Wow, that question brings back memories.

I first heard about John from Stevie Goodman, too. Stevie was in New York for treatment and I hung out with him in the hospital. We'd both sit on his bed, playing our guitars while the chemotherapy was dripping into his vein. Sometimes he'd stop to vomit, wipe his mouth, then go on playing.

Soon after, I was in Chicago to accompany Bonny Kolok at the Earl of Old Town and heard John there. He was amazing then and hasn't faltered since.