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{{Short description|American guitarist (born 1960)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2014}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Steve Vai
| image = Steve Vai, 3-Majówka 2023 08.jpg
| landscape = yes
| caption = Vai performing in [[Wrocław]] in 2023
| birth_name = Steven Siro Vai
| alias = Reckless Fable
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1960|6|6}}
| birth_place = [[Carle Place, New York]], U.S.
| occupation = {{flatlist|
*Musician
*songwriter
*producer
}}
| instruments = Guitar
| genre = {{flatlist|
* [[Instrumental rock]]
* [[hard rock]]
* [[heavy metal music|heavy metal]]
* [[progressive metal]]
}}
| years_active = 1978–present
| label = {{flatlist|
* [[Favored Nations]]
* [[Relativity Records|Relativity]]
* [[Epic Records|Epic]]
* [[Mascot Label Group|Mascot]]
}}
| past_member_of = {{flatlist|
* [[Frank Zappa]]
* [[Alcatrazz]]
* [[David Lee Roth]]
* [[Whitesnake]]
}}
| website = {{URL|vai.com}}
}}
 
'''Steven Siro Vai'''<ref>{{cite AV media|date=September 7, 2022|title=Steve Vai - His First 30 Years The Documentary |publisher=The Tapes Archive |via=YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui_kEJ7C3O0|access-date=June 6, 2024}}</ref>{{Better source needed|date=June 2024}} ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|v|aɪ}}; born June 6, 1960) is an American guitarist, songwriter, and producer. A three-time [[Grammy Award]] winner and fifteen-time nominee,<ref name="tecawards.org"/> Vai started his music career in 1978 at the age of eighteen as a [[Transcription (music)|transcriptionist]] for [[Frank Zappa]],<ref>{{Cite web |title = Tempo Mental |website=The Official Steve Vai Website |url = http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/ |access-date = 2015-11-23 |url-status = live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151118183801/http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|archive-date = November 18, 2015 |df = mdy-all}}</ref> and played in Zappa's band from 1980 to 1983.<ref name="tecawards.org"/> He embarked on a solo career in 1983 and has released eight solo albums to date.<ref>{{Cite web |title = Steve Vai (main discography) |url = http://www.discogs.com/artist/221183-Steve-Vai |website = Discogs |access-date = 2015-11-23 |url-status = live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160310224227/https://www.discogs.com/artist/221183-Steve-Vai |archive-date = March 10, 2016 |df = mdy-all}}</ref> He has recorded and toured with [[Alcatrazz]], [[David Lee Roth]], and [[Whitesnake]], as well as recording with artists such as [[Public Image Ltd]], [[Mary J. Blige]], [[Spinal Tap (band)|Spinal Tap]], [[Alice Cooper]], [[Motörhead]], and [[Polyphia]]. Additionally, Vai has toured with live-only acts [[G3 (tour)|G3]], [[Zappa Plays Zappa]], and the Experience Hendrix Tour, as well as headlining international tours.<ref>{{Cite web |title = Bands - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website |url = http://www.vai.com/bands/ |website =Vai.com |access-date = November 23, 2015 |url-status = live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151110041239/http://www.vai.com/bands/ |archive-date = November 10, 2015 |df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Vai has been described as a "highly individualistic player" and part of a generation of "heavy rock and metal virtuosi who came to the fore in the 1980s".<ref>{{Cite book|title = The New Guitarscape in Critical Theory, Cultural Practice and Musical Performance|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=MVdv-h-1WQ0C&pg=PA66|publisher = Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.|date = 2010-01-01|isbn = 9780754667759|first = Kevin|last = Dawe|page = 66|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105044731/https://books.google.nl/books?id=MVdv-h-1WQ0C&pg=PA66|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> He released his first solo album ''[[Flex-Able]]'' in 1984, while his most successful release, ''[[Passion and Warfare]]'' (1990), was described as "the richest and best hard rock guitar-virtuoso album of the '80s".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Passion and Warfare - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> He was voted the "10th Greatest Guitarist" by ''[[Guitar World]]'' magazine’s readers,<ref name="guitarworld.com">{{Cite web|title = Readers Poll Results: The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/readers-poll-results-100-greatest-guitarists-all-time#slide-90|website = Guitar World|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121025131228/http://www.guitarworld.com/readers-poll-results-100-greatest-guitarists-all-time#slide-90|archive-date = October 25, 2012|df = mdy-all}}</ref> and has sold over 15 million records.<ref name="tecawards.org">{{Cite web|url =https://www.tecawards.org/les-paul-award|title =Les Paul/TEC Awards Information and Recipients|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20151008102619/https://www.tecawards.org/les-paul-award|archive-date =October 8, 2015|df =mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai {{!}} Awards {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/artist/steve-vai-mn0000045475/awards|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160604152835/https://www.allmusic.com/artist/steve-vai-mn0000045475/awards|archive-date = June 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

==Biography==
[[File:Steve Vai Zepparella 2017.jpg|thumb|right|Steve Vai in 2017]]
===Early life===
Steve Vai, a descendant of [[Italian Americans|Italian immigrants]], was born in [[Carle Place, New York]] on June 6, 1960. He is the fourth son of John and Theresa Vai.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai: the 10 Records That Changed My Life|url = http://www.teamrock.com/features/2015-12-15/steve-vai-the-10-records-that-changed-my-life|website = TeamRock|date = 2015-12-15|access-date = 2016-01-10|language = en-GB|first = Joe|last = Bosso|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160128114634/http://www.teamrock.com/features/2015-12-15/steve-vai-the-10-records-that-changed-my-life|archive-date = January 28, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Vai was raised [[Roman Catholic]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=di Perna|first=Alan|date=June 29, 2009|title=Steve Vai: Flex Appeal|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/features/steve-vai-flex-appeal|access-date=May 1, 2022|publisher=Guitar World|language=en-US}}</ref> He described his first experiences with music as, "at the age of five I walked up to [<span class="ltr">a</span>] piano, hit a note, and noticed that to the right the notes go higher and to the left the notes go lower. In that very moment, I had a full-on epiphany. I was flooded with the instinctual realization of how music was created and how it worked from a theoretical standpoint—the whole language of music was very obvious. I also understood immediately, instinctually, and unequivocally something that has only deepened through the years that the creation of music is an infinite personal expression. I realized that I could do this, I could make music, and it could be whatever I want."<ref name="http://facebook.com/MakeWeirdMusic">{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Interview · Make Weird Music|url = http://www.makeweirdmusic.com/interview/steve-vai/|website = Make Weird Music|publisher = MakeWeirdMusic|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.makeweirdmusic.com/interview/steve-vai/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Musician's Friend Exclusive Interview with Steve Vai, Part I Buyer's Guide {{!}} Musicians Friend|url = http://www.musiciansfriend.com/resources/article/Musicians-Friend-Exclusive-Interview-with-Steve-Vai-Part-I/m710806|website =Musiciansfriend.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151226081151/http://www.musiciansfriend.com/resources/article/Musicians-Friend-Exclusive-Interview-with-Steve-Vai-Part-I/m710806|archive-date = December 26, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="americansongwriter.com">{{Cite web|title = Q&A: Steve Vai Drops Some Knowledge « American Songwriter|url = http://americansongwriter.com/2012/10/qa-steve-vai-drops-some-knowledge/|website = American Songwriter| date=October 2012 |access-date = 2015-12-28|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20151230223246/http://americansongwriter.com/2012/10/qa-steve-vai-drops-some-knowledge/|archive-date = December 30, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

It was a year later, at the age of six, that Vai experienced his first introduction to the guitar, remembering that, "I saw this nine-year-old boy playing the guitar in my grade school auditorium, and that was another epiphany that I had. It was my first recognition of the instrument. When I saw that guitar and I saw this kid playing it, I knew instinctually that I was going to play the guitar someday, and that it would be my instrument. Don't ask me how I knew, I just knew. It was the coolest thing I had ever seen."<ref name="http://facebook.com/MakeWeirdMusic"/><ref name="americansongwriter.com"/>

As a young child, Vai was influenced by the music his parents had listened to. One album in particular that he cites as his "musical awakening" was the original motion picture soundtrack to the 1961 film ''[[West Side Story (1961 soundtrack)|West Side Story]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = The Record that Changed My Life: Steve Vai Discusses 'West Side Story: Original Broadway Cast Recording'|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/record-changed-my-life-steve-vai-discusses-west-side-story-original-broadway-cast-recording|website = Guitar World|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105121231/http://www.guitarworld.com/record-changed-my-life-steve-vai-discusses-west-side-story-original-broadway-cast-recording|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> At age eleven, Vai was introduced to the contemporary rock and [[progressive rock|progressive]] music of the era, and after hearing the guitar solo to [[Led Zeppelin]]'s "[[Heartbreaker (Led Zeppelin song)|Heartbreaker]]" at age twelve, decided to begin playing the guitar.

