BluesShredder's right. I just started taking lessons from last week and the first thing he taught me were variations of modes and arpeggios, and also some basic theories regarding the progressions. If you're serious about not just playing the lead but also gaining insight about the whole song, I strongly suggest you to take lessons. They not only help you sound better but they teach you things that you can build on and be creative with so you can develop your own style:cool: