Hey Marty,
I know you've probably been asked this question but I need you to help me summarise it but, What does it take to become a great musician and writer? What are the essential things you need to do or practice to become a great guitarist? I've seen people spend hours on playing guitar, practicing and studying books of theory then end up being able to play anything that comes along and knowing what every note is and why there playing it but then can't write a single thing thats any good. Then you see guys today barely able to play their instrument but can write stuff that will probably be on mtv tomorrow. How was it that there are guys now who can play as good as malmsteen or even you and will never be noticed? Basically I'm trying to ask how do you become a good writer? You referred to Jason Becker as a great composer, how did he become so brilliant? Is it hours of practice or tabbing music by ear or just keep trying to write music until you get better? If this is the case how come the guys who spend hours in their rooms playing and writing don't come out with award winning riffs? Is it just the music industry today? This question seems a bit awkward but thanks for taking the time to read it!

[What does it take to become a great musician and writer?]

A lifetime of complete devotion to making your music, always taking top priority far above eveything else.

[What are the essential things you need to do or practice to become a great guitarist? ]

Play music all the time, and be open to learning from ANYONE at every chance you have. Be able to make music with anyone.

[I've seen people spend hours on playing guitar, practicing and studying books of theory then end up being able to play anything that comes along and knowing what every note is and why there playing it but then can't write a single thing thats any good. Then you see guys today barely able to play their instrument but can write stuff that will probably be on mtv tomorrow.]

Playing an instrument and writing music are two COMPLETELY UNRELATED things. Good music is everywhere. Music is not just notes. Music is image, fashion, chemistry, style, melody, intention (what exactly is it you want to do, when, where and how you want do do it--ever think in specific details about that??) unique and pleasing sound, meaningful(to someone) words and other unexplainable things.

[How was it that there are guys now who can play as good as malmsteen or even you and will never be noticed?]

How far can you really go sounding like another person? If you are great at copying someone else, that`s fine, but that`s not gonna be enough to hold the attention of someone who pays for music.

[Basically I'm trying to ask how do you become a good writer? You referred to Jason Becker as a great composer, how did he become so brilliant? Is it hours of practice or tabbing music by ear or just keep trying to write music until you get better?]

Yes, and whatever it takes to get your music MADE.

[If this is the case how come the guys who spend hours in their rooms playing and writing don't come out with award winning riffs?]

Because it`s the YEARS of life experience AFTER the hours in the rooms where you have something to draw upon to make music. Everyone has to practice their asses off to learn to play. THEN you BEGIN to TRY to make music.

[Is it just the music industry today? ]

What about it? If you make something that is worth money, the industry will surely find a way to sell it.
Bottom line is, play cuz you love it, and if you do everything in front of you forever, maybe some other people may enjoy your music, but that`s a bonus.
Good Q`s, my friend!