Shirley's worked with artists including Iron Maiden, Rush, Europe and Journey - and he's used his experience behind the desk to help the blues guitarist achieve huge commercial success.

Bonamassa tells the Newcastle Chronicle: "He's crucial. If I hadn't met Kevin I would probably still be playing shows to a few hundred blues fans - not selling out Red Rock three years in a row or playing arenas around Europe.

"Kevin tells it as it is - and then some. I can still recall one of our first meetings and he didn't mince his words. 'The band's dreadful, your songs are weak and your voice needs improvement,' he said.