My fondest memories of being a student of Bernie B, was sitting in his basement, having a smoke...his monster cup of coffee, and his new band the Stingers. Attaboy was over, and he had great ideas for the Stingers. He was very proud.
I owe everything to Bernie B, how to play, how to make the guitar speak, and man, how to be cool.
I was young, and I never heard a guy speak like that, with all his cool phrasings, and just be a very down to earth guy. I wanted to be Bernie.
I wanted to make my guitar talk , like he made his!
As I got older, and found my success in music, I always touted Bernie as my mentor, the guy who showed me the way, and helped me be a good player.
One night in Asbury Park, 10 years ago, my group was on the same bill as the Stingers. We were still nobodies, but I told my boys to watch MY Teacher, and see what I learned. Of Course he was great. My band was awed. I felt like a novice in his presence, but Bernie never treated me that way. He was a big hearted guy.
Later, as I was touring, we lost touch, but by a freak mishap with my new wife, I ran into him and his Mom at Target, and we got reaquainted for a spell.
He looked bad, but still the same relaxed bernie B I loved.
I look at my playing, my gear, my strats and realize the guitar hero who had the biggest influence on me, and the player I have become is Bernie B.
He really got me to where I am, and I owe alot to him and his teaching, and his persistance. I will never forget him.
