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Joe Bonamassa

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This year's Music Live weekend at the Birmingham NEC is drawing ever closer (7-9 November). Blues-master Joe Bonamassa is tipped to draw in the biggest crowds, conducting a workshop on the heritage of the blues on the Friday, and performing on the Music Live Stage on the Saturday night.

If you're wondering what a rockstar conducting an educational workshop might sound like, take a look at Joe Bonamassa talking us through his live rig, soloing approach and fretboard technique. He's got the patience of a saint.

Other big draws include former Whitesnake rockers Tommy Aldridge and Marco Mendoza plus Gwyn Ashton, ex-Bad Company guitarist Dave 'Bucket' Colwell and – as previously reported – Megadeth's Dave Mustaine. British rock power trio The Mexicolas are also stopping by to play tracks from their debut album X.

Of course, there will also be several hundred truckloads of gear showcased for you to try and buy. Marshall, Paul Reed Smith, Gibson, Peavey, Roland, Yamaha, Schecter, are just some of the brands making an appearance. For info on buying tickets for Music Live, Joe's show or a specially-priced combination ticket visit Music Live's official site.

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