Guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa returns to Chewing the Gristle, bringing his characteristic wit and wisdom as he prepares for an ambitious European tour season. This conversation between two master guitarists reveals the realities of sustaining a music career with both artistic integrity and business savvy.

Bonamassa takes us behind the scenes of his upcoming three-month European adventure, which includes solo performances, a Black Country Communion reunion after 14 years, and a special tribute to blues legend Rory Gallagher. The logistics are fascinating – he maintains duplicate touring rigs for Europe and America, a practical response to shipping costs that have nearly tripled since the pandemic.

The highlight comes when Bonamassa shares treasures from his 1,200+ instrument collection, including his beloved "Principal Skinner" 1959 Les Paul. Rather than treating these vintage pieces as museum exhibits, he plays them regularly, embracing each new ding and scratch as part of their continuing story. "They're not out here to be preserved," he explains, challenging the collector mentality that prioritizes value over music-making.

What truly distinguishes this episode is Bonamassa's candid assessment of music business realities. After discovering early in his career that middlemen were taking substantial portions of his performance fees, he developed a direct-to-consumer approach that has sustained his career. "My motto is I don't need millions, I just need enough," he shares, articulating a philosophy that values artistic fulfillment over commercial peaks.

For aspiring musicians, Bonamassa offers both sobering and inspiring advice: "You have to love this thing so much that you're willing to take a vow of poverty, still be happy, and can't live with yourself if you don't play." It's this unwavering passion, combined with business acumen, that has enabled his enduring career in the often unforgiving music industry.

Ready to hear more wisdom from one of blues rock's most successful independent artists? Subscribe now and journey through the musical landscape with Joe Bonamassa and your host, Greg Koch.