Phil Collen: Def Leppard - Jackson Goes Backstage

Def Leppard wrapped up an extensive summer and fall tour with Journey and are now finishing up the year with stops in Japan, Australia and the U.K.

At one of their sold-out stateside stops, we caught up with Collen to get another look at his extensive live guitar Jackson arsenal, which includes both longtime go-to's and brand-new axes.

Enjoy! #guitarenvy https://www.jacksonguitars.com/features/phil-collen

Jackson Goes Backstage with Def Leppard's Phil Collen

Joe Satriani, John Petrucci,Phil Collen: new album and new G3 Tour in 2018

JOE SATRIANI ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF WHAT HAPPENS NEXT ON JANUARY 12TH

G3 U.S. TOUR SET TO LAUNCH ON JANUARY 11TH
Tour features Satriani, John Petrucci (Dream Theater) & Phil Collen (Def Leppard)

“Beyond the Supernova” Documentary by ZZ Satriani to Premiere at Mill Valley Film Festival – October 14th
Pre-order the album here – https://lnk.to/WHN

World-renowned guitar virtuoso, JOE SATRIANI, announces the release of his 16th solo album, What Happens Next, set for release, January 12, 2018 on Sony/Legacy Recordings. Just a day prior to the album release, SATRIANI revives his G3 tour entity, inviting Dream Theater’s John Petrucci and Def Leppard lead guitarist, Phil Collen to join him. The G3 tour launches on January 11 in Seattle, WA and continues across the U.S. before winding up on February 25 in Milwaukee, WI. There is a special tour pre-sale promotion giving fans the opportunity to buy concert tickets with the new album as well as VIP packages. Visit https://lnk.to/WHN for more information, pre-sale opportunities and specific market pre-sale and on-sale dates.

The new, instrumentally electrifying album features a power trio of legendary status; SATRIANI on guitar and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple/Black Country Communion) and drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), the latter reuniting with SATRIANI for the first time since their work in the supergroup Chickenfoot. SATRIANI is once again joined by producer/engineer/mixer Mike Fraser, his frequent collaborator over the last 20 years, on What Happens Next. Fraser is well-known for recording/mixing every AC/DC album since 1990’s The Razors Edge along with his classic works with SATRIANI going back to the release of Crystal Planet in 1998.

These new tracks literally vibrate the soul with an energy rarely found these days. From the dynamic opening track, “Energy”, to the majestic crunch of “Thunder High On The Mountain”, and the easy, sensual cords of “Smooth Soul”. This unparalleled rock-rhythm section gives What Happens Next a depth of groove that sets it apart from SATRIANI’s other work.

Since its debut in 1996, SATRIANI’s G3 tour has featured the world’s greatest guitarists (everyone from Steve Vai and Eric Johnson to Steve Lukather and Robert Fripp) and has become a consistent concert hall sell-out attraction in the U.S., South America, Europe, Australia and Japan. “I could say that I’m surprised at the durability of G3 and how much it’s grown, but in a way I’m not,” SATRIANI says with a laugh, “I think part of its charm and its mojo is in the chemistry of having three top guitarists share what they do on stage. It’s fun, it’s unpredictable, it’s wild – it’s everything you could want in a show.”

In addition to this new album and exciting tour news, a new documentary “Beyond the Supernova” shot by SATRIANI’s filmmaker son, ZZ, makes its debut at the Mill Valley Film Festival this October. The tour documentary chronicles Joe, along with his band and crew, on their last “Shockwave Supernova” tour throughout Europe and Asia.

Satriani’s Strange Beautiful Music: A Musical Memoir first released in May 2014 will now be available in paperback. Pre-orders are available now with the official release on November 7, 2017. The paperback version includes a new chapter focusing on SATRIANI’s last album, Shockwave Supernova. Read an excerpt from the new chapter HERE.




“What Happens Next” Track Listing:
1 – Energy 7 - Headrush
2 – Catbot 8 - Looper
3 - Thunder High On The Mountain 9 - What Happens Next
4 - Cherry Blossoms 10 - Super Funky Badass
5 – Righteous 11 - Invisible
6 - Smooth Soul 12 - Forever And Ever

2018 G3 Tour featuring Joe Satriani, John Petrucci & Phil Collen itinerary:

January 11 - The Moore Theatre, Seattle, WA
January 12 - Historic Elsinore Theatre, Salem, OR
January 13 - Grand Sierra Theatre, Reno, NV
January 14 - Fox Theater, Oakland, CA
January 16 - Delta Hall at Eccles Theater, Salt Lake City, UT *
January 17 - Brooklyn Bowl, Las Vegas, NV
January 18 - Mesa Arts Center, Mesa, AZ *
January 19 - Orpheum Theatre, Los Angeles, CA
January 20 - Balboa Theatre, San Diego, CA
January 21 - Fox Tucson Theatre, Tucson, AZ *
January 24 - Historic Paramount Theatre, Denver, CO
January 26 - The Pavillion at The Toyota Music Factory, Irving, TX *
January 27 - Austin City Limits - Moody Theater, Austin, TX
January 28 - Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Houston, TX *
January 30 - Hard Rock Live, Orlando, FL *
January 31 - Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, FL *
February 1 - Pompano Beach Amphitheatre, Pompano Beach, FL*
February 2 - Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers, FL *
February 3 - Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersberg, FL *
February 6 - Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh, NC
February 14 - Warner Theatre, Washington, DC *
February 15 - Orpheum Theatre, Boston, MA
February 16 - Beacon Theatre, New York, NY *
February 17 - Merriam Theater, Philadelphia, PA
February 18 - New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark, NJ *
February 20 - Auditorium Theatre, Rochester, NY *
February 21 - Massey Hall, Toronto, ONT
February 22 - Hard Rock Live, Northfield, OH
February 23 - Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL *
February 24 - State Theatre, Minneapolis, MN
February 25 - Riverside Theater, Milwaukee, WI

