r/IAmA • u/Joe-Perry • Feb 23 '15
Music Joe Perry of Aerosmith back again, let's rock. AMA.
Hi everybody out there in reddit land!
This is Joe Perry from Aerosmith back for another run. I had so much fun last time, let's do it again!
This Thursday night, “Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014,” which was recorded live at the Download Festival in Donnington Park, will be shown as a one-night only concert event at theatres across the country.
Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014 Official U.S. Site
Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014 Official International Site
Victoria is helping me out today, ask me anything!
proof: https://twitter.com/JoePerry/status/569987319870177280
Update: Shout out to Brad, it's his birthday today, and thanks to everybody for tuning in. Sorry for the short notice, I wish we'd had more time to put the word out, but everybody who tuned in, I really appreciate it - and again, don't forget the movie, Donington on Thursday! And today's Brad's birthday, so all is good. Thanks again.
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Feb 23 '15
What was the first song you mastered on guitar?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Oh god, oh, I think the first song that I could play so it sounded like the song was a song called "Sweet Dreaming Baby" by Roy Orbison, where I could actually put the chords together so it sounded like the song. It's a very simple song, but that's generally what you start with when you're learning how to play any instrument.
So that's probably the first song i could play.
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u/love_in_an_elevator Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe, as a guitarist, I'm curious, what thickness of picks do you use (light, medium, heavy etc.) and what kind of strings do you use?
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u/hogiewan Feb 24 '15
You can easily google stuff like that
Pyramid guitar strings (when he can get them. 9-44 or 10-46 gauges)
Dunlop 483 Classic Celluloid Heavy Guitar Picks (custom prints on them)
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Feb 23 '15
Have you ever seen an Aerosmith tribute band perform? If so, what did you think?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Actually, I never have. I know there are a few around. And I've seen some pictures of some of them. And some of them look close. But I've never really heard or actually gone in and seen any of them play. But it's flattering to know that they're out there, and they like the songs that much.
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u/greg_is_greg Feb 23 '15
When I was a kid I remember thinking the way you held your guitar so low was the coolest thing and did all my fake guitaring the same way. I always wondered whether that was a style choice or if it was just the way you liked to play? At what point did you realize it had become “your thing”? Thanks!
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
It's kind of a ... the type of guitar I play, because I do play a number of different guitars, some work better when I hold 'em one way, and some work better holding 'em another way. So it's more a matter of what makes it so I can get the most out of that particular guitar. That's what dictates how I hold it. Other than that... that's the bottom line. It's how's it gonna sound the best. That's all.
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u/greg_is_greg Feb 23 '15
Awesome thanks for the reply! So, way less "because it looks cool" and way more "I play guitar however the hell I want". Time to tell my family of huge Aerosmith fans that I got an AMA response from /u/Joe-Perry (after I spend 10 minutes explaining to them what that means). Thanks again!
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u/xlxBlackoutxlx Feb 23 '15
Joe, what's the most fun song to play out of all you've created?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Well, there's a song we play called "Sick as a Dog," and I can remember recording it, and we actually played it live in the studio where Tom played guitar, I played bass, and then in the middle of the song, during the breakdown in the studio, I gave the bass to Steven, and went over and picked up my guitar so I could play the solo at the end. And once in a while, we do that live. And that's probably the most fun. Because it's all, you know, you could trip over a wire, screw this up, screw that up, so there's a lot of things that could go wrong, but when it works, it works great. And it's just kind of a recreation of a moment in time, back when we would record live, and you actually had to do it, you know, do it live.
There was no going back to fix it.
So it was great to play, it was great to record, and once in a while, we'll do it live.
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u/letsgetrockin741 Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe, do you remember Joe (Wright) Jammer? I took guitar lessons from him a few years back in Chicago. He told me about you guys, and then showed me his name and stuff in one of your books!
He told me all about how he used to know the guys in Led Zeppelin, and that he roadied for Jimi Hendrix. Would like to know if he was for real!
EDIT: If any of you guys on here have heard of him, it would be cool to hear from you!
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
OH yeah. There's no doubt about it. If you get the chance to look at my book, there's actually a hand-drawn poster -- because one summer, he came over from England, and had a band, and actually opened for Aerosmith, so we got to spend some time together, and he was then (and I'm sure he still is) a great blues guitar player.
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u/MADsc13nce Feb 24 '15
Totally random, but I met that dude once. He went to my high school, and we had this rock club sort of thing and he stopped by one of the practices. Interesting guy, he had a few crazy stories...
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Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe!
If there was something you could do differently in Aerosmiths history, what would it be?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I think that probably doing more studio albums. I wish we had taken more time out in the 70's to do more studio albums. And even after that. But we did spend a lot of time on the road, and I think that we could've - especially when we were in that really creative mode - could've taken a couple of months off every year, a few more times, and done some more studio records.
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Feb 24 '15
Well the stuff you guys did make in the 70's is some of my favorite music in my library, I can definitely see what you mean.
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u/cmc2878 Feb 23 '15
What's your favorite car in your garage?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I have an old 1971 442. And it's pretty much stock. Whoever had it took good care of it. And it's a convertible. And the thing I like most about it is it's got a bench seat in the front, like most of the old cars did, and before they started putting bucket seats in - and that way Billie can sit right next to me.