In 1973, Vai began to take guitar lessons from fellow New York native [[Joe Satriani]], and played in local bands (The Ohio Express, Circus, and Rayge) throughout his high school years.<ref>{{Cite web|title = 10 Things You Didn't Know About Steve Vai|url = http://ultimateclassicrock.com/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-steve-vai/|website = Ultimate Classic Rock| date=June 6, 2011 |access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225080806/http://ultimateclassicrock.com/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-steve-vai/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> He spoke of when his friend John Sergio gave him Joe Satriani's number to Steve for him and his friend Frankie Munn to get guitar lessons.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Instagram |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C2TX3qGOCYC/?hl=en |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=Instagram.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Vai.com > Discography > Disc Notes - At The Door |url=https://www.vai.com/AllAboutSteve/disconotes_heresy.html |access-date=2024-02-12 |website=Vai.com}}</ref> Vai cites artists such as [[Jimmy Page]], [[Brian May]], [[Ritchie Blackmore]], [[Jeff Beck]], [[Jimi Hendrix]], as well as [[jazz fusion]] guitarists [[Allan Holdsworth]] and [[Al Di Meola]] as some of his major influences in that time period.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Music Influences|url = http://www.mtv.com/artists/steve-vai/related-artists/?filter=influencedBy|website = MTV Artists|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.mtv.com/artists/steve-vai/related-artists/?filter=influencedBy|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> 
In 1978, to further pursue his interest in music composition and theory, Vai attended [[Berklee College of Music]] in [[Boston]], [[Massachusetts]] after graduating from [[Carle Place High School]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=di Perna |title=Steve Vai and Joe Satriani Discuss Influences and Long Island Roots in 1990 Guitar World Interview |url=https://www.guitarworld.com/gw-archive/steve-vai-and-joe-satriani-discuss-influences-and-long-island-roots-1990-guitar-world-interview |access-date=7 September 2022 |publisher=Guitar World |date=October 4, 2011}}</ref> While at Berklee, Vai began working for [[Frank Zappa]] as a transcriptionist, and in the middle of his fourth semester, moved to California to start his career as a session and touring artist for Zappa.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Berklee Press: An Interview with Steve Vai|url = http://www.berkleepress.com/newsletter/steve_vai.htm|website =Berkleepress.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150901080843/http://www.berkleepress.com/newsletter/steve_vai.htm|archive-date = September 1, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Also while at Berklee, Vai met his future spouse [[Pia Maiocco]]. They have been together since they met and have two children.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Pia Maiocco|url = https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0583921/|website = IMDb|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0583921/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> In 2003, Vai was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music from [[Berklee]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefreelibrary.com/Steven+Tyler,+Steve+Vai,+and+Patty+Larkin+Among+Five+High+Profile...-a0115904470|title=Steven Tyler, Steve Vai, and Patty Larkin Among Five High Profile Artists and Composers Supporting Berklee's New Online Music Scholarship; Berklee Honorary Doctor of Music Degree Recipient, Steven Tyler, and Berklee Alumni Steve Vai, Patty Larkin, Alf Clausen, and Tom Snow Back Positive 'Music and the Internet' Initiative. - Free Online Library|website=Thefreelibrary.com|access-date=July 14, 2017|archive-date=August 13, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813011052/https://www.thefreelibrary.com/Steven+Tyler,+Steve+Vai,+and+Patty+Larkin+Among+Five+High+Profile...-a0115904470|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Early music career (1978–1986)===
[[Image:Frank Zappa.jpg|thumb|Steve Vai (on guitar in between the drums and keyboard, to the right), [[Frank Zappa]] and band during a concert at the [[Buffalo Memorial Auditorium|Memorial Auditorium]] in [[Buffalo, New York]] (October 25, 1980)]]
In 1978, Vai sent both a notated transcription of Frank Zappa's "[[The Black Page]]", and a recording of his college band, Morning Thunder, to Zappa.<ref name="berkleepress.com">{{Cite web|title = Berklee Press: An Interview with Steve Vai|url = http://www.berkleepress.com/newsletter/steve_vai.htm|website =Berkleepress.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150901080843/http://www.berkleepress.com/newsletter/steve_vai.htm|archive-date = September 1, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Vaiography - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/vaiography/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227031927/http://www.vai.com/vaiography/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Impressed by this, Zappa responded by putting Vai on salary to transcribe his work, which included pieces from the ''[[Joe's Garage]]'' and ''[[Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar]]'' albums.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Tempo Mental - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151219101709/http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|archive-date = December 19, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> After leaving [[Berklee College of Music]] and moving to California, Vai auditioned<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.berkleeshares.com/guitar/stevevai|title=Steve Vai On His Audition for Frank Zappa's Band -|last=Online|first=Berklee|website=Berkleeshares.com|access-date=2017-03-31|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170401232757/http://www.berkleeshares.com/guitar/stevevai|archive-date=April 1, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> for and became a full-time member of Zappa's band, going on his first tour with Zappa in late 1980.<ref name="berkleepress.com"/> Zappa often referred to Vai as his "little Italian virtuoso",<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai|url = https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/steve-vai|website = NAMM.org|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151222110714/https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/steve-vai|archive-date = December 22, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> and Vai is frequently listed in the liner notes of Zappa's albums as having performed "stunt" or "impossible" guitar parts.<ref name="Play Like Steve Vai">{{Cite web|title = Play Like Steve Vai|url = http://www.guitarplayer.com/artists/1026/10-things-you-gotta-do-to-play-like-steve-vai/21995|website =Guitarplayer.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151222090709/http://www.guitarplayer.com/artists/1026/10-things-you-gotta-do-to-play-like-steve-vai/21995|archive-date = December 22, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Vai was a featured artist on the 1993 release ''[[Zappa's Universe]]'', and in 2006, Vai appeared as a special guest on [[Dweezil Zappa]]'s [[Zappa Plays Zappa]] tour; both projects won Vai a [[Grammy Award]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = Awards|publisher = vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/awards/|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225095812/http://www.vai.com/awards/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

After moving on from Zappa's employ in 1983, Vai bought a house in [[Sylmar, Los Angeles]], where he built his first professional studio.<ref>{{Cite web|title = The Studios - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/the-studios/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227025257/http://www.vai.com/the-studios/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> During this period, Vai formed two bands (The Classified and 777)<ref>{{Cite web|title = Bands - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/bands/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227041625/http://www.vai.com/bands/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> as well as writing and recording a large amount of music that was not originally intended for release. Out of this material, Vai compiled his first studio album ''[[Flex-Able]]''. He created his own record label, [[Akashic records|Akashic Records]] (later Light Without Heat Records), which he used to take ''Flex-Able'' directly to distribution channels.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - The Official Steve Vai Website: Disc Notes - Flex-Able|url = http://www.vai.com/AllAboutSteve/disconotes_flexable.html|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-22|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304051804/http://www.vai.com/AllAboutSteve/disconotes_flexable.html|archive-date = March 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''Flex-Able'' was released in January 1984.

Vai began his rise to public acclaim in 1983 when, shortly before the release of ''Flex-Able'', his composition "[[The Attitude Song]]" was published in ''[[Guitar Player]]'' magazine.<ref name="Play Like Steve Vai"/> The song centered itself on a main guitar riff in the [[time signature]] 7/16, played over a rhythm section centered in 4/4. Each following section of the song showcased a number of specialized techniques (such as [[tapping#Two-handed tapping|two-handed tapping]], [[whammy bar|whammy bar acrobatics]], [[sweep-picking|sweep picking]], [[alternate picking]], [[harmony|multi-part harmonies]], and odd [[phrase (music)|phrasing]]) used in angular and exaggerated ways that were unique to the song at the time.<ref name="Play Like Steve Vai"/> Interest from the public grew even greater when Vai's song "Blue Powder" (a demonstration for the [[Carvin Corporation|Carvin]] X100b [[guitar amplifier|amplifier]]) was published in ''Guitar Player'' as well, which showed the virtuoso side of Vai's compositional process. Also in 1986, Vai was cast in the film ''[[Crossroads (1986 film)|Crossroads]]'' as the Devil's guitar player "Jack Butler". In the famous "duel scene" between Vai and [[Ralph Macchio]]'s character, Vai wrote and performed all guitar parts with the exception of the slide guitar, which was performed by [[Ry Cooder]].<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090888/soundtrack|title = Crossroads (1986)|publisher = IMDb|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090888/soundtrack|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In between solo work, Vai replaced [[Yngwie Malmsteen]] in June 1984 as the lead guitarist of [[Alcatrazz]], with whom he recorded the album ''[[Disturbing the Peace (album)|Disturbing the Peace]]''. Vai left shortly after the subsequent tour to join [[David Lee Roth]]'s band.

===With David Lee Roth (1985–1989)===
In 1985, Vai joined David Lee Roth's post-[[Van Halen]] band as [[lead guitar]]ist, together with former [[Talas (band)|Talas]] bassist [[Billy Sheehan]] on bass; and former [[Maynard Ferguson]] drummer [[Gregg Bissonette]] on drums. The foursome's debut album ''[[Eat 'Em and Smile]]'', released on July 7, 1986, was both a critical and commercial success, reaching number four on the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] albums chart and selling over two million copies. ''[[Guitar World]]'' magazine editor [[Brad Tolinski]] commented on Vai's playing at the time, saying that "Steve Vai's guitar wizardry is so profound that in earlier times he would have been burned as a witch."<ref>{{Cite web|url =http://www.hdtracks.com/music/artist/view/id/2338/|title =Steve Vai|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20151223154823/http://www.hdtracks.com/music/artist/view/id/2338/|archive-date =December 23, 2015|df =mdy-all}}</ref> Retrospectively, ''Eat 'Em and Smile'' is frequently evaluated as one of the greatest rock albums of the 1980s.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Metal Odyssey's Good Times Album Pick: David Lee Roth - "Eat 'Em and Smile"|url = http://metalodyssey.net/2010/04/01/metal-odysseys-good-times-album-pick-david-lee-roth-eat-em-and-smile/|website = Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog|date = April 2010|access-date = 2015-12-23|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151223140528/http://metalodyssey.net/2010/04/01/metal-odysseys-good-times-album-pick-david-lee-roth-eat-em-and-smile/|archive-date = December 23, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The group's [[Eat 'Em and Smile Tour]] began in August 1986 and continued through February 1987.

Roth's subsequent album ''[[Skyscraper (album)|Skyscraper]]'', released in 1988, was produced by both Roth and Vai.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Discusses His Albums with David Lee Roth & Van Halen's 'A Different Kind Of Truth'|url = http://www.vhnd.com/2012/08/21/steve-vai-discusses-a-different-kind-of-truth-his-albums-with-david-lee-roth/|website = Van Halen News Desk|date = August 21, 2012|access-date = 2015-12-23|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151223092347/http://www.vhnd.com/2012/08/21/steve-vai-discusses-a-different-kind-of-truth-his-albums-with-david-lee-roth/|archive-date = December 23, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Like its predecessor, the album was a  commercial success, reaching number six on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart. In 1989, following the successful [[Skyscraper Tour]], Vai departed from the band.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Special « martingoulding.com|url = http://martingoulding.com/lessons/special-features/steve-vai-special/|website = martingoulding.com|access-date = 2015-12-23|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160208232521/http://martingoulding.com/lessons/special-features/steve-vai-special/|archive-date = February 8, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> He was replaced by Cacophony guitarist [[Jason Becker]].

In 1985, after having joined Roth's band, Vai designed the [[Ibanez JEM|JEM]] guitar, a unique instrument that incorporated a series of groundbreaking designs that have since become staples in feature throughout the guitar industry, such as the inclusion of 24 frets on a guitar with humbuckers, single-coil middle pickup and a locking tremolo system.<ref>{{Citation |title=Steve Vai - "30 years of the Ibanez JEM" | date=January 26, 2017 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gjf_e6h0dtY |access-date=2024-02-12 |language=en}}</ref>  Vai began working with Ibanez in 1986 to develop the guitar, and the first production Ibanez JEM 777 guitars were released in 1987.

