Long Distance: Paul Calls Al Di Meola | PRS Guitars

In this episode of Long Distance, Paul calls guitar virtuoso Al Di Meola. They discuss the iconic "rainbow guitar finish," Al's love for the Beatles and music from the 1960s, and they debate whether or not Paul has ever worn denim overalls... Never say never, Paul! All this and more on this episode of Long Distance by PRS Guitars.

[Guitaroverkill]

I think Paul remembers every guitar PRS factory ever built.

[mudwiser]

A fan for decades... he hasn't aged at all. Hope to see him again when the pandemic ends.

[jbkormos]

I had studied with Al's old jazz instructor from his childhood days. His name was Bob Aslanian and he was a really great cat. In fact, he played my wedding. Very sorry to learn of his passing, here.

[tanukiman]

It's always interesting to hear you catch up with your artists and thanks to Al for participating. Please keep 'em coming Paul.

[stub]

Friday Night in San Francisco changed my life when I was a teen. We sat around imbibing BC bud, with our mouths wide open, just stunned at what we were hearing.

[TavisAllen]

“Across the Universe”, which is Al’s second Beatles covers album, is amazing! His answer to Paul’s question is made self-evident with what he has accomplished with this collection of songs.

[michaelheller]

Al has the same look since 1975 lol. Besides that, what a fantastic player he is. I used to have an early 10 Top PRS in Flame red. I sold it back in 2006 (personal reasons) otherwise, I would still own it. The only good thing out of this whole pandemic is that it made me play guitars again. A couple of days ago, I got a PRS Paul's guitar SE version and couldn't be happier. It's not American like my original one but who cares it rings and sings so well.

[klausfritsch]

Al's guitar playing is unrivalled, but Paul's memory is incredible when it comes to the guitars he's made and sold.

[jbsmetal]

Al is amazing at guitar and also apparently has access to the fountain of youth.

[angusorvid]

Paul is the best guitar builder on the planet. I've been a fan since I first played one of his axes in the 80s and own a nice purple burst right now. Just fantastic craftsmanship, brilliant design.

[aussie_philosopher]

Do the Dj stream Al, I love doing it personally . How ironic I'm up late listening to consequences of chaos from Al and then I come across this. Big Di Meola fan!

[picksalot]

I had the good fortune to see Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin, and Paco de Lucia live together on tour many years ago. There was something of a competition on stage as to who could play the most interesting and virtuosic licks. They all played very entertaining, virtuosic music. When all was said and done, I think Al rose to the top, as his total command of the guitar made it possible for him to play some things John and Paco could not match. John was the most adventuresome musically. Paco brought his impressive Flamenco pyrotechnics, but he was not as skilled at improvising. Unfortunately, Paco has left us far too soon. I wish he'd had time to develope more improvisational skills in that trio genre. Thanks

[matthewbergvall]

Please, Al, release Saturday Night in San Francisco. Saw Al a few years back with his PRS guitar. Guitar Player Extraordinaire!!!

[steveg]

Would love a follow up to Friday night!

[christianmatthews]

Al, great stuff on “Across the Universe”. I have been a fan since the ‘70’s. Hey, I even spent an evening with Airto. ‘love your playing and comps.

[MarshallAmpMan]

this was really good! Paul do one with Nealonious Schon please!

[Chris.]

I can’t believe you didn’t ask him about guiding Liverpool to their first premier league title

[erikvaldur]

Too bad about Als' guitar teacher. I saw Al years ago at Count Basie theatre and his teacher was in the audience. Al gave him props during the show. Great show too.

[nachom]

It seemed to me the guy in the photograph was wearing an apron and not overalls.

[Draugoth]

I think Al has mastered the time-reverse time signature. The man does not age at all.