Mike Stern: From Learning Guitar Alone to Overcoming Heroin and Saving a Life | dopeYEAH talk
Description
In this episode of dopeYEAH talk, we sit down with the legendary jazz guitarist Mike Stern for an intimate and revealing conversation. Stern, named Best Jazz Guitarist by Guitar Player magazine in 1993 and a recipient of the prestigious Miles Davis Award, reflects on his incredible career spanning decades. 🎸 From his early days with Blood, Sweat & Tears to his iconic collaborations with Miles Davis, Stern shares how these moments shaped his sound and established him as one of the most influential jazz guitarists of all time.
Mike opens up about the challenges he faced along the way, including his struggles with drug addiction and the journey to recovery. He also talks about learning how to play guitar again after a severe hand injury and delves into personal moments, such as the unconventional way he met his wife Leni and their lifelong musical partnership.
From hilarious anecdotes, like Ginger Baker punching Jack Bruce, to heartfelt insights about Miles Davis and Jim Beard, this episode is packed with incredible stories. And in the end, Mike treats us to a special performance on Jimmy Page’s guitar, one of the many musical artifacts housed in the museum section of the dopeYEAH Club. Don’t miss this rare chance to hear from one of jazz’s greatest legends as he shares his artistry, resilience, and passion for music. 🎶