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Guitar World
Guitar World
Entertainment
Mark McStea

“For Bon Jovi, I run through the big, thematic solos. You really don’t want to mess those moments up. One bad moment will be there forever”: Phil X on his upcoming Gibson signature, lead discipline – and how to prepare for shows in the YouTube age

Phil X Bon Jovi Gibson
Phil X of the Drills wails into the mic as he performs with his SG-alike Gibson prototype signature guitar.

Shred legend Phil X built his reputation on YouTube, showcasing his astounding chops on a range of killer vintage guitars for Fretted Americana. As a direct result of that exposure, he was spotted by John Shanks, the longtime writing partner of Jon Bon Jovi.

When Bon Jovi’s longtime guitar partner Richie Sambora missed a handful of shows in 2011, Shanks suggested Phil as a temporary replacement. Fast forward two years, and X became a full-time member of the band, a position he’s held ever since.

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