===1990s===
From 1985 to 1990, Vai recorded ''[[Passion and Warfare]]'' at his home studio, his second studio solo album.<ref>{{Cite web|title = The Studios - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/the-studios/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227025257/http://www.vai.com/the-studios/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="vai.com">{{Cite web|title = Album – Passion & Warfare - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-passion-warfare/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225052602/http://www.vai.com/album-passion-warfare/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>  After leaving Roth's band in 1989, Vai bought out of his [[Capitol Records]] contract and signed on with [[Relativity Records]] for the release of ''Passion and Warfare'', which was completed shortly after he began recording the guitar parts for [[Whitesnake]]'s ''[[Slip of the Tongue]]'' album, where he replaced the injured [[Adrian Vandenberg]].<ref name="vai.com"/>

Upon its release in November 1989, ''Slip of the Tongue'' sold over three million copies worldwide, reaching number 10 on the ''Billboard'' 200 while Vai joined the band on their thirteen-month world tour.<ref name="vai.com"/><ref>{{Cite web|title = Bands - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/bands/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227041625/http://www.vai.com/bands/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Slip of the Tongue - Whitesnake {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/slip-of-the-tongue-mw0000653833|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/slip-of-the-tongue-mw0000653833|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In May 1990, Vai released ''Passion and Warfare'' through Relativity Records,<ref name="vai.com"/><ref>Graham, Jonathan. [https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/forgotten-guitar-steve-vais-1990-appearance-mtv-s-headbangers-ball-video Forgotten Guitar: Steve Vai's 1990 Appearance on MTV's 'Headbangers Ball']. ''[[Guitar World]]''. Retrieved 2019-09-20.</ref> and following its release, the album had reached number 18 in the ''Billboard'' 200, selling over a million and a half copies worldwide.<ref name="vai.com"/><ref>{{Cite web|title = Passion and Warfare - Steve Vai {{!}} Awards {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521/awards|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225064346/http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521/awards|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="musicradar.com">{{Cite web|title = Interview: Steve Vai talks about his solo studio recordings|url = http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/interview-steve-vai-talks-about-his-solo-studio-recordings-555180|website = MusicRadar| date=July 31, 2012 |access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225033650/http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/interview-steve-vai-talks-about-his-solo-studio-recordings-555180|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''Passion and Warfare'' won Vai a number of awards such as ''Guitar World'' and ''Guitar Player'''s "Best Album" and "Best Rock Guitarist" awards.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Awards - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/awards/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225095812/http://www.vai.com/awards/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''Passion and Warfare'' has been cited as one of the most pertinent instrumental albums released.<ref>{{Cite web|url =http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521|title =Passion and Warfare- AllMusic|website =[[AllMusic]]|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/passion-and-warfare-mw0000308521|archive-date =January 5, 2016|df =mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Fascinating Facts About Steve Vai's Passion And Warfare|url = http://iheartguitarblog.com/2015/09/fascinating-facts-about-steve-vais-passion-and-warfare.html#sthash.FUgPsPpm.dpbs|website = I Heart Guitar|access-date = 2015-12-28|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151229172801/http://iheartguitarblog.com/2015/09/fascinating-facts-about-steve-vais-passion-and-warfare.html#sthash.FUgPsPpm.dpbs|archive-date = December 29, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

1990 also saw the release of the [[Ibanez Universe]] [[seven-string guitar]] co-designed by Vai in conjunction with Ibanez. Vai left Whitesnake in 1990 to pursue his own musical avenues and formed a band that included [[Devin Townsend]] on vocals, [[T. M. Stevens]] on bass, and [[Terry Bozzio]] on drums.<ref name="musicradar.com" /> The group released ''[[Sex & Religion]]'' on July 23, 1993, that was described as visceral in nature, combining a compositional and [[progressive metal]] rhythm section with Devin Townsend's vocal arrangements.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web|title = Album – Sex & Religion - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-sex-religion/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225043250/http://www.vai.com/album-sex-religion/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> After the following tour in support of the album, the group disbanded.<ref name="musicradar.com" /><ref name="ReferenceA" /> Vai began working with [[Ozzy Osbourne]] in 1994, with whom he wrote and recorded the ''[[Ozzmosis]]'' album. Due to conflicts, the album was re-written and recorded with [[Zakk Wylde]] on guitar.<ref>{{Cite web|title = 10 Things You Didn't Know About Steve Vai|url = http://ultimateclassicrock.com/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-steve-vai/|website = Ultimate Classic Rock| date=June 6, 2011 |access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225080806/http://ultimateclassicrock.com/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-steve-vai/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> In 1994, Vai won a Grammy award for his performance of "Sofa", from ''Zappa's Universe''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Awards - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/awards/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-26|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225095812/http://www.vai.com/awards/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

While recording his fourth studio album ''[[Fire Garden]]'', Vai took time to record and release the stripped down EP ''[[Alien Love Secrets]]''.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{Cite web|title = Album – Alien Love Secrets - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-alien-love-secrets/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225033127/http://www.vai.com/album-alien-love-secrets/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> A departure from the often highly compositional and heavily produced style of his previous projects, the seven-track EP was recorded in four weeks and released through Relativity/[[Epic Records]] on March 21, 1995.<ref name="musicradar.com" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Alien-Love-Secrets/release/3865831|title=Steve Vai - Alien Love Secrets|website=Discogs|date=March 21, 1995 |access-date=2016-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160730175557/https://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Alien-Love-Secrets/release/3865831|archive-date=July 30, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Vai cites this record as one of his favorites, saying "The recording and release of ''Alien Love Secrets'' marked another turning point in my personal evolution. I was more concerned with making the record that I wanted to make, and not worry about what some others thought I should be doing."<ref name="ReferenceB" />

On September 17, 1996, Vai released ''Fire Garden'', 19-track double album, through Epic,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Fire-Garden/release/378320|title=Steve Vai - Fire Garden|website=Discogs|date=September 17, 1996 |access-date=2016-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160801022057/https://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Fire-Garden/release/378320|archive-date=August 1, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> with the first half being primarily instrumental while the second half featured Vai on vocals.<ref name="musicradar.com" /> After the release of ''Fire Garden'', Vai joined his former teacher [[Joe Satriani]], along with guitarist [[Eric Johnson (guitarist, born 1954)|Eric Johnson]], for the second installment of the ongoing [[G3 (tour)|G3]] concert tours. On each G3 tour, three guitar-centric headlining acts are chosen to perform their own sets, and then collectively jam to fan favorite songs at the end of the show.<ref>{{Cite web|title = G3 Tour: 1996|url = http://www.satriani.com/G3/1996.html|website =Satriani.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151104073003/http://www.satriani.com/G3/1996.html|archive-date = November 4, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''[[G3: Live in Concert]]'', a video of the 1996 tour was filmed in [[Columbus, Ohio]] and released on June 3, 1997.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Joe Satriani - discography > g3 live in concert|url = http://www.satriani.com/discography/G3_Live_In_Concert/|website =Satriani.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.satriani.com/discography/G3_Live_In_Concert/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In 1998, Vai independently released a performance footage DVD of ''Alien Love Secrets''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai - Alien Love Secrets|url = http://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Alien-Love-Secrets/release/2541838|website = Discogs| year=1998 |access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.discogs.com/Steve-Vai-Alien-Love-Secrets/release/2541838|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Also in 1998, Vai started the Make a Noise Foundation with his then-manager [[Ruta Sepetys]]. The goal of the foundation was to provide funding for musical education to those otherwise unable to attain it. Today, Vai often auctions items in his possession with proceeds going to the foundation.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Make A Noise - Mission|url = http://www.makeanoise.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16&Itemid=28|website =Makeanoise.org|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105065548/http://www.makeanoise.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16&Itemid=28|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

At the close of the decade, Vai provided guitar for [[Joe Jackson (musician)|Joe Jackson's]] ''[[Symphony No. 1 (album)|Symphony No. 1]]'', released in 1999 and winner of the [[2001 Grammy]] for [[Best Pop Instrumental Album]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = 43rd Annual Grammy Awards|url = https://www.grammy.com/grammys/awards/43rd-annual-grammy-awards-2000|website =Grammy.com|access-date = 2020-12-21}}</ref>

===2000s===
[[Image:Steve Vai2001.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Vai performing in 2001]]
In December 2001, Vai recorded two performances at [[London Astoria|The Astoria]] in London, with his band The Breed (composed of former David Lee Roth bandmate Billy Sheehan, guitarist/pianist [[Tony MacAlpine]], guitarist [[Dave Weiner]], and drummer [[Virgil Donati]]). This live show was released independently in DVD format as ''[[Live at the Astoria, London|Steve Vai: Live at the Astoria, London]]'' in 2003, and was Vai's first of many successful live concert DVD projects.<ref>{{Cite web|url =https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0430632/|title =IMDb- Steve Vai: Live At The Astoria London|website =[[IMDb]]|date =December 9, 2003|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0430632/|archive-date =January 5, 2016|df =mdy-all}}</ref> In 2004, Vai released twelve tracks from the DVD in an online only release.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Live at the Astoria - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/live-at-the-astoria-mw0001007027|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/live-at-the-astoria-mw0001007027|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

2001 saw the [[special edition|limited]] release of ''[[The Secret Jewel Box]]'', a conceptual ten-CD box set containing unique material from various eras of Vai's career. Four compilation albums (''[[The Elusive Light and Sound Vol. 1]]''; ''[[Mystery Tracks – Archives Vol. 3]]''; ''Various Artists – Archives Vol. 4''; and ''[[Vai: Piano Reductions, Vol. 1]]'') included as part of the box set, were released to the public both in 2001 and the years following.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com : The Secret Jewel Box : About the Box|url = http://www.vai.com/minisites/boxset/about.html|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303194043/http://www.vai.com/minisites/boxset/about.html|archive-date = March 3, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Also in 2001, Vai's record label [[Favored Nations]] released ''[[No Substitutions: Live in Osaka]]''. The release, which Vai himself produced and engineered, won him his second [[Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album|Grammy award for Best Pop Instrumental Album]] in February 2002.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{Cite web|title = Awards - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/awards/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225095812/http://www.vai.com/awards/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

