Steve Mindick is an American guitarist, composer, clinician and owner of the record label Blue Alien Records.
Long before becoming a musician, Steve knew what he wanted to be. Fascinated with music, he became obsessed with the way music was played and created. The writing and recording process was just as interesting as watching live performances. There was never a doubt in Steves mind that he was going to be a guitar player.
Steve started playing guitar at the early age of twelve after his Uncle gave him his first guitar. After years of asking for a guitar, he finally had one in his hands. Now the true obsession started! Steve played that first guitar all summer long without missing a day even though the guitar was missing two strings.
At the age of seventeen, Steve shot his first instructional video “Private Lead Guitar” on the DBF Media group label.
Steve already had a strong business sense and was lucky enough to have his Mothers counsel over the next few decades. The video was released two years after being filmed due to editing and contract issues. Owning the rights to the video, Steve was able to package and market it himself. That was a business decision that turned out to be a great learning experience. Steve also credits Steve Vai for helping in the decision to market and release his instructional videos as well as albums etc. Hence, owning his own record label instead of pursuing the stereo typical recording contract. Steve was invited backstage to meet Mr. Vai after a show and had the opportunity to speak to him one on one. Before Steve was able to speak to Mr. Vai he was standing behind a small group of other people also waiting to talk to him. As Steve waited patiently, he watched how Mr. Vai carried himself, how he spoke to the fans and crew members. It wasn’t like what you saw on tv. He was sober, polite, kind, attentive and so unbelievably human. At one point a drunk heckler started insulting Mr. Vai and talking about other guitar players. Steve recalls how uncomfortable that was was. Mr. Vai on the other hand responded with the most humble response to the heckler. He said “Thank you, I’ll look into those guitar players and give them a listen”.
That approach stuck with Steve, so when he finally was next to speak to Mr. Vai he already made up his mind that whatever advise Mr. Vai gave, it was going to be Gold.
Steves first question to Mr. Vai was simple. My name is Steve, I’m in a band and I just shot my first instructional video. What advise do you have for me?
Mr. Vais response was as golden as expected. He told Steve. “Do everything you can on your own, starting with getting a distribution deal”.
That first instructional video helped Steve get countless new students and into other bands. Maybe just maybe, That first video will get uploaded to this site. Steve says that even though he was trying to make a serious video it’s actually hilarious and silly to watch.
Steve has recorded countless albums and songs, released and unreleased. In 1998 Steve recorded an album with world class musicians Gregg Bissonette and Leo Valenzuela. The album was released on Blue Alien Records in August 2001.
Over the next twenty four years, Steve has recorded with multiple artists and released another instructional video on DVD titled “Guitar Discipline “ with the Blue Alien Records label.
Steve is always in the studio working on new material, solo projects and collaborations.
Outside of music Steve is also working on a show called “In 7th Gear”..
Steve’s love for cars and corvettes has turned into a pleasant distraction!
Steve can be found on most streaming services and of course, right here on
SteveMindick.Com