(All dates on sale September 22nd except * on-sale October 6)
More Dates TBA

Phil Collen: Shoe Design a Salute to Collen’s Iconic Jackson Splatter Guitar

Photo credit:  Helen L. Collen

Shoe Design a Salute to Collen’s Iconic Jackson Splatter Guitar
Sneakers Available for Order Now

(Los Angeles) - August 22, 2017 - Beginning today, 30 custom hand-painted pairs of sneakers, by Def Leppard lead-guitarist, PHIL COLLEN, are available for order from Vancouver’s Six Hundred Four shoe company. The ELECTRIC SPLATTER sneakers, were inspired by COLLEN’s other artistic love - the classic style of Jackson Pollock's drip paintings. COLLEN has previously employed his painting talents during his long standing relationship with Jackson Guitars. The limited-edition instruments that COLLEN had embellished in 2010 have now more than doubled in value, with one recently appearing on the hit show, “Pawn Stars.”

While on tour with Def Leppard in Canada earlier this year, COLLEN wandered into the Six Hundred Four store in Vancouver. As an avid original sneaker fan, COLLEN never passes up an opportunity to check out unique ‘sneaks.’ Going thru the shop, which felt more like an art gallery than a shoe store, COLLEN was intrigued by the small batch artisanal kicks. After striking up a conversation with Six Hundred Four founder, James Lepp, a eureka moment occurred. Literally the next morning, with the help of renowned sneaker artist Zac Vine (@zeevycustoms), COLLEN splatter painted the first two pairs using the same signature paint style that appears on his sold-out, limited edition Jackson Splatter Guitar series.

Photo credit:  Helen L. Collen

“I would have never thought that in less than 24 hours after walking into the Six Hundred Four store in Vancouver that I'd be splashing paint on a pair of really cool sneakers. “ COLLEN adds “Def Leppard was playing the Rogers Arena in Vancouver that night so time was of the essence. Creating live art on a pair of sneakers turned out to be an explosive and exciting combination.”

Since the first two pairs turned out impeccably, COLLEN returned to Vancouver a month later to complete the 30 piece limited edition pairs of custom sneakers. Each shoe is numbered and signed by COLLEN in his classic Japanese script. Says Six Hundred Four founder, Lepp, "We have one simple principle at Six Hundred Four: shoes can be shoes; or they can be a storytelling piece of art. Thanks to Phil, I'm pretty sure we checked off as many boxes as humanly possible with this project. I couldn't be happier with how everything turned out.”

The significance of THIRTY pairs of custom shoes is not lost on COLLEN as this year, he celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Def Leppard‘s multi-platinum album HYSTERIA, his 30+ year relationship with Jackson Guitars as well as marking 30 years of sobriety for the health conscious guitarist.

The handcrafted shoes come delivered in matching box also adorned by COLLEN’s signature Jackson style.

Limited edition orders are being accepted here.

Watch Phil hand-splatter paint the 30 pairs of shoes, from start to finish, in this exclusive video premiering on Ultimate Classic Rock.

Phil Collen: Pens New Song In Tribute to Joe Satriani - "Yo to Joe (G4 Anthem)"

(Los Angeles,CA) – Soon after Def Leppard’s PHIL COLLEN was invited to join the annual G4 Experience, led by guitar great JOE SATRIANI, he was moved to write an instrumental in homage to the guitar master.

“I was honored when Joe invited me to join the G4 experience and I decided to write and record an instrumental track called "Yo 2 Joe" as a tribute to him. I was further honored when he played on the track with me because he is such an amazing artist. I wanted the track to reflect the vibe of his influential Surfing with the Alien album. Thirty years later, he continues to wow generations of guitar players and music fans alike.“

The track was released as a single on July 21 and will be given free to those attending the camp.  flyt.it/yo2joeiTunes

Also joining SATRIANI and COLLEN at this year's G4 Experience: Surfing with the Alien 30th Anniversary are Warren DeMartini [Ratt], and Paul Gilbert. The event takes place on July 24-28 at Asilomar Center in Carmel, CA.

For its fourth installment, the G4 Experience enjoys a game-changing and historic first. The camp will celebrate the writing, recording, and performance of SATRIANI’s seminal GRAMMY Award-nominated, platinum-selling 1987 epic, Surfing with the Alien—one of the most successful instrumental guitar albums ever made. Recognizing the record’s 30th anniversary, campers will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pull back the curtain on the album with the visionaries behind the music.

SATRIANI will be joined by his original live band during the record’s tour cycle, Stu Hamm and Jonathan Mover, return for the first time since 1995 for the evening’s performances.