[[Image:Steve-Vai.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Vai performing in 2004]]
While most widely recognized for his stature as a rock guitar player, Vai is also a musical composer fluent in the composition and arranging of [[orchestra]]l music. In May 2004, Vai premiered "The Aching Hunger", a project commissioned by the Netherlands Programme Service and performed with the Netherlands' [[Metropole Orkest|Metropole Orchestra]]. "The Aching Hunger" performances consisted of two parts: the first showcasing Vai's original contemporary orchestral compositions, and the second consisting of Vai (on guitar) playing newly arranged material from his catalog with the orchestra.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - The Official Steve Vai Website > Inside Real Illusions: Reflections|url = http://www.vai.com/minisites/realillusions/07lotusfeet.html|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303175927/http://www.vai.com/minisites/realillusions/07lotusfeet.html|archive-date = March 3, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> This project yielded both the ''[[Visual Sound Theories]]'' DVD and the ''[[Sound Theories Vol. I &<span class="ltr">II</span>]]'' album, which were recorded in 2005 during multiple "Aching Hunger" performances and released in June 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Sound Theories, Vols. 1-2 - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/sound-theories-vols-1-2-mw0000470643|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/sound-theories-vols-1-2-mw0000470643|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> While "The Aching Hunger" and its following releases started Vai's public career as an orchestral composer, Vai had been composing since he began a music theory class (taught by Bill Westcott) in high school. While reflecting on his time with Westcott, Vai said "He taught me how to write, compose and appreciate music. There was no greater musical influence in my life."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Bill Westcott - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/bill-westcott-3/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227123126/http://www.vai.com/bill-westcott-3/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In 2005, Vai released ''[[Real Illusions: Reflections]]'', the first installment in an ongoing three-part trilogy concept album. Each of the three installments to the series contain material (songs, lyrics, and both spoken and written narration) with particular relationships to the storyline, purposefully left out of order. Upon the release of the third installment, Vai intends to complete a fourth album of material, which will then be released with the previous three installments and completed storyline in order.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - The Official Steve Vai Website > Inside Real Illusions: Reflections|url = http://www.vai.com/minisites/realillusions/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003029/http://www.vai.com/minisites/realillusions/|archive-date = March 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Real Illusions: Reflections - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/real-illusions-reflections-mw0000261218|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/real-illusions-reflections-mw0000261218|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> In speaking of the storyline, Vai says "It's a human interest story, about the human condition. ... It's a story about this man who has a traumatic experience in his life, and it drives him insane. We see the story through his eyes. It also involves the town he lives in and this stranger that enters the town who's like a shaman; he builds this giant edifice, like a reflecting pond, and when people come to it they see aspects of their personalities and identities and discover things about themselves. There's some comedy involved, too, but it's pretty esoteric. It's about a lot of lofty principles, so it's not a bad idea to dish this all out slowly."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Interview: Steve Vai Breaks Down His New Album, 'The Story of Light'|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/interview-steve-vai-breaks-down-his-new-album-story-light|website = Guitar World|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227124107/http://www.guitarworld.com/interview-steve-vai-breaks-down-his-new-album-story-light|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The installments to the series will be released over periods of time, with the second, ''[[The Story of Light (Steve Vai album)|The Story of Light]]'', having been released in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Album – The Story of Light - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-the-story-of-light/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227135232/http://www.vai.com/album-the-story-of-light/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In 2006, Vai joined the [[Zappa Plays Zappa]] tour as a special guest, alongside additional Zappa band alumni Terry Bozzio and [[Napoleon Murphy Brock]]. In 2008, for his performance of "Peaches en Regalia" from the Zappa Plays Zappa tour, Vai won his third [[Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance]].<ref name="ReferenceC"/> Having always enjoyed the aspect of teaching and sharing his experiences in life and in the music business,{{Citation needed|date = April 2016}} Vai began a series of "Alien Guitar Secrets" masterclasses in 2006- a touring masterclass in which Vai holds open forum discussion about his own experiences in the music industry, explains the key principles to understanding success, plays to backing tracks (often inviting class attendees to jam with him), answers questions, articulates key points of guitar technique, and more importantly goes beyond the technique and into the more profound esoteric principles at play (see Notable contributions for more on this).

In support of ''Sound Theories Vol. I & II'' and ''Visual Sound Theories'', Vai put together a new band for a five-month world tour of the United States, Europe, South America, and Australia.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Unveils New Band String Theories|url = http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/steve-vai-unveils-new-band-string-theories/|website = Blabbermouth.net|date = 2007-05-23|access-date = 2015-12-27|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105070447/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/steve-vai-unveils-new-band-string-theories/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> While evaluating unique options for the band (which included ideas for a [[horn (instrument)|horn]] section or [[percussion instrument|percussion]] section), Vai began auditioning violin players to complement the new lineup. This new band, known as the String Theories band, featured previous The Breed members Jeremy Colson (drums) and Dave Weiner (guitar and sitar), along with new members [[Bryan Beller]] (bass), Alex DePue (violin), and [[Ann Marie Calhoun]] (violin). During a month of twelve- to fifteen-hour a day rehearsals, Vai and the band perfected the performance (which consisted of pieces from Vai's catalog, arranged by Vai to include the two violins).<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Unveils New Band String Theories|url = http://bravewords.com/news/steve-vai-unveils-new-band-string-theories|website = bravewords.com|access-date = 2015-12-27|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20151229111646/http://bravewords.com/news/steve-vai-unveils-new-band-string-theories|archive-date = December 29, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The tour began in June 2007 and ended in December the same year.

Midway through the String Theories tour in 2007, Vai recorded a performance at the [[State Theatre (Minneapolis)|State Theatre]] in [[Minneapolis]], which yielded the acclaimed 2009 live concert DVD and Blu-ray release of ''[[Where the Wild Things Are (Steve Vai album)|Where the Wild Things Are]]''. Certified gold in the United States and Canada, ''Where the Wild Things Are'' showcased the diverse musical range of the String Theories band, with pieces such as the visceral Grammy-nominated "[[Now We Run]]", to the dynamic ballad "Angel Food".<ref>{{Cite web|url =https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2245526/|title =IMDb- Where The Wild Things Are|website =[[IMDb]]|date =October 12, 2009|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2245526/|archive-date =January 5, 2016|df =mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title =Where the Wild Things Are - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/where-the-wild-things-are-mw0000825761|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-27|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.allmusic.com/album/where-the-wild-things-are-mw0000825761|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

2007 also marked the 20th anniversary of the production of the Ibanez JEM guitar, a milestone which was commemorated with the 20th anniversary JEM model. Made of an acrylic body with three-dimensional "swirl painted" interior, this guitar can be seen in the beginning of the ''Where the Wild Things Are'' DVD. In 2008, Vai announced the release of his signature Ibanez Jemini [[distortion (music)#Overdrive.2Fdistortion pedals|distortion pedal]], a twin distortion pedal with both a custom overdrive and lead distortion section.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Review: Ibanez Jemini Steve Vai signature distortion pedal|url = http://iheartguitarblog.com/2011/04/review-ibanez-jemini-steve-vai-signature-distortion-pedal.html#sthash.kLtlOpWY.dpbs|website = I Heart Guitar|access-date = 2015-12-27|language = en-US|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105020121/http://iheartguitarblog.com/2011/04/review-ibanez-jemini-steve-vai-signature-distortion-pedal.html#sthash.kLtlOpWY.dpbs|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===2010s===
[[Image:Steve Vai 2011.jpg|thumb|right|upright|Vai in 2015]]
2010 marked the twentieth anniversary of the production of the Ibanez Universe guitar, which was commemorated with a twentieth anniversary Universe model. A reissue of the early 1990s Universe 77 MC (multi-color swirl), the model included a new five-piece [[maple]]/[[guibourtia|bubinga]] Universe neck and original swirl-paint job by Darren Johansen (the painter of the original Universe 77 MC guitars).<ref>{{Cite web|title = Ibanez Universe 20th Anniversary Video! - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/ibanez-universe-20th-anniversary-video/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/ibanez-universe-20th-anniversary-video/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In February 2010, Vai announced the introduction of "VaiTunes", a platform used to release digital-only singles via [[iTunes]] and other digital media outlets.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|title = Discography-Vaitunes - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/discography-vaitunes/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160103230619/http://www.vai.com/discography-vaitunes/|archive-date = January 3, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> In April, Vai performed with [[Mary J. Blige]], [[Orianthi]], [[Randy Jackson]], and [[Travis Barker]] for a rendition of the Led Zeppelin classic "[[Stairway to Heaven]]", on the hit television show ''[[American Idol]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|title = Mary J. Blige Builds A 'Stairway To Heaven' For 'Idol Gives Back'|url = http://www.mtv.com/news/1637570/mary-j-blige-builds-a-stairway-to-heaven-for-idol-gives-back/|newspaper = MTV|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.mtv.com/news/1637570/mary-j-blige-builds-a-stairway-to-heaven-for-idol-gives-back/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

October 2010 saw more movement from Vai as a composer, with the premiere of two original symphonies at the Steve Vai Festival in [[Groningen]], the Netherlands, and performed by the [[Noord Nederlands Orkest|North Netherlands Orchestra]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Festival! - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/steve-vai-festival-3/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/steve-vai-festival-3/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Shortly after the festival, Vai embarked on the Experience Hendrix tour (along with Eric Johnson, [[Kenny Wayne Shepherd]], [[Susan Tedeschi]], [[Billy Cox]], [[Vernon Reid]], [[Robert Randolph and the Family Band|Robert Randolph]], [[Jonny Lang]], [[Brad Whitford]], and others) for a nationwide tour of the United States.<ref>{{Cite web|title = A brief history of Experience Hendrix Tour's 2010 Fall National Tour|url = http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com/history.php?event=014|website = Experience Hendrix Tour|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151231011118/http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com/history.php?event=014|archive-date = December 31, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In March 2011, Vai (in conjunction with the online education division of Berklee College of Music) set a [[Guinness World Records|Guinness World Record]] for the world's largest online guitar lesson.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Join the World's Largest Online Guitar Lesson with Steve Vai|url = https://online.berklee.edu/vai-live|website = online.berklee.edu|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/https://online.berklee.edu/vai-live|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The lesson was held as a promotion for Berklee's online "Steve Vai Guitar Techniques" course, which Vai helped to construct.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Guitar Techniques Course - Berklee Online|url = https://online.berklee.edu/courses/steve-vai-guitar-techniques|website = online.berklee.edu|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/https://online.berklee.edu/courses/steve-vai-guitar-techniques|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> In April 2011, Vai (along with music and technology entrepreneur Andy Alt) announced the launch of GuitarTV, an online streaming website dedicated to bringing free guitar-related content to the community of guitar players around the world.

Vai's eighth studio album, ''[[The Story of Light (Steve Vai album)|The Story of Light]]'', was released in August 2012 as the second installment in the ''Real Illusions'' concept album trilogy.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Album – The Story of Light - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-the-story-of-light/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227135232/http://www.vai.com/album-the-story-of-light/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''The Story of Light'' tour, which began on the month of the album's release, spanned 254 engagements in 52 countries, ending in September 2014. This tour yielded the 2015 release of Vai's fourth live DVD project ''Stillness in Motion'', filmed in October 2012 during his ''Story of Light'' tour at the [[Club Nokia]] in Los Angeles. Released on April 7, the double-disc set contained a copy of the ''Stillness in Motion'' concert footage and a special bonus feature disc called ''The Space Between the Notes''. The latter is a complete chronological timeline of the ''Story of Light'' tour, with a video or picture representation of each show of all of the 254 engagements attended.<ref>{{Cite web|title = "Stillness In Motion" DVD and CD Release for April 7, 2015 - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/stillness-in-motion-dvd-and-cd-release-for-april-7-2015/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/stillness-in-motion-dvd-and-cd-release-for-april-7-2015/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

2014 saw the announcement of a new, intensive guitar camp called the "Vai Academy", which was an evolution of the Alien Guitar Secrets masterclass. Each year the camp is held, Vai creates a syllabus with a particular theme and invites special guests to help him teach it. During the day, Vai and the special guests (of whom have included [[Guthrie Govan]], [[Jeff Baxter]], Vernon Reid, Eric Johnson, [[Sonny Landreth]], and others) hold classes in which they add their insight and perspective to the theme. Each evening, Vai and the special guests jam with the campers. The themes have included 2014's Vai Academy- Song Evolution Camp, and 2015's Vai Academy: All About the Guitar.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai Academy 2015 - All About The Guitar|url = http://vaiacademy.com|website = vaiacademy.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151231005633/http://vaiacademy.com/|archive-date = December 31, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Vai has announced an upcoming 2016 release commemorating the 25th anniversary of ''Passion and Warfare''. This release contains [[remaster]]ed songs from the album, as well as the inclusion of a new album of material written from the time between the recording of ''Passion and Warfare'' and his first solo album ''Flex-Able''. After the release, Vai held a world tour in which he played the entire ''Passion and Warfare'' album, along with material from the new release. The tour would continue during the first half of 2017.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai: "Modern Primitive" album in 2016 + "Passion And Warfare" 25th anniversary edition and Tour|url = http://www.metallus.it/news/steve-vai-modern-primitive-album-in-2016-passion-and-warfare-25th-anniversary-edition-and-tour/|website = Metallus.it|date = July 23, 2015|access-date = 2015-12-28|language = it-IT|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123104/http://www.metallus.it/news/steve-vai-modern-primitive-album-in-2016-passion-and-warfare-25th-anniversary-edition-and-tour/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In 2014, Steve Vai with [[Roman Miroshnichenko]]'s rock-band and the 80-piece Russian Philharmonic performed in Russia. Next year, double disc DVD “Stillness in Motion: Vai Live in L.A.Stillness In Motion" was released with a bonus disc premiering “The Space Between the Notes", a revelatory video diary consisting of more than three and a half hours of footage, lensed around the world on-stage, off-stage and behind-the-scenes, rehearsal and the show moments of Steve's joint performance with Roman Miroshnichenko and orchestra during Vai’s "Story of Light" World Tour.

