Yes,’ Steve Howe stated that he preferred Steve Morse’s playing above Eddie Van Halen’s during their peak. In an interview with Paltrocast, the guitarist discussed his respect for Morse as well as his thoughts on Van Halen. Featuring Darren Paltrowitz. As you will see, Eddie Van Halen was not Steve Howe’s cup of tea after all, especially with Steve Morse sweeping his feet away.
The Dixie Dregs were unquestionably Steve Howe’s favorite band from the 1970s rock era. The singer fell in love with the band after his first listen and had to call them. On one side, The Dixie Dregs were entertaining rock fans as Steve Morse ripped his guitar onstage; on the other, Eddie Van Halen was beginning to construct his future history with Van Halen. However, Steve Howe’s preference remained Steve Morse.
In a recent interview, Howe said that Steve Morse was the guitarist who captured his heart. The Dixie Dregs’ music struck a connection with Howe, and their songs echoed deep within his spirit. While he admires Eddie Van Halen’s unquestionable talent, it was Morse’s playing that struck a chord with the guitarist.
Howe said:
“I suppose before I was aware of Eddie, I was very conscious of Steve Morse because I had my first record produced by Ken Scott, who is one of my favorite British musicians. I turned this record on and said, ‘What! Who are these guys? Get them on the phone! So I was completely infused and adored Dixie Dregs. I believed it was a hit record, and I wondered if everyone realized how fantastic it was.
He continued:
“There was a lot more round Eddie than there was Eddie. But my heart was drawn to Steve Morse. I was more familiar with all of his albums.
Steve Howe has expressed his preference for Steve Morse’s playing over Eddie Van Halen’s. Even the most successful musicians have unique preferences, and one artist’s approach may resonate strongly with another. Keep in mind that Howe does not dislike Eddie’s playing; he simply believes Steve’s is superior.
4 comments
Fact is Morse is a much more technical player. Far and above EVH. Yet he still doesn’t get the exposure or recugnition EVH did due to the style of music played.
Fact is SM is a much more technical player than EVH. Yet he still doesn’t get the exposure or recognition due to the style of music played.
Steve’s playing and compositions are unparalleled.
Addendum to my 1st comment, and message to the writer of the article!, I didn’t see the attachment for the video, but I just watched it. Steve Howe was great in this – and never said Morse is superior. He did clearly say he preferred Morse. He was so complimentary to both guitarists/artists. Hats off to Steve Howe. Thank You for the interview (well, and most of the article).