MAHAVISHNU JOHN MCLAUGHLIN has taken the guitar further in the last two years of his career than most players hope to in a lifetime. His approach to the instrument, coupled with a superb technical mastery, has recently garnered him GP’s 1974 awards as Best Jazz Guitarist and Best Overall Guitarist. His devotion to the guitar is never-ending, and the pioneering work he has done with the double-necked instrument makes these advancements even more important. Acknowledging that this interview for GP was the first of its type he had ever given, John was entertaining, encompassing, and effusive in discussing his past work, guitar approach, and ultimate goals. Because his previous playing involved stints with such greats as trumpeter Miles Davis, bassist Jack Bruce, and drummer Tony Williams, it is natural to pre-date these instrumental excursions, and search out the true beginnings of Mahavishnu John McLaughlin’s musical development. – SR