I have no secrets; all of these things have been discussed at length in guitar magazines over the years but are far too elaborate to cover in one article.

I thought I might be a band instructor, someone who plays all the instruments and teaches others.

Age 10. I joined the school marching band as a drummer.

As much as I love performing, nothing juices me up creatively like being in my own studio for an extended period. Songs, ideas, even paintings are pouring out of me. My inspiration and usual subject matter: life.

I borrowed a guitar at age 16 and taught myself to play because I wanted to write songs.

My favorite puzzle is trying to work out the parts myself, after all it is a solo effort.

Yes, but don't forget I also have the luxury of the worlds finest band when it gets lonely.