Plays: Heavy Core Guitar, 10 – 48

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For guitarists, Steve Stevens is a bona fide player’s player. He gained notoriety as the lead guitarist for icons like Billy Idol, Michael Jackson and Vince Neil, cemented his place in the pantheon of guitar heroes as with Atomic Playboys and Black Light Syndrom (with Terry Bozzio and Tony Levin), and is an in-demand session player. Steve recently took a few minutes out of his busy schedule to take the Dunlop Strings: 5 Questions quiz…

When you were young, what artist and/or song inspired you to become a musician?

The early ’70s english prog scene was a huge influence on me. My absolute favorite guitarist at that time was Steve Howe of Yes. I think Yes’ Fragile album was the most profound and influential record for me.

Out of all the music you’ve written, recorded or performed, which piece of music best represents you as an artist?

It’s a bit tough to narrow it down to just one, but “Eyes Without A Face” covers a lot of Steve Stevens ground — acoustic guitar, which is a real passion of mine, as well as my signature electric rhythm guitar style. Throw in a bit of guitar effects, and you’ve got the SS essence.

When it comes to strings, what’s the most important thing that helps you decide on which Dunlop strings to use?

Gauge. I definitely favor a string set that has some resistance. I love the Heavy Core 10-48 set. You can shred on them without sacrificing a strong chording string. They’re perfect for me.

Which Dunlop set(s) do you use?

I’m currently using the Heavy Core 10-48 set.

What one thing about you, would surprise people the most?

I grew up playing folk guitar only for the first five years — stuff like James Taylor and Joni Mitchell.

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Use the comments section below to tell us which Steve Stevens song is your favorite, and why, and you’ll be entered to win a 6-Pack of Dunlop Heavy Core Guitar Strings, a Dunlop Guitar Road Pro String Winder, and a Formula 65 Polish Kit!