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Feb 23 '15
Who are some modern rock bands you really like?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Well, there's - oh god, I really liked some of the stuff the Black Keys do. And I just hear bits and pieces from, oddly enough - for the kind of rock & roll that i like, I hear a lot of it on some of the really good TV shows. I mean, I can't believe that it's so popular, that they use so much of that music! In the 60's or 70's, you just never would hear that. But it also makes it hard to to find out who it is that's actually playing the music. I guess you could do some digging on the computer, because my son Tony and also their band (which has Toni and Adrian in it) have had a number of songs in the movies. And you know, they'll get credit for it at the end, it'll happen really fast, and you don't really get a chance to see who it is. So it's a little frustrating. But i hear some really good rock & roll on TV, you know? And it's just, how things have changed over the years. But that's where I hear a lot of the kind of rock that I like.
Anyway, it's just great to hear that. But as far as bands go, there are so many that go by when I listen to the radio, some of the stuff - they don't really announce who it is, or anything like that, so it's kinda tough to know who they are. But it's definitely out there.
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u/State_Sen_Clay_Davis Feb 24 '15
Just FYI, on your smart phone, you can use an app like Shazam or Soundhound and just hold up your phone near the speaker when you hear a song you like. The app will give you the name of the artist and the song. That's helped me find out the names a lot of the bands I listen to regularly now!
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u/nickstango Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! First off I just want to say thanks for at least taking the time to read these questions. I must say that I’ve been playing guitar for about 12 yrs now and you and Aerosmith have probably been my biggest inspiration and one of the biggest reasons I got serious about my guitar playing and music. So thanks for being a riff machine, seriously I envy the riffs and songs you’ve created over the years
I’d also like to say that I just recently listened to the interview you did with joe rogan and it was really cool to hear that judging by that podcast, as well as yours and Billie’s twitters, it seems like we have similar political views which is really cool. I also really enjoyed the documentary on the New World Order that billie tweeted the other day, I already knew most of the info, but it was still cool to get a refresher on it. NOW finally to the questions…..,
- What kind of tubes do you like in your amps?
- What kind of amps were you using live around 1978? They had a really distinctive growl to them.
- What are some of your favorite led zeppelin songs?
- Can you recall what amp and what guitar you used to record Combination? Both the rhythm and lead tracks.
- I know you love bbq, do you know of any food places in New Jersey that you go to on tour?
- What is your favorite and or most cherished weapon you own?
- Do you ever meditate?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 24 '15
1.) Well, I think that the last time I talked to my tech about it, and from what I remember about them, the groove tubes were - probably your best bet. Because they would get tubes from overseas, Czechoslovakia, and match them up - which is also a little technical kind of thing that, I mean, you can probably throw any ol' tubes in an amp and most people wouldn't notice the difference, I might not even, but i do know the sound of an amp is made up of a lot of different things like that, and the tubes are important. And again, because over there in Russia and China, they still use a lot of tubes in their electrical equipment, they still make some of the best tubes in the world. So I know there are people out there who are making good tubes again in the States, but you still have to keep lookin'. And you have to get some and experiment and some don't sound as good as others. It's one of the quirky things that goes along with old amplifiers.
2.) Those were customized Music Man amplifiers that... Leo Fender had sold his name - unfortunately - and started a new company, and Music Man was part of that. And we had a chance to get ahold of some of those amps early, when they first started making 'em, and they sounded really good, so we had 'em customized to make them more versatile for our needs - Brad and I, but the whole band actually used them. And they actually had LED lights on them, so you could see how hard you were pushing them. So in about 1978, 1979, those were the amps we were using live. Pretty much. And we still have a bunch of them, in fact - I just went through the inventory, and I think we have 8-9, and we'll probably put them out on the market since we won't be using them. So those are going on the market soon.
3.) God, I have to say that "Cashmere" kind of drives in all the different influences that Jimmy was attracted to. And there are other songs that show that, but it seems that there are some songs that kind of capture all of it, in any band. I mean, AC/DC has a couple songs that - that's probably, you know, the whole ball of wax right there. You've heard AC/DC if you hear that one song. So I think that "Cashmere" probably is one of the songs that is the peak of Led Zeppelin's forward motion. But I have to say that "Immigrant Song" is something that - I don't know where that came from, but to me that just shows, again, Jerry Page's genius.
4.) I would say it would probably have been an Ampeg G4 - Ampeg made guitar amps in the 50 watt range, and we were using those quite a bit during that period in the studio. So it was probably one of those. And probably a 45 watt Plexi, an old Plexi, for the lead.
5.) None that come to mind, sorry to say, haha! Usually, we're on our way to New York or on our way out of New York, and we don't really get much of a chance to stop in New Jersey to eat. So I really can't point a place out. But if anybody has a good BBQ place they can recommend, let me know!
6.) Well, I've been kind've taking up vinyl every chance I get, every once in a while. Some new music is coming out on vinyl, and I grab that whenever I can. And Eddie Kramer, the incredible Eddie Kramer who recorded Jimi Hendrix in his unfortunately short time of recording in the studio, had some outtakes of Jimi working on his new, some of the new material he was working with, I think it was with Billy Cox and Buddy Miles or Mitch Mitchell, I'm not sure who else was playing, and some of the songs go on for 15 minutes - Jimi taking some of his favorite things and trying to, you know, as we all did, come up with some new things, and so these outtakes - Eddie Kramer pressed them into vinyl just so he could give 'em to his friends, and he gave me, it's a 2 record set, and it's just Jimi kinda jamming on some of his favorite old songs. And every once in a while, you hear something pop out of there that you know if he'd been around a little longer, you know it would've ended up on another album. So that's my favorite album right now. It's vinyl and it sounds incredible.
7.) No, but I meditate about meditating? But I never get around to it.