In 2016, Vai played an uncredited guitar solo on the track "[[Go! (M83 song)|Go!]]," from the album ''[[Junk (M83 album)|Junk]]'' by French electronic band [[M83 (band)|M83]]. In April an May of the same year, Vai took part in the [[Generation Axe]] tour, alongside [[Tosin Abasi]], [[Nuno Bettencourt]], [[Yngwie Malmsteen]], and [[Zakk Wylde]]. Starting in June, Vai embarked on the ''[[Passion and Warfare]]'' 25th Anniversary World Tour, where he played the album in its entirety for the first time.<ref>{{cite web|last1 = Fanelli|first1 = Damian|title = Steve Vai Announces 'Passion and Warfare' 25th Anniversary World Tour|website = Guitar World|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/artist-news/steve-vai-announces-passion-and-warfare-25th-anniversary-world-tour/29004|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160805135745/http://www.guitarworld.com/artist-news/steve-vai-announces-passion-and-warfare-25th-anniversary-world-tour/29004|archive-date = August 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Vai is a featured artist on the track "Do You Feel Love" from Jacob Collier's 2019 album ''[[Djesse Vol. 2]]''.

===2020–present===
On December 1, 2021, Steve Vai announced the release of his tenth studio album, entitled ''Inviolate'', alongside its lead single "Little Pretty". The album was released on January 28, 2022. Upon release, it debuted at No. 1 on the Current Hard Rock Albums chart (his first No. 1 album), No. 8 on Top Hard Rock Albums, and No. 40 on Top Album Sales.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Steve Vai Chart History |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/steve-vai/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=14 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet |user=stevevai |number=1491441997076647937 |title=Wow, It's taken 50 years of playing music to have what I believe is my first #1 debut on a chart! It's really nice and I want to thank you all for making this happen. We still have a few little surprises for this record, so keep posted. This is a blast!}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Owen |first1=Matt |title=Steve Vai announces new album, Inviolate, reveals tracklisting and release date |url=https://www.guitarworld.com/news/steve-vai-inviolate-album |website=Guitar World |date=December 2021 |access-date=22 December 2021}}</ref> To support the album, Vai embarked upon a 54-date American tour of the same name.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Roche |first1=Sam |title=Steve Vai announces enormous 54-date US tour |url=https://www.guitarworld.com/news/steve-vai-us-tour-2022 |website=Guitar World|date=September 14, 2021 }}</ref> In 2021, Vai was also featured on a track called "Lost Children of the Universe" on [[Revel in Time|the latest album]] by [[Star One (band)|Star One]], a project led by [[Arjen Anthony Lucassen]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arjen Lucassen's Star One release epic video for Lost Children Of The Universe |url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/arjen-lucassens-star-one-release-epic-video-for-lost-children-of-the-universe |last=Ewing |first=Jerry |date=October 26, 2021 |website=Louder Sound |access-date=2021-11-02}}</ref>

In 2022, Vai was featured on [[Polyphia]]'s track "Ego Death".

On November 10, 2022, Vai announced his latest album, ''Vai/Gash'', alongside its lead single "In The Wind". Vai and singer Johnny "Gash" Sombrotto had recorded the album in 1991, but it remained unpublished after Sombrotto's death in a motorcycle accident on September 7, 1998. Vai and Sombrotto had bonded over a shared love of motorcycles. The album cover features a photo of Sombretto, showing the extensive burn scars he sustained in a 1977 motorcycle crash.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Roche |first1=Sam |title=Steve Vai unveils lost classic rock-inspired track from the '90s, In the Wind |url=https://www.guitarworld.com/news/steve-vai-in-the-wind |website=Guitar World |date=November 10, 2022 |access-date=14 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.metaltalk.net/steve-vai-pays-emotional-tribute-to-friend-johnny-gash-sombrotto.php | title=Steve Vai pays emotional tribute to friend Johnny 'Gash' Sombrotto | date=29 November 2022 | website=Metal Talk | access-date=22 September 2023}}</ref> The album released on January 27, 2023.

Having previously covered her composition, ''Mullach a tSí'' for [[The Story of Light (Steve Vai album)|The Story of Light]] in 2012 and performing together in [[Vicar Street]] in Dublin, Vai collaborated with [[Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin]] for the title track of her [[Seven Daughters of the Sea]] album, released in 2023.

In early 2024, Vai, Satriani, and Eric Johnson embarked on a limited-run "Reunion" tour of the original G3 lineup.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.g3tour.com/2024.shtml | title=G3 Tour 2024 (Satriani/Johnson/Vai)|website=G3tour.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Vai and Satriani continued touring as a double-bill.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vai.com/steve-vai-joe-satriani-tour-happening/|title=STEVE VAI & JOE SATRIANI TOUR HAPPENING!|website=G3tour.com|access-date=June 6, 2024}}</ref>  After more than 50 years of professional and personal friendship, the pair wrote and recorded their first single "The Sea Of Emotion, Pt.1", released on March 29, 2024.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://metalinjection.net/video/steve-vai-joe-satriani-team-up-for-shreddy-new-single-the-sea-of-emotion-pt-1 | title=STEVE VAI & JOE SATRIANI Team up for Shreddy New Single "The Sea of Emotion, Pt. 1"|website=Metalinjection.net | date=March 31, 2024 }}</ref>

==Media appearances==
===''Steve Vai – His First 30 Years: The Documentary''===
In 2022, a 77 minutes long documentary was released to honor his first 30 years. This is the first documentary covering Vai's life from 1960 to 1990. It was co-written by Steve Vai. The video covers his life growing up, attending [[Berklee College of Music]], playing with several artists like [[Frank Zappa]], [[Alcatrazz]], the [[David Lee Roth]] band, and [[Whitesnake]], the recording of both his solo albums [[Flex-Able]] and [[Passion and Warfare]], plus Vai's role in the movie ''[[Crossroads (1986 film)|Crossroads]]'', and how he helped create the [[Ibanez JEM]] guitar.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.guitarworld.com/news/steve-vai-his-first-30-years-documentary | title=Steve Vai: His First 30 Years documentary released online for free|website=Guitarworld.com | date=September 7, 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/steve-vais-first-30-years-are-focus-of-new-documentary | title=STEVE VAI's First 30 Years Are Focus of New Documentary|website=Blabbermouth.net | date=September 7, 2022 }}</ref>

===Video games===
"Juice", from ''Alien Love Secrets'', was featured on the 1996 video game ''[[Formula 1 (video game)|Formula One]]'' for the [[PlayStation]]. Vai's guitar work also appeared in the 2002 video game ''[[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]]''. David Lee Roth's "[[Yankee Rose (song)|Yankee Rose]]" was featured on ''Vice City'''s soundtrack, as well as "God Blessed Video" by Alcatrazz, as part of the [[Lazlow Jones|Lazlow]]-led, 1980s rock/[[heavy metal music|metal]] radio station "V-Rock." In 2004, Vai was featured on the soundtrack to the [[Xbox (console)|Xbox]] video game ''[[Halo 2]]'', performing a heavy rock guitar rendition of the "[[Halo Original Soundtrack|Halo theme]]", known as "Halo Theme (MJOLNIR Mix)". He also performed on the track "Never Surrender". He later featured in the second volume of the soundtrack, where he performed on the track "Reclaimer". Vai returned to re-record his ''Halo'' work for the ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection|Halo 2 Anniversary Original Soundtrack]]'', which was released in 2014 and included as part of the anniversary edition of ''Halo 2''. In an interview shot during the development of ''Halo 2 Anniversary'', Vai reveals that his part in the "MJOLNIR Mix" was a last-minute inclusion in the song.

In 2008, Vai's song "[[For the Love of God (instrumental)|For the Love of God]]" and "Halo Theme (MJOLNIR Mix)" were featured as downloadable tracks for the game ''[[Guitar Hero 3]]''. A live version of "For the Love of God" was also available on the [[Rock Band Network]] service, as well as the song "Get the Hell Out of Here" from his 2002 compilation album ''[[The Elusive Light and Sound Vol. 1]]'' on March 4, 2010. "The Attitude Song" and a live version of "The Crying Machine" were both also added to the Rock Band Network. A re-recording of "Speeding" is featured in the 2010 video game ''[[Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock]]'' for [[Xbox 360]], [[Wii]] and [[PlayStation 3]].

===Films===
In 1986, Vai was cast in director [[Walter Hill]]'s film ''[[Crossroads (1986 film)|Crossroads]]'' as the Devil's guitar player "Jack Butler." In the "cutting heads" scene between Vai's Jack Butler and [[Ralph Macchio]]'s Eugene "Lightning" Martone, Vai wrote and performed all guitar parts with the exception of the slide guitar (which was performed by [[Ry Cooder]]).<ref>{{Cite web |url =https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090888/ |title =Crossroads (1986)|website =[[IMDb]] |date =March 14, 1986|url-status =live|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090888/|archive-date =January 5, 2016|df =mdy-all}}</ref> The main body of the final piece performed in the duel scene (the fast-paced [[neoclassical metal|neoclassical]] track "Eugene's Trick Bag") was based heavily on [[Niccolò Paganini]]'s [[Caprice No. 5 (Paganini)|Capriccio number 5]]. The ''Crossroads'' duel appeared on the 2002 album ''The Elusive Light and Sound Vol. 1''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Album – The Elusive Light And Sound - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-the-elusive-light-and-sound/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/album-the-elusive-light-and-sound/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

In 1987, Vai performed "Amazing Grace" in the film [[Dudes (film)|''Dudes'']]. In 1991, Vai performed on the film ''[[Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey]]'', as well as on 1992's ''[[Encino Man]]'',  ''[[PCU (film)|PCU]]'' (1994), and [[John Carpenter]]'s ''Ghosts of Mars'' (where he played on the tracks "Ghosts of Mars" and "Ghost Poppin'").

