(Image credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
For more than 10 years, Phil X has been a mainstay in the touring circuit as Jon Bon Jovi’s lead guitarist.
Aside from his main gig, Phil also records and tours with his own outfit, Phil X & the Drills. However, as he details in a new interview with Guitar World, the prep for the two gigs is considerably different – and the Bon Jovi gig comes with its own unique pressures.
“I warm up differently before the shows. With the Drills, I’ll run through the solos on Sunny Days and I Wish My Beer Was as Cold as Your Heart just to make sure those crazy riffs are working,” he observes.
“For Bon Jovi, I run through the big, thematic solos. You really don’t want to mess those moments up. It’s the simple stuff that’ll kill you – especially when everyone’s recording it on their cell to put on YouTube. One bad moment will be there forever!”
Bon Jovi – Livin’ on a prayer (live in Wembley – London, June 21 2019) – YouTube
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Speaking of killer warm-ups, Steve Morse recently gave his two cents about why warming up before a show is so crucial.
“There’s technical practice, there’s stretching, there’s left-hand strength, right-hand strength, and I’ve got this condition that has developed from 50 years of playing,” he notes on The No Cover Charge Podcast, referring to his struggles with arthritis.
And there’s one guitarist who Morse claims has his warm-up routine surgically nailed down: “We did some shows with Dream Theater. One thing I love seeing is how John Petrucci will just sit down and do a warm-up, no matter what, even if you’re talking to him, he’s going to keep on,” he relates.
As for Phil X, the Bon Jovi guitarist has been spotted sporting an unidentified gold SG – complete with chrome-covered P-90s – on social media, which seems to hint that his long-rumored signature Gibson is almost here.
“Its the simple stuff that’ll kill you – especially when everyone’s recording it on their cell to put on YouTube”: How Phil X Warms Up to nail Bon Jovi’s Biggest Songs on stage
Understanding the Importance of Warm-Ups for Live performances
Phil X, the dynamic guitarist known for his integral role in Bon Jovi’s live shows, often shares a vital insight that resonates deeply with many musicians: “It’s the simple stuff that’ll kill you – especially when everyone’s recording it on their cell to put on YouTube.” this statement highlights how the smallest mistakes or overlooked preparations can become magnified during a live performance due to the ubiquity of smartphone recordings that instantly appear online.
For Phil X,nailing Bon Jovi’s biggest hits means committing to a thorough warm-up routine that covers the technical,physical,and mental aspects of playing live. With millions of fans watching and performances becoming instantly immortalized on platforms like YouTube,precision is more critically important than ever.
Phil X’s Step-by-Step Warm-Up Routine
Warming up for a massive stadium or arena show is an art in itself, especially when performing classics like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.” here is Phil X’s practical warm-up approach:
- Finger Exercises: Before hitting the stage,Phil runs through cascading scales and finger independence drills to ensure maximum dexterity and speed.
- Timing and Rhythm Check: synchronizing with drum patterns and rhythm cues is key, so metronome drills or playing along to prerecorded band tracks helps refine timing.
- Rehearsing Signature Licks: He revisits iconic Bon Jovi riffs and solos to awaken muscle memory and guarantee flawless delivery.
- Soundcheck Mindfulness: Phil uses soundchecks not only for technical adjustments but also for mentally stepping into the mindset of each song, familiarizing himself with the stage environment.
- Physical Stretching: Guitar playing is demanding; warming up the hands, wrists, and arms is vital to avoid cramps mid-performance.
Why Simplicity Matters in Warm-Up
Despite the technical complexity of Bon Jovi’s songs, Phil X stresses that neglecting basic planning can cause major slip-ups. “The simple stuff” refers to basic aspects like tuning, finger positioning, or transitioning between chords. These can seem trivial until they unravel in the middle of a performance – and with smartphones constantly recording the show, every flaw is instantly broadcast worldwide.
Phil X’s ideology can be distilled into a few key principles:
- Consistency: Daily practice and warm-up create reliable muscle memory.
- focus: Even routine exercises demand full attention to prevent complacency.
- Awareness: Knowing that every moment onstage is recorded pushes performers to hold the highest standards.
How Cell Phone Recordings and YouTube Impact Performance Standards
It’s undeniable that the presence of audience recordings changes the live performance landscape. Phil X acknowledges this reality and adapts accordingly:
- Heightened Pressure: knowing a guitar solo might go viral online adds urgency to playing cleanly and passionately.
- Legacy Preservation: Every video clip contributes to Bon Jovi’s digital footprint, making flawless performance a legacy matter.
- Fan Engagement: Fans frequently enough discover live renditions on YouTube and judge the band’s authenticity and prowess through these raw clips.
Balancing Spontaneity with Precision
Phil X values the energy of live improvisation but never sacrifices accuracy. His warm-ups aim to build a foundation solid enough to allow playing “in the moment” without mistakes. This balance keeps Bon Jovi’s performances fresh while protecting them from the scrutiny of instant social media sharing.
Benefits and Practical Tips from phil X’s Approach
| warm-Up Element | Benefit | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Finger Exercises | Improved agility and speed | Use chromatic scales with a metronome for 10 min |
| Timing Drills | Perfect synchronization with band | Practice with drum backing tracks |
| Signature Licks | Muscle memory for hit songs | Revisit solos 30 minutes before gigs |
| Physical Stretching | Reduces injury and improves flexibility | Stretch wrists, fingers, and forearms |
| Mental focus | Sharp concentration for flawless delivery | Use deep breathing and visualization techniques |
First-Hand Insights: Phil X on Stage
In interviews and live Q&A sessions, Phil X often describes the adrenaline rush and the crucial role warming up plays. He mentions how even after years on tour, he never skips his routine, because:
- It calms pre-show nerves and channels focus.
- It helps him physically and mentally adapt to diffrent venues.
- It is a time to reconnect deeply with Bon Jovi’s iconic sound.
Phil X’s commitment to warm-ups reflects his respect for both the music and the millions of fans faithfully recording every moment on their phones. His mantra reminds musicians everywhere: it’s the simple things done right that make a legendary performance.
Case Study: Nailing “Livin’ on a prayer” Live
Phil X’s warm-up routine is put to the ultimate test during performances of “Livin’ on a Prayer,” arguably Bon Jovi’s moast recognizable hit.The song’s signature guitar riff and solo demand precision and emotional intensity.
- Warm-up Focus: Rapid picking patterns and bending exercises to prepare for the solo.
- Soundcheck Strategy: Adjust effects pedals to capture the iconic tone live.
- Performance Result: Consistently tight and electrifying solos that spark massive crowd reactions.
The combination of disciplined preparation and live energy ensures Phil X delivers a memorable performance every time – a performance worthy of countless YouTube replays.
