Chatting with legendary guitarist Steve Hackett

Steve Hackett. Photo by Jose Oliveira

By Dion Smith, Rock At Night Sao Paulo

Interview: Steve Hackett – Recorded January 14, 2026

Steve Hackett is an English guitarist, composer, and musician, widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential figures in progressive rock.

Hackett rose to prominence as the lead guitarist of Genesis from 1971 to 1977, contributing to the band’s classic lineup alongside Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford. During this period, he helped shape iconic albums such as Nursery Cryme, Foxtrot, Selling England by the Pound, and The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, known for his distinctive electric and acoustic guitar work, including memorable solos and atmospheric pieces like “Horizons.”

After leaving Genesis, Hackett embarked on a prolific solo career spanning over four decades, releasing numerous albums that blend rock, classical, world music, jazz, and blues influences. He has also explored classical interpretations, orchestral collaborations, and acoustic projects.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis in 2010, Hackett continues to tour and record, celebrated for his technical versatility and enduring creativity.

During Rock At Night’s interview, Steve Hackett discusses his upcoming North and South America tours performing Genesis classics and his own solo work, traveling with guitars and gear overseas, guitar amps “going up to 11,” working with Hungarian jazz fusion band Djabe, favorite Genesis tracks, his musical influence from his father and early years learning guitar, and Fernandes guitars and other gear.

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STEVE HACKETT TOURS

*Cruise to the Edge – Miami – March 4-9

February & March 2026 – Best Of Genesis & Solo Gems

Best Of Genesis & Solo Gems – Florida

25 February 2026 – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL, USATICKETS

26 February 2026 – Ruth Eckerd Hall, CLEARWATER, FL, USATICKETS

27 February 2026 – The Plaza Live, ORLANDO, FL, USATICKETS

01 March 2026 – Au-Rene Theater at Broward Center For The Performing Arts, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, USATICKETS

Steve Hackett & Genetics Tour

MORE SHOWS TO BE ANNOUNCED! *

13 March 2026 – Auditorio BB, MEXICO CITY, MEXICOTICKETS

15 March 2026 – Teatro Diana, GUADALAJARA, MEXICOTICKETS

21 March 2026 – Vivo Rio, RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZILTICKETS

22 March 2026 – Espaco Unimed, SAO PAULO, BRAZILTICKETS

25 March 2026 – Teatro Biobio, CONCEPCION, CHILETICKETS

27 March 2026 – Teatro Caupolican, SANTIAGO, CHILETICKETS

29 March 2026 – Arena Movistar, BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINATICKETS

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Check out Rock At Night’s France correspondent Jose Oliveira’s story of meeting Steve Hackett at the Cruise on the Edge in 2014.

Chyrisse Tabone, Ph.D.
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