One of the tricks I learned a long time ago even before age became a factor was to wash my hands in very warm water before I went on stage.

That may have had the dual effect of being relaxing and lessening stress and increasing blood flow in the fingers. I also used those few seconds in a meditative way to clear my mind of all the other things in life. I use to do the same thing before I got in my airplane. Clear my mind and focus on the task ahead.

I also play lighter guitars now. Like Eddie, I find playing the piano is not as hard on my hands. I have considered moving away from the guitar to the piano.

Billy

“Amazing! I’ll be working with Jaco Pastorius, Charlie Parker, Art Tatum, and Buddy Rich, and you’re telling me it’s not that great of a gig?
“Well…” Saint Peter, hesitated, “God’s got this girlfriend who thinks she can sing…”