For more information on G4, visit: g4experience

Phil Collen: for DiMarzio Super 3, HS-2 & Super Distortion S

Phil Collen of Def Leppard demos his DiMarzio pickups and jams with CJ Vanston on *"Inside/Outside". More info on the pickups Phil uses here http://www.dimarzio.com/pickups/humbu... and here http://www.dimarzio.com/pickups/strat...


Phil Collen for DiMarzio Super 3, HS-2 & Super Distortion S

Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, Phil Collen, Warren DiMartini: G4 details announced

Los Angeles, CA (April 11, 2017) – JOE SATRIANI announces special guests Phil Collen [Def Leppard], Warren DiMartini [Ratt], and Paul Gilbert joining him for the 2017 G4 Experience: Surfing with the Alien 30th Anniversary. The event is July 24-28 at Asilomar Center in Carmel, CA.

About this year’s camp, SATRIANI says, “I’m thrilled to have guitarists Phil Collen and Warren DiMartini joining Paul Gilbert and myself for this year's G4 camp. What an incredible lineup! Phil, Warren, and Paul are all virtuosos with a wide range of professional experience in the music world. Together, we look forward to sharing all of our musical knowledge with this year’s G4 campers.”

Phil Collen echoes that sentiment, saying, "I'm thrilled and honored to be joining Joe on the G4 experience and I'm stoked to get to play with him and to share some of my experiences with all the attendees "

For its fourth installment, the G4 Experience enjoys a game-changing and historic first. The camp will celebrate the writing, recording, and performance of SATRIANI’s seminal GRAMMY Award-nominated, platinum-selling 1987 epic, Surfing with the Alien—one of the most successful instrumental guitar albums ever made. Recognizing the record’s 30th anniversary, campers will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pull back the curtain on the album with the visionaries behind the music.

SATRIANI will be joined by longtime co-conspirator and Surfing with the Alien co-producer John Cuniberti in addition to other special guests. His original live band during the record’s tour cycle, Stu Hamm and Jonathan Mover, return for the first time since 1995 for the evening’s performances.

For more information on G4, visit:

g4experience

Phil Collen: DiMarzio Super Distortion Pickup

Phil Collen of Def Leppard talks about his first pickup and demos the Super Distortion playing along to “Photograph”.
http://www.dimarzio.com/pickups/humbu...






Phil Collen for DiMarzio Super Distortion Pickup

Phil Collen: Delta Deep Rocked at Riverbend Festival...Hometown OC Date Announced....

 Photo Credit: Helen L. Collen 

ALL-STAR SUPERGROUP CONTINUES 2016 SUGAR SHACK TOUR

Hometown Orange County Show Confirmed on September 12th…

(Los Angeles – June 20, 2016) DELTA DEEP, the critically acclaimed blues-based band featuring Phil Collen (lead guitarist of Def Leppard) and Robert DeLeo (bassist for Stone Temple Pilots), in addition to Debbi Blackwell-Cook (back-up vocalist for such artists as Michael Buble & Gregory Hines) and Forrest Robinson (drummer for India.Arie, Joe Sample & The Crusaders, TLC), blew the roof off the stage on this year’s prestigious RIVERBEND FESTIVAL in Chattanooga, TN this past Saturday.

In addition, DELTA DEEP are set to continue their 2016 Sugar Shack Tour with hometown show at the Skyloft in Laguna Beach on September 12th (http://skyloftoc.com/events/). The band will be touring in support of their soon to be released live album ‘Delta Deep West Coast Live’, featuring songs recorded during the inaugural January Sugar Shack California west coast run. The album, due out later this summer, features full performances from their sold-out shows with fans and critics’ alike raving about the bands live show. San Francisco’s BAM Magazine said of the show, “the live experience for Delta Deep is one not to be missed…Debbi Blackwell-Cook is mesmerizing!”

Collen initially started DELTA DEEP in 2012 after jamming over the course of a year with friend and relative, Debbi Blackwell-Cook. What started as a casual pairing singing Motown and classic blues staples quickly became a quartet who share a love for soul, funk and the blues when they added STP’s Robert DeLeo and India. Arie drummer Forrest Robinson.

To Follow Delta Deep

Facebook: deltadeepblues

Instagram: @deltadeepblues

Periscope: @DeltaDeepBlues

Website: www.deltadeep.net

Phil Collen: All-Star supergroup continues Sugar Shack Tour 2016

Photo Credit: Helen L. Collen

ALL-STAR SUPERGROUP CONTINUES 2016 SUGAR SHACK TOUR

IN SUPPORT OF LIVE ALBUM - DUE OUT SUMMER 2016

(Los Angeles – March 14, 2016) DELTA DEEP, the critically acclaimed blues-based band featuring Phil Collen (lead guitarist of Def Leppard) and Robert DeLeo (bassist for Stone Temple Pilots), in addition to Debbi Blackwell-Cook (back-up vocalist for such artists as Michael Buble & Gregory Hines) and Forrest Robinson (drummer for India.Arie, Joe Sample & The Crusaders, TLC), have been confirmed as a featured performer at this year’s prestigious RIVERBEND FESTIVAL in Chattanooga, TN on June 18th.