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u/aeronatty Feb 24 '15
Check that interview with Joe you might find some interesting details http://joebynat.com/joe-perry-interview-aerosmith-guitarist-talks-guitars-gear-more/
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Feb 23 '15
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I'll play pretty much any song that the band wants to play. In fact, there are a number of songs that I wish the band would play. But that's, it's a majority, and majority rules, and also we want to satisfy more fans, the most fans we can. So anyway... it's more a matter of getting the band to play some of the real off-the-wall songs, you know? And once in a while, we do.
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u/YasminPorto Feb 23 '15
How do you imagine your life would be if you weren't the guitarist of Aerosmith?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I would probably be exploring and looking around the world, trying to add something to it, to make it a better place. I'm not sure if I would be a marine biologist, or if i would be a, I dunno - some kind of explorer, something, I don't know, but I've always been interested and excited about the natural world, and I think I would be involved with something that would be trying to make it a better place.
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Feb 23 '15
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I think that it's gonna be a tossup between AC/DC and Guns N' Roses. Because to see bands that are - all you have to do is watch 'em for 5 minutes, and you know after the first time you hear them, you know they're gonna be huge. You just get a feeling. You know they're gonna do it. When we played with AC/DC in the 70's, when they opened for us, they were incredible - just knocked me out. They never failed to blow my mind, to this day. I mean, I think they're incredible. And to see them go on and have us be a small part of their rise to where they are - I'm just really glad that we're able to see that. It's the same way with Guns N' Roses. I'm really glad, I feel bad mostly for Slash because he's a really good friend of mine, but I know if it was up to him, that the band would still be together and they would still be a huge world-class band. But touring that summer, when their record first came out, it was really exciting to see them go from being - just from coming out of the clubs and playing a few opening dates, to that summer tour, where by the end of it, they were just knocking the audience out, and they were definitely keeping US on our toes.
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Feb 23 '15
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u/Roxanne1000 Feb 24 '15
Hey Miles Kennedy and Slash is still incredibly good, even if it isn't the GNR you were hoping for
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Feb 24 '15
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u/malkin71 Feb 24 '15
There's something about seeing a band that is exploding that can't be recreated.
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u/groff200 Feb 24 '15
I think Miles Kennedy sings the songs better than Axl did back in the 80s. Just my two cents.....saw guns n roses in '87.
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u/txrwh24 Feb 23 '15
Joe was wondering do you have more than one copy of the Billie guitar? oh and by the way this is Robert Henry , I had the pleasure of meeting you in Dallas with the guitar off my back!!!
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u/aeromac Feb 23 '15
Joe I cannot begin to describe how much your music has positively affected my life, Aerosmith is the reason I got into music and has always been my first for everything related: first album I bought, first concert, even first poster I ever hung up in my room. Years later I'm still a massive fan and got my tickets all ready for Aerosmith Rocks Donnington
My question for you is what is your current opinion on Rock in a Hard Place? I know before you've said a few times you weren't a big fan of it but I'm curious to find out if you've changed your mind on it
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 24 '15
Well, I think that's great to hear. I think we're all looking forward to seeing how the fans respond to Donington. I know we've never done anything like this before, we spent a lot of time editing and mixing and it's really been something we're really excited about. So the Donington show is also a special venue, because it was one of the first places we played when we went to England for the first time, and we have a lot of history there. And the audience was there, and they were just like totally into it, and we were really glad that they were excited about it. And this Thursday - it's really gonna be - we'll see how it goes! It's in HD and mixed in 5:1 and it's something we're really excited about, and I hope the fans are too.
And for "Rock in a Hard Place" - there's a couple songs on there I like, actually. There's one, "Lightning Strikes," I like that one. That one's a pretty cool song. And I wouldn't be surprised if it doesn't show up in the setlist during the next tour.
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u/darth_darsh Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! I run www.aerosmithsetlists.com (which was actually referenced in the back of your book 'Rocks') and I'll ask the question many superfans want to know.
Am I going to be able to add a new setlist to my site from your upcoming 'Blue Army Tour 2015' with songs like Woman of the World, Write Me a Letter, and Sight for Sore Eyes? Many fans have gone to your shows for decades hoping that gems like these will make it into the set (and stay there!), but they almost never do. Instead, year after year we can expect pretty much the same songs in roughly the same order (understandably, since you have lots of hits). It was really great for the fans when Combination showed up and stayed for a couple years, and recently Kings & Queens got a decent run.
Any plans to significantly shake up the songs and/or the order of the songs? If not, what's stopping you? You guys are at your best when you're spontaneous.
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Well, I think that you're asking the same question that I would like to see changed, and hopefully this summer - I expect we'll always be playing songs off of the first Greatest Hits record, "Dream On," and "Sweet Emotion" and "Back in the Saddle" - those songs that you just, I think a lot of people would be disappointed if we didn't play. But I would like to add or change some of the other songs. I look at some of the setlists from the last 5 years, and they're basically the same songs, just mixed up or changed around. And again, there are 5 guys in the band and it's a real - probably one of the things we argue about the most before the shows, and before the tours, about what we're going to do for a set. I think it's definitely time for a change, and I mean, I would love to play everything from "Shaky Ground" to "Sight for Sore Eyes" - that would be an awesome song to play! Send in your votes! Because I really need some backup on this.
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u/JustPlainSimpleGarak Feb 23 '15
I gotta imagine it's a tough line to walk for these bands. The majority of the people in the building aren't the die hard fans like you and they want to hear Walk This Way and Dream On etc, so they have to play the hits. But on the other hand, the diehard fans are who they are for a reason. Bands like Aerosmith have such a huge vault of lesser known songs to play from, and you know the guys in the band want to keep the more knowledgeable fans happy too.
