I'd suggest listening to your favorite tunes- you'd be surprised to hear how they may all be using the same chord progressions. All musicians have been influenced by someone else- I think Hendrix was influenced by Curtis Mayfield (someone correct me if I'm wrong here.), Billy Joel by the Beatles.

I agree with the poster that you have to learn at least some theory- unless you're one of those savants that can do everything by ear, like Lenny Breau (google him). I wish I had studied more theory when I started playing.

And another thing- don't forget the silence 'tween the notes.