In 2010, Vai's record label Favored Nations produced and released the award-winning original motion picture ''Crazy''. An independent film, ''Crazy'' was inspired by the life and music of the guitarist [[Hank Garland]].<ref>{{Cite web |url =https://www.guitar.com/articles/favored-nations-release-crazy |title =Favored Nations- Crazy |url-status =dead |archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160105170853/https://www.guitar.com/articles/favored-nations-release-crazy |archive-date =January 5, 2016|df =mdy-all}}</ref>

==Style and influence==
At the age of thirteen, after having purchased his first guitar and begun taking his first lessons from fellow New York native [[Joe Satriani]], Vai became obsessed with the discipline of practice. Vai's practice routine, consisting of a rigid and structured regimen of ten-to-fifteen hour-a-day practice schedules, became the basis of his work ethic for the rest of his career.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Play Like Steve Vai|url = http://www.guitarplayer.com/artists/1026/10-things-you-gotta-do-to-play-like-steve-vai/21995 |website =Guitarplayer.com |access-date = 2015-12-28 |url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151222090709/http://www.guitarplayer.com/artists/1026/10-things-you-gotta-do-to-play-like-steve-vai/21995 |archive-date = December 22, 2015 |df = mdy-all}}</ref> During his employment by [[Frank Zappa]], Vai transcribed and played very rhythmically complex music, believing that if started slow and perfected, any piece of music could be played.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Tempo Mental - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227045132/http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Vai's first solo album, ''[[Flex-Able]]'', began his career as a solo artist in 1984. During the period of time that the album was recorded, Vai was heavily influenced by his previous tenure in [[Frank Zappa]]'s band.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Album – Flex-Able - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-flex-able/|website = Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225151341/http://www.vai.com/album-flex-able/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Originally not intended for release, ''Flex-Able'' expressed a certain creative "quirky" and "angular" freedom in the eclectic nature of Vai's writing style.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Flex-Able - Steve Vai {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits {{!}} AllMusic|url = http://www.allmusic.com/album/flex-able-mw0000196197|website = AllMusic|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160124042303/http://www.allmusic.com/album/flex-able-mw0000196197|archive-date = January 24, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> ''[[Passion and Warfare]]'', Vai's second solo album, expressed a more mature and evolved "signature" style but retained a certain freedom of unfettered inspiration that would continue to influence Vai's future releases.<ref name="auto1"/> In speaking of his inspiration, Vai has said that it comes to him in many forms (even from the flowers pushed up against a fence outside of his studio, which he transcribed and used in the ninth track "Weeping China Doll", from ''[[The Story of Light (Steve Vai album)|The Story of Light]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com > Naked Tracks > Volumes VI & VII (Naked Tracks)|url = http://www.vai.com/minisites/nakedtracks/nakedtracks_vol67.html|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151028224906/http://www.vai.com/minisites/nakedtracks/nakedtracks_vol67.html|archive-date = October 28, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> While expressing that he is not continuously inspired, Vai uses a concept he calls "musical meditation" to enter a state of consciousness that he calls "The Ultra Zone".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Part Two - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/part-two/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/part-two/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> When inside this un-critical frame of mind, Vai is able to achieve inspiration in the form of musical ideas (often in forms of melody or rhythm).<ref>{{Cite web|title = Martian Love Secrets - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/martian-love-secrets/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227045543/http://www.vai.com/martian-love-secrets/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> For these moments of inspiration, Vai created what he calls the "Infinity Shelf", a drive of thousands of snippets of song ideas that he has collected over his entire career.<ref name="auto"/><ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Opens His Vaults for VaiTunes Series|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/steve-vai-opens-his-vaults-vaitunes-series|website = Guitar World|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105103715/http://www.guitarworld.com/steve-vai-opens-his-vaults-vaitunes-series|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> These [[esoteric]] principles are taught by Vai during his Alien Guitar Secrets masterclasses, among a host of other information.

Vai's playing style utilizes specialized guitar techniques (such as [[tapping#Two-handed tapping|two-handed tapping]], [[alternate picking]], [[legato]], [[hybrid picking]], [[sweep picking]], whammy bar acrobatics, and circular [[finger vibrato|vibrato]]) in his music, as well as a wide range of recording techniques.<ref>{{Cite web|title = 8 Essential Steve Vai Licks|url = http://www.premierguitar.com/articles/8_Essential_Steve_Vai_Licks|website =Premierguitar.com|date = August 8, 2012|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151222023118/http://www.premierguitar.com/articles/8_Essential_Steve_Vai_Licks|archive-date = December 22, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Guitar Lessons You Can Learn From Steve Vai|url = http://tomhess.net/SteveVaiGuitarLesson.aspx|website = tomhess.net|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://tomhess.net/SteveVaiGuitarLesson.aspx|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

==Notable contributions==
===Work with Frank Zappa===
As a transcriptionist for Frank Zappa, Vai transcribed some of Zappa's most rhythmically complex music, using a range of conceptualizations for the notation of rhythmic music. Vai says "While transcribing the material, I was often confronted with situations that led me to reach into the intuitional areas of my imagination to come up with various notational devices and constructions that I had never seen before. I soon discovered that many contemporary composers were then (and are still) using these notations". These concepts can be seen throughout the "Frank Zappa Guitar Book", which were composed of Vai's guitar and drum transcriptions from various Zappa albums. Vai toured with Zappa from 1980 to 1983, performing selections of this technically demanding music with Zappa's band at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Tempo Mental - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2016-01-08|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.vai.com/tempo-mental/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===JEM, PIA, and Universe guitars===
Vai designed the [[Ibanez JEM]] guitar, a unique instrument that incorporated a series of groundbreaking designs that have since become staples in feature throughout the guitar industry, in 1985. In speaking of the development of the guitar, Vai says, "[[Fender Stratocaster|Stratocasters]] had [[Vibrato systems for guitar|whammy bars]]—which were fantastic—but they were very limited, were always going out of tune, and had [[Single coil guitar pickup|single-coil pickups]]. [[Gibson Les Paul|Les Pauls]] had [[humbucker]]s—which gave you that real scream in the bridge position—but no whammy bar, and I didn't like the way they sat. Neither guitar had twenty-four [[fret]]s. So I went to a guitar shop in Hollywood, where I had these elements implemented into a guitar (what would have been considered a [[Superstrat]] at the time). The guitar was designed with a sharper body shape, a large cutaway around the neck, twenty-four frets, a fully floating tremolo system, a specially wired five-way pickup selector switch, and an output jack angled on the side of the body (so that when you step on the cable, it doesn't pull out of your guitar). I knew of course that these features would eventually be taken and used in other guitars, so I did something completely preposterous: I said, 'Put a handle in it!' That way, during videos and photoshoots I could swing the guitar around."<ref name="guitarworld.com"/>

Vai had several custom prototypes of these guitars built (which were used on the ''Eat 'Em and Smile'' tour) by Joe "Jem" Despagni, a custom guitar luthier and friend of Vai's. Due to Vai's highly coveted position in Roth's band, many guitar companies were eager to propose endorsement opportunities. In response to these offers, Vai sent out the specifications of the JEM guitar, detailing that the company that returned the best guitar would be given the endorsement. Dissatisfied with the guitars returned and unwilling to compromise, Vai held out on a guitar endorsement until [[Ibanez]] approached him, sending him an instrument superior to that of the other companies and willing to follow his instructions. After the pre-production prototypes were perfected, the first production Ibanez JEM 777 guitars were unveiled at the [[NAMM Show]] in 1987. Since its original 1987 release, the JEM has become one of the longest-running and most successful signature series guitars in history, with its sister guitar, the [[Ibanez RG]], being the second highest-selling guitar (behind the [[Fender Stratocaster]]) on the market.

Another design by Vai was the [[Ibanez Universe]], the first production [[seven-string guitar]], which was released in 1989. The Universe incorporated many of the aspects that made the JEM a unique instrument (2 octave fretboard, full floating tremolo, [[humbucker]]/[[single coil]]/[[humbucker]] pickup configuration, angled output jack and deeper body cutaways), with an added low 'B' string, allowing for new low-range sonic possibilities. Used by Vai on much of ''Passion and Warfare'' and all of Whitesnake's ''Slip of the Tongue'', the Universe was a large stepping stone for the burgeoning [[Nu metal|Nu-metal]] genre (with bands such as [[Korn]], [[Limp Bizkit]], [[Fear Factory]] and [[Meshuggah]] having adopted the instrument and incorporating it into their signature sound).

On April 4 of 2020 the Ibanez PIA was introduced, which Vai says is the modernisation and maturing of his original JEM.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Features|url=https://www.guitarinteractivemagazine.com/features/steve-vai-interview/|access-date=2021-03-10|website=Guitar Interactive Magazine|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=February 2020|first=Richard Bienstock 28|title=Steve Vai goes in-depth on his stunning new signature model, the Ibanez PIA: "It's a guitar built for freakdom"|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/features/steve-vai-goes-in-depth-on-his-stunning-new-signature-model-the-ibanez-pia-its-a-guitar-built-for-freakdom|access-date=2021-03-10|website=guitarworld|date=February 28, 2020 |language=en}}</ref> The PIA model (named after his wife Pia Maiocco), features an alder body and a 5-piece maple / walnut neck with 24 frets, rosewood fretboard with the usual floral inlays. The neck is styled in the classic Ibanez wizard III neck - 430mmR neck radius. The primary way model differs from the JEM for its softer body curves and a Petal Grip handle replacing the original Monkey Grip cutout. It also sports [[DiMarzio]] UtoPIA pickups in an HSH configuration, gold hardware and a Prestige locking vibrato unit.<ref>{{cite web |title=NAMM 2020: Ibanez releases striking Steve Vai PIA Signature |url=https://guitar.com/news/ibanez-steve-vai-pia-signature-namm-2020/ |website=Guitar.com |date=January 16, 2020 |access-date=9 February 2020}}</ref>