As previously announced, DELTA DEEP are set to continue their 2016 Sugar Shack Tour with a run up the East Coast this Spring. Beginning on March 28th in Washington, DC the quartet will hit Philadelphia, Asbury Park, NJ, and Northampton, MA before heading into NYC and Boston. During the tour the band will also perform at Daryl’s House, the venue owned by Hall & Oates’ Darryl Hall. The current east coast leg of the Sugar Shack tour ends on April 8 at the Boulton Center in Bay Shore, NY.

DELTA DEEP will be touring in support of their soon to be released live album ‘Delta Deep West Coast Live’, featuring songs recorded during the inaugural January Sugar Shack California west coast run. The album, due out this summer, features full performances from their sold-out shows with fans and critics’ alike raving about the bands live show. San Francisco’s BAM Magazine said of the show, “the live experience for Delta Deep is one not to be missed…Debbi Blackwell-Cook is mesmerizing!”

Collen initially started DELTA DEEP in 2012 after jamming over the course of a year with friend and relative, Debbi Blackwell-Cook. What started as a casual pairing singing Motown and classic blues staples quickly became a quartet who share a love for soul, funk and the blues when they added STP’s Robert DeLeo and India. Arie drummer Forrest Robinson.

DELTA DEEP’s East Coast “Sugar Shack” Tour Itinerary:

March 28 Howard Theatre Washington, DC

March 29 Ortlieb’s Lounge Philadelphia, PA

March 30 Wonder Bar Asbury Park, NJ

March 31 Iron Horse Music Hall Northampton, MA

April 3 BB Kings New York, NY

April 5 Cavern Club at Hard Rock Café Boston, MA

April 6 Daryl’s House Pawling, NY

April 8 YMCA Boulton Center Bay Shore, NY



June 18 Riverbend Festival Chattanooga, TN *

(Budlight Stage 8p-9:30p)

Phil Collen, Robert DeLeo: DELTA DEEP - Announce East Coast "Sugar Shack" Tour

Photo Credit: Helen L. Collen 

Phil Collen, Robert DeLeo: DELTA DEEP - Announce East Coast "Sugar Shack" Tour...

ALL-STAR SUPERGROUP CONTINUES 2016 SUGAR SHACK TOUR

IN SUPPORT OF LIVE ALBUM - DUE OUT SHORTLY

(Los Angeles – February 11, 2016) DELTA DEEP, the critically acclaimed blues-based band featuring Phil Collen (lead guitarist of Def Leppard) and Robert DeLeo (bassist for Stone Temple Pilots), in addition to Debbi Blackwell-Cook (back-up vocalist for such artists as Michael Buble & Gregory Hines) and Forrest Robinson (drummer for India.Arie, Joe Sample & The Crusaders, TLC), are set to continue their 2016 Sugar Shack Tour with a run up the East Coast this Spring. Beginning on March 28th in Washington, DC the quartet will hit Philly, Asbury Park, Northampton, MA before heading into NYC, Boston and finishing up with a spot at Daryl’s House, the venue owned by Hall & Oates’ Darryl Hall. The east coast leg of the Sugar Shack tour ends on April 8 in Bay Shore, NY with more dates to be announced shortly.

DELTA DEEP will be touring in support of their soon to be released live album, featuring songs recorded during the inaugural January “Sugar Shack” west coast run. The January run featured sold-out shows with fans and critics’ alike raving about the bands live show. Elmore Magazine declared, “Delta Deep is a rocking force due to bring down any house– historical or modern.” While San Francisco’sBAM Magazine said, “the live experience for Delta Deep is one not to be missed…Debbi Blackwell-Cook is mesmerizing!”

Collen initially started DELTA DEEP in 2012 after jamming over the course of a year with friend and relative, Debbi Blackwell-Cook. What started as a casual pairing singing Motown and classic blues staples quickly became a quartet who share a love for soul, funk and the blues when they added STP’s DeLeo and drummer Forrest Robinson.

AXS Entertainment proclaims, "The goal of (DELTA DEEP) is to create music that revives an appreciation for blues music. Mission accomplished." Glide Magazine says, “Collen has used the blues as a base, a foundation, on which to build his songs up from, adding in textures of R&B, soul and down & dirty rock & roll.” LA Music Blog declares “(Delta Deep’s) style of rock and blues is unique and consistently entertaining,”

DELTA DEEP’s East Coast “Sugar Shack” Tour Itinerary

March 28 Howard Theatre Washington, DC
March 29 Ortlieb’s Lounge Philadelphia, PA
March 30 Wonder Bar Asbury Park, NJ
March 31 Iron Horse Music Hall Northampton, MA
April 3 BB Kings New York, NY
April 5 Cavern Club at Hard Rock Café Boston, MA
April 6 Daryl’s House Pawling, NY
April 8 YMCA Boulton Center Bay Shore, NY

Phil Collen: Adrenalized: Life, Def Leppard, and Beyond - special book signing

Adrenalized: Life, Def Leppard, and Beyond - by Phil Collen With Chris Epting
SPECIAL BOOK SIGNING EVENT TO TAKE PLACE IN HUNTINGTON BEACH

Who: PHIL COLLEN – Lead guitarist for the Legendary band DEF LEPPARD with

OC-Based writer, Chris Epting
What: Exclusive Book Signing and Q&A Event with Phil Collen
When: Monday October 19, 2015 7:00 PM
Where: Barnes & Noble – Huntington Beach

Bella Terra
7881 Edinger Ave. #110
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714-897-8781

Details: Phil Collen, lead guitarist of the legendary band Def Leppard, will discuss and sign his new memoir, Adrenalized: Life. Def Leppard, and Beyond. He'll be joined by his co-author Chris Epting for a Q&A session. Chris Epting is an award-winning journalist and the author of 25 books.