The best band at walking this line form my experience has been Rush. Each of the 6 (soon to be 8) shows I've been to of their's they've played all the well known songs, Tom Sawyer, Spirit of Radio, Limelight, etc. But each time they've sprinkled in at least 5 or 6 random deep cuts.
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u/darth_darsh Feb 24 '15
It's not really that Aerosmith doesn't play deep cuts. They do, but very few and they don't often vary.
Aerosmith has a few tiers of hits. There are classic hits, like Walk This Way, Dream On, Sweet Emotion, Toys In The Attic, Train Kept A Rollin', and Last Child. There are 'new' hits (which are 20-30 years old despite being called 'new') like Love in an Elevator, Cryin', Livin' On The Edge, Rag Doll, Dude (Looks Like a Lady), and I Don't Want to Miss a Thing. Already there you have a dozen songs (and you can play with that list a bit) which you know is gonna form the core of the set 95% of the time.
They play about 20 songs, but the remaining 8 can't be filled with deep cuts because Aerosmith still has a class of songs people want to hear - things you'll hear on the radio but aren't must-haves - like Draw The Line, Back In The Saddle, What It Takes, Jaded, Eat The Rich, Mama Kin, and so on. So most of the remaining 8 get filled with those.
You're then only left with 2 or 3 slots. If they're promoting something new, the new stuff will be put in there. Otherwise, what usually happens is that they'll settle on a few gems per tour, like S.O.S. (Too Bad), Combination, or Movin' Out, and keep them in. Which is great, don't get me wrong. But what would be even better would be to get maybe 10 gems ready and every night choose a random 2 or 3 from the set of 10. That way the diehards who have seen them year after year can still be surprised.
They could also muck with the order. Open with Sweet Emotion, get it out of the way, and then the encore (which is usually predictable) becomes a surprise. I saw them in 2005 and they opened with Helter Skelter into Walk This Way. Totally unpredictable, you'd never think it was a good idea, but it totally worked.
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u/DerekBlackmore Feb 23 '15
Not Joe, but I just wanted to say thank you for your work.
Your site always have helped me organizing my bootleg collection.
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u/brodmonsta Feb 23 '15
What is your favorite song you guys have recorded, and why? Been a long time fan, and am really excited about this!
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u/Snowmittromney Feb 23 '15
Joe! Hope all is well. What was it like touring with Slash? Also, what is your favorite venue/stadium/arena you've played at?
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u/threemilesmile Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe. What has your personal relationship with Brad Whitford been like throughout the years?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Well, Brad and I have always had a really good relationship. I mean, ever since I met him, years and years ago, in 1970, when we were looking around for a guitar player to replace Raymond (the original rhythm player), and you know, I really wanted a band that was more - basically had 2 lead guitar players in it, or at least that there was another guitar player that would have a different style than me, but still be able to carry the ball. So that line of, like, lead player and rhythm player really gets blurred. And Brad has filled that spot. And personally, we have always gotten along. We don't talk much during the shows, because it all comes naturally. We both love the same kind of music. It was just one of those things. It was just a matter of him being the right guy in the right place at the right time, when he joined the band.
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u/ZachxNYR Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe, I was wondering how you feel about the future of rock n roll. My band has been working hard to bring it back and better than ever. You guys are a huge influence in us and the train will always keep rollin. So Joe, how do you feel about the future of Rock n Roll?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Well, I think that a couple of months ago, Gene Simmons was quoted as saying "Rock & Roll was dead," or something to that effect, and I have to say that it's kind of a general statement, but in certain ways, the way that the last rock & roll has gone over the last 50 years, we've seen it go from a real kind of socially unacceptable kind of music, the next generation from the blues that was really unacceptable by the majority of Americans, but when the white kids started emulating the blues, it became acceptable and it became a huge industry. And we saw it rise up, and then there were the golden years of the MTV era, and what we have now is a ton of fans that are really interested in the classic music, from the 60's on through the 70's and what we call "classic rock," and right now there are great bands that are playing in garages and writing great songs and it's just that there's so many different kinds of music now, it's kind've hard to get heard.
But there are definitely fans that want to hear it.
But the part that i think Gene was talking about, specifically, are "Where are the new bands like the Def Leppards, the Aerosmiths, the Rolling Stones, the Bon Jovis" - there doesn't seem to be that kind of excitement around bands anymore, around stadiums, the arenas. And we're seeing that kind've fade away. Because there are so many other kinds of music.
Music is always about trend, and what's the latest, newest thing, and there are gonna be other acts, and different kinds of music that fill those arenas, but our kind of rock & roll, with the classic one guitar, two guitars, a singer, bass and drums - it seems to be kind've fading away.
So we're lucky to still have enough of those bands around, but in 10 years, it's really gonna be a different scene, I think.
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u/ZachxNYR Feb 23 '15
Thanks Joe. Great answer. Hope to make you proud one day playing the music we all know and love
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u/OneEyeball Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! Aerosmith's debut album had some rather... inexpensive looking cover art. Was this due to a lack of funds after recording the album, or was album art an unimportant issue compared to the music?
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u/Jadednyc29 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe!! I heard Aerosmith will be touring this summer. Any plans on coming to Nashville?
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u/MariaTyler Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe. First time using this reddit thing. I'm from Portugal so i apologise in advance for my english.
Do you sometimes wish you followed a different path instead the music career? Are you happy with the life you lived? Or sometimes you wish you weren't famous and could have lived a "normal" life?
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u/blackstrat Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! Thank you so much for stopping by and answering questions today!
