Mr. Friedman...... long time fan here.

Anyway... here's my dilemma. I started playing when I was 12 (17 years ago). Obsessed with Satriani, Vai, Vinnie Moore, and yes.... you, I dove deeply into my music, learned countless hours of both theory as well as technique.

At age 18, I (very stupidly) got married to an obsessive woman that refused to let me pursue music, for fear I'd screw a groupie... (which I probably would have). 8 years go by, all spent studying, practicing, and basically just playing for myself, by myself.

In 2002, I divorced, and won full custody of my daughter. I'm sure you can understand how important she is to me, but I must admit, the thrill of playing publicly constantly haunts me.

Marty..... I'm good. I'm better than anyone here in the St. Louis area. I've won first place in every guitar contest I've entered, in 2 different states so far. But I'm a single parent, and I refuse to neglect my responsibilities as a father to pursue music.

SO... my question is: I'm planning on purchasing recording equipment, mixer, necessary effects, drum machine, etc... and record my own demo.... Just me.

WHAT DO I DO AFTER THAT??

Even if you don't answer.. thanks for reading... you are truly an inspiration, and have been for quite some time. Thanks! --Matt

�ebetter than anyone` in St. Louis is a pretty bold statement for someone that hasn`t played in a band much, but I`ll let you slide on that cuz we all say silly things sometimes. Anyway, it is very admirable that you put your daughter first. But having kids never stopped the majority of musos out there from doing music. It is time to get into a band and play gigs! Make it happen. As a single dad, you may never be able to make the full sacrifices required of a struggling musician (especially in the midwest...) but you certainly can and should get into a band that will allow you to play in public as much as possible and get some good solid live experience under your belt. Good luck.