and Vai is a VERY savvy business man. That whole Whitesnake fiasco had a dual purpose.

1. $$$$$$$ - He got a lot of money to play that gig (7 figures)
2. The Whitesnake tour was a perfect vehicle to promote Passion and Warfare.When I saw that tour, his "solo" spot was him playing "For the Love of God".

He is Very fortunate no doubt. The fact that he can essentially do what he wants musically and still maintain commercial Vai-ability (HA!). Every music wishes to be in that position.