===Alien Guitar Secrets masterclasses===
Having always enjoyed the aspect of teaching and sharing his experiences in life and in the music business, Vai began a series of "Alien Guitar Secrets" masterclasses in 2006- a touring masterclass in which Vai holds open forum discussion about his own experiences in the music industry, explains the key principles to understanding success, plays to backing tracks (often inviting class attendees to jam with him), answers questions, articulates key points of guitar technique, and more importantly goes beyond the technique and into the more profound esoteric principles at play. Vai details certain concepts he has discovered that have helped him in all areas of his life and career, both in playing guitar/ musically as well as spiritually. Vai accessibly shares these concepts with masterclass participants using examples from his own experiences, delving into the ongoing process of identifying the self-critical nature of one's own thoughts. Vai explains the techniques and exercises he uses to circumnavigate one's own insecurities and thoughts of self-doubt, and encourages masterclass participants to use these tools in their own lives. Often embarking on masterclass tours through Europe, South America, and Russia, Vai considers this ongoing series of classes as one of his most important contributions.<ref>{{Cite web|title = - Alien Guitar Secrets|url = http://www.alienguitarsecrets.com|website =Alienguitarsecrets.com|access-date = 2016-01-08|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160107105640/http://www.alienguitarsecrets.com/|archive-date = January 7, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Steve Talks about the new DVD and more|url = http://www.vai.com/minisites/wtwta/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2016-01-09|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052241/http://www.vai.com/minisites/wtwta/|archive-date = March 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===Eventide H3000 Ultra-Harmonizer===
Guitar effects manufacturer [[Eventide, Inc|Eventide]] approached Vai in the mid-1980s to contribute unique ideas for their H3000 effects unit. Vai suggested many specific concepts, such as diatonic pitch change and multi-voice harmony, that were used in the unit and have since become standard algorithms in guitar effects processors.<ref>{{Cite web|title = H3000 Factory {{!}} Eventide|url = https://www.eventideaudio.com/products/plugins/pitch-delay-modulation-filtering/h3000-factory|website=Eventideaudio.com|access-date = 2016-01-07|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160208063159/https://www.eventideaudio.com/products/plugins/pitch-delay-modulation-filtering/h3000-factory|archive-date = February 8, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===DiMarzio pickups===
In 1993, Vai's signature series high-output "Evolution" humbucker pickup set was released by DiMarzio. The Evolution pickups use DiMarzio's patented "Dual-Resonance" design.<ref>{{Citation|title = United States Patent: 4501185 - Transducer for stringer musical instrument|url = http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%252Fnetahtml%252FPTO%252Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=4501185.PN.&OS=PN/4501185&RS=PN/4501185|access-date = 2016-01-07|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180501200736/http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%252Fnetahtml%252FPTO%252Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=4501185.PN.&OS=PN%2F4501185&RS=PN%2F4501185|archive-date = May 1, 2018|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The "EVO 2" humbucker, a lower output model, was released in 2004.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Evo 2™ Bridge {{!}} DiMarzio|url = http://www.dimarzio.com/pickups/humbuckers/high-power/evo-2-bridge|website =Dimarzio.com|access-date = 2016-01-07|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151212174230/http://www.dimarzio.com/pickups/humbuckers/high-power/evo-2-bridge|archive-date = December 12, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===Carvin Legacy amplifier===
In 1997, Vai had begun working with the [[Carvin Corporation]] to design a signature series of Legacy amplifiers, which were used on his 1999 Epic Records release ''[[The Ultra Zone]]''.<ref name="musicradar.com" /><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title = Album – The Ultra Zone - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/album-the-ultra-zone/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225042332/http://www.vai.com/album-the-ultra-zone/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> The original Legacy I model was released in 1999, with the most recent Legacy III being released in 2012.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title = Steve Vai Legacy Tube Amplifier Series|url = http://www.carvinaudio.com/collections/steve-vai-legacy-tube-amplifier-series|website = Carvin Audio|access-date = 2015-12-24|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225031635/http://www.carvinaudio.com/collections/steve-vai-legacy-tube-amplifier-series|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

===Touring===
In the 1990s, Vai began touring in European and Asian countries (such as Russia and China) as well as South America, often having been the first American rock act in history to have performed in these areas. In 2014, Vai performed on the Chinese television station BTV's ''Spring Festival Global Gala,'' a program broadcast to over two billion viewers. With the broadcasting of this event on January 26, 2014, Vai became the first rock artist ever broadcast on a Chinese television program.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Spring Gala Event 2014, China - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/spring-gala-event-2014-china/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2016-01-07|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052629/http://www.vai.com/spring-gala-event-2014-china/|archive-date = March 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = BTV Spring Festival Global Gala 2014 (TV Movie 2014)|url = https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3501138/|website = IMDb|access-date = 2016-01-07|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160208063159/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3501138/|archive-date = February 8, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

==Equipment==
[[File:SteveVaiFLO.jpg|thumb|upright|Vai's FLO guitar in 2014]]
Vai's personal studio, ''The Harmony Hut'', is a large edifice located in his backyard equipped with a full control room and performance room.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vai.com/Machines/studios.html|title=The Studios|publisher=Vai.com|access-date=2014-07-15|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060314233659/http://www.vai.com/Machines/studios.html|archive-date=March 14, 2006|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The studio, built in 2011, is where Vai currently produces, records, and [[audio mixing (recorded music)|mixes]] his new material.
Vai has two main signature series Ibanez JEM six-string guitars (dubbed "EVO"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-316.jpg |title=Untitled image |access-date=2016-03-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723011401/http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-316.jpg |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> and "FLO III"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-319.jpg |title=Untitled image |access-date=2016-03-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723011459/http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-319.jpg |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |df=mdy-all }}</ref>) that he uses live and in the studio. "EVO", a prototype Ibanez JEM 7VWH, was received in 1993 while developing Vai's signature [[DiMarzio]] Evolution pickups (hence the name of the guitar), and "FLO III" is a basswood Ibanez Los Angeles Custom Shop JEM 7VWH equipped with a [[Fernandes Guitars|Fernandes Sustainer]] system and a DiMarzio [[PAF (pickup)|PAF]] Pro pickup in bridge position.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Meet Steve Vai's Ibanez JEM "Evo" Guitar|url = http://www.guitarworld.com/guitar-gallery-steve-vai-s-ibanez-jem|website = Guitar World|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.guitarworld.com/guitar-gallery-steve-vai-s-ibanez-jem|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - All About Flo|url = http://www.vai.com/all-about-flo-history/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227044114/http://www.vai.com/all-about-flo-history/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Since early 2022, Vai has been frequently using the 2nd prototype of the Onyx Black Ibanez PIA along with "EVO" and "FLO III", which he nicknamed "ONYX".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - PIA black 2|url = https://www.vai.com/guitars/pia-onyx-2/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2022-08-09|df = mdy-all}}</ref> "ONYX" is outfitted with a Sustaniac system and a lightly scalloped neck.

His other favourite guitars include "BO",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/gtr113lrg.jpg |title=Untitled image |access-date=2016-03-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723011357/http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/gtr113lrg.jpg |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> a JEM77BRMR prototype, also equipped with Fernandes Sustainer system and blue LED dot inlays, which was stolen in 2015, but later recovered; the original "FLO"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-193.jpg |title=Untitled image |access-date=2016-03-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723011223/http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-193.jpg |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> guitar, a transformed original 77FP JEM to 7VWH specifications, also equipped with Fernandes Sustainer System and EVO 2 bridge pickup; "Bruno" aka "For the Love of God"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-387.jpg |title=Untitled image |access-date=2016-03-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723011335/http://www.vai.com/wp-content/gallery/ibanez-electric/steve-vai-387.jpg |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Ibanez Universe UV77MC seven-string guitar with burnt finish and mirror pickguard (this guitar was used in the ''For the Love of God'' music video); "NILE", 1st Onyx Black PIA prototype used heavily on ''Inviolate'' album;<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - PIA black prototype|url = https://www.vai.com/guitars/pia-black-prototype/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2022-08-09|df = mdy-all}}</ref> and "XAVIA", a customised 2007 JEM 7VWH with heavily scalloped neck and [[Fernandes Guitars|Fernandes Sustainer]] system usually used as a backup for or in place of "FLO III".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vai.com - XAVIA|url = https://www.vai.com/guitars/ibanez-jem7vwh-11/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2022-08-09|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Vai uses his signature Carvin Legacy amplifier, as well as [[Morley Pedals]], with whom he has his signature Bad Horsie and Bad Horsie II wah pedals, and Little Alligator volume pedal.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Morley Pedals - Bad Horsie Wah|url = http://www.morleypedals.com/dvai-1.html|website =Morleypedals.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052917/http://www.morleypedals.com/dvai-1.html|archive-date = March 4, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Morley Pedals - Steve Vai Little Alligator Volume|url = http://www.morleypedals.com/dpla.html|website =Morleypedals.com|access-date = 2015-12-28|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160115203040/http://www.morleypedals.com/dpla.html|archive-date = January 15, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Vai uses the Ibanez Jemini distortion pedal, a signature twin distortion pedal with separate overdrive and distortion sections.<ref>{{Cite web|title = REVIEW: Ibanez Jemini Steve Vai signature distortion pedal|url = http://iheartguitarblog.com/2011/04/review-ibanez-jemini-steve-vai-signature-distortion-pedal.html#sthash.I4uyKfdr.dpbs|website = I Heart Guitar|access-date = 2015-12-28|language = en-US|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105020121/http://iheartguitarblog.com/2011/04/review-ibanez-jemini-steve-vai-signature-distortion-pedal.html#sthash.I4uyKfdr.dpbs|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

Before his endorsement with Ibanez, Vai was endorsed by [[Charvel]] guitars, most notably using a green and black San Dimas model. In addition, over the course of his career, Vai has used guitars made by various other companies, including [[Jackson Guitars|Jackson]], [[Fender Musical Instruments Corporation|Fender]], and Gavtone.

Vai's preferred string gauge has usually been 9-42 [[Ernie Ball Inc.|Ernie Ball Strings]].<ref>{{Citation |title=Ernie Ball: String Theory featuring Steve Vai | date=April 10, 2017 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5caGv0ajsl8 |access-date=2024-02-12 |language=en}}</ref>

===Guitar rig and signal flow===
Vai's 2016 live guitar rig utilizes his signature Carvin Legacy amplifier (now on its third version), the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL, and an MFC-101 foot controller.

Depending on the location and venue, Vai will use either his Legacy I or Legacy III heads, and Carvin Legacy 4x12 speaker cabinets loaded with Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. Vai uses EL-34 tubes by Groove Tubes in his Legacy amps.

Vai uses the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL as the only modulation effects unit in his guitar rig. Generally for live use he utilizes the unit for stereo effects such as [[delay (audio effect)|delay]], [[chorus effect|chorus]], and [[phaser (effect)|phase]], with a separate preset for the parameters of each different song in his setlist. The Axe-Fx MFC-101 foot controller is set up in conjunction with the unit, allowing Vai to switch effects on and off in a fashion reminiscent to that of standard stompboxes.

Vai's pedalboard consists of a [[wah-wah pedal]] (either his Morley Bad Horsie signature pedal, or a [[Dunlop Cry Baby]] 95q), an Ibanez Jemini twin [[distortion (music)|distortion]] pedal, and [[DigiTech Whammy]] DT pitch shifting pedal. The centerpiece of the pedalboard is the Axe-Fx MFC-101 foot controller for the Axe-Fx II XL, which, as previously mentioned, controls the effects in a manner similar to switching on and off stompboxes. There are two expression pedals used for the Axe-Fx, one to act as a [[expression pedal|volume pedal]], and the other to control the [[pitch shift|harmonizer]] built into the Axe-Fx unit.