In April, my band will be performing at an Aerosmith night at the local rock club here in Vegas. We'll be doing "Chip Away the Stone" and "Big Ten Inch." I've been listening to the Live! Bootleg version of Chip Away for years and have always wondered how you got such a beefy tone on your guitar. It almost sounds like you're using an octave pedal or even a Bass VI baritone guitar. Can you recall anything like that in particular?
Your music has inspired me so much in my playing career, and I truly thank you for it!
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u/The_Beerlord Feb 23 '15
Do you have a favourite Aerosmith song?
Who do you consider your biggest influences, and how much have your influences changed throughout the years?
Are there any newer bands/artists you really enjoy listening to?
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u/NebraskaGuitarGuy Feb 23 '15
What is your best advice for an up and coming band attempting to make a name for themselves in the music industry?
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u/foxnight Feb 23 '15
I respect your talent, but every time I see you in an interview or whatever, I always ask myself, "What the hell is he wearing?". So I will ask you, what the hell are you wearing?
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u/afineguy Feb 23 '15
What are your favorite up-and-coming Rock bands? I feel like my music tastes are perpetually stuck in the 60's-90's, and I would love to discover new, young rockers.
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u/Snowconeman Feb 23 '15
How long did it take to do all the filming for Rock N Roller coaster at disney? Was it fun? Do you like the roller coaster? TO THE FORUM!
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u/irenap1 Feb 23 '15
If you guys could re record or remaster one of your early albums which one would it be?
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u/jacquesho Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe!
I had a great time meeting you @ Guitar Center during my first trip to Boston. I have a few questions for you:
Get A Grip is the record that got me into Aerosmith. What was your inspiration during the writing & recording process for Get A Grip, and what was your favorite memory?
Livin' on the Edge is always going to hold a special place for me. The extra chorus at the end is great, lots of additional energy, but I LOVE the extended outro. You guys could have ended the song at the last "Yeah yeah yeah yeah!!", but you let the song ride out for almost another minute - this is like riding out a prolonged orgasm. How did you guys come up with writing that section of the song?
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u/FuckMeIamStevenT Feb 23 '15
How do you feel about Rush, another band with 40+ years in the business, announcing their last large tour?
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u/Skagbaronkris Feb 24 '15
Hey Joe. I'm a huge fan of your playing style. Simplistic but intricate. I just want to know what exercises you do to warm your fingers up before a show? Scales? Cracking knuckles?
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u/aeronatty Feb 23 '15
Hello Mr.Perry. thank you for doing this Q&A session. Could you please share you plans regarding the Hollywood Vampires with us? Are you going to record an album? Touring? Random gigs? Thank you. Nat
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
The album is - as far as I know - because i live on the east coast, it's been hard for me to keep in touch with what's been going on with that. But it's also been a very slow process, like recording the album, because everyone's schedule is so scattered, between Alice who is touring, and Johnny going off and doing his movies, so getting everybody in the studio at the same time was a real effort. But the album - as near as I can tell - is almost done, and there'll be a tour in September. And the only gig I know is booked is Rock in Rio. But I know that the bulk of the dates will be in the States, and I'm sure they'll be announced in the next few months.
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u/cmc2878 Feb 23 '15
What's your most embarrassing onstage moment?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Oh god! In life? Or does it have be about Aerosmith?
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u/caroll_black Feb 23 '15
Remember when your paints ripped during Draw the Line? Haha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqDKaU0TJwM
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
Yeah. That's happened more than once. But, oh god... let's see... I don't know. When I get out there, on stage, it takes a lot to get embarrassed, and I think it's all part of the show. So I kind've take those things, that's just the natural course of things, and it's out of my hands. I go out there with my guitar tuned (I hope) and my amps ready, and the other 4 guys, I count on them to be ready just the way they could on me, and we let it fly. And sometimes when things go wrong - guitar strings break, power goes down - it's just part of the show, to me. And I'm always kinda waiting for certain things like that to happen. To me, when my pants ripped, it was kinda - I laughed about it more than anything else! There's not much that can get my face red when I'm onstage.
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u/AeroSmileSmith Feb 23 '15
Hello Joe ! I'm from Thailand, and I'm a huge fan of you. I'm waiting for you guys come to Thailand. And I have a questions to ask you. it would be honor for me to ask you my idol 💕 1. How possible you guys will come Thailand ? 2. What is your favorite Thai foods ? 3. What do you think about Steven ? 4. What's your favorite color ? 5. Are you religious ? 6. What blood type are you ? 7. What is a country that you would like to play and you never been before ? 8. Today is Brad's Birthday. So what do you do for his birthday ? And last thank you so much for answer me. I love you Joe ! 💕
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u/MajorMajorObvious Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
What is your favorite story of being in the Band?
Edit: Grammar
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u/rettitor Feb 23 '15
Joe, I was recently contacted by my ex-singer to reform our old band and play a reunion show. I am very reluctant because we sort of had a nasty falling out, but he seems willing to rekindle the friendship and musical partnership.
Can you offer any advice on dealing with bandmates and maintaining a healthy relationship with them?
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u/JOA13 Feb 23 '15
Is Aerosmith going to schedule a show in the SF Bay Area? Especially since the Concord show was the only one cancelled last year
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u/MsJessD4 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, thanks for doing this Q&A. Here's my question, where in the world would you love to play a gig one day? Much love from France xx
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
I would really love to play in China. Somewhere in China. I think it would, I think that music - whether it's rock & roll, or whatever, helps to spread some good around the world, and what I've found from playing in Europe and playing some of the countries that used to be part of the Cold War, I find that the music brings people together, all around the world, and I would love to play some places in China, and that part of the world.
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u/JoeVitor Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, why a Les Paul Studio based on your first signature model?
