In a recent interview with Ken Vantour for Let’s Rock, JUDAS PRIEST guitarist Richie Faulkner discussed the impact of hearing EXTREME’s guitar solo in “Rise,” which Guitar World magazine has praised as one of the 21st century’s finest. Faulkner acknowledged that such impressive performances always push him to elevate his own playing.
He explained, “Since joining PRIEST, there’s always been a drive to improve. You go from being just another guitarist in a cover band to one in a major band, and you have to ask yourself, ‘What’s my unique contribution going to be?’ I remember during PRIEST’s first ‘Epitaph’ tour with BLACK LABEL SOCIETY and THIN LIZZY—featuring guitarists like Scott Gorham, Damon Johnson, and Zakk Wylde—the bar was set high, and it’s essential to rise to that challenge. Nuno Bettencourt is no exception to that.”
Faulkner also recounted his experience watching EXTREME in Europe, where he was unable to catch the “Rise” solo because of the show’s timing. He did, however, get to meet Nuno afterward and received high praise from him.
Reflecting on his sources of inspiration, Faulkner remarked, “Every guitarist has their own unique fingerprint. Even if you see yourself as a mediocre player, you still have something distinct to offer. Seeing great players like Joe Bonamassa and Nuno Bettencourt live is incredibly inspiring. They demonstrate mastery and connection with their craft, which drives me to improve. It’s that kind of inspiration that keeps the creative fire burning.”
“Rise” was the lead single from EXTREME’s latest album, “Six,” released in June 2023 by earMUSIC. Nuno Bettencourt first performed “Rise” live with EXTREME on May 1, 2023, during the Monsters Of Rock cruise.