In the mid-1980s, Def Leppard catapulted to rock n’ roll superstardom with their blockbuster album Pyromania – until tragedy threatened to put a quick end to their rocket ascent. Now, surviving lead guitarist Phil Collen reveals the truth behind the mythology of the band with his memoir ADRENALIZED: MY LIFE IN DEF LEPPARD AND BEYOND (Atria Books; October 27, 2015/ ISBN 9781476751658/ $26.00), setting the record straight in a rags-to-riches story populated with biggest names in music history. A voyeuristic peek into the inner-sanctum of rock stardom, ADRENALIZED is more than the usual cautionary tale; Phil Collen – an unlikely rock star from the start -- offers an inspirational portrait of self-discipline and human resilience.

Special Instructions
This is a wristband event. Wristbands will be distributed beginning at 9:00AM on October 19 with the purchase of Adrenalized. Please call 714.897.8781 for more details.

http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780061722316-0

Phil Collen: Def Leppard Lead Guitarist To Release Memoir

Def Leppard Lead Guitarist PHIL COLLEN To Release Memoir -- October 27th on Atria Books

Atria Books has acquired North American and audio rights to a memoir by Phil Collen, lead guitarist for rock band Def Leppard for more than 30 years. ADRENALIZED: Life, Def Leppard, and Beyond, written with veteran journalist and author Chris Epting and scheduled for publication on October 27, is the first book written by a member of the group that holds claim to being one of only five rock bands with two original studio albums selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. Featuring personal, never-before-seen photos of Collen and his band mates on stage and off, Adrenalized is a fascinating account of the failures, triumphs, challenges, and rock-hard dedication it takes to make dreams come true.

"It's fascinating for even me to look back at my life from working in a factory at 16 years old to eventually traveling the world selling over one hundred million records and all the experiences that come with that journey,” Collen says. “I realize that there is a constant evolution of 'me' that is still a work in progress even as I continue to be vital and dynamic in my same occupation for the past 35 years well into my late fifties."

Def Leppard will be touring this summer with Styx and Tesla. The 48-date outing will kick off in Tampa, Fla., on June 23 and will wrap in Jacksonville., on Oct. 17

The book was acquired by Atria’s Vice President and Editorial Director Peter Borland from Peter McGuigan at Foundry Literary+Media.

Phil Collen: Announces Release of DELTA DEEP - His new Blues Project Featuring Robert DeLeo (STP) among others

DELTA DEEP Is A New Soulful Blues Rock Project Featuring

Robert DeLeo (Stone Temple Pilots), Debbi Blackwell-Cook (Michael Buble, Luther Vandross)

and Forrest Robinson (India.Arie, Joe Sample & The Crusaders)

Special Guests include Joe Elliott, David Coverdale, Paul Cook & Simon Laffy

(Los Angeles - April 22, 2015) Phil Collen, lead guitarist of Def Leppard, announces the formation and release of his new blues based music project, DELTA DEEP, coming this summer. Collen recorded the mix of original and hand-picked cover tracks with fellow DELTA DEEP bandmates Debbi Blackwell-Cook (back-up vocalist for such artists as Michael Buble & Luther Vandross), Forrest Robinson (drummer for India.Arie, Joe Sample & The Crusaders, TLC), andRobert DeLeo (bassist for Stone Temple Pilots). Their self-titled debut album will be released on June 23, 2015 on Mailboat Records and also features special guest appearances by Def Leppard vocalists Joe Elliott, Whitesnake’s David Coverdale, Sex Pistols/MANRAZE drummer Paul Cook, and GIRL/MANRAZE bassist, Simon Laffy.



Collen initially started DELTA DEEP in 2012 after jamming at home over the course of a year with friend and relative, Debbi Blackwell-Cook (Blackwell-Cook is the Godmother of Collen’s wife, Helen). What started as a casual pairing singing Motown and classic blues staples while Debbi frequently visited Collen’s home quickly turned into much more. Collen, Helen, and Debbi began writing original music which Collen and Debbi recorded in Collen’s home studio. Later that year, a chance meeting re-acquainted Collen with Memphis native and enigmatic heavy metal, jazz, & r-n-b drummer Forrest Robinson. A friend suggested giving STP bassist Robert DeLeo a call. Sharing a loving affinity for soul, funk and the blues, DeLeo was the perfect fit. According to Collen, “We really wanted Robert in this band. He had the added firepower of being the premiere pioneer and most ‘badassed bass player’ to come out of the alternative rock explosion.”



