself as “a bit of weirdo,” and jokes, “Clearly, I’m not married!”
Later on in the show, Bonamassa regales us with some ‘Burst hunting tales, including the time he tracked down Tommy Bolin’s lost 1960 Les Paul (and then summoned Bolin’s spirit to ask for permission to buy it!) and the unique journey of his most recent acquisition from South Africa. “It’s not about need, and it’s not about want,” Bonamassa says. “It’s about: do you have the collector gene?”
Elsewhere, Jo Bo talks his introduction to British blues heroes Beck and Clapton and his recent role as a record producer working with Joanna Connor, Eric Gales, Jimmy Hall, and Joanne Shaw Taylor.
Listen to Jools & Jim’s Joyride featuring Joe Bonamassa here.
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