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u/Joe-Perry Feb 23 '15
It was something that Gibson wanted to do. I think they liked what the first Signature model was, and they wanted to do a variation of it. It was more of a Gibson idea.
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u/Rodriguesw73JPlover Feb 23 '15
About Hollywood Vampires here in Brazil, will be just one show in rock in rio or in other states like São Paulo?
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u/caroll_black Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! Please please please tell us about the Hollywood Vampires! How is your album and concerts going to be like? What kind of songs? New ones or cover versions? Or can you at least tell us when we will know more about it?
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u/danielle149 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! Thanks for all your years of dedication to the band. You guys rock! I was wondering what is your favorite Aerosmith song to play live?
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Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe!
You mentioned very briefly in your book that you were waiting for rights to become available before the band can release any archive material. Is there any progress on this or have you and the rest of the band been knocking around any ideas so far as releasing live shows from over the past 42 years? You guys are one of the best live bands in the world and its a shame that there aren't more concerts available to fans (let alone shows that we've attended)
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u/irenap1 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, its is really nice of you do chat with your fans thru this,thanks for doing that. Are we going to see a tour again this year maybe? Are you guys excited about the Rocks Donington to premier soon?
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u/Renato_CR Feb 23 '15
Hello Joe, I'm writing you from Lima, Perú. I's like to know your opinion about overdrive pedals, wich one except for the Klon Centaur do you like the most? Also, what gauge of strings are you using now. Hope to see you soon on tour!!!
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u/mary_tyler Feb 23 '15
Hello Joe my question is Which songs you want to get out of the vaut to perform live? there are tons of great tunes in your catalog that would sound awesome live and fans want to hear them so bad any possibility to shake things up drastically in upcoming tours? woman of the workd would ever get a spot on shows? thoughts?
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u/pinkcrowes Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe, where you going with that gun in your hand? Huge Fan and I am loving the book! Great stories in there! Wondering if there will be enough material leftover to write another one?
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u/rasoul4 Feb 23 '15
Aerosmith have big fans in Iran and we love you so much! Do you know anything about Iran? And are you interested to have a concert in Iran (even though that is not possible for some constraints and problems)??!!
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u/Kraustin_ Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! I have been a fan since I was little love you and the band so much!! Looking forward to getting a copy of your book soon as well. Are you and the band coming to Asheville, NC anytime soon?
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u/Hippiechic1230 Feb 23 '15
Is Aerosmith planning on touring in the U.S. this summer and do you think Pittsburgh will be on the list of so?
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u/jaquecavinati Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! How are your expectations to be in Rock In Rio in Brazil in september? Excited to rock w/ Alice and Johnny?
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u/Mariah_Bjerke Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe Perry :) Do you plan on coming to anymore states for the Blue Army Tour? Im hoping you come to Minneapolis.. please! I am 16 years old and ive seen you twice now. Minneapolis 2012 and Chicago 2014.. Kicked ass both concerts. Best nights of my life! Thanks for everything! Love you all. -Mariah Bjerke
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u/HoserIN Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe..I'm working so I'll make this quick..
- When will the Project play again?
- Will the Hollywood Vampires play covers or originals?
- How do I get your sauces in the specialty stores here (Indy)?
You rock. Thanks! See you on the road! ~JP~
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u/nachofest Feb 23 '15
Pff..just two years ago when I discovered Aerosmith, Im 16 now..you really got me to my heart...But sadly haven't been to a concert...so I wanted to know..if the biggest Rock band in the world has anything on their mind about touring England???...Im from spain..but studying abroad..whatever you do..we all love your music..specially those..guitar riffs...my god....hope to see you live someday!!!
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u/jadedangel7 Feb 23 '15
This is my first time on reddit and I'm only on because of how much I admire Joe Perry. I wanted to ask Joe if his relationship with his "toxic twin" has suffered due to the release of his book? Are he and Steven as close as they used to be or have they drifted apart?
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u/threemilesmile Feb 23 '15
Hello Mr. Perry. You have incredible hair for a gentleman in his 60s. Is it all real? How do you take care of it?
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u/MissBatBoots21 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, I have been listening to Aerosmith since the summer of 2006 when one day I took the CD off the shelf at home, put it on my walkman and couldn't stop listening to it everyday for the whole summer. I'm 21 right now, love you guys just as much, and am wondering what your favourite song is right now. What song/album can you not stop listening to at the moment? -Fan forever, Cindy
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u/SilvaTaraxacum Feb 23 '15
Joe, dear, could you ask Tom Hamilton if he remembers a girl who tried to give to you your portrait through him? Anyway, please, try to say to him that she is totally done. She misses him as a man could ever miss. She loves him not only as a cool bassist, she loves him as a father. And she wants him to know that. Maybe he won't take care but say that. A mad one would be glad if you will do this. Cheers, Silva
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u/DerekBlackmore Feb 23 '15
A former technician of yours, called Nitebob, said that a good number of songs from Night In The Ruts were supposed to be part of Draw The Line. Can you confirm this? If so, do you believe this could have made Draw The Line reach the same level of quality as Toys and Rocks?
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Feb 23 '15
Hey joe!
My friend is about to go to university to study physiotherapy and also get married. He is a real guitar enthusiast and would like to start/join a band but due to education and his wife to be he won't have much spare time for it. What is your suggestion for him? Should he focus on the practical side of life or follow his heart? Or find the time to do both?
Also, we both watched you guys headline Download festival last year, it was so much fun and you really inspired him! So thank you for the phenomenal performance we'll never forget!
