I first picked up a guitar when I was 14 (I'm now 52) and I just found it the most magical thing! Back then (1963) I wanted to do Shadows and Beatles stuff. I learned stuff, got stale, learned more stuff, got stale, did some acoustic stuff, (yep) got stale, but I kept on coming back for more. I don't have any musical training, can't read a note, but I did develop a good ear for chords and stuff.

These days I listen to almost anything from straight classical music to jazz, but there are some things I never let go of - James Taylor, Steely Dan (saw them on the Y2K tour in Birmingham - awesome!), really anything with melody and good chords.

Gear-wise, I have a Gibson SG special, Fender Strat Plus, and a beautiful acoustic - Seagull Mahogany Folk (cedar top, mahogany back & sides, flat finish, made in Canada). I just wish I had more time to play 'em all!

All the best, buddy, you got the right idea. Keep your ears open!