The best description of DELTA DEEP, a multi-racial band, has been “Aretha and Tina in their prime singing over early Zeppelin”. Original song and lead off single “Bang The Lid introduces the musical synchronicity of Collen, Blackwell-Cook, DeLeo, & Robinson. Blackwell-Cook also duets with Collen on the album tracks as well as with featured vocalists Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott-Mistreated and Whitesnake’s David Coverdale-Private Number. Legendary Sex Pistol’s punk drummer Paul Cook and Collen’s former bandmate from GIRL bass player Simon Laffy” guest on the classic cover Black Coffee. Guesting on the Delta Deep original song, “Burnt Sally” is keyboardist, CJ Vanston (Tina Turner, Toto, Joe Cocker, Carol King) adding to the soulful tune on the Hammond 3 Organ.



Collen is widely known to millions of rock ‘n roll fans for his iconic albums with Def Leppard. When asked what made him decide to do a blues project Collen responded, "Blues was created out of something completely different from what we hear today. I grew up listening to rock music but then I found out it was all based on blues. Jimmy Page, Keith Richards, Ritchie Blackmore, Jimi Hendrix, all of those guys….they got it from the blues. When I hear Debbi sing, I can hear the pain. She’s an incredibly beautiful 62 year old black woman who has been through things and she can sing through her pain. Not everyone can do that and not everyone sounds like Debbi.”



While many artists aim to make their mark by creating new genres or introducing their own new versions of music, Collen and DELTA DEEP melded their blues inspirations with who they are as artists and are unleashing that expression onto the world.

Check DELTA DEEP’s website www.deltadeep.net and facebook.com/deltadeepblues for breaking news, new content, and tour information.

Phil Collen: Jackson “X-STROYER” Celebrates Collen’s Classic Guitars

New Model Celebrates Collen’s Classic Guitars Made Popular 30 Years Ago

LOS ANGELES (June 24, 2014) – When the Def Leppard summer tour kicked off Monday in West Valley City, Utah, Def Leppard fans in attendance were among some of the first to see the brand new Jackson “X-STROYER” guitar, custom built for Def Leppard lead guitarist, Phil Collen. Collen decided to showcase the new guitar during the band’s 2014 summer co-headlining tour with KISS. 

Collen’s original guitar was popularized by the iconic Def Leppard music videos for the hit singles, “Rock of Ages,” “Foolin’” and “Photograph.” Collen plans on playing his new, custom Jackson during those songs while on tour.

When asked about his new Jackson X-STROYER Collen stated, “This guitar isn’t an exact carbon copy of my Ibanez Destroyer; it’s aesthetically based on the one I played in Def Leppard’s classic videos ‘Photograph,’ ‘Rock of Ages,’ and ‘Foolin’’ in the 1980’s. Somehow that guitar seemed to take on a life of its own with the fans when they saw it in the videos. However, my new Jackson PC X-STROYER is the exact opposite with regards to the body outline/perimeter. The X-STROYER has a mahogany body with a maple top that looks solid black from a distance. But then when you get up close you can see the beautiful wood grain of the Trans Black finish. It has DiMarzio pickups, a Floyd Rose tremolo with FU Tone titanium block and saddles and a Jackson Sustainer/Driver pickup same as I have in my Jackson PC1s. My X-STROYER has a very thick neck, which also helps the tone. This guitar feels and sounds expensive. The intent while building the new instrument was to have a body shape that invokes the ‘spirit/enthusiasm’ of my classic model, but with a twist. Mike Shannon, Jackson senior master builder, really went overboard for me on this one and I think it’s the best Jackson guitar I’ve ever played.”

Jackson has announced plans to release another Phil Collen signature model that will be available to the public in August. The Jackson PC1 Stealth, a limited edition model from the prolific guitarist’s PC line with Jackson, will have two versions of this limited edition model manufactured with only 25 of each currently being built in Corona, Calif.

Phil Collen: Hard Rock Nights "The Queen Speaks" With Phil Collen & Simon Laffy

Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen and former Girl bassist Simon Laffy visits with The Queen to talk about the new Manraze E.P. "I Surrender", new recordings from Def Leppard, the possibility of a Girl reunion, and Simon's two soon to be released books.

Hard Rock Nights is hosted by Brian Basher and heard every week on 100 stations in 30 countries and you can find us on your favorite station here http://hardrocknights.com/home/affiliates

Hard Rock Nights "The Queen Speaks" With Phil Collen & Simon Laffy (Manraze, Girl)

Phil Collen,Paul Cook: Manraze - I Surrender - EP and Featured Guest On Rockline

Will Be Featured Guest On Rockline – November 18, 2013

MANRAZE – FEATURING PHIL COLLEN (DEF LEPPARD), PAUL COOK (THE SEX PISTOLS) & SIMON LAFFY (GIRL)

RELEASE NEW EP – I SURRENDER – TODAY

MANRAZE, the London-based rock band formed by iconic Def Leppard lead guitarist Phil Collen, along with punk rock forerunner Paul Cook (Sex Pistols) on drums and Simon Laffy, rockin’ bass player of Collen's former glam-band, Girl, release their new EP, I Surrender available on iTunes today - November 12th. On November 18th MANRAZE will be the featured guest on the nationally syndicated radio show, ROCKLINE with host Bob Coburn. Fans can tune in at 8:30 pm PT/11:30 pm ET. Check rocklineradio.com for more details.

