Jimi Hendrix was never a musical influence, but the impact of seeing him play guitar is what made me want to do the same.”
Wikimetal: First of all, we wanted to thank you for all the great music you've been creating for over 30 years. So, on behalf of all Brazilian headbangers, thank you for everything you've done for Rock and Metal, and welcome to Wikimetal.
Yngwie Malmsteen: Thank you.
W: You've been to Brazil a few times, so what are your expectations for future shows, and what's your relationship with the country like?
YM: I'll never forget the first time I played in Brazil, it was the most incredible audience ever. Every time I go back it's the same thing, the fans are truly amazing.
W: When you released the first Rising Force, did you know it would end up being a landmark in rock history, creating and shaping a new style, and influencing so many guitarists all over the world for so long?
YM: Simply… No. I just did what felt right at the time, I let the energy flow.
W: On your official website it says “The day Jimi Hendrix died, guitarist Yngwie was born,” referring to a TV special you watched when you were 7 years old about Hendrix. Was he one of your influences? Who else was important during your learning and in shaping your playing style?
YM: Jimi Hendrix was never a musical influence, but the impact of seeing him play guitar is what made me want to do the same. All my influences are classical Baroque composers.
W: If you had to choose one, which would it be: Niccolò Paganini or J.S. Bach? Why?
YM: They are so different. Niccolò Paganini was the greatest virtuoso, and J.S. Bach was the greatest composer. I would have to choose both.
I'll never forget the first time I played in Brazil; it was the most incredible audience ever. Every time I go back it's the same thing, the fans are truly amazing.”
W: We have a classic question on our show, one we ask all our guests. Imagine you're listening to heavy metal on shuffle, or listening to a rock station on the radio, and suddenly a song starts playing that you can't help but dance to, and you immediately start headbanging, no matter where you are, you can't control yourself. What song would that be?
YM: Niccolo Paganini Caprici no 5
W: You've done so many cool things so far, from music for the Rock Band video game to playing the national anthem at baseball games, and so on. What comes to mind as one of the coolest things, or greatest moments of your career?
YM: There are so many incredible moments that it's hard to choose just one.
W: How do you listen to music these days? Do you still buy CDs? Vinyl records? Downloads? Streams?
YM: I buy downloads.
W: We've had the opportunity to interview great artists who have worked with you, such as Derek Sherinian and Rudy Sarzo, and they were all 100% clear in saying that you are a very nice, easy-going, and kind person. Why do you think people still talk about you as someone with a big ego?
YM: If someone says negative things about me, it's probably out of envy and nothing more.
W: Can you choose a song that you're particularly proud of having written?
YM: Like an Angel and Prelude to April were songs I wrote for my wife. And there are so many that it's really hard to choose.
W: Could you invite all the Rock and Roll fans in Brazil to your show here?
YM: YES! 🙂 Everyone has to go and have fun and enjoy life!!! BRAZIL, ARE YOU READY TO ROCK?!
