Joe Satriani has released a touching video as a tribute to his Guitar Tech of many years, Mike Manning, who recently passed away. Manning, born in 1956, dedicated a significant portion of his career to ensuring Satriani’s guitars were perfectly in tune and ready for every performance and recording session. The video, titled Mike Manning (1956 – 2024), is set to the somber and emotive instrumental track I’ll Put a Stone on Your Cairn from Satriani’s 2013 album Unstoppable Momentum, creating a poignant homage to a man who was integral to Satriani’s musical journey.
Satriani affectionately described Manning, who was known by nicknames such as Zen Master, Captain of the Sea, and the humorous “What the Hay Do I Pay You For,” as “a good-natured, loveable guy with the biggest heart.” In a brief but heartfelt eulogy accompanying the video, Satriani recounts meeting Manning in 1988. He remembers Manning as a “tall, good-looking, long blonde-haired roadie with a thick Boston accent and a sunny personality that always made me feel at ease.” For Satriani, Manning was more than just a guitar tech; he was a trusted friend and confidant on the road and in the studio.
“He was the perfect guitar tech for me,” Satriani elaborated, emphasizing Manning’s dependability and attentiveness. Crucially, Satriani highlighted Manning’s respect for his gear: “he never tweaked my gear unless I asked him to. And, if I did, his work was always flawless.” This level of trust and competence is paramount in the relationship between a guitarist and their guitar tech, especially for someone as meticulous about their sound as Joe Satriani. Manning’s role was to maintain the complex ecosystem of guitars and amplifiers that define Satriani’s signature tone, ensuring consistency and reliability night after night, album after album.
Manning’s tenure as Satriani’s guitar tech spanned over three decades, beginning a year after the release of the groundbreaking album Surfing With The Alien. He became an indispensable part of Satriani’s team, functioning as his “number one” both on and off stage. This enduring partnership speaks volumes about Manning’s skill, dedication, and personality. A great guitar tech is not just technically proficient; they are also problem-solvers, peacekeepers, and a vital support system for the artist they work with.
“We toured around the world and recorded in great studios,” Satriani continued in his eulogy, reflecting on their shared experiences. “And we had fun; because Mike made work fun. He was the kind of guy who put a smile on your face whenever you hung out with him.” Beyond the technical expertise, Manning brought a positive and uplifting energy to the demanding environment of touring and recording. Satriani emphasized the reliance he placed on Manning: “I depended on Mike, depended on how he maintained my guitars and amps show after show, and hour after hour in the studio.” This dependence underscores the critical, yet often behind-the-scenes, role that a guitar tech plays in the success of a musician’s career.
The absence of Manning was felt keenly in recent years. “The last few tours Mike had to stay home to rehab his knees and he was missed by me and by all,” Satriani explained. “And, now we will all miss him even more.” This poignant statement highlights the deep personal connection and sense of family that develops within a touring band and crew, where a guitar tech like Mike Manning becomes an irreplaceable member.
This summer, Joe Satriani embarked on the Best of All Worlds tour, channeling his hero Eddie Van Halen. Interestingly, this tour saw Satriani deeply involved in gear modifications and amp building, further illustrating his own technical understanding and appreciation for the nuances of guitar equipment – a world that Mike Manning expertly navigated for him for so many years. Sammy Hagar noted Satriani’s dedication, observing how he had “taken the essence of Eddie’s guitar solos, and put his heart and soul into it,” showcasing Satriani’s commitment to honoring Van Halen’s legacy through meticulous preparation and performance.
Mike Manning’s legacy extends beyond just being a guitar tech; he was a cherished friend, a supportive colleague, and a master of his craft. Joe Satriani’s heartfelt tribute serves as a reminder of the crucial role these unsung heroes play in the music industry, ensuring the show goes on and the music sounds its absolute best.
