Watch Steve Morse and Paul Gilbert Deliver Fiery Covers of Johnny Winter and Aerosmith at NAMM 2026

The NAMM trade show returned to Anaheim, California, from January 20 to 24, 2026, bringing together musicians, gear makers, and industry figures from around the world. Among the many live moments on the show floor, a standout set took place at the Ernie Ball Music Man booth, where guitarists Steve Morse and Paul Gilbert performed in front of a packed crowd.

The pair delivered energetic versions of songs linked to Johnny Winter, Gary Mohler, and Aerosmith, drawing attention from players and fans gathered around the booth. Their appearance mixed skill with a relaxed stage feel, showing how two seasoned musicians can share space while honoring classic rock guitar styles.

A Meeting of Guitar Voices

Steve Morse is known for his work with Deep Purple, Kansas, the Dixie Dregs, and his own band, while Paul Gilbert built his name with Racer X and Mr. Big. Seeing them trade lines at NAMM offered a rare mix of backgrounds, from hard rock to fusion and shred.

Their set moved through blues-based phrases, fast runs, and tight rhythm parts that kept the performance grounded in song structure rather than display alone. The crowd response showed how well-known riffs still connect when played with care and strong timing.

Morse’s Current Recording Work

The show came as Morse continues promoting his recent album Triangulation, released in November 2025 through Music Theories Recordings. The project features Dave LaRue on bass and Van Romaine on drums, musicians Morse has worked with for years.

Speaking about the group dynamic, Morse said, “Dave and Van have been the bedrock of this trio, and this recording shows why. These guys are unique and incredible musicians on their own, and together, our chemistry is magical. While making the album, we played together, working through parts, riffing off each other, and collaborating on arrangements. I’d bring an idea, and hear it instantly — and then hear it improved. We made this album together, and you can hear it.”

Guests and Studio Team

The album also includes guest spots, such as Eric Johnson on “TexUS” and John Petrucci adding guitar work. Morse’s son Kevin appears on “Taken by an Angel.” Executive producer Bill Evans said, “The compositions are among Steve’s best. And audiences can finally hear every detail of Van and Dave’s performance…the band’s collaborative musicality.”

Morse added, “Brian captured me brilliantly, and Carl Roa created more sonic and performance clarity than we’ve ever had.” These comments point to a careful studio process focused on group playing and sound detail.

Career Background and Personal Context

Morse began recording in the 1970s with the Dixie Dregs, later forming the Steve Morse Band and joining Kansas before becoming Deep Purple’s guitarist in 1994. He left Deep Purple in 2022 to care for his wife, who died in 2024, after years of illness.

One track on Triangulation, “Taken By An Angel,” reflects that period. “That song is new territory for me,” explains Morse. “It was put together for my late wife’s memorial service, with my son Kevin playing along. It brought tears to many folks’ eyes because Janine was a huge part of my life and career. People knew her from the Steve Morse Band tours. She was the smiling face opening CDs for me to sign, selling t-shirts, listening to people’s stories in the crowd, and taking photos for VIP visits.”