Joe Bonamassa and Slash Light Up The Soho Sessions
Guitar legends Joe Bonamassa and Slash joined forces for an unforgettable blues jam at The Soho Sessions in New York City on January 15, 2026 – an invite-only charity event benefiting Bonamassa’s Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation. The night delivered raw, high-energy performances of blues classics, with the two icons trading solos on Gibson Les Pauls and bringing the house down in an intimate setting.
The Soho Sessions series unites top guitarists for special live collaborations in NYC, often for charitable causes (past sessions have featured Keith Richards and Warren Haynes). This latest installment highlighted the enduring power of blues, with Bonamassa and Slash leading a supergroup through a set of timeless tracks, including a standout rendition of Bobby Bland’s 1957 classic “Farther Up the Road” (famously associated with Eric Clapton-era solos).
Video footage from the evening shows Slash kicking off with a creamy, vibrato-heavy lead full of pick squeals and funky turnarounds, before Bonamassa jumps in with his signature precision and fire. The chemistry was electric, proving why these two are among the most respected players of their generations.
Next-Gen Stars Grace Bowers and Bay Melnick Virgolino Steal the Spotlight
While the headliners delivered fireworks, the real buzz came from the young special guests. Grace Bowers (on her Gibson SG) and Bay Melnick Virgolino (known for America’s Got Talent and his PRS guitars) impressed everyone, earning high praise from Bonamassa himself: “Does this young lady get it or what?” in reference to Bowers’ performance.
The night also featured an all-star backing band and guests including Tash Neal, Paul Shaffer, Larry Campbell, Eric Finland, Shawn Pelton, Andy Hess, Danny Clinch, Hank Azaria, and more. Celebrities in attendance included Michael J. Fox, Gina Gershon, Steve Guttenberg, Susie Essman, Don Lemon, Van Jones, and Bobby Flay.
The Soho Sessions continue to bridge classic rock/blues legends with emerging talent, keeping the genre alive and fresh. Slash, fresh off his 2024 blues album Orgy of the Damned and praising the scene’s vitality, called the contemporary blues world “alive and fresh” – a sentiment echoed in this high-energy jam.
About The Soho Sessions & Keeping the Blues Alive
The Soho Sessions bring guitar greats together for intimate, charity-focused performances in New York. Bonamassa’s Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation supports music education and preserves the blues legacy – this event raised awareness and funds while showcasing intergenerational talent.
No official full release of the session has been announced yet, but clips circulating on Instagram and social media (from @thesohosessions and others) capture the magic, including the “Farther Up the Road” highlight.
FAQs About Joe Bonamassa & Slash at The Soho Sessions
When and where did Joe Bonamassa and Slash perform together?
January 15, 2026, at The Soho Sessions in New York City – an invite-only charity jam for Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation.
What songs did they play?
Blues classics including Bobby Bland’s “Farther Up the Road” (with Slash and Bonamassa trading Les Paul solos). Full set details not fully listed, but focused on superlative blues cuts.
Who were the standout young performers?
Grace Bowers (Gibson SG shredder) and Bay Melnick Virgolino (PRS player, America’s Got Talent alum) – both wowed the crowd and earned props from Bonamassa.
Is footage or a recording available?
Clips are on Instagram (@thesohosessions) and social media; no full official release confirmed yet.
What’s next for The Soho Sessions?
The series continues uniting legends and rising stars for charity – follow @thesohosessions for updates.
This Soho Sessions night was pure guitar heaven: legends jamming, next-gen talent shining, and blues thriving in 2026. Catch the clips online and support Keeping the Blues Alive – the genre’s future looks bright!
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