You can read more about his practice habits and musical background at Maxim’s Guitar Workshop , which discusses how he used to practice up to 15 hours a day.
Vai’s background as "stunt guitarist" and his education at Berklee College of Music provided him with the technical foundation to execute the complex whammy bar flutters, artificial harmonics, and rapid-fire runs found in the track. Helpful Resources: steve_vai_for_the_love_of_god_studio_version
To achieve the "heightened state" he felt the song demanded, Vai engaged in a and period of silence prior to the recording. He wanted to strip away his ego and physical comforts to reach a purely spiritual connection with the instrument, which is why the track has such a distinct, almost vocal-like quality. 3. Musical Theory (The Lydian Mystery) You can read more about his practice habits
"For the Love of God" is widely considered magnum opus, appearing on his 1990 breakthrough album, Passion and Warfare . To truly appreciate the studio version, it helps to understand the intense discipline and unusual circumstances behind its recording. 1. The 10-Hour Marathon He wanted to strip away his ego and