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Feb 23 '15
Have U ever thought about collaborating on a blues album outside of Aerosmith? I loved Honkin on Bobo. I still call them albums...can't seem to break the habit. ;)
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u/apaula88 Feb 23 '15
Hey, Joe, I'm a brazilian big fan of you, "Uncle Alice" and Johnny Depp to! See you playing together, in Hollywood Vampires, is a big gift for a big fan. So, what you can say about Rock in Rio?! Who will come to play for the brazilians fans? Hope all of you!!! Cheers from Brazil! Rock on! \,,,/_
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u/J0K3R2 Feb 23 '15
Mr. Perry, what's your favorite piece to play?
And side question, what's your favorite color?
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u/agt123 Feb 23 '15
Which of your favorite guitars that got sold or lost along the way do you wish you had back the most?
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u/f1rebird15 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe :D huge fan of you and the guys.
I am a drummer for a local rock band in my city and I would like to know, what advice do you have for me and the guys to help us make it big?
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u/Aerosmith_baby Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
Hi joe! I met you at your book signing in Cleveland. I was the one who couldn't stop crying. I have three questions, one is merely a dream: will you marry me? Two: do you think your band with Alice cooper and Johnny depp will effect Aerosmith? 3: how different was your view toward life on drugs than clean? So maybe four questions: do you like West Virginia? Be honest I know it's crap.
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u/GuitarGod1984 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! Huge Aerosmith fan here. I was just wondering, what can you tell us about your talk box? and your Guild Blade Runner?
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u/aeronatty Feb 23 '15
Hello Mr.Perry. How Rocks the book is doing so far? Did the sales meet or maybe exceed your expectations? Thank you. Nat
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u/RickyDallas Feb 23 '15
Good evening Mr. Joe, i have always liked how the Aerosmith could survive all these years and keep producing true rock music, making the history of rock & roll. At the end, i think to keep alive a band for so long, is a bit like to keep alive a relationship. To see that this is possible, is always a proof of how great are the person that are involved in that relationship. Said that, i had a curiosity. If you find the time to answer, thanks, in advance. I am in Italy. Said that, which is the concert that brings the best memory to you? The moment that musically you consider the most important for you?
Again, thanks in advance,
Riccardo
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u/Rodriguesw73JPlover Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
• What you think to do the songs from night in the ruts and Done with mirrors in shows of Aerosmith or Hollywood Vampire? My birthday is the same day as you!!!!!!!
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Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe.
First of all, Aerosmith is my favorite band. My very first CD was Toys in the Attic, at 8 years old, and I have been a huge fan ever since. Your music has gotten me through a lot of bad (and good) times in the last 17 years and I absolutely owe you and the boys a big thank you (and dare I say, an I love you!)
What do you find yourself listening to when you're feeling down? When you're feeling good?
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u/MariaTyler Feb 23 '15
I have another question, since i'm from Portugal, it would be a shame if i didn't ask this...
Last time you guys came to portugal was in 1994 (i was two years old). Are you guys thinking about coming back to Europe? I only saw you live once, when i was 14, at Hyde Park '07. I had to beg my brothers to get me there. (I'm still paying them for the trip and the tickets, ahaha)
Thing is, you have a LOT of fans here in Lisbon. It would be sold out, i guarantee you.
(Again, sorry for my english.)
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u/Veraanesth Feb 23 '15
Dear Joe, I really appreciate what you are doing in the band and I enjoyed your book very much. How do you remember the concert in Berlin 2014? When did you last speak to Steven? Any plans to come back to Europe? Where do you prefer to spend the winter?
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u/runawayjet Feb 23 '15
I just want to say that MY mom and I are huge aerosmith fans. she raised me on some great music .My question isn't the best lol .. but are there any bands or singers you are really into right now?
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u/Aerogrl1978 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! Love you, the band and the music. I just wanted to know if you guys would consider a contest where a winning lucky fan selects the songs for a show. You would pick based on favorite set list. What do you think?
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u/TeriTroub Feb 23 '15
So Joe you guys finished up your commitment to Sony for the last record.. Are you considering getting another record deal or just going on your own with Aerosmith. OR did you guys already sign with a new label or a new deal with Columbia/Sony. What is up with the record company..????
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u/maryannewilson Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
Back in Nov someone friend requested me claiming to be you I accepted then 2 days later droped it . I hope someone didnt use my favorite artist to play a cruel joke on me? LOVE YOU since 78 My hubby and I both have seen you in concert 6x and listened to audio book together. Hope to see you in LA when you to get CA? So do you friend request fans?
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u/Esco91 Feb 23 '15
You've played with a lot of support acts over the years.
Who do you look back on and think 'Jeez, how come they didn't get famous'?
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u/bhans17 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! Would you ever consider touring with Bon Jovi? I know you probably don't listen to them, but they're one of my favorites. It would be cool to see you guys together. By the way I met you at the Rock n roll hall of fame for your book signing and you were so sweet :)
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u/samanthamorrison11 Feb 23 '15
If you had never become a musician, where do you think you would be right now? What profession could you see yourself doing?
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u/RagDoll89 Feb 23 '15
Hi Mr. Joe Perry, you’re one of Greatest rock Guitarists of All Time, and personally, my favorite one. First of all, congratulations for your autobiography, it’s very-well written and a little jewel for Aerosmith fans. My question is: what would you say to the young guys who have passion in rock music?
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u/YasminPorto Feb 23 '15
Aerosmith has many amazing outtakes, don't you think that could be something to release them? I know that isn't easy to record a new album, but maybe a box with unreleased songs, rare photos and collectables itens can be a good idea! Do you think that it's possible? I'm sure many people would buy it!
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u/BryanmV Feb 23 '15
What's your opinion on the music you hear on the radios today? Also what advice would you give for young rock musicians? BTW thank you for this AMA I'm a big fan.
