Neal Schon was born in 1954 in Oklahoma to Barbara and Matthew Schon. Neal grew up in a very musically influenced household. His father was an accomplished musician, arranger, composer and played and taught all reed instruments with emphasis on jazz tenor saxophone; his mother was a big band singer. Schon first picked up the guitar at the age of 5. A quick learner, he joined Santana as a teenage prodigy at the age of 15.

Schon’s guitar style has been described as soulful, taking inspiration from 1960s-era soul singers such as Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight, and blending it with blues runs similar to B. B. King. He was influenced by guitarists such as Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix and Wes Montgomery.

After his work with Santana, he went on to work with the band, Journey, and has also recorded 5 solo albums. Schon is known for his guitars, and recently he has been seen using a Seven String Ibanez Universe.

You can catch Schon on tour with Journey this summer of 2012. They will make a stop at Blossom in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio on September 22nd with Pat Benetar. Get more info and purchase your tickets HERE.

- Kate Murphy / 98.5 WNCX