Originally Posted by: RickBlackerTo be honest with you, none. For some reason I have no interest in learning others music. If I were ever to play in a band and get on stage, I'd want to play all original music.

Having said that though, I would be interested in learning others music solely for the purpose of learning more about music and composing songs. Blending chords and riffs together and possible musical ideas.

Hi Rick and all -

Rick, I am a songwriter and composer myself, and love the idea of original music. When I teach guitar and composing in the 'real world', I do encourage students to learn others' songs just as a way of expanding their horizons.

I completely agree with you: even if it's just as an "exercise", learning other people's songs that you like can give you some great insights into song structure, chord options, techniques you might not otherwise be grappling with.

-Lisa