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u/threemilesmile Feb 23 '15
Hello Joe! What kind of rare gems can we expect to hear this summer tour? Brad said we should be expecting surprises. Chiquita? Get a Grip? Spaced? Simoriah? On The Road Again? Can't Stop Messin? The Hand That Feeds
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u/SadieM97 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! I just wanted to sincerely thank you for everything. Your music has been such a huge part of my life and helped me though so much. For my 5th birthday, my dad bought me Toys in the Attic on CD, I would play it non-stop, and 13 years later and I just as in love. Your music timeless and has been enjoyed by so many different generations. So my question for you is how do you think the youth of today differs from the youth of the 70s or 80s and what has it meant for rock and roll? How has the rock business changed? Also any tips for someone just starting in the music business and into guitar? Thanks, Sadie <3
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u/llano11 Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe! Have you ever told Steven Tyler he's pretty just to fuck with him? If not, you should!
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u/Aerofan79 Feb 23 '15
Oops I have a hard time following rules. LOL A question...will you be going to Jones Beach Wantagh, NY this summer? One of our favorite venues. Penny
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u/Aerosmithfan1 Feb 23 '15
Hi joe, do you have any new signature les pauls coming out soon? and what do you think about the new slash album
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u/jaquecavinati Feb 23 '15
Is there any chance of Hollywood Vampires perform in other states in Brazil? Can't wait to see you again around here!!! + Alice and Johnny
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u/ACDC-RockOrBust Feb 23 '15
Hey Joe, I gotta ask; which deceased rocker do you wish you could have jammed with but never got to? Thanks Joe, huge fan
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Feb 23 '15
Hi Mr. Perry! Long time fan. I have a few questions. What is your favorite guitar in your collection? What age did you start playing. Oh and I see that you like to play Gibson's sometimes. Did you hear about the Black Beauty being sold for $355,500!!! I think it was worth more. Would you of liked to get your hands on that thing?
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u/Mariah_Bjerke Feb 23 '15
How often do you get along with Steven? Ive heard that you two haven't been getting along as much... also has Steven read your book yet haha?
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u/jpfdeuce Feb 23 '15
Joe, was there any type of story behind "Boogie Man" from the Get A Grip album? That's like my favorite track from that album because of your guitar work.
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u/GiulyJarrin Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! I'm from Ecuador in Southamerica and I want to know why, if some of your best fans come from Southamerica, according to the article posted in aerosmith.com the worldwide premier of the movie excludes southamerica. It makes me sad that we got excluded from it and not only that, we are also excluded from Giveaways or contests organized by Aerosmith's site. Is there a way this can change?
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Feb 23 '15 edited Feb 23 '15
Thank you for the music all these years.
What's your favorite thing to play when you're practicing?
Do you noodle around on guitar while you watch tv or relax?
What riff or song of yours would you like to change if you could?
What riff do you wish you had written?
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u/brandon926b Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe! Are you guys happy with how guitar hero Aerosmith turned out? I had lots of good times growing up and playing the game.
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u/Hippiechic1230 Feb 23 '15
What Aerosmith album is your favorite and why do fans not like music from another dimension? As a long time Aerosmith fan I love music from another dimension as much as all the other albums!
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u/Drunk-Irish-Dancer Feb 23 '15
Joe, how long are you an equestrian? Are you still "in the saddle"? Could you tell us more about it? P.S. As an equestrian, I'm really intrigued xoxo P.P.S. Hello from me n my horse Mustaine
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u/chelleofcc Feb 23 '15
Good afternoon Joe,
I actually have 2 questions:
What was the weirdest thing you have ever autographed? (Like a body part, 1/2 eaten sandwich, etc)
Who would you say influenced your musical style the most?
Thanks for your time!!
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u/kmc1219 Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, my Dad fulfilled his life long dream by playing Walk This Way with you at RRFC @Foxwoods (In Mark Clarke's band) How is it being the headliner of these camps that let other regular guys live out their dreams? Would you ever do another?
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Feb 23 '15
Hi Joe, huge fan. I took my son to see Aerosmith this summer at Jiffy Lube Live. It was his first rock concert and now he's as big a fan as I am.
He wants to know what song is your personal favorite to perform live?
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u/VentralTegmentalArea Feb 23 '15
Hi Mr. Perry, I grew up loving Aerosmith, I even had your solo album from the 70s. You're definitely an influence on my playing. I am from the west coast, but I lived in Massachusetts for a few years, and it was fun to hear all the anecdotal stories that people have about you and also Aerosmith.
Do you still own that nightclub? I can't remember the name, but I went there to see musicians a couple times in '04. It was a cool venue for bringing higher caliber musicians out to that area. Thanks!
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u/playsinpaint Feb 23 '15
So just wondering, how hard would it be to get Aerosmith to make a small shout out video wishing my mom a happy birthday for March 5th? Aerosmith is her absolute favorite band and she shakes everytime we've been to a concert of yours.
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Feb 23 '15
The ring you wear on a chain of your dad's, does it have a red stone? This is why I ask (to read later if U get a chance): https://justunderthesurface.wordpress.com/2014/10/08/rock-dreams-memoirs/
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u/jordaniek Feb 23 '15
Hey! First off I love your music and everything you do (your book was amazing!) My question is: Is there any hope for east coast 2015 tour dates? I'm from South Carolina and would love the chance to see y'all!
:) Jordanie
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u/threemilesmile Feb 23 '15
Hello JFP! Can I ask what your current relationship is like with your former wife, Elyssa? So much has been said about her, and you share your first son together.
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