To the guitar players

[MasonC2K]

One last thing, playing guitar (or any instrument really) makes you appreciate how it's used in different ways.

For instance, I absolutely loathe country music. But I have great respect for some of the better guitarists of the genre and can actually stomach some songs for the sake of listening to some of the guitar parts. Roy Clark and Ricky Skaggs are just amazing.

And, ironic as this may sound, despite being a Christian, I can't stand to listen to most Christian music. But Phil Keaggy is a living legend on guitar.

so make sure you keep an open ear as you learn.

[EverEvolvingExotics]

Great suggestions everybody!

The one recommendation I have for people that want to improve by learning others songs is to focus on the music that inspires you. So what if Joe Schmoe guitarist is the best ever, if you can't stand how he/she plays don't bother. If your favorite musician plays the same four chords over and over again, learn that. If you use this mentality to start out with you will be more willing to continue from the satisfaction of learning what you enjoy.

[BFT12890]

One last thing, playing guitar (or any instrument really) makes you appreciate how it's used in different ways.

For instance, I absolutely loathe country music. But I have great respect for some of the better guitarists of the genre and can actually stomach some songs for the sake of listening to some of the guitar parts. Roy Clark and Ricky Skaggs are just amazing.

And, ironic as this may sound, despite being a Christian, I can't stand to listen to most Christian music. But Phil Keaggy is a living legend on guitar.

so make sure you keep an open ear as you learn.

I know exactly what you mean, and I respect what your saying because its very true. No matter where you look, there is talent EVERYWHERE. I try to be as open minded as I can about every genre. I personally am a big fan of country and thats where I started my playing (Main reason being I enjoy it, second reason I can play three chords and play half of the songs out there )

I honestly dont listen to country (Im not bashing or putting down, or plain trying to start a dispute) But lyrically it is not for me, and not something I can relate to (A big factor for me in my music choice) But givin that you have thrown some names out, im going to search them and see what they are all about.

Since we are on the subject, one of the best guitarists in country music today is keith urban, without a doubt. If your interested, here is a video of him doing a solo bit. its interesting and slightly different then some other solo variations.

Keith Urban - Rollercoaster

If you get a spare minute check it out, you wont be dissapointed. thanks for your advice and input!

Great suggestions everybody!

The one recommendation I have for people that want to improve by learning others songs is to focus on the music that inspires you. So what if Joe Schmoe guitarist is the best ever, if you can't stand how he/she plays don't bother. If your favorite musician plays the same four chords over and over again, learn that. If you use this mentality to start out with you will be more willing to continue from the satisfaction of learning what you enjoy.

Very good advice, as i said above, I personally enjoy mainly country, and also southern rock, rock, metal ect. (I can also respect all other genres for the musical components, but those listed are my main interests) so they are usually what I try to stick with in my playing (plus im not well rounded and knowledgable in the genres not listed)

Regaurdless Im the same way, I like playing songs that I enjoy listening to and all, if I cant vibe with the song, there is no point in trying to play, because I most likely (unless for some reason its fun) wont enjoy it.