When not rocking together, the MANRAZE trio continues to keep busy. Collen holds down his ‘day-job’ as lead guitarist with Def Leppard, heading with the band into a Dublin studio in February to write and record new music. Collen is also working on his own blues album Delta Deep featuring soulstress Debbi Blackwell-Cook and is currently writing his auto-biography (Simon & Shuster/Atria) due out late 2014. Cook has been working with Edwyn Collins first on his 2013 album release Understated, and then touring with Collins playing live shows. Currently, Cook is also playing in Subway Sect with Vic Goddard, touring and recording a new album. Laffy has taken his talents into another creative lane having authored two novels in his ‘off-time’, Red Sunrise and Seed of Satan. Both are historical fictions set around epic events of the 20th century and are in the process of being published.

It all started in 2004 when Phil Collen, after 20+ years as lead guitarist for Def Leppard, decided to express himself via another creative outlet. After a fateful conversation with Simon Laffy and a next day chance meeting with Paul Cook MANRAZE was formed and finally released their debut album SURREAL through Universal Records in the summer of 2008 to rave reviews. In August 2011 the trio re-enetered the studio and released punkfunkrootsrock which featured the single, “Over My Dead Body.” In the spring of 2011 the MANRAZE single “I, Superbiker” was the theme song for the feature documentary of the same name. Directed by Mark Sloper, and released solely in the UK, the documentary is an in-depth expose’ into the merciless world of competitive speed bike racing and a look at the men who have dedicated their entire existence to this incredibly dangerous, adrenaline-fueled sport. MANRAZE’s single “Take On The World” featuring Debbi Blackwell-Cook was subsequently released in 2012 as a part of the soundtrack to Sloper’s sequel film “I, Superbiker: The Showdown” which chronicled the rise of 2011 British superbike racing champion Tommy Hill.

MANRAZE - 'I Surrender' Lyric Video

Phil Collen: Manraze - Debbi Blackwell-Cook Lends Her Stunning Soulful Pipes to the Title Track

MANRAZE – FEATURING PHIL COLLEN (DEF LEPPARD)

PAUL COOK (THE SEX PISTOLS) & SIMON LAFFY (GIRL) TO RELEASE NEW EP – I SURRENDER – ON NOVEMBER 12, 2013

Debbi Blackwell-Cook Lends Her Stunning Soulful Pipes to the Title Track

(Los Angeles)  MANRAZE, the London-based rock band formed by iconic Def Leppard lead guitarist Phil Collen, along with punk rock forerunner Paul Cook (Sex Pistols) on drums and Simon Laffy, rockin’ bass player of Collen's former glam-band, Girl, will release their new EP, I Surrender, on November 12^th.

I Surrender will be comprised of three songs, including the title track, which features background vocals by Debbi Blackwell-Cook, who also appears on “All I Wanna Do”, a newly-recorded version of the song which first appeared on the trio’s 2011 sophomore album punkfunkrootsrock.  The final track is “Connected-Live from Shepherd’s Bush”, a live studio performance from a studio podcast session, not previously released.   

The first single, “I Surrender”, was nearly forgotten about, explains Collen, "The song is 8 years old. It practically never got finished. I was on tour last year and started singing the chorus. Early this year, I re-did the guitars to Paul's original demo drums. I did a vocal and Simon played new bass-lines.  Ger McDonnell then did a brilliant edit and mix on what we gave him. Debbi Blackwell-Cook supplied the wailing outro-vocals that you hear at the end of the song. We feel this is our best song yet."

In the spring of 2011, the MANRAZE single “I, Superbiker” was the theme song for the feature documentary of the same name. Another Manraze song featuring Debbi Blackwell-Cook titled ‘Take On The World’ was also released in conjunction with the film. Directed by Mark Sloper, and released solely in the UK, the documentary is an in-depth expose’ into the merciless world of competitive speed bike racing and a look at the men who have dedicated their entire existence to this incredibly dangerous, adrenaline-fueled sport.

Since the last album release, all three band members have kept busy.   Collen continues to hold down his ‘day-job’ as lead guitarist with Def Leppard, currently promoting their Def Leppard Viva! Hysteria Concert live album and dvd release this month.  Cook has been working with Edwyn Collins, first on his 2013 album release 'Understated', and then touring with Collins playing live shows. Currently, Cook is also playing in Subway Sect with Vic Goddard touring and recording a new album.Laffy has taken his talents into another creative lane, having authored two novels in his ‘off-time’, Red Sunrise and Seed of Satan.  Both are historical fictions, set around epic events of the 20th century and are in the process of being published.

It all started in 2004, when Phil Collen, after 20+ years as lead guitarist for Def Leppard, decided to express himself via another creative outlet.  After a chance meeting on the street with Paul Cook, MANRAZE finally released their debut albumSURREAL through Universal Records in the summer of 2008 to rave reviews.  The group’s debut album was chocked full of rebellious in-your-face mantras (“Turn it Up”, “This Is,” “Skin Crawl”, “Running Me Up”) ranging from hardcore punk to dub.  They were seen as a cross between the Foo Fighters, Green Day, Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, and The Police. MANRAZE is a response to the ever changing climate of multi-faceted music and should be heralded for far more than just being a ‘rock band’.