The signal from the guitar (usually one of the main guitars "EVO", "FLO III" or more recently, "ONYX") goes into either the Morley Bad Horsie or Dunlop 95q wah pedal. From there, it goes directly into the Ibanez Jemini twin distortion pedal, and then to the Digitech Whammy DT. From the output of the Whammy, the signal heads into the input of the Carvin Legacy amplifier head. Out of the effects loop of the Legacy, the signal heads directly into the Axe-Fx II XL, where it is split into stereo and the effects are applied (and controlled via the MFC-101 foot controller). Out of the output of the Axe-Fx, one signal is sent back to the original Legacy head return, and a second is sent to a second Carvin Legacy head return, bypassing the [[preamplifier|preamp]] stage completely and acting as a slave [[audio power amplifier|power amp]]. Vai utilizes his stereo setup on effects like delay, where he sets up two separate delay times (one slower and one faster) and allows them to alternate back and forth. The signal is then sent from the amp to the 4x12 Carvin Legacy speaker cabinets loaded with Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. Vai uses [[AKG Acoustics|AKG]] microphones to mic his amps, and uses a separate Carvin power amp to power a direct guitar monitor cabinet instead of relying on the [[public address system|PA]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Rig Rundown - Steve Vai|url=http://www.premierguitar.com/articles/Rig_Rundown_Steve_Vai|website=Premier Guitar|date=August 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722172306/http://www.premierguitar.com/articles/Rig_Rundown_Steve_Vai|archive-date=July 22, 2015|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

Detailed gear diagrams of both Vai's 1999<ref>Cooper, Adam (1999). [http://www.guitargeek.com/steve-vai-guitar-rig-and-gear-setup-1999/ "Steve Vai's 1999 Guitar Rig"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019141526/http://www.guitargeek.com/steve-vai-guitar-rig-and-gear-setup-1999/ |date=October 19, 2013 }}. GuitarGeek.Com.</ref> and 2007 guitar rigs<ref>Cooper, Adam (2007). [http://www.guitargeek.com/steve-vai-guitar-rig-and-gear-setup-2007/ "Steve Vai's 2007 Guitar Rig"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103100327/http://www.guitargeek.com/steve-vai-guitar-rig-and-gear-setup-2007/ |date=November 3, 2013 }}. GuitarGeek.Com.</ref> are well-documented.

==Personal life==
[[File:SteveVai 2.jpg|thumb|upright|Vai in 2007]]
Since the late 1990s, Vai has resided in [[Encino, Los Angeles]] with his family. Vai is married to [[Pia Maiocco]], former bassist of the band [[Vixen (band)|Vixen]] (who can be seen in the 1984 film ''[[Hardbodies]]''), with whom he has two children, Julian and Fire Vai.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Vaiography - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/vaiography/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-30|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151227031927/http://www.vai.com/vaiography/|archive-date = December 27, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Pia Maiocco|url = https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0583921/|website = IMDb|access-date = 2015-12-30|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160105123103/http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0583921/|archive-date = January 5, 2016|df = mdy-all}}</ref> Vai is also a [[vegetarian]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.richardhallebeek.com/interviews/vai.php|first=Richard|last=Hallebeek|author-link=Richard Hallebeek|title=Interview to Steve Vai|magazine=Guitar Magazine|location=Hilversum, Netherlands|date=May 21, 2004|publication-date=2005|access-date=June 26, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160617120703/http://www.richardhallebeek.com/interviews/vai.php|archive-date=June 17, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> and a [[beekeeper]], regularly tending to the beehives kept on his Encino property.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Update from the hive - vai.com – The Official Steve Vai Website|url = http://www.vai.com/update-from-the-hive/|website =Vai.com|access-date = 2015-12-30|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151225151227/http://www.vai.com/update-from-the-hive/|archive-date = December 25, 2015|df = mdy-all}}</ref>

==Band history==
Not including guest appearances.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vai.com/AllAboutSteve/bands.html|title=All About Steve : Bands|date=April 17, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060417211123/http://www.vai.com/AllAboutSteve/bands.html |access-date=June 6, 2024|archive-date=April 17, 2006 }}</ref>

'''Early bands'''
* The Ohio Express (1971–1972)
* Circus ({{circa}} 1973 to 1976)
* Rayge ({{circa}} 1973 to 1976)
* Bold As Love (1977)

'''Berklee bands'''
* Axis (1978–1979)
* Morning Thunder (1979)

'''Professional bands'''
* [[Frank Zappa]] (1980–1982)
* The Out Band ({{circa}} 1983)
* [[The Classified]] (1984)
* 777 (1984)
* [[Alcatrazz]] (1984–1985)
* [[David Lee Roth]] (1985–1989)
* [[Whitesnake]] (1989–1990)

'''Solo band (1992–94)'''

'''''Sex & Religion'' album'''
*Vocals: [[Devin Townsend]]
*Guitar: Steve Vai
*Bass: [[TM Stevens]]
*Drums: [[Terry Bozzio]]

'''"Sex & Religion" tour'''
*Vocals, Guitar: [[Devin Townsend]]
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Bass: [[Scott Thunes]]
*Keys: [[Will Riley]]
*Drums: [[Abe Laboriel, Jr.]], then [[Toss Panos]]

'''1995'''
*Guitar: Steve Vai
*Bass: Tony Pimental, then [[Scott Thunes]]
*Keys: [[Will Riley]]
*Drums: [[Chris Frazier]]
<small>''This band toured Russia twice, South America and the US (opening for Bon Jovi).''</small>

'''1996–99'''
* Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
* Guitar, Vocals and Keys: [[Mike Keneally]]
* Fretted & Fretless Bass, Vocals: [[Philip Bynoe]]
* Drums: [[Mike Mangini]]

'''2000'''
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Guitar, Vocals and Keys: [[Mike Keneally]]
*Guitar: [[Dave Weiner]]
*Fretted & Fretless Bass, Vocals: [[Philip Bynoe]]
*Drums: [[Mike Mangini]]
*Keyboards (South American Tour): Eric Goldberg
*Drums (South American Tour): [[Chris Frazier]]

'''2001–02''' – "The Breed"
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Bass, Vocals: [[Billy Sheehan]]
*Guitar, Vocals and Keys: [[Mike Keneally]], then [[Tony MacAlpine]]
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Sitar: [[Dave Weiner]]
*Drums: [[Virgil Donati]]

'''2003–05''' – "The Breed"
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Bass, Vocals: [[Billy Sheehan]]
*Guitar, Vocals and Keys: [[Tony MacAlpine]]
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Sitar: [[Dave Weiner]]
*Acoustic & Electronic Drums & Percussion: [[Jeremy Colson]]

'''2007''' – "String Theories"
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Fretted & Fretless Bass: [[Bryan Beller]] ''(Philip Bynoe on the South American leg)'' 
*Violin and Keys: [[Ann Marie Calhoun]]
*Violin and Keys: Alex DePue
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Sitar: [[Dave Weiner]]
*Acoustic & Electronic Drums & Percussion: [[Jeremy Colson]]

'''2012''' – "The Story of Light Band"
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai
*Fretted & Fretless Bass, Vocals: [[Philip Bynoe]] 
*Acoustic & Electric Harp: [[Deborah Henson-Conant]]
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Sitar: [[Dave Weiner]]
*Acoustic & Electronic Drums & Percussion: [[Jeremy Colson]]

'''2013''' – "The Story of Light Band, Australia, New Zealand and Asian Leg" <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theaureview.com/interviews/the-au-interview-steve-vai-new-york|title=the AU interview: Steve Vai (New York) - the AU review|website=the AU review|access-date=July 14, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310174355/http://www.theaureview.com/interviews/the-au-interview-steve-vai-new-york|archive-date=March 10, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai 
*Fretted & Fretless Bass, Vocals: [[Philip Bynoe]] 
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars: [[Dave Weiner]] 
*Acoustic & Electronic Drums & Percussion: [[Jeremy Colson]] 
*Keyboards: [[Michael Arrom]]

'''2015''' – "Stillness in Motion: Live DVD Band" <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSa9fRW4JO9LfTJNrZPfujKnhVfhu_JAl|title=Stillness in Motion - YouTube|website=YouTube|access-date=July 14, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915011402/https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSa9fRW4JO9LfTJNrZPfujKnhVfhu_JAl|archive-date=September 15, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*Guitar, Vocals: Steve Vai 
*Fretted & Fretless Bass, Vocals: [[Philip Bynoe]] 
*Acoustic & Electric Guitars: [[Dave Weiner]] 
*Acoustic & Electronic Drums & Percussion: [[Jeremy Colson]] 
*Sitar: Fire Vai

==Discography==
{{Main article|Steve Vai discography}}
Vai started his recording career in 1980 with Frank Zappa, and has since recorded with a plethora of artists and bands. In 1983, Vai began his career as a solo artist with his release of ''Flex-Able'', and solidified his place as a virtuoso rock guitarist with his acclaimed 1990 release of ''Passion and Warfare''. His discography consists of nine studio albums, two [[extended play|EPs]], two special albums, eight live albums, twelve soundtracks, twenty [[compilation album]]s, and six DVD releases.

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Flex-Able]]'' (1984)
*''[[Passion and Warfare]]'' (1990)
*''[[Sex & Religion]]'' (1993)
*''[[Alien Love Secrets]]'' (1995)
*''[[Fire Garden]]'' (1996)
*''[[Flex-Able Leftovers (album)|Flex-Able Leftovers]]'' (1998)
*''[[The Ultra Zone]]'' (1999)
*''[[Real Illusions: Reflections]]'' (2005)
*''[[The Story of Light (Steve Vai album)|The Story of Light]]'' (2012)
*''[[Modern Primitive (album)|Modern Primitive]]'' (2016)
*''[[Inviolate (album)|Inviolate]]'' (2022)
*''[[Vai/Gash]]'' (2023)

==Grammy Awards==
These are the three wins from Vai's 15 solo or collaborative nominations:<ref>{{Cite news |title=Steve Vai {{!}} Artist |work=[[Grammy Awards]] |url=https://www.grammy.com/artists/steve-vai/14158 |access-date=November 24, 2023}}</ref>
*[[36th Annual Grammy Awards|1993]]: Steve Vai - [[Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance|Best Rock Instrumental Performance]] for "[[Sofa (Frank Zappa song)|Sofa]]" from ''[[Zappa's Universe]]''
*[[44th Annual Grammy Awards|2002]]: Steve Vai ''et al'' - [[Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album|Best Pop Instrumental Album]] for ''[[No Substitutions: Live in Osaka]]''
*[[51st Annual Grammy Awards|2008]]:  Steve Vai ''et al'' - Best Rock Instrumental Performance for "[[Peaches en Regalia]]" single from a [[Zappa Plays Zappa]] tour

==See also==
* [[List of rock instrumentals]]
* [[Steve Vai discography|Steve Vai songs]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Steve Vai}}
* {{official website|http://www.vai.com}}
* {{AllMusic|class=artist|id=p5736/biography|first=Greg|last=Prato|label=Steve Vai biography}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070926234408/http://www.guitarjamdaily.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=594&Itemid=46 Audio Interview with Steve Vai on Guitar Jam Daily] 
* [{{BillboardURLbyName|artist=steve vai|chart=all}} Billboard.com discography of Steve Vai]
* [http://www.stevelukather.com/news-articles/2012/08/reggie-boyle-talking-with-steve-vai.aspx Reggie Boyle talking with Steve Vai]
* [https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/steve-vai Steve Vai Interview] at [[NAMM Oral History Program|NAMM Oral History Collection]] (2008)

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