Listen to first single, “I Surrender,” here: 

https://soundcloud.com/manraze/manraze-i-surrender/s-R72oo

Phil Collen: Guitar Auction, offers over $15,000 and just 24 hours to go!

DEF LEPPARD’S PHIL COLLEN – EAGERLY AWAITS RESULTS OF ICONIC GUITAR AUCTION

 

WITH 24 HOURS REMAINING – BIDS ARE CURRENTLY OVER $15,000

 

ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO THE GERSON INSTITUTE SUPPORTING A HOLISTIC CANCER THERAPY

 

Guitar Played Exclusively Throughout Def Leppard

“Rock of Ages” Tour This Summer

(Los Angeles, CA) –Last week, PHIL COLLEN, lead guitarist for the iconic rock band DEF LEPPARD, announced plans for a charitable auction of “Wings”, a custom Jackson PC1 guitar that Collen has played throughout this summer’s Rock of Ages tour.  The auction began exclusively through eBay on September 5th and with little more than 24 more hours left until it ends in the morning of September 15^th – the bidding has shattered all expectations and has now reached beyond the $15,000 mark!  

 

Following the charity auction closely, COLLEN said, "I'm really excited about this auction and I'm really getting quite attached to this guitar. This means so much to everyone involved. We look forward to contributing to the longevity of the Gerson Institute and even more so, the longevity of life."

The winner will be announced in November which is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and all proceeds from the auction will benefit the Gerson Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the Gerson Therapy, an alternative treatment for cancer and other degenerative diseases.

 

About The Gerson Institute:

The Gerson Institute is a non-profit organization in San Diego, California dedicated to providing education and training in the Gerson Therapy, an alternative, non-toxic treatment for cancer and other chronic degenerative diseases.

http://gerson.org/gerpress/

Phil Collen: auctioning guitar for Cancer Therapy Charity

DEF LEPPARD LEAD GUITARIST – PHIL COLLEN – TO AUCTION CUSTOM GUITAR FOR CHARITY

ALL PROCEEDS TO BE DONATED TO THE GERSON INSTITUTE SUPPORTING A HOLISTIC CANCER THERAPY

Guitar Played Exclusively Throughout Def Leppard

“Rock of Ages” Tour This Summer

(Los Angeles, CA) –PHIL COLLEN, lead guitarist for the iconic rock bandDEF LEPPARD, announces plans for a charitable auction of “Wings”, a custom Jackson PC1 guitar that Collen has played throughout this summer’s Rock of Ages tour. The auction, taking place exclusively on eBay, will begin on September 5th and end September 14th, the last date of the tour. The winner will be announced in November which is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and all proceeds from the auction will benefit the Gerson Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the Gerson Therapy, an alternative treatment for cancer and other degenerative diseases.

In early 2012, Jake Willoughby, a guitar and music store owner, asked Collen if he would assist in helping to raise money towards the fight against cancer with Jake’s mother having just passed away from pancreatic cancer after a courageous 13-month fight. By tragic coincidence Phil’s own father, Kenneth succumbed to the same disease in 2004. Jake donated a Collen signature guitar, the Jackson PC1 from his music store. In the spirit of hope it was named “Wings”. Mike Learn, a noted artist whose graphics are well known in the guitar world, donated the graphic custom paint job on the guitar. Ironically, Mike lost two family members to the same disease.

Phil began researching companies that were not only looking to prevent cancer, but also reverse its devastating effects. He initially had heard about The Gerson Institute located in San Diego, CA from Jeni Cook, a raw foods chef and the wife of Sex Pistols and Manraze drummer, Paul Cook. As Phil watched “The Gerson Miracle” DVD he was incredibly moved by their cause wishing he would have known about them before his father passed. The Gerson Institute is a non-profit organization in San Diego, California dedicated to providing education and training in the Gerson Therapy - an alternative, non-toxic treatment for cancer and other chronic degenerative diseases. The Gerson Therapy, developed by Dr. Max Gerson in the 1920s, activates the body’s extraordinary ability to heal itself through an organic, vegetarian diet, raw juices, detoxification, and natural supplements. Since this powerful, natural treatment boosts the body’s own immune system, it is an effective method for treating not only cancer, but a variety of degenerative diseases including arthritis, heart disease, allergies, and skin tuberculosis.

Dr. Gerson began developing the Therapy while looking for a way to manage his own debilitating migraines, a path that lead him to a holistic understanding of medicine that is finally gaining growing acceptance.

This year marks a number of anniversaries for COLLEN, namely the 30thanniversary of his joining Def Leppard as lead guitarist making his debut on the 10x platinum (in the USA) album Pyromania. In addition, this year marks the 25th anniversary for the 13x platinum (USA) album Hysteria, as well as the 20th anniversary of its 5x platinum (USA) follow-up Adrenalize.

About The Gerson Institute:

The Gerson Institute is a non-profit organization in San Diego, California dedicated to providing education and training in the Gerson Therapy, an alternative, non-toxic treatment for cancer and other chronic degenerative diseases.

http://gerson.org/gerpress/



For more information on the auction and images of “Wings”, visit:

www.philcollen.com

To Bid on the Guitar, visit eBay:

http://tinyurl.com/9bbjmwh

Phil Collen: 'Real Orange' video interview

Watch the